The first Del Mar fair was held in 1880 and was organized by local farmers who gave out prizes for produce and livestock. While this fair was small, it was nevertheless very popular and continued to grow both in size and popularity. In the 1930’s, the land that would come to be known as the Del Mar fairgrounds was purchased and a measure was approved to allow racetrack betting at the nearby Del Mar race track and other racing venues to fund agricultural fairs statewide.
Today, the 22nd DAA (District Agricultural Association) owns and operates the Del Mar Fairgrounds, which host four large events each year, including the San Diego County Fair, and hosts many different types of smaller events and shows as well.
The San Diego County Fair is one of the largest in the country and offers activities for everyone, including agricultural shows and competitions, rides, vendors, musical acts, demolition derbies, and more. An annual visit to the fair is a tradition for many Del Mar and San Diego county residents and visitors alike.