History and Purpose
In 1935 the first Fair was held at the Monterey County Fairgrounds. Since then, not only has the Fair continued annually, but the Monterey County Fair & Event Center has become the site for an eclectic mix of public and private events including music festivals, community dinners, trade shows, and weddings. When the State of California eliminated funding for its fairgrounds in 2011, the Monterey County Fair Heritage Foundation was created to assist in supporting the Fair & Event Center.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Monterey County Fair Heritage Foundation is to support the operations of the Monterey County Fair & Event Center and to fund community agriculture awareness activities, youth scholarships, and capital improvements to Monterey County Fair & Event Center’s facilities and grounds.
Vision Statement
The vision of the Monterey County Fair Heritage Foundation is to ensure the future of the Monterey County Fair & Event Center as a vibrant and diverse community venue.
How We Raise Funds
The Monterey County Fair Heritage Foundation holds the exclusive beverage services contract with the Monterey County Fair & Event Center. We contribute at least 40% of the beverages concessions revenue directly to the Fair & Event Center to support continued Fair & Event Center operations and 100% of the concessions net income to capital improvements at the Fairgrounds. For more information on our beverage concessions services, please click here.
How You Can Help
There are many ways to help us in our efforts to ensure the future of the Monterey County Fair & Event Center:
- Purchase a Heritage Foundation Annual Membership – click here
- Donate to and participate in the live and silent auction during the Fair Kick Off BBQ
- Contribute to the Heritage Animal Auction
- Contact us with feedback to help us improve and expand fundraising opportunities
- Encourage your friends and family to attend any and all events at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center – Event Calendar »
2018 Heritage Foundation Board of Directors
Andy Clarke, President
Liz Silva Vice President
Lauren Heisinger, Secretary/Treasurer
Wes Chan
Cathy Marino-Edwards
Jessica Pedevilla
Sherrie Ray
Gary Robinson
Please come and share your ideas at our monthly board meetings. Heritage Foundation meetings are typically held the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 5pm in the Monterey County Fair & Event Center Boardroom.
2018 Board Meeting Dates:
January 17
February 21
March 21
April 18
May 16
June 20
July 18
August – no meeting
September 19
October 17
November 14
December 12
If you would like to attend a meeting, please contact the Monterey County Fair office at least one week in advance of the meeting so that we can include you on the agenda.
For more information about Heritage events, membership, and sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
the Fair office
(831) 372-5863
Become A Heritage Foundation Member
Become a 2018 Heritage Foundation member now and save up to $100 on 2018 Monterey County Fair tickets and passes. Select the membership package that is right for you. Choose from among a Family, Couple, or Single Membership.
Join Online

It’s easy and you don’t have to have a Paypal account to join. Major Credit Cards accepted.