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County Fair offers modern touch with traditional favorites
Fair 1
Guests enjoy a ride on the opening day of the 103rd Stanislaus County Fair on Friday. - photo by CANDY PADILLA /the Courier

The fair is a summertime tradition for many locals and Friday's opening night was no exception as the enthusiastic crowd was indicative of an up and coming successful season for the Stanislaus County Fair.

Budweiser Variety Free Stage opening act Wynonna Judd drew a large crowed along with the diverse variety of food options from chocolate covered bacon to the traditional corn dog.

"The familiarity of the food stands each year is something we like. When we come, we always get the iced coffee from the Sno Biz stand and enjoy walking around," said teenager Olivia Soto.

While many come to stroll the lanes within the fairgrounds campus and meet up with friends and family from across the county, the annual event that draws thousands to the fairgrounds has also made a significant impact online this year.

"This year we did more social media, we used Instagram mainly, and by utilizing that technology medium along with our younger guests' use of it I think really made an impact online. People are more aware of all the things they can come and enjoy at the fair this year," added Adrenna Alkhas, marketing and communications director for the Stanislaus County Fair.

"We've used social media since we've been here, mainly Snapchat and Twitter," added Soto.

Locals were able to charge their phones at the fair by accessing the centrally located ReCharge Modesto Toyota Lounge that provided cell phone chargers for Android and iPhone devices amidst the vast food vendors' offerings.

From the traditional petting zoo for the little ones to the unique new beer floats for purchase to support the Turlock Rotary Club, this year the Stanislaus County Fair offers locals the traditional experience with a touch of modernity.

Today is Turlock Irrigation District Night at the Fair with the first 1,000 guests receiving a free gift from TID. Fifth Harmony performs at 6:30 p.m. on the Bud Light Variety Free stage.

Upcoming concerts - free with fair admission - include Lover Boy on Thursday, Three Dog Night on Friday, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts on Saturday and Ezequiel Pena on Sunday.

The legendary Billboard chart topping group Kansas, shook things up at the fair Saturday, followed by Hispanic platinum recording artists Banda Machos with special guest La Unica Sonora Santanera on Sunday. Three-time Broadcast Music Inc. song of the year winner Rodney Atkins took the stage on Monday and the "Celebration" continued Tuesday with Kool & the Gang.

The fair runs through Sunday, July 20. For more information, follow the fair at twitter.com/stancofair, become a fan of the Fair at facebook.com/stancofair or visit stancofair.com.