School Programs

The San Diego County Fair operates several programs specifically for schools.

Reading Certificate

Students aged 12 and younger who read 10 books and have that accomplishment verified with their teacher or librarian can bring the certificate to the Fair and receive free admission. Please check back about April, when we will post the reading certificates.

Plant * Grow * Eat

Fair staff delivers seeds, soil and pots to grades kindergarten through sixth at schools on year-round programs. The kids grow their plants and then bring them to the Fair one day on a school field trip. The plants (radishes, herbs, lettuce, flowers, etc.) are awarded ribbons at The Farm, located in the Sparkletts Water Infield.

In 2009, 69 schools and 10,793 students participated, including 500 students from Mexico. In a related program, 44 retirement facilities and 1,000 senior citizens also grew vegetables. If you have questions about this program, please call Jill Coughlan at (858) 755-1161, ext. 2407.

Barn Tours

School students or youth organizations can sign up for a tour of the Livestock Exhibit at the Fair. Students will learn about the animals on display, learn barn etiquette and have a hands-on experience. Please check back about March, when we expect to have more information.

School Tours

Staff members from the Fair bring an educational presentation with animals to kindergarteners through third graders at their schools in April and May. Each student receives an Activity Book at the end of the presentation filled with games, puzzles and stories that reinforce what was learned in the presentation.

In 2009, the tour went to 118 schools, with 30,349 students attending. If you have questions about this program, please call Holly Baker at (858) 755-1161, ext. 2402.