About the Ramona Junior Fair
A Tradition of Youth, Agriculture, and Community
The Ramona Junior Fair debuted in 1971. Held annually in late July, it is a proud tradition in San Diego County.
Organized and operated entirely by volunteers, the Fair brings together youth from local 4-H, FFA, and Grange clubs to showcase their skills, dedication, and hard work. It’s more than just a fair — it’s a celebration of rural values, youth development, and community spirit.
Preserving Traditions, Building Futures
The Ramona Junior Fair and its supporting events are a throwback to a way of life that’s nearly vanished in many parts of rural America. They provide a unique platform for youth to learn, grow, and lead — while offering urban and rural families alike a glimpse into the core values of country life: hard work, responsibility, community, and pride.
A Week of Competition and Community Pride
The week leading up to the Fair is filled with competitions that highlight a wide range of agricultural and homemaking skills. Youth from across the county compete in market and breeding animal divisions, horse, dog, and llama shows, and home economics categories such as cooking, crafts, and industrial arts. These events offer a chance for both individual achievement and team pride as clubs work together to demonstrate their abilities and dedication.
The Livestock Auction: Supporting Youth and Scholarships
The highlight of Fair Week is the Livestock Auction, held on the last Saturday in July. This highly anticipated event is an opportunity for the public to support local youth and contribute to the college scholarship fund. It’s also a chance to purchase the highest quality homegrown beef, pork, lamb, goat, rabbit, chicken, and turkey — raised right here by the youth of San Diego County.
Kickoff Events: The Pie Auction & BBQ
Before the Fair officially begins, the community gathers for the Annual Pie Auction and BBQ. This much-loved event honors fair traditions and the event is a fun filled evening of delicious food and generous giving. The BBQ features expertly prepared meats, homemade beans, fresh salads, and other mouthwatering fare. Immediately following the meal, the pie auction offers a selection of incredible, and sometimes exotic, homemade desserts. All proceeds go toward supporting youth programs and scholarships.
Ramona Junior Fair Themes
Each year the Ramona Junior Fair chooses a Fair Theme. 4-H, Grange, and FFA Members are invited to submit artwork that promotes the year’s theme and serves as the cover of our Premium and Auction Book covers. In addition, fair events and decor, including Steering Committee Activities, relate to each year’s theme.
Themes of the Past
2022-“Let’s Fiesta with the Ramona Junior Fair- Nacho Ordinary Fair”
2021- 50th Anniversary: “50 Years of Fairs, Family, and Fun!”
2020- “Barn in the USA”
2019- “Good Old Country Fair”
2018- “Barn Wars”
2017- “Ramona Junior Fair, It’s all Fun and Games!”
2016- 45th Anniversary: “A Look Back at the Fair”
2017- “Ramona Junior Fair, It’s all Fun and Games!”
2016- 45th Anniversary: “A Look Back at the Fair”
2015- “Get Plugged In to Ramona Junior Fair”
2014- “Under the Big Top With the Livestock”
2013- “Stock Show Safari”
2012- “Livestock Olympics”
2011- “Sew It, Grow It, Show It!”
2010- “Super Heroes, Super Stock”
