Big Fresno Fair Postpones Horse Racing in 2025

The most recent shifts in Northern California horse racing have prompted The Big Fresno Fair Board of Directors and Fair Management to make the decision to postpone horse racing in 2025. Factors cited include but are not limited to the uncertainty regarding the availability of horses, increased financial risk and the lack of a racing management collective for Northern California fairs. This decision allows for continued in-depth industry analysis to assess the viability of horse racing at The Big Fresno Fair before making any long-term determinations. "This tough decision was made with careful consideration for the long-term economic health of The Big Fresno Fair. It is a necessary step to fully evaluate the future of a successful horse race meet in Fresno, which is one aspect of our annual event that serves our community -- both at Fair-time and year-round," said Christina Estrada, CEO of The Big Fresno Fair. "We remain committed to exploring all options in an ever-evolving industry situation, and will continue working closely with industry leaders to assess potential paths forward. In the meantime, The Big Fresno Fair is determining alternate entertainment options in the Grandstand for our community to enjoy." Horse racing at the Fresno Fairgrounds dates back to 1883 and remains a cherished part of the Fair's history. Significant shifts in Northern California racing in just the past year have changed the horse racing business model and created unprecedented challenges. Closure of Golden Gate Fields, a year-round racetrack in June 2024. Year-round racing would move to Pleasanton (Alameda County Fairgrounds) under new Golden State Racing (GSR) on October 19, 2024. California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) Announcements: On January 28, 2025, citing financial challenges from the GSR meet and industry obstacles, CARF announced it was reorganizing to focus on Satellite Wagering facilities. As such, CARF would not seek race applications for or manage racing at Alameda County Fair, California State Fair, Humboldt County Fair and The Big Fresno Fair. On January 30, 2025, CARF announced all GSR stabling and training operations at the Alameda County Fairgrounds would conclude on March 25, 2025. These changes and other longstanding industry challenges have made it increasingly difficult to ensure a high-quality racing program, leading to The Big Fresno Fair's decision to postpone horse racing in 2025 for further analysis on its future viability in Fresno. The Big Fresno Fair is the 5th largest fair in the State of California and home to more than 250 interim events throughout the year.