Lassen County Fair Manager Bill Payer reported the fair’s results to the Board of Supervisors. He called the event a success with room for improvement.
This was Payer’s second year as fair manager. His focus this year targeted a family-friendly atmosphere. He said families enjoyed the fair together, thanks to new features like the food court, more shaded seating, and moving the kiddie carnival to a better spot. These changes helped families relax and spend time together.
The fair made a net profit of $60,119. Revenue totaled $355,890, while expenses reached $295,771. Sponsorships contributed $32,790 to the revenue.
Daily attendance rose to 14,237, a 5.2 percent increase from 2025. This count excluded free special event days like Senior Day.
Payer reduced the value of comp tickets steadily over the years. The fair gave away $62,733 in 2024, then cut that to $37,288 in 2025. This year, the total dropped to $8,530, a 66.5 percent reduction. Comp tickets remain part of sponsorships and promotions but are now more controlled.
Carnival revenue grew by 14 percent to $79,712. The relocated Kiddie Carnival and shaded picnic area received positive feedback.
Attendance at grandstand events fell, which Payer linked to a major change in the show lineup. The Miss Lassen County Pageant moved to Tuesday and maintained steady attendance. The Monster Truck event filled the grandstands on Wednesday. The Rodeo returned Thursday after several years. Friday’s Micro Wrestling sold out ringside seats but saw lower overall turnout. Saturday’s Music Fest featured no national performers, saving costs but drawing mixed reactions. Sunday’s Destruction Derby drew strong crowds.
The number of vendors decreased from 25 to 18, plus two commission vendors. Vendor sales rose 28 percent compared to 2025, generating $57,483 for the fair.
Payer plans to continue improving livestock safety with an updated Emergency Action Plan and to expand the Livestock Judging Contest. He also intends to prioritize RV camping spots for livestock exhibitors.
Safety and security at the fair remained uneventful, which Payer described as “pleasantly boring.” What changes would make the fair more appealing to you?
