Imperial Valley Gears Up for California Mid-Winter Fair with Sponsor VIP Reception

-Editorial 

Sponsors of this year’s California Mid-Winter Fair gathered for a special Fair Kick-off and VIP reception event celebrating the community partnerships that support the annual tradition, which opens Feb. 27.

The ceremony recognized businesses and organizations whose financial backing and in-kind contributions help bring the fair to life each year. Attendees were welcomed by fair representatives and volunteers, who highlighted the collaborative effort required to plan and operate one of Imperial Valley’s signature events.

Organizers said the gathering offered sponsors an opportunity to connect while also honoring the volunteers whose long-standing service has helped shape the fair over the decades. Many volunteers have contributed year after year, supporting planning, operations, and community outreach. Groups like the Junior Fair Board as they volunteer and gain valuable experience. 

Speakers emphasized the role of sponsorships in sustaining programming, exhibits, and family-oriented attractions that define the fair experience. The event also served as a preview of activities planned for this year’s fair, which opens to the public on Thursday.

Fair officials described the luncheon as both a gesture of appreciation and a reminder of the shared commitment between sponsors, volunteers, and organizers to maintain the fair’s legacy.

The California Mid-Winter Fair runs through early March, featuring agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and community showcases.

The fair will run 13 days, from Feb. 27 through March 15, spanning three weekends. It will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. This year’s theme, “Celebration!,” honors the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 175th anniversary of the State of California. Energy Source Minerals is returning as the presenting sponsor.

“This year’s theme, ‘Celebration!,’ is about more than just the festivities; it is a tribute to the enduring legacy of our nation and our state,” said Alan Phillips, chief executive officer of the fair. “As we mark these anniversaries, we are creating a fair experience that honors our history while bringing our community together to make new memories.”

Opening day will recognize senior citizens as well as active-duty and military veterans, who will receive free admission. New this year are Family Value Nights on Wednesdays and Thursdays, offering a buy-one-get-one-free carnival wristband, free parking, and $5 food items at participating vendors.

The 2026 entertainment lineup features a range of musical acts and performances. Red Hot Cholo Peppers will open the fair with a tribute to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Other performers on the Mechanics Bank Stage include Left of Centre from Reno on March 1; a rock nostalgia double header featuring Journey Revisited and Def Leppard Revisited on March 4; the Like Combs Tribute Band on March 6; Carlos Yorvick on March 8; Neon Circus, a Brooks and Dunn tribute, on March 11; and Polyester Express, a dance and show band, on March 14. The Navy Flight Demonstration Team Blue Angels will host a meet-and-greet on March 12.