CALISTOGA, CA.  As Fairs across California struggle with slashed budgets and increased competition for entertainment dollars, the Napa County Fair & Fireworks has been quietly changing the focus of the annual County Fair from Carnival rides and Fair Food to a reflection of life in the Napa Valley.

"Three years ago we realized that a beautiful fairgrounds located in the heart of the incredible Napa Valley had the potential to attract visitors who want a place they can come with their entire family, but still experience what Napa has to offer.  Napa County is rich with the finest wine grapes and wine makers in the nation, artists, photographers, and a culture of fresh food prepared both at home and in wonderful restaurants," explains Carlene Moore, CEO.

When Moore took the CEO position three years ago, the Fair did not even serve wine. One Fair visitor from Lakeport was so astounded they came into the office to complain.  Today there is a Wine Garden operated by local Chambers of Commerce. This year Sebastian Sidi, a featured pianist on PBS televsion, will perform daily during the annual Fair, June 29-July 4.

On Monday, July 2, the Calistoga Winegrowers will host the Reds, Whites, and Blues wine tasting event, featuring wines from the Calistoga AVA. Tickets at $30 include Fair admission.  The well-known blues band, Twice As Good, will be performing.

In the Napa Valley Building fine art and photography will be exhibited and available for purchase.  Strolling around the Fairgrounds visitors will find artists demonstrating their talents and in the Calistoga Art Center building everyone is invited to create their own Make & Take art project.

Also in the Napa Valley Building, there are chef demonstrations, olive oil tastings, and more.  The Fair started a commercial Olive Oil competition last year and this year attracted 69 entries. Fresh from New Orleans, Chef Scott Landry will entertain and educate with a Comedy Cooking Show.  Daily cooking contests are new this year. Anyone can enter their brownies, cupcakes, cookies, apple pie or salsa in a fun and friendly competition.

Of course you can still get fabulous Fair food and climb aboard a carnival ride, not necessarily in that order! But if you think you've seen all there is at a County Fair, you should check out the Napa County Fair & Fireworks in Calistoga, June 29-July 4. Be sure to celebrate the holiday at the hometown 4th of July parade in Calistoga, then head to the Fair for an All American 4th of July with old-fashioned games and contests, music, and a spectacular fireworks show.

Information at www.NapaCountyFair.org.