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Circus animal stilt walkers at the Santa Clara County Fair. Photo by Devin Roberts.

There’s something magical about the fair coming to town. Whether you’re 5 years old or 55, going to the county fair is one of those quintessential Americana summertime pastimes, a rush of bright lights, the whirring of carnival rides and the sweet scent of funnel cakes.

The Santa Clara County Fair has a long-standing tradition in the Bay Area. Back this year under the theme “Celebrating 80 years of innovation,” the fair returned for its first stint July 25-28 and wraps up Aug. 1-4.

Clockwise: 4-H Club member Olivia with her pig Pumba; A BMX Pros Trick Team member gets air; Circus Alegria at the Santa Clara County Fair; Banda Zeta performs. Photos by Devin Roberts.

There’s no shortage of ways to spend your time at the fair. Besides the traditional assortment of carnival rides, games and food, this year’s entertainment lineup includes BMX, Circus Alegria, pro wrestling, pig races, magicians and more. There are also a range of exhibits showcasing local awards winners in categories ranging from best baked goods and confections to awards for LEGO builds and fiber arts.

Photographer Devin Roberts captured the scene from the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in San Jose on July 28, the last day of opening weekend. The fair is open from 3-10 p.m. Thursday, 3-11 p.m. Friday, 1-11 p.m. Saturday and 1-10 p.m. Sunday. For more information, including fair schedules and admission costs, visit thefair.org.

From top: A Safari Encounters presenter shows off a python; 4-H Club member Madison Petersen and her lamb Bear; Cook’s Racing Pigs get ready for action. Photos by Devin Roberts.
From top: Carnival rides include a carousel, the Ali Baba ride and the Ferris wheel. Photos by Devin Roberts.
From top: Square dancing at the fair; Visitors on the Jumbo the Elephant carnival ride; Street artists at work; A Pro Wrestling Revolution champion interacts with fans. Photos by Devin Roberts.

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