UKIAH, CA., 8/6/2026 — It’s fair time! Mendocino County’s annual Redwood Empire fair brings a weekend of sun, fun, and drumroll… exhibits! Starting today, August 6, and continuing through Sunday, exhibits, entertainment and livestock will lure locals and visitors to this lively event located at the Ukiah Fairgrounds.
The fair’s theme, “Celebrating 250 Years of American Heritage” is played out by symbolic rabbits weaving their way through the fair’s decor and displays. The theme aims to emphasize American values and work ethic; ideals that shape our nation and communities. The children, tweens, and teens of Mendocino County took these values to heart, and their creations located in the fairgrounds’ Junior Building are a must-see.
The Juniors Department features a wide variety of unique artistic displays. From delicate shadowboxes, captivating collections, and thought-provoking photography, to fanciful produce creatures, fancy flowerbeds, and precious preserves, the displays demonstrate talent, passion, and life-skills that derive from imagination, creativity and effort. It’s a refreshing example of children cultivating creativity and confidence through the arts.
Superintendent of the Juniors Department, Catrenia Tindall, describes the motivation behind countless hours of preparation for the four-day event: “The second the kids walk in the building their faces light up!”
Tindall said the enthusiasm and pride the children exude when they bring family members and friends to see their creations is a key reason for her active involvement. She especially likes the garden exhibits, which “bring children back to earth and nature.” She also expressed the importance of kids using their imaginations, and encourages children, ages 3-18, to experience the delight of demonstrating their interests and hobbies: “Many people think this is only for 4-H members, but there are independent categories that all Mendocino County residents are invited to enter.”
Tindall’s daughter, 8-year old Ellie, follows her mother’s footsteps as an active young participant: “It’s fun making things to enter into the fair and showing others what I can do,” she confidently explained. Her showstopping garden display features a fountain and lights.
Samuel Colson Gomez, 12, has contributed his creations in years past. This year his prized piece is a “Living History” story he wrote about his grandmother, which includes a photograph he took of her. “My Grandmother has taught me never to give up,” he shared.
Reagan Morgan, 13, has also participated in the past and is eager to share her handcrafted, one-of-a-kind animal masks: “I love making masks because I love the creativity and individuality crafted carefully into each one,” she said.
Ribbons and small cash prizes are given in multiple categories including photography, sewing, canning, drawing and so much more. The talented exhibitors put immense effort into their entries, and community volunteers devote time into helping these kids shine.
The exhibits are well worth visiting on a sultry weekend, and there is always fair food to indulge a sweet tooth.
