A lively fairground with colorful rides, candy stalls, and people enjoying the grassy area under a bright sky.
The carnival at the Mendocino County Fair is lively on opening Friday evening, and stays open until midnight each night of the fair in Boonville, Calif., on Sept. 18, 2026. (Savana Robinson/Bay City News)

MENDOCINO CO., 9/19/26 — Friday kicked off a weekend full of activities at the Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show. A carnival is open all weekend, and fairgoers can expect two rodeos, livestock viewing, and dances with live music. 

Saturday features a 7 p.m. parade of champions where the Junior Apple Jack will be crowned. Following at 8 p.m. is the California Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association rodeo before a 10 p.m. dance featuring live music.  

Sunday starts with an 8 a.m. church service at the auditorium with entry next to the fair office, not on the grounds, according to the fair website. Sheepdog trials start at 10 a.m. Handlers guide their dogs through sheep-herding obstacles set against a timer. Sunday’s noon parade down state Route 128 and through the grandstand arena is followed by the 2 p.m. rodeo and 6 p.m. dance. 

For a full list of events, visit the county fair website

A brightly lit carousel with colorful, ornate horses under a glowing, decorative canopy.
A carousel stops while riders dismount at the Mendocino County Fair in Boonville, Calif., on Sept. 18, 2026. (Savana Robinson/Bay City News)
A tall, colorful amusement ride with spinning lights and suspended cabins stands against a clear sky at a fairground.
Carriages on the Zipper ride spin as they rotate about the main arm of the ride at the Mendocino County Fair in Boonville, Calif., on Sept. 18, 2026. (Savana Robinson/Bay City News)

Savana Robinson is a staff writer and photographer based in Ukiah, California.

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