Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation

The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was founded in 2002 by a group of Fair Supporters who realized that the Fairgrounds would soon be self-funded and wanted to preserve the Fairgrounds and the activities that take place on the premises.  Originally named The Santa Cruz County Fair Heritage Foundation, we changed our name to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation in January 2016. The Foundation raises funds through donations, special events, beverage sales, grants, planned giving and sponsorships. Through its community connections, it has assumed a major role in keeping the community aware of activities and improvements at the Fairgrounds.

The Foundation supports the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, one of the treasures of the Central Coast – providing a unique venue for recreation, education, science, sports and charitable activities that enrich our community. It is utilized by companies, individuals, schools and community groups year-round. The Fairgrounds also plays an important role as an evacuation center for people and animals in the tri-county area in the event of a disaster, such as fire, earthquake and flooding.