Fair time to seek your inner artistry

POMONA

L.A. County Fair opens today with art-focused theme, plenty of adventure

A young goat sticks out its head waiting to be petted at the Los Angeles County Fair on Wednesday in Pomona. Animals, especially babies, are a fan favorite at the annual event. photos by Anjali Sharif-Paul — Staff Photographer

A worker continues to build one of the many roller coasters for the L.A. County Fair. The fair will be open Thursdays through Sundays until May 25. The last day will be Memorial Day.

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By Mercedes Cannon-Tran

mcannontran@scng.com

The Los Angeles County Fair opens today with an art-focused theme and fun galore, from carnival rides to zany foods and musical performances to agricultural exploits.

With so many options, a trip to the fairgrounds at Fairplex in Pomona can be overwhelming.

If your group needs help deciding what to visit first at the Los Angeles County Fair, here is a guide that offers a little something for everyone:

For the artist

This year’s fair theme is “Art Unleashed,” highlighting all things artistic in different mediums. Don’t miss exhibits and art on display at the Millard Sheets Art Center, located in the Downtown District. This year, you also can try your hand at pottery throwing for an additional fee and check out the community art project: a crocheted awning to shade fairgoers.

For the crafter

If you’re interested in all things DIY and craft-related, check out the Grandstand. Here, get in touch with your inner Martha Stewart and find inspiration for your home with tablescape competitions and award-winning culinary masterpieces such as cakes and pies. Guests also can participate in cooking demonstrations in the Kitchen with chef Leslie Sassaman and others.

For wine enthusiast

Did you know the fair has wine and spirit tastings? Celebrating its 90th and 123rd years, respectively, the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition and the Los Angeles International Wine Competition put the spotlight on award-winning spirits, wines and olive oils, all available for guests to sample. Choose to sample by the glass or a tasting flight if you’re looking for variety. Classes and pairing workshops also are available. New this year, the fair is offering a paint-and-sip class. Spirit and wine tastings are located in The Marketplace in The Hill district for guests 21 and over.

For the adventurer

Are you a fan of the great outdoors? Then head to The Hill, where the U.S. Forestry Service presents demonstrations, shows and workshops. People can meet wild burros or come face to face with a few scaly residents and learn how to spot the differences in reptiles.

For the animal lover

They’re cute, cuddly, and you can pet most of them! The farm animals found at the Big Red Barn always are a delightful main attraction every fair season. Get hands-on with baby barnyard residents and learn about the types of care-taking required to produce an award-winning animal.