WATSONVILLE >> Come September, the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds will be filled with the cheers and screams of families on thrill rides, the bustle of fairgoers making their ways to different exhibit halls and the aromas of cinnamon rolls and corn dogs.

The Santa Cruz County Fair will return Sept. 10-14, bringing all the usual thrills, memories and invocations of Americana it has for generations. One thing that changes every year is a theme to sum up all the fair has to offer.

That is where the community comes in. Once again, the Santa Cruz County Fair is calling upon residents to choose a theme for this year’s festivities with the winning entry yielding free tickets for the person that coins it.

According to a news release, the fair is specifically asking for theme ideas that reflect the diverse spirit of the Santa Cruz County community and touch upon one or more of the following topics: youth in agriculture, crafting and arts in Santa Cruz, stepping into the future, coastal life or celebrating agriculture.

Last year’s winning theme was “Pioneer Days to Modern Ways,” simultaneously highlighting the abundant agricultural history of the Pajaro Valley with the integration of modern technology, including the fair’s first drone show. The theme was chosen by Kyle Middleton, the fair’s co-superintendent of the livestock program.

As always, the winner will receive four complimentary tickets and a parking pass to this year’s fair.

Theme ideas should be submitted by email to info@santacruzcountyfair.com or in person, or by mail to the following address:

Santa Cruz County Fair, Theme Contest 2601 East Lake Ave. Watsonville, CA 95076

To stay up to date with information about this year’s fair, go to Santacruzcountyfair.com.