“Today was a good day!” is what you’ll be saying if you make the most out of this year’s big, BIG, Fresno Fair. From rap icons to country legends, beerocks and BrewFest, this year is gonna be EPIC. 

Here’s my list of the TOP 5 things to do at this year’s Big Fresno Fair:

5. Live Music

Straight outta Compton, rapper Ice Cube is returning for a second year. If you missed last year’s show, now’s your chance to catch him in action Friday, Oct. 11 @ 7 pm. Tickets: $32-$48

Speaking of living legends, Willie Nelson-THE Willie Nelson will be rocking the stage with his whole family on Monday, Oct. 14 @ 7 pm. Tickets: $35-$55

Not to be outdone by the big hitters, local musician Patrick Contreras will be performing his “Violin on Fire” act at the Pavilion Stage Oct. 2- Oct. 9. You can check times for Patrick’s show and all other free entertainment here.

4.Rides

If you’re an adrenaline junkie you’ll want to check out this year’s rides. The Super Shot Drop Tower is a free fall from over 90 feet- yikes! The Mega Flip is similar, but instead of dropping riders it spins them around in the air- basically, you’ll be flying. Something a little more low-key the Giant Wheel. Yes, it reaches 100 feet in the air, but with breathtaking views of the city, it’s totally worth it.

3. Food Fight!

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2 pm-3 pm. Judges will be awarding prizes for the best foods. My bet is on the new Flaming Hot Cheeto baked potato. Maybe you’ll prefer carne asada pizza? Or the Nutella cream cheese croissants from local farmer’s market favorite Acevedo’s Posteria Gourmet? Either way, your taste buds are the real winners here.

4. Brew Fest

Saturday, Oct. 5, 2pm-5pm. $35 This is one of the best recent additions to the fair. Brew Fest is a special event held at the Infield Party Tent that includes over 30 breweries! Sip on some good brew while you play lawn games, grab some grub from local food trucks and make wagers on horse races from private betting stations.

5. Horse Racing

Saturday, Oct. 5, 2pm-5pm. $35 This is one of the best recent additions to the fair. Brew Fest is a special event held at the Infield Party Tent that includes over 30 breweries! Sip on some good brew while you play lawn games, grab some grub from local food trucks and make wagers on horse races from private betting stations.