The Big Fresno Fair has opened registration for its annual free educational field trip for young students, which aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban life.

The Fair Education Program welcomes over 25,000 students, teachers, and chaperones to the community staple every year. Now, applications are open for those wishing to attend the program’s 32nd year.

“It is our mission to celebrate, educate and have fun,” said Christina Estrada, CEO of The Big Fresno Fair. “This program gives us an incredible opportunity to educate students on our agricultural heritage from livestock to fresh produce, gems, minerals, plants, art, history and more! We are so proud of this three-decade program and grateful for the partners who have supported it year after year. Teachers — here’s your chance to take learning outside the classroom as part of this memorable field trip!”

The trip aids in exposing students to the rich and diverse agriculture that powers the Central Valley. Additionally, attendees will learn about the history of Fresno County and its talented residents.

In preparation for the trip, the Fair will provide teachers with common core curriculum to use in the classroom. Alongside this, organizers will include an activity sheet for students to fill out while attending the Fair.

The program is open to Fresno County public, private, and homeschooled pre-k through eighth grade students.  This year’s program dates are Oct. 8, 9, 15, and 16.

The trip is available on a first-come, first-served basis and the deadline to register is Sept. 1. Teachers interested in having their class attend can register here.

The program is put on in collaboration with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools and presented by Valley Children’s Healthcare, EECU, Meyers Water Bank & Wildlife Project and Fresno County Transportation Authority Measure C.

About The Big Fresno Fair and Education Program

The Big Fresno Fair, founded in 1884, is the fifth largest fair in the state of California with over 500,000 visitors each year.

It is the largest annual event in the Central Valley and will run from Oct. 7 to Oct. 18.

The Fair Education Program, established in 1994, has served more than 550,000 Fresno County students and their teachers with field trip experiences.

Last year, more than 11,000 students across Fresno County were invited to be part of the 4.0 & Above Program in recognition of their outstanding GPAs, with dozens of prizes awarded throughout the night to celebrate their hard work and achievement, Fresno County Superintendent Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher said.

“I am proud of our long-standing partnership with the Big Fresno Fair and the opportunities it creates to uplift and recognize students,” she said. “It’s a powerful moment for our community to come together and recognize some of our highest-achieving students, and it’s something we look forward to every year.”