El Dorado County Fair is a registered non-profit 501 (c) (3)

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm

Heritage Foundation

Support the Future of our County Fair

Preserving the Fairgrounds. Supporting Local Youth

The Heritage Foundation was created to support the El Dorado County Fair Association in its efforts to upgrade and maintain the livestock facilities at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This vital partnership plays a key role in strengthening opportunities for local youth involved in agricultural programs, ensuring that our community’s agricultural heritage continues to thrive.

The Foundation’s mission is to uphold a high standard of excellence across the fairgrounds by generating revenue for capital improvements, expansion projects, and the beautification of key areas. Through its work, the Foundation encourages greater community involvement and input, helping to preserve the rich legacy of the Fair while actively promoting its future.

By investing in facilities and programs, the Heritage Foundation helps ensure the Fairgrounds remain a vibrant and valuable space for generations to come.

Membership Levels

GOLD RUSH CLASSIC HOG SHOW

October 23 - 25, 2026

Join us as we celebrate the 5th Annual Gold Rush Classic Hog Jackpot Show!

Don’t miss all the fun.

  • Costume Contest
  • Cornhole Tournament
  • Raffle Prizes
  • Trick-or-Treating,
  • Bar
  • Shopping
  • Good Food
  • Memories
Gold Rush Classic Hog Show

The Gold Rush Classic Hog Show has become one of Northern California’s premier junior jackpot hog shows, drawing exhibitors and their families from across the state to the El Dorado County Fair & Event Center in historic Placerville each year during the last weekend of October. The event showcases the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship of young livestock exhibitors as they compete with top-quality market hogs in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Over the years, the show has earned a reputation for strong competition, outstanding support from the agricultural community, and a welcoming environment that keeps exhibitors returning year after year.

One of the most anticipated traditions of the weekend is the Gold Rush Classic Costume Contest. Exhibitors and their hogs go all out with creative, hilarious, and often elaborate costumes, transforming the barns into a colorful celebration that perfectly captures the spirit of the event. From themed group costumes to clever livestock-inspired creations, the contest has become a fan favorite and one of the highlights of the weekend. The costume contest not only brings plenty of laughs and memorable moments but also showcases the camaraderie and community that make the Gold Rush Classic so special.

More than just a livestock show, the Gold Rush Classic serves as an important fundraiser benefiting improvements to the livestock facilities at the fairgrounds and supporting the future of youth agriculture in the region. Through the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, and exhibitors, the event continues to grow while preserving the traditions and values that make the livestock industry strong.