Volunteer Opportunities

Advisory Councils - Friends of the Fair - Youth Task Force

Advisory Councils

In 1915, San Francisco played host to the Panama-Pacific International Exposition.  This event drew so much attention around the world that the following year the California State Fair added a cultural component to the program.

Japan, China and Sweden were among the first countries to provide international exhibits.  Since then, the State Fair has embraced competitions, exhibits, and special days that foster a deeper understanding of ethnic heritages and cultural diversity.

Beginning in May 2003, the California Exposition & State Fair will be served by a "Cultural Advisory Council" comprised of multi-ethnic advisors who assist the Board of Directors year-round on matters pertaining to cultural programming.   These volunteer advisors are charged with the responsibility of making suggestions that further the agency’s commitment to be reflective of California’s cultural diversity.

All throughout the 18 day Fair, visitors will enjoy a wide range of exhibits, entertainment and food that mirror the cultural richness of the State.

We are now accepting applications for the Cultural Advisory Council. Download the application here.

• Application

Friends of the Fair

Our mission is to promote public awareness and support with the community for the California Exposition & State Fair.  As a charitable nonprofit volunteer organization, we serve as people-oriented ambassadors for the California State Fair.

• California State Fair
• Concerts
• Horse Racing
• Special Events
• State Fair Gala
• California Grape & Gourmet
• New Friends

It all equals Big Fun!

Become a member of Friends of the California State Fair

• Application

How would you like to meet outgoing, fun-loving people, volunteer for interesting activities year-round and help support the biggest entertainment venue in Northern California? 

In the spring and fall, you may participate in Cal Expo’s award-winning Demonstration Farm program, helping young people learn more about agriculture.  Throughout the year, you may be invited to work in various capacities in the Administration Building.  We help manage and raise funds for the prestigious California State Fair Scholarship Program. 

You will meet some of the friendliest, interesting people in Northern California.  Our annual Picnic and Christmas Party are always fun.  And being part of the Grape & Gourmet or the elegant State Fair Gala are the social highlights of our year.  Our newsletter, The Golden Showcase, contains features and articles and information on all our activities. 

We would love to have you join the team! Our distinctive and colorful shirts are recognized and respected all over the Fairgrounds, and our role continues to grow. 

Please submit a completed application form to the Friends of the California State Fair. 

Thank you - We’ll see you at the Fair!

January - March 2010 Newsletter
July - September 2009 Newsletter
April - June 2009 Newsletter

Mark Your Calendars

Youth Task Force

Do something fun with your fellow youth this summer at the California State Fair! The Youth Task Force program offers youth the opportunity to participate before and during the California State Fair by providing volunteer assistance.

Youth, ages 14-17, are invited to join. Youth Task Force activities may include the following: exhibit check in/out, labeling displayed entries, planning a demonstration day, assembling mailings, staffing fair-time events, assisting in the demonstration kitchen, and much more!

The Youth Task Force is a fun way to participate in the California State Fair and volunteerism is an important part of any resume or scholarship application. Each Task Force member will receive a Certificate of Hours, and Letters of Recommendation are available upon request. For more information please contact Michelle Johnson, Youth Programs Supervisor at mejohnson@calexpo.com or 916.263.3189.