The Sonoma County Fair Board has decided to cancel horse racing for this year’s fair due to many racehorse owners relocating to Southern California and out of state following the closure of Golden Gate Fields and the end of stabling and racing at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. The decision was made to enhance the focus on agriculture, education, exhibits, and entertainment at the fair. The board stated that racing may only return in the future if there is a resurgence of the industry.

The cancellation of horse racing at the Sonoma County Fair follows a January decision by the California Authority of Racing Fairs to cancel the Northern circuit of California at other Northern California fairs this summer. This decision was praised by animal rights advocacy organization Animal Defenders International. The California Horse Racing Board reported 108 racehorse deaths in 2024, with no deaths reported at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds last year but two in August 2023.

The decline in horse racing at Northern California venues is part of a nationwide constriction of the industry, with criticisms from animal rights advocacy organizations about the sport’s safety. The Sonoma County Fair will still take place from Aug. 1 to Aug. 10, focusing on other aspects such as agriculture and entertainment. More information about the fair can be found on the fair’s website.