A positive update regarding the San Mateo County Fair giving out goldfish as prizes at the 2024 event.

This week I spoke with Dana Stoehr, the Chief Executive Officer of the San Mateo County Event Center who explained that the San Mateo County Fair had an understanding that live animals would not be given out as prizes at their events, but this was not made clear enough to their rides and entertainment contractor.

In response to learning that it happened at the fair this year, the San Mateo County Fair has decided to update their contract to explicitly state that no live animals can be given out as prizes. They will state in writing that there will be penalties for any violations of this rule.

By making it clear in writing for their contractor, the chances of such incidents occurring again will be reduced. If you observe live animals being given out as prizes at their future events, please contact the fair immediately.

Thank you so much to every who has signed, shared, and commented on this petition. 

And a big thank you to the San Mateo County Fair for responding so promptly to our concerns and acknowledging that this practice is not acceptable. This sets a positive example and standard for other fairs.