After 141 years, the Big Fresno Fair has canceled its live horse races for the 2025 event following a decision by the Fair Board after the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) ceased managing race meets in Northern California. This move came amid investigations into the euthanization of three injured racehorses at the fair and the closure of the Stronach Group’s Golden Gate Fields racetrack. The cancellation has deeply affected fair staff and attendees, many of whom feel the horse races are a vital part of the fair’s atmosphere and excitement.

In place of horse racing, the Big Fresno Fair rodeo now offers alternating Friday and Saturday shows, but many fairgoers feel it does not adequately replace the traditional races. While some, like pari-mutuel clerk Albert Fernandez, recommend giving the rodeo a chance, others express disappointment and a lack of interest, indicating that the rodeo cannot fully compensate for the loss of horse racing at the fair. The future of horse racing at the Big Fresno Fair remains uncertain, with a slim chance of returning next year.