The Stanislaus County Fair Board of Directors has decided to cancel all junior horse events for 2026, citing low local participation and financial losses. The Junior Horse Show, a long-standing pre-fair tradition, had seen declining numbers from Stanislaus County, with only 20 participants in 2025 and 10 in 2024. The event had been moved to the Diamond Bar arena in Ceres due to the fair’s arena not meeting show standards. Fair CEO Kim Williams expressed hope that the horse show might return in the future.

The cancellation has sparked disappointment and criticism from the local community, particularly from parents and 4-H members who feel the decision was made without proper consultation. Abigail Cahoon of River Oaks 4-H highlighted the impact on young riders who rely on the horse show as their primary project and qualification opportunity for the California State Fair. She also noted that COVID-19 had significantly reduced participation, but efforts were underway to rebuild the program. The lack of communication from the Fair board to 4-H leaders before the announcement has been a major point of contention.