FAIR OAKS—The Fair Oaks Chicken Festival returns for its 20th year this weekend, promising a lively celebration of music, food, contests, and community spirit in the heart of the village. What began as a quirky local tradition to honor the area’s free-roaming chickens has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated community events, drawing thousands of visitors each September.
The annual festival shines a spotlight on the charm of Fair Oaks, a community known for its rural roots, rich citrus history, and feathered residents that still strut through the streets. Festivalgoers will find a little something for everyone, from live entertainment and artisan vendors to children’s attractions and contests that highlight the playful personality of the event.
Chicken Stock, the festival’s live music stage, will anchor the day with high-energy performances. Families can head to Rocky’s Roost, the expansive kid’s zone featuring carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, story times, and dance parties, while food lovers will have their pick of culinary creations from the Feed Court, curated by SactoMoFo, and cold drinks at the Watering Hole operated by the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks. The always-popular Great Chicken Decorating Contest, cornhole tournament, and Cluck n’ Crow Contest bring a competitive but lighthearted flair that has become a hallmark of the event.
The 20th Annual Fair Oaks Chicken Festival takes place Saturday, September 20, from noon to 6 p.m. at Fair Oaks Park, 11549 Fair Oaks Boulevard. Admission and general parking are free, with paid preferred parking available near the entrance. Early risers can start the day with the traditional pancake breakfast hosted by the Orangevale/Fair Oaks Grange from 7:30 to 10 a.m. at the Grange Hall, 5807 Walnut Avenue in Orangevale.
This year’s Chicken Stock lineup includes River City Outlaws from 12:30 to 3 p.m., followed by the Cluck n’ Crow Contest at 3 p.m., and Dunsbar Road closing the stage from 3:30 to 6 p.m. In Rocky’s Roost, kids will enjoy performances by SP Music Folsom, interactive story times, and a meet-and-greet with characters throughout the day.
Food trucks will serve everything from barbecue to tacos, desserts, and specialty bowls, while the Watering Hole will feature craft beer and wine specials with proceeds supporting local programs. For those looking to shop, craft and community vendor booths will be open throughout the park, offering handmade goods, local products, and community resources.
Organizers remind attendees that no outside coolers, ice chests, alcoholic beverages, or pets are permitted, with the exception of service animals. Bags will be checked at entry, and ADA parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bike valet service will also be provided for those choosing to pedal in.
Pre-registration is available for preferred parking, unlimited inflatable wristbands, the cornhole tournament, and both the adult and kids’ Cluck n’ Crow contests. Contest winners will be announced live during the festival, with the Chicken Decorating Contest finale set for 4:30 p.m. More details and sign-ups can be found at the official event website here.
The event is made possible through the support of local sponsors including title sponsor Fair Oaks Arborist, along with Learning Jungle, SMUD, Elliott Homes, Sacramento Credit Union, Community Health Centers of America, Dewey Dental Group, Zwierzynski Law, Community West Bank, and Raley’s.
Now celebrating two decades, the Fair Oaks Chicken Festival remains a colorful symbol of community pride and a reminder that the village’s feathered icons still rule the roost.
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