Alameda County Fairgrounds facts for kids
The Alameda County Fairgrounds is a big place, about 270 acres, located in Pleasanton, California. It is home to the yearly Alameda County Fair, which has been happening since 1912. The fairgrounds also hosts many other fun events and shows throughout the year.
The Pleasanton Fairgrounds Racetrack was built in 1858. This makes it the oldest 1-mile horse racing track in the entire United States! There is also a huge outdoor stage called an amphitheater, with 3,000 seats. You can even find a 9-hole golf course right inside the racetrack.
Since 1959, the Alameda County Central Railroad Society has had an amazing model train exhibit at the fairgrounds. It has grown to include two huge layouts, each 15 by 100 feet, with trains of different sizes (called O scale and HO scale).
Building J, also known as the Amador Pavilion, is a large building for many different events. It is used for animal shows and was briefly home to a football team called the Tri-Valley Ranchers.
The annual fair didn't happen in some years, like during World War I (1917–1918) and World War II (1942–1944). It also didn't take place in 2020.
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Heathcote-MacKenzie House: A Historic Home
Quick facts for kids |
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Heathcote--MacKenzie House
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 Location in California
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| Location | 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, California |
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| Area | 0.4 acres (0.16 ha) |
| Architectural style | Bungalow/craftsman |
| NRHP reference No. | 91001538 |
| Added to NRHP | October 29, 1991 |
The Heathcote-MacKenzie House is also known as The Heritage House. It was built around 1905 on the fairgrounds property. This house was used to host wealthy horse racers from Canada. These racers would bring their horses to Pleasanton for the winter. The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991 because of its special history.
Fun Events at the Fairgrounds
Besides the yearly fair, many other exciting events happen regularly at the fairgrounds:
- The Scottish Highland Gathering and Games is a huge event. It started way back in the 1860s! It's known as the biggest two-day Scottish gathering in North America. In 2015, it celebrated its 150th anniversary.
- The Pirates Of Emerson Haunted House is a popular spooky attraction.
- The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association hosts several annual car shows. These shows feature cool custom cars and hot rods.
- Night to Shine prom is a special event hosted by Cornerstone Fellowship.
See also
- List of convention centers in the United States
External links
