Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

County Fair Scholarship Program announces 2026 Miss and Mini Miss Contra Costa contestants

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Miss Contra Costa 2026 contests are (back row L-R) Emelia Brown, Yareli Santuario and Kaylee Rhiann Wright. Mini Miss Contra Costa 2026 contestants are (front row L-R) Gianna Lynch, Teigan Moore and Chloe Pettyjohn. Photos by Contra Costa County Fair.

Coronations May 14th at the 2026 Contra Costa Fair!

By Cheyenne Erickson, CEO, Contra Costa Fair & Event Park

The Contra Costa County Fair Scholarship Program provides young participants with valuable life and career skills while giving them the opportunity to earn education funds. Through the program, participants develop speech writing and public speaking abilities, build professional resumes, and showcase their unique talents.

They also gain confidence through interview practice, including answering impromptu questions skills that prepare them for future academic and career opportunities. The program focuses on personal growth, leadership, and community involvement, all while rewarding participants with scholarships to support their educational goals. Miss Contra Costa will receive a $1,000 scholarship and Mini Miss Contra Costa will receive $500 provided by the Contra Costa County Fair. They will serve as ambassadors of the fair throughout the year at community service events.

Miss Contra Costa 2026 contestants Emelia “Eme” Brown, Yareli Santuario and Kaylee Rhiann Wright. Photos: CCC Fair

MISS CONTRA COSTA CONTESTANTS:

  • Emelia Brown, 17, lives in Discovery Bay and she attends Liberty High School. She is a varsity volleyball player and participates in swimming and basketball. She enjoys surfing and spending time on the water.
  • Yareli Santuario, 17, lives in Antioch and attends Antioch High School. She is passionate about spreading positivity in her community and is involved with Be Exceptional and serves as an ambassador for the We Get It Foundation.
  • Kaylee Wright, 17, lives in Martinez and attends Alhambra High School. She enjoys meeting and uplifting others, loves animals, and has a soft spot for dark chocolate.

Mini Miss Contra Costa 2026 contestants Gianna Lynch, Teigan Moore and Chloe Pettyjohn. Photos: CCC Fair

MINI MISS CONTRA COSTA CONTESTANTS:

  • Gianna Lynch, 11, is a fifth grader from Brentwood. She enjoys performing in plays, singing, and acting, and is an active member of Brentwood 4-H.
  • Teigen Moore, 8, of Discovery Bay, loves reading and art. She enjoys spending time with family and friends and hopes to become a teacher one day.
  • Chloe Pettyjohn, 11, from Brentwood, has a two-year-old Pomeranian named Peanut. She enjoys dancing, karate, and crafting, and values time with her family and friends.

2025 Queen & Princesses to End Their Reigns

2025 Contra Costa Fair Queen Aili Selvin.

Aili Selvin of Martinez will end her reign as the 2025 Miss Contra Costa County Fair Pageant Queen. The County Fair Board offered their appreciation to her saying, “We are so proud of you and appreciate your contributions to your community all while carrying yourself with the upmost poise and kindness. We look forward to seeing more of your bright future!”

The 2025 Fair Princesses Jocelyn Luna of Oakley and Madilyn Davis of Antioch and Miss Congeniality Michalia Banks of Antioch will also end their reigns.

2025 Contra Costa Fair Queen Aili Selvin of Martinez and Fair Princesses Jocelyn Luna of Oakley and Madilyn Davis of Antioch, along with Miss Congeniality, Michalia Banks also of Antioch. Photo by Contra Costa County Fair

2026 Miss Contra Costa Pageant Director Danielle Ferguson.

Pageant Director Danielle Ferguson said, “I am honored to serve as the new Director for the Miss Contra Costa County Scholarship Program.  I grew up in the pageant world, competing from infancy through the age of 24, and spent many years as a dedicated dancer – truly growing up on the stage.  These experiences shaped my love for performance, confidence-building and empowering young women.  I am excited to bring passion, polish and heart to this program and to create an inspiring and memorable experience for every participant.”

Meet the six contestants during the 2026 Contra Costa County Fair May 14-17 at the Contra Costa Event Park, 1201 W. 10th Street, Antioch. Join us May 14th for both competitions and come support your next Miss & Mini Miss Contra Costa! For more information visit Miss Contra Costa and www.contracostafair.com where you can purchase tickets for the fair.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Entries open for still exhibits at the 2026 Contra Costa County Fair

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Deadline: May 4th to register to show your creations

By Cheyenne Erickson, CEO, Contra Costa Fair & Event Park

Calling all crafters, bakers, photographers, plant lovers, sewers and more—this is your time to shine! Enter your creations and be part of the 2026 Contra Costa County Fair May 14-17.

Divisions for EVERYONE:

  • Youth
  • Adult
  • Classroom (open to any group or class!)

Sign up now on the Showman App!

https://www.contracostafair.com/exhibitors

Need help or have questions? We’ve got you covered—join us during office hours every Tuesday & Thursday 9am-4pm for entry assistance and support.

Questions? Email us at exhibits@ccfair.org.

The Contra Costa Event Park & Fairgrounds are located at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch.

We can’t wait to see what you bring to the Fair!

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Contra Costa County Fair returns May 14-17, 2026

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We’re WILD about the Fair and 2026 is bringing the ROAR!

By Cheyenne Erickson, CEO, Contra Costa Fair & Event Park

Get ready, Contra Costa County… new thrills, new events and wildly exciting surprises are coming to the Fairgrounds during the Contra Costa County Fair May 14-17.

Mark your calendars:

  • Friday, May 15 – Bulls & Broncs Rodeo kicks things off at 7PM
  • Saturday, May 16 – Flat Track Motorcycle Racing! FREE with fair admission!
  • All weekend – New and exciting grounds acts you won’t want to miss
  • Sunday, May 17 – Junior Livestock Auction at 9AM

We’re turning up the fun and going full safari mode!

More details coming soon… until then, stay WILD about the Fair!

This year’s fair is shaping up to be an exciting one. Some of the highlights include:

  • Exotic animals and family-friendly attractions
  • The return of the Bulls & Broncs Rodeo—back for the first time in 20 years
  • Flat Track Motorcycle Racing on Saturday (FREE with fair admission)
  • Junior Livestock Auction on Sunday—support local youth and enjoy some of the best locally raised meat around

We are also crowning our very FIRST Mini Miss Contra Costa during our Miss Contra Costa Scholarship Program Thursday, May 14 at 6pm.  They have been working very hard on resumes, honing their communication skills and leadership development.

For more information click here: 2026 Contra Costa County Fair – May 14-17, 2026.

Celebrate John Muir’s 188th birthday and 56th Earth Day in Martinez April 18

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By John Muir Association

Come celebrate John Muir’s 188th birthday and Celebrating John Muir’s 188th birthday, the 56th Anniversary of Earth Day plus the 71st Anniversary of the John Muir Association Earth Day at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, CA!

Here you will see “John Muir”, visit numerous exhibitors with children’s activities, an auction, live music, enjoy a tour of the home and even get to enjoy birthday cake. We can’t wait to see you.

The John Muir National Historic Site is located at 4202 Alhambra Avenue.

For more information about the event visit https://johnmuirassociation.org/birthday-earth-day.

Bay Area Street Food Festival & Easter Sunday Mela at Mehran Restaurant in Pittsburg April 5

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By Matthew Nazir, Founder & President, Bay Area Warriors Foundation

Join us April 5, 2026, for a day of authentic Karachi Street food, family fun and community celebration at our Easter Sunday festival at Mehran Restaurant in Pittsburg! Bring your family, friends, and neighbors and enjoy a wonderful afternoon of food, fun and community while supporting a meaningful cause.

Enjoy an indoor & outdoor festival experience featuring:

Authentic Karachi Street Food

  • Karachi Biryani
  • Pakistan Chowk Bun Kabab
  • Clifton ki Fried Fish
  • Burns Road Pani Puri & Chaat
  • Kabab Rolls and more

Fun, Music & Games

  • Tambola (Housie)
  • Games & PlayStation
  • Face Painting
  • Easter Egg Hunt for Kids
  • Photo Booth with the Easter Bunny
  • Music & Karaoke
  • Community Vendor Stalls

Food, games and activities will be available through donation tickets.

Event Details

Mehran Restaurant

3841 Railroad Avenue – Pittsburg

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Starting at 1 PM

FREE ENTRY

UPDATE: However, if you plan to attend, RSVP by marking yourself as “Going” on this event page by March 20 so we can plan food and activities accordingly: Bay Area Street Food Festival & Easter Sunday Mela.

Why We Are Doing This.

All proceeds from the festival will support the Bay Area Warriors Foundation, helping provide treatment support and comfort care for cancer patients.

The foundation was created in loving memory of Chris Nazir, the late owner of Mehran Restaurant, whose spirit of generosity and community continues to inspire this mission.

Vendor Opportunities

Limited vendor spaces are available.

Non-Food / Promotional Booth:
$250 booth fee (includes $50 worth of festival tokens)

Food Vendor Booth or Food Truck:
$500 booth fee (includes $100 worth of festival tokens)

If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please contact us soon as space is limited.

Call (415) 513-9577 or email info@bayareawarriorsfoundation.org.

 

2nd Grand Community Chanukah Festival in Clayton Dec. 21

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Includes Grand Menorah Lighting

By Chabad of Concord

We are excited to announce the 2nd Grand Community Chanukah Festival in Clayton!
We are thankful to have an incredible lineup of entertainment, officials, crafts, and Chanukah excitement that you won’t want to miss.

Chabad of Concord and The City of Clayton have joined forces to bring you a Grand Menorah Lighting & LED juggling show event that promises to be unforgettable! So, get ready to celebrate with us as a community and show your Jewish pride and unity!

Sunday, Dec 21, 4:00 PM

At The Grove – 6110 Center Street in Clayton

  • Celebrate Jewish pride and unity this Chanukah with local dignitaries, leaders, and community!
  • Enjoy latkes, “The Best Sufganiyot”, hot chocolate & More
  • Live Show
  • Music videos
  • Crafts
  • Raffles
  • More

Raffle ticket provided with RSVP.

Chanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. The Hebrew word Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.

Looking forward to a grand time celebrating together!

Free admission- Please RSVP Jewishconcord.com/Clayton.

Special thanks ABL Health Care, Simcha Sisters, the City of Clayton and PJ Library for your partnership!

Chanuka Celebration and 7th annual Grand Community Menorah Lighting in Concord Dec. 18

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By Chabad of Concord

We are thrilled to announce that the 7th annual Grand Community Menorah Lighting is finally here!

This year, we are thankful to have an incredible lineup of entertainment, officials, crafts and Chanukah excitement that you won’t want to miss.

Chabad of Concord and The Veranda have joined forces to bring you a grand Menorah lighting event that promises to be unforgettable! So, get ready to celebrate with us as a community and show your Jewish pride and unity!

Thursday, December 18, 4:30 PM

At The Veranda – 2025 Diamond Blvd., Concord

  • Celebrate Jewish pride and unity this Chanukah with local dignitaries, leaders, and community!
  • Enjoy Chanukah treats
  • Live Performance by the award-winning Goofball
  • Music videos
  • Crafts
  • Raffle

Raffle ticket provided with RSVP.

Chanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. The Hebrew word Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.

Looking forward to a grand time celebrating together!

Free admission- Please RSVP Jewishconcord.com/grand.

Special thanks ABL Health Care & Simcha Sisters for your sponsorship!

For more information visit www.jewishconcord.com or www.facebook.com/chabadofconcord.

Annual Chanukah Community Festival in Brentwood Dec. 14

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Includes Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony

By Chabad of the Delta

Get ready to light up the night! The Chanukah Festival is happening in Brentwood, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, and you won’t want to miss this incredible lineup of fun, food and festivities!

DELICIOUS FOOD: Indulge in traditional, piping-hot latkes and warm, fluffy sufganiyot (donuts)! Plus, keep cozy with our FREE Hot Drink Bar (Hot Cocoa & Spiced Cider)!

AMAZING ACTIVITIES: Test your speed at the Flickering Flame Game (Menorah Whack-a-Mole!), take a spin on the Human Dreidel, and get a festive Glitter Tattoo!

TECH CORNER: See the future of the holiday with a 3D Printed Dreidel Demo!

MAIN STAGE: Join us for the hilarious and astonishing Al Skinner Comedy Magic show at 5:30 PM, followed by the Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony!

RAFFLE ALERT: Enter to win a one-of-a-kind 3D-printed dreidel! Find the raffle table near the Chanukah Gift Shop. Winners announced after the Menorah Lighting!

Chanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. The Hebrew word Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.

Join us at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak Street in Downtown.

Don’t wait! RSVP at www.JewishDelta.com/Chanukah.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/ChabadoftheDelta.

Entertainment, Midway of Fun carnival during Walnut Festival at fairgrounds in Antioch Oct. 16-19

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It’s festival time! Who’s ready to spin, soar, and scream this weekend?

The Walnut Festival lands October 16–19 with rides, games and all your fair food favorites!

Contra Costa Event Center (Fairgrounds) at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch.

Weather may affect hours — stay tuned for updates!

Fast, easy payments with self-service & contactless options!

The Walnut Festival has temporarily relocated to the fairgrounds while Heather Farms Park undergoes a large remodel. (See related article)

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West County: 7th Annual Bay Front Run and Festival in Hercules Oct. 19

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5K, 10K & 1 Mile Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run

Come for the run, stay for the fun!

By Bay Front Chamber of Commerce

Join us Sunday, October 19 from 11AM–3PM at Bayfront Blvd. in Hercules for the 2025 Bay Front Festival — a day full of community, music, and celebration!

  • Enjoy live local entertainment
  • Support local artisans & small businesses
  • Indulge in delicious bites from food trucks and vendors
  • Fun, Free & Family-Friendly!

Hosted by Bay Front Chamber and City of Hercules.

7th Annual Bay Front Run

Join us on the beautiful Bay Front trail in Hercules for the 7th Annual Bay Front Run to support our local schools.

5K, 10K & 1 Mile Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run. All participants in person & virtual registered by 9/20 will receive an event t-shirt. The first 300 to register will receive a finisher medal. The race will begin and end at Bayfront Blvd. in Hercules. Run along the Bay Front Trail where you can expect beautiful views and a gentle breeze.

Every step you take helps build a brighter future for our students.

Register now: bayfrontrun.com

Come for the run, stay for the fun! The Bay Front Festival will follow directly after the run.

RACE TIMES

8:30 am 5K, 10K & 1 Mile
10:30 am Kids Fun Run (ages 3-6)
Kids Fun Run (ages 7-10)

Race Course: The race begins at Sanderling & Bayfront, it runs along Bayfront Blvd to the Bay Trail entrance at John Muir Pkwy. the run continues along the Bay Trail thru Hercules to Rodeo. The turn -about is at the end of the Bay Trail in Rodeo. Those doing a 10K will do a double loop.

Timing: 5K & 10K Run will be chip timed/scored and results will be posted after the event. Bib must be worn to be timed/scored.

5K & 10K Awards: Top Female & Male

Parking: on Bayfront Blvd. from Railroad to Promenade & on John Muir Parkway

PACKET PICKUP

EARLY PACKET PICKUP
Saturday, 10/18 – 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
The Dylan Apartments (formally The Grand)
2200 John Muir Parkway, Hercules
REGISTRATIONS WILL ALSO BE TAKEN DURING EARLY PACKET PICK UP

PACKET PICK UP AND LAST DAY (race day) REGISTRATION
Sunday, 10/19 at Sanderling & Bayfront Blvd., Hercules
5K, 10K & 1 Mile 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
Kids Fun Run 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. (Ages 3 – 10)

ENTRY FEES

5K, 10K & 1 Mile Run/Walk $35 – In Person ~ $35 – Virtual
Kid Fun Run $15 – In Person
The first 325 to register will receive a Finisher Medal.
Registration fees are non-refundable but can be transferred to another individual.

For more information about the Bay Front Chamber of Commerce visit http://www.bayfrontchamber.com.