The California State Fair, an event synonymous with agricultural excellence and cultural celebration, is once again making headlines with its forward-thinking inclusion of a cannabis competition. Now in its third year, the cannabis contest will spotlight the best cultivators, brands, and strains in the state, further legitimizing California’s multi-billion-dollar cannabis industry.
Scheduled to take place at Cal Expo in Sacramento from July 11-27, 2025, the fair will host the state-sanctioned Cannabis Awards, recognizing top performers in multiple categories, including terpene profiles, cannabinoid content, and overall quality. This marks another milestone in the normalization of cannabis as part of California’s agricultural landscape since adult-use legalization in 2016.
A Growing Presence at the State Fair
When California first introduced cannabis as a competitive category at the 2022 State Fair, it made history as one of the first major state fairs in the country to openly embrace the plant. Unlike wine, beer, and cheese contests that rely on human judges, the cannabis competition relies on rigorous lab testing to evaluate entries based on scientific data rather than subjective taste or experience.
The SC Labs testing process, which measures terpene profiles, potency, and cannabinoid diversity, ensures a level playing field for cultivators while providing consumers with valuable insights into strain characteristics. Entries are divided into categories based on plant genetics, including sativa, indica, hybrid, CBD-rich strains, and unique terpene profiles.
“This competition is about science, agriculture, and education,” said Brian Applegarth, a cannabis advocate and consultant for the State Fair’s cannabis program. “California has long been a leader in cannabis, and this is an opportunity to highlight the incredible work that farmers and cultivators are doing statewide.”
What to Expect at This Year’s Cannabis Exhibit
In addition to the awards ceremony, the California State Fair will feature a Cannabis Exhibition Pavilion, an educational space designed to inform attendees about the plant’s history, medicinal uses, and economic impact. The pavilion will showcase interactive displays, expert panels, and educational materials, but no actual cannabis consumption or sales will be allowed on-site due to state fair regulations.
Fair organizers emphasize that the competition and exhibition aim to promote destigmatization and education, encouraging both industry professionals and the general public to learn more about the plant. The event’s inclusion of cannabis alongside traditional agricultural staples like grapes, dairy, and livestock further solidifies its place as a legitimate crop in California’s economy.
“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Randy Mendosa, a spokesperson for Cal Expo. “People are curious about cannabis, and many appreciate the opportunity to learn more in a professional and informative setting.”
Economic and Cultural Impact
California remains the largest legal cannabis market in the world, generating over $5 billion in annual sales despite ongoing challenges such as high taxation and regulatory hurdles. The State Fair’s recognition of cannabis as an agricultural product underscores its significance to the state’s economy and highlights the role of legacy farmers who helped build the industry long before legalization.
As the cannabis competition grows in prestige, winners gain significant credibility in the marketplace. Award-winning strains and products often see a boost in sales and brand recognition, making the competition highly sought after by growers looking to differentiate themselves in a competitive industry.
With another year of cannabis inclusion at the California State Fair, the event continues to break barriers, proving that the Golden State remains at the forefront of cannabis innovation and acceptance.