Celebrating Women Who Power the Fair
Behind every summer memory at the Alameda County Fair are women helping shape the experience in ways big and small, expected and unexpected. From sponsors and local business owners to educators, non-profit leaders and community partners, women play a key role in building partnerships that strengthen the Fair and the community around it.
On International Women’s Day, we recognize and celebrate the women whose leadership and partnership help power one of the Bay Area’s most enduring traditions.
The following statements shine a light on various women who collaborate with the Fair and the passion, creativity and commitment they bring to the community all year long.
Kristin Zierau, Marketing Director Safeway Northern California Division
Partnering with the Fair strengthens our connection to the community and shows our commitment to supporting local traditions. It creates meaningful visibility for our organization while helping bring people together in a positive, family-friendly environment.
Liesel Williams, Concessions Stand Owner, WFA’s 2026 Barham Award Recipient
Red & White Concessions and The Williams Family have spent so many years partnering with the Alameda County Fair, it almost feels like a second home. We have had babies born right before the Fair run, right after the Fair run, and one born right in the middle of the Fair run. Our children grew up on the fairgrounds.
We have so many family memories tied to the Alameda County Fair. We love coming back every year and reconnecting with the many people we’ve forged bonds with over the years, from other vendors, maintenance staff, admin, regular customers to local businesses and families who have spent time working in our stands. We love it here and hope to continue being part of the fair for a long time.
Carissa Rivers, Executive Director Alameda County Fair Foundation
Partnering with the Alameda County Fair means investing in a tradition that brings our community together across generations and that feels incredibly meaningful to me. Through the Fair Foundation capital project, we are expanding access to high-tech agricultural education, career path exploration, and hands-on learning experiences that are otherwise out of reach for many Bay Area youth.
For me, this work is about creating opportunity while preserving the agricultural heritage that defines our region. When we open doors for young people, we strengthen community pride and the future of our entire community.
People Also Ask
Q: How do women contribute to the Alameda County Fair?
A: Women lead partnerships, operate businesses, guide philanthropic efforts and strengthen community programming year round.
Q: Why are partnerships important to the Fair?
A: Partnerships support economic growth, educational access and community connection across generations.
Q: How does the Alameda County Fair recognize International Women’s Day?
A: By highlighting the women who power the Fair and our partnerships who lead businesses, support community programs and help shape the Fair’s traditions throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
Each of these voices reflects a different path of leadership. Each partnership reflects the power of collaboration, generosity and community spirit. Together, they demonstrate how women continue to shape the Fair not only as a summer event but as a year-round community institution.
During International Women’s Month and beyond, these voices are a reminder that when women lead, collaborate and give back, the entire community grows stronger.
