Stanislaus County Fair food: If you have $5, you can feast

There are many reasons to go to the fair; rides, concerts, exhibits and the favorite of many, the food.

Perhaps it is the heat that makes a milk shake from the 4H Milk Bar or a pineapple soft serve from the Dole Whip stand taste extra refreshing. Whatever the reason, fair food is an attraction all on its own. Though the cost of entry is reasonable, the many food options can add up.

This year, fair organizers are offering $5 fair bites at select food stalls from 4 to 6 p.m. every day that the fair is open. There are about 40 food options at this year’s fair and 13 of them will offer smaller portions of their popular fare.

For $20 dollars, the cost of an average fair meal for one, you could try a sampling of different items. Pick up a chicken teriyaki skewer from Teriyaki Grill (stall #5), mini warrior fries at the VFW Burger booth (stall #25), a 16 ounce refreshment from Texas Twister (stall #30) and finish with a mini bacon bomb cinnamon roll from County Fair Cinnamon Rolls (stall #13).

Like a happy hour for treats, fairgoers can start on one end of the food stands, and walk down the concessions path to sample the best of the midway munchies.

Participating stands will have a “$5 Fair Bites” sticker displayed and a list can be found in the fair program.

Participating stalls are listed by number in the guide:

#1 - Small lemonade

#5 - Small chicken teriyaki skewers

#6 - Mini drizzle

#10 - 12 ounce Italian soda

#13 - Mini bacon bomb cinnamon roll with cream cheese, bacon, maple syrup and nuts

#18 - Mini wonton chicken taco

#20 - Mini root beer float

#23 - Mini fiesta cup of corn

#25 - Mini warrior fries with cheese, chili and secret sauce

#30 - 16 ounce Texas Twister drink

#34 - Jr. grilled cheese with fries

#35 - 2 mini chocolate chip cookies

#38 - Slice of cheese pizza

This story was originally published July 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM.

Maria Luisa Figueroa

The Modesto Bee

Reporter Maria Luisa Figueroa covers the local economy, including trends in retail, employment and local spending. She is a Modesto native and attended San Francisco State University.