Fair to Spotlight Film Industry

The Black-Eyed Peas, Smash Mouth, Brad Paisley, Village People and the B-52s are among the musical acts that will be featured at the 2004 Ventura County Fair, which gets underway next month at Seaside Park in Ventura.

This year’s theme, “Hooray for Hollywood,” was inspired by the county’s long-standing relationship with the entertainment industry, organizers said during a news conference Wednesday. The county has been the site of several movie and television productions, including “Erin Brockovich,” “Swordfish,” “Chaplin” and “The X-Files.”

“We thought it would be fun to do something that focused on the television and movie industry,” said Ginger Gherardi, a fair board member. “It’s part of the heritage here.”

Organizers unveiled a new poster that features the words Ventura County Fair amid Hollywood-style searchlights and against a backdrop of a Ferris wheel and fireworks.

New this year is Seaside Parker, a bubbly seahorse that will serve as the fair’s mascot.

The annual 12-day event, which drew nearly 309,000 visitors last year, is scheduled to begin Aug. 4.

In addition to the musical acts, the fair will include carnival rides, games of chance, motor sports and livestock competitions and exhibits.

“We’re looking for 300,000 plus, and I’m sure we’re going to get it,” said Ed Barlow, chief executive of Ventura County Fairgrounds. “We have a great lineup.”

For more information on tickets, parking and transportation, visit the fair’s website at www.coolfair.com.