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The Big Fresno Fair has a new admission policy. And some teenagers may not like it.

The sun sets as the swing ride glides riders through the evening air in the carnival area at the Big Fresno Fair last year. This year’s fair runs from Oct. 4-15.
The sun sets as the swing ride glides riders through the evening air in the carnival area at the Big Fresno Fair last year. This year’s fair runs from Oct. 4-15. Fresno Bee file

If you are looking for trouble at the Big Fresno Fair, officials say you better go somewhere else.

In an attempt to cut down on fighting among attendees, the fair board is implementing a new admissions policy that says no one under the age of 18 will be admitted into the fair on Friday and Saturday nights unless they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. And everyone who enters the fair will be required to wear a wristband.

If police or private security find you without the wristband, chances are high they’ll kick you out.

John Alkire, the fair’s chief executive officer, said the changes were made to ensure that people who come to the fair have a good and safe time. And that means no fights. Previous fairs have been marred by brawls.

Alkire said that the fair has always had a zero tolerance against “negative behavior” and the new policy reinforces it.

“The new admission policies are intended to foster a safe and comfortable atmosphere for all guests,” Alkire said. “Although many entertainment venues already have their own similar admission guidelines, this is the first time our fair has formally outlined weekend admission policies that could subject violators to being asked to leave the Fair.”

The Big Fresno Fair is the largest event in the county, attracting more than 600,000 visitors during its 12-day run that begins on Oct. 4.

Fresno Police Jerry Dyer supports the new policy, saying the department works closely with the fair and private security to make sure things run smoothly. At any given time, there are 60 to 80 officers at the fairgrounds.

The new policy kicks in on Friday and Saturday nights after 7. For an explanation of the rules and “Frequently Asked Questions” visit the fair’s website at www.fresnofair.com.

Robert Rodriguez: 559-441-6327, @FresnoBeeBob

This story was originally published September 29, 2017 at 2:01 PM with the headline "The Big Fresno Fair has a new admission policy. And some teenagers may not like it.."

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