MONTEREY, CA. – June 3, 2026 – In alignment with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, the Monterey County Fair & Event Center is proud to announce a new recognition program honoring exceptional women in agriculture throughout Monterey County and the Salinas Valley. 

As part of the 2026 Monterey County Fair, themed “Cowboy Boots & Coastal Roots, ” the Fair is now accepting community nominations for women who have made meaningful contributions to the agricultural industry through leadership, innovation, advocacy, education, sustainability, and community impact. 

Selected honorees will be recognized during a special International Year of the Woman Farmer Reception on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Seaside Room at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center. The private reception will include a hosted bar, catered light bites and desserts, recognition remarks, media opportunities, and community celebration. 

In addition to the reception, the Fair will feature a dedicated agricultural exhibit throughout the duration of Fair week in the Salinas Room, showcasing the stories and accomplishments of each honoree. The exhibit will include professional profiles, photography, printed storytelling panels, and digital features highlighting the impact women continue to make across the region’s agricultural landscape. 

“Women have long played a vital role in shaping Monterey County agriculture, from the fields and farms to innovation, leadership, and community advocacy, ” said Kelly Violini-Rodoni, CEO of the Monterey County Fair & Event Center. “This program is an opportunity to recognize those contributions while inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders. ” 

The Monterey County Fair invites growers, agricultural businesses, educators, nonprofit organizations, and community members to submit nominations for deserving women working across all areas of agriculture, including farming, ranching, education, ag technology, sustainability, research, labor leadership, and community service. Nominations are now open and may be submitted through the official nomination form linked here. All nominations must be submitted by August 1, 2026.

 ABOUT THE MONTEREY COUNTY FAIR & EVENT CENTER The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.