The state fair has been a long summertime tradition in Sacramento. Though the past two years have been canceled due to the pandemic, plans are already underway for next year’s big comeback. Along with all the food and fun, the state fair also recognizes the best in California. Annual competitions are held to pick the top products in the state, including wine, cheese, olive oil, and craft beer.
Next year, a new category is being added: cannabis cultivation. This newest addition is no doubt a part of California’s agriculture industry, just like grapes and dairy. Expo’s board of directors approved the top pot competition, and it raises some questions on how it will be judged.
“As far as I know, it might be the first time any state fair is doing that,” said Chair of Cal Expo board of directors Jess Durfee. Durfee informs that cannabis entries won’t be tested by the judges smoking it. To keep the judging more objective, the cannabis will be scientifically analyzed for its chemical composition, among other traits. “It’s a growing industry; it’s important to agriculture in California,” said Durfee.
There will be a prestigious “golden bear” award for this new category recognizing the best of the best. With nearly 7000 licensed cannabis cultivators, you can bet that the competition will be tough.
Entries will be accepted beginning November 1st and winners will be announced in May.