Big is beautiful

The California State Fair is up and running at Cal Expo through September 4. Like the state it honors, the fair boasts an amazing variety of activities and attractions: talent competitions, monster trucks, boxing, motocross, food and wine tastings, harness racing, a demolition derby and cultural demonstrations. Don’t forget to see the animals in the Livestock Pavilion or check out a display on California authors. Of course, what would the fair be without music? Well, there’s plenty to be seen onstage, from classic rock to contemporary R&B. This week, it’s ’90s hit makers Boyz II Men on Thursday night, followed by REO Speedwagon on Friday. The Fair is closed on Mondays, except on Labor Day (September 4), and is open from noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday. For the full schedule and ticket prices, call (916) 263-FAIR or visit the fair’s Web site at www.bigfun.org. The Cal Expo fairgrounds are located at 1600 Exposition Boulevard.