SMUD's annual Giving Friday returns to the State Fair — New day, same great cause
Free admission with donation of five nonperishable food items
SMUD's Giving Friday is back at the California State Fair with a new day and a new nonprofit benefiting — but the same big heart of giving.
Moving from Mondays to Fridays (July 11, 18 and 25), you can enjoy FREE same-day entry to the California State Fair with a donation of five nonperishable food items to help stock the shelves at the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.
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WHAT: |
SMUD Giving Friday at The Fair |
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WHEN: |
Friday, July 11, 18 and 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
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WHO: |
SMUD Board Members and volunteers, Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services |
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WHERE: |
Cal Expo Main Gate, Blue Gate and Green Gate |
"Giving Friday represents the heart of what SMUD stands for — being there for our community, especially those facing food insecurity,” said Farres Everly, SMUD’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. “With rising costs impacting so many families, this partnership creates a simple but powerful way for neighbors to help neighbors while enjoying everything the State Fair has to offer."
The numbers tell the story. The Sacramento Food Bank is serving more individuals than ever before — over 320,000 people in our region every month. Each item donated helps fill the gap for children, families and seniors who are struggling to put food on the table. Any nonperishable donation makes a difference, but here are some items that are especially helpful:
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- Pasta (dry) - Macaroni and cheese - Peanut butter - Canned vegetables - Canned tomatoes - Canned beans |
- Oatmeal - Cereal boxes - Crackers and granola bars - Canned meat (tuna, chicken, etc.) - Soups and stews - Canned fruit |
Donations accepted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at three Cal Expo gates - Main, Blue and Green. Upon entry, visitors can enjoy SMUD swag bags, energy-saving tips and induction cooking demos. Also join SMUD on Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the EV Ride and Drive event at nearby Arden Fair Mall. Test drive an electric vehicle and earn a free State Fair ticket.
SMUD has led successful e-waste, coat, personal care and school supply drives at Cal Expo. These drives have benefited nonprofits such as the Sacramento Children’s Home, the Sacramento Regional Conservation Corps and the Elk Grove Food Bank.
For more information about SMUD Giving Friday, visit calexpostatefair.com or smud.org/StateFair.
