Lovable mascot on one of many California State Fair postmarks

Postmark Pursuit by Molly Goad

The California State Fair mascot, Poppy the Bear, receives a special birthday shout-out on the pictorial postmark shown nearby.

The image of the furry bear hugging a star caught my attention, and I wanted to learn more about this charming character. Turns out, Poppy the Bear plays a crucial role in creating a fun and engaging atmosphere each year at the fair.

Throughout the 17-day event, Poppy is often seen strutting around, playing games, riding rides and meeting fairgoers. Adults seem to love snapping selfies with Poppy just as much as children do. (There’s even footage of Poppy riding the carousel.)

On July 16, Poppy’s birthday was celebrated with a special event featuring music, live entertainment and free treats. There are 17 fair postmarks available, one for each day of the fair and each with a different image. The fair was held July 12-28.

To obtain any of the California State Fair postmarks, address your request to:

OPENING DAY Station, Postmaster, 2000 Royal Oaks Drive, Sacramento, CA 95813, July 12. (“California State Fair,” ribbon.)

— HORSE RACING Station, July 13. (Horse.)

— FREE CONCERTS Station, July 14. (Guitar, musical notes, hands raised.)

— FREESTYLE MOTOCROSS Station, July 15. (Person on motorcycle, tire mark.)

— POPPY’S BIRTHDAY Station, July 16. (Bear wearing a party hat while holding a star, two balloons.)

— TASTE OF THE FAIR Station, July 17. (Frozen pop, burger, soda, ice cream, pizza, fries.)

— HIGH-SPEED RAIL EXHIBIT Station, July 18 (Train.)

— BEST OF CA BREWFEST Station, July 19. (Beer.)

— OUT AT THE FAIR Station, July 20. (Rainbow, clouds, flag, hearts.)

— VIVA EL MARIACHI Station, July 21. (Guitar, sombrero.)

— LIVESTOCK Station, July 22. (Cow, goat.)

— BEST OF CA Station, July 23. (Cheese, wine, grapes, beer.)

— MILITARY, VETERAN & FIRST RESPONDER APPRECIATION DAY Station, July 24. (Military medal with star, emergency vehicle light.)

— WILD THINGS ADVENTURE Station, July 25. (Wild animals.)

— CANDY MAZE SELFIE EXPERIENCE Station, July 26. (Candy, smartphone.)

— FIREWORKS Station, July 27. (Fireworks.)

— CLOSING DAY Station, July 28. (Ferris wheel.).

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