
HISTORY OF HAT DAY
The very first HAT DAY AT THE RACES was held at the 2011 Sonoma County Fair.
The idea started when Jane Liscum, Julie Silva, and a group of lady friends were discussing what fun it would be to have an event that promoted “dressing up” and wearing hats to the races. (They were imagining Kentucky Derby style).
Jane and Julie worked tirelessly and put on one of the best events ever held at our fair. The food, wine, flowers, silent auction items…absolutely everything was donated. The silent auction items were all displayed in hat boxes. The proceeds from the event benefitted “The Living Room”.
And now, over a decade later, Hat Day has become a cherished Sonoma County tradition. Each year, we continue to come together—dressed to the nines and donning our finest hats—not just for the fun and fashion, but to raise vital funds for our youth in agriculture.
What began as a spirited idea among friends has grown into a meaningful event that celebrates community, generosity, and the FUTURE of agriculture in our county.
YOU can help us ensure this legacy continues. With your support, Hat Day can continue to thrive for generations to come—and, most importantly, we can keep providing scholarships to our youth who are pursuing degrees in agriculture.