FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 25, 2025
Contact: Michael Bradley
MHB Productions
Direct Line 602-820-0189
mhbproductions56@gmail.com
Chowchilla Madera County Fair Welcomes Natalie Worstein as New CEO
Chowchilla, CA, November 25, 2025 — After an extensive, North America-wide search encompassing over 140 applicants, the Chowchilla Madera County Fair Board of Directors proudly announces Natalie Worstein as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Worstein is a highly versatile professional with two decades of experience spanning various sectors including business administration, marketing, human resource management, director of hospitality branding and sales, and retail property development.
Her extensive background includes executive roles at several prominent organizations, such as Harris Ranch Resort in Coalinga, CA, Manco Abbot in Fresno, CA, and Taylor Investment LLC in Honolulu, HI. She also served as the Commercial Leasing Manager for both Sierra Vista Mall in Clovis, CA and Sunrise Mall in Citrus Heights, CA.
Worstein’s innovative approach to event production, marketing, and strategic partner engagement uniquely positions her to lead the organization effectively.
“Natalie's proven track record of strong leadership, business-oriented priorities and passion for the community made her the clear choice for CEO,” announced Board President Nathan Lewis. "Her focus on organizational efficiency, multifaceted communication, and relentless execution will drive the Fair and our facility into its next chapter, aligned with our Vision 2030 Strategic Plan," Lewis said. “In her role, Natalie will lead all operations, enhance community partnerships, manage the Annual Fair, expand the Event Center's year-round schedule, oversee facility improvements, initiate innovations, and drive Non-Profit Net Revenue goals.”
Worstein has been a professional within California’s Central Valley business community since 2013. She holds a B.A. in Business Administration (Marketing) from the University of Hawaii, West Oahu, an MS in Management, and an MBA from the University of Maryland University College. She also holds a PHRca certification credential.
“I’m honored to serve an institution that means so much to this valued geographic center of California,” said Natalie. “The Event Center in Chowchilla is more than just the site of our beloved annual fair — it is a vital community gathering place, a space for celebration, and a trusted resource in times of emergency. It further provides a showcase to salute our rich agricultural roots, the dynamic farming community of today, our Western Heritage traditions, education, entertainment and most importantly, it connects our diverse community through shared experiences and inspires future generations. I look forward to working with the Board, staff, and broader community to ensure we grow, prosper, provide value and serve to reflect the needs of Chowchilla, Our Region and the Golden State for generations to come.”
Natalie will assume her duties as CEO officially on Monday, December 8, 2025. Her appointment comes as the Fair prepares for its upcoming 2026 season.
The Fair will be held May 7-10, 2026, and is celebrating 80 years of continuous operation.
About the Chowchilla Madera County Fair and Event Center
The Chowchilla Junior Fair was incorporated in 1946 as the Madera County Livestock Association. The annual fair is held four days in May concluding on Mother’s Day each year. Uniting residents and statewide guests, the Fair celebrates our shared heritage of agriculture, strong and diverse community connections, local talent, and the importance of family. The fair features a highly competitive Youth Livestock show, traditional fair foods, a nationally recognized Carnival, entertainment and shopping experiences. During the Fair, The Chowchilla Spring Festival holds the annual deep-pit BBQ put on by 200 volunteers. Nearly 8,000 people are fed over 10,000 pounds of beef in less than three hours. The BBQ event was featured on the nationally recognized broadcast “Carnival Eats.”
The Event Center is open for business all year and is home to the Chowchilla Western Stampede, famous for its eight-steer roping, year-round horse events, multiple community functions, fundraising events, Go-Kart Racing and everyone's favorite, Cowboy Christmas.
Conveniently located in the literal geographic center of California, Chowchilla is proud to be the main gateway to the breathtaking Yosemite National Park.
Mission Statement: “To Showcase our facility and annul fair’s value to the Golden State while celebrating Western Heritage”
The Chowchilla Madera County Fair is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization governed by a volunteer board of directors. For more information, visit chowchillafair.org, follow the fair https://www.facebook.com/ChowchillaFairgrounds, or call 559-665-3728.
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