Tuesday, April 16, 2024 (4:37 pm)

We bid a heartfelt adieu to Joan Hamill, an esteemed member of the OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) family, whose dedication and passion have illuminated our institution for the past 31 years.

Joan’s journey began in 1993 as a part-time fair staff assistant, and from that moment on, her presence has been transformative. With boundless enthusiasm and commitment, she embraced every opportunity, leaving an indelible mark on OCFEC and many who have had the pleasure of working alongside her.

What made Joan’s tenure truly remarkable was her deep connection to the organization and community. Beyond the responsibilities of her role, she fostered a sense of camaraderie and belonging that made OCFEC feel like home. Her wisdom and guidance served new and seasoned staffers, instilling in them a sense of purpose and pride in their work.

Throughout her time here, Joan contributed to many memorable moments, from Fair themes that brought joy to thousands (like “Cowabunga!” – a Fair theme involving intense collaboration that was a salute to Herefords, surfers and sand) to meaningful initiatives that touched the lives of our community’s youth. One of her fondest memories is taking Centennial Farm’s Ranch After-School Program kids to the state capital for CA Ag Day where they met CDFA’s former agriculture secretary and then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Her passion and creativity have been contagious, inspiring those who have crossed her path.

As Joan embarks on a new chapter, we extend our deepest gratitude for her 31 years of dedicated service. Her legacy will endure as a testament to the power of passion, commitment and the profound impact one individual can have on an organization.

So here’s to Joan! As she takes leave, we say goodbye with heartfelt gratitude and warm wishes for all the adventures that lie ahead for her. Though she may be departing from our daily lives, her spirit will remain a part of the OCFEC family.

Thank you for shining bright and lighting the way for others to follow in your footsteps.

Friday, March 29, 2024 (3:56 pm)

(10:12 am)

The OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors reaffirmed, on March 28, its plans to open up the fairgrounds’ equestrian center by introducing public programming centered around equine education, mental health support and entertainment for the whole community.

The new equine center model will provide greater access for the public to benefit from these free and low-cost programs.

Staff updated the Board on plans to host a free public horse show in June, one of the first programs developed by OC Fair staff for the public in the new plan. The organization’s Ranch After School Program will move from Centennial Farm to the new community equine center with plans for expanding to include many more student participants by providing agricultural education and hands-on learning experiences for local youth. Staff is partnering with the North Orange County Veterans Center to provide certified equine therapy to veterans and their families. And, soon, college veterinary tech students will use the center for experiential learning.

“We’re very excited to advance the Board’s vision for the community equine center. Our public programs will provide equine education, support and entertainment to the greater Orange County community and to those who may not otherwise have access to horses,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards.

The new community equine center will continue to provide boarding and training activities for privately owned horses. The Board voted to approve new rental rates and facility usage plans to ensure the expense of operating the boarding and training activities is fully covered by tenants to avoid a gift of public funds. A three-phase approach to rent adjustments will start with a 45 percent increase in June, followed by 10 percent adjustments in October and January 2025.

“We are excited to continue making progress toward the future of the equine center, where we can maintain the legacy horse boarders, while also taking direct control of the expansive public programming soon to be offered,” said OC Fair Board Chair Nick Kovacevich. “Under the new model, it’s critical that as state property, the rental fees charged to private tenants cover our operating expenses for boarding and training.”

Kovacevich also emphasized that, by opening up a sizable portion of the facility to public programming, the District can now use state funds to directly support programs for the public at large. 

He says the Board has been moving toward a more equitable use of horse property on the fairgrounds and looks forward to providing equine education, entertainment and therapeutic opportunities with certified partners, in addition to more open access for all in Orange County to the benefits horses provide.

For the media:

Board meeting agenda and packet 3.28.24: https://ocfair.com/publicmeetings/board-of-directors-meeting-march-28-2024/

Equestrian center rate background and comparisons: https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/ocfair.com/wpcontent/uploads/2024/03/22154516/24_03_Item9B_New_EQC_Rental_Rates.pdf

Friday, March 22, 2024 (10:47 am)

COSTA MESA (March 22, 2024) – The OC Fairgrounds will transform into Imaginology on April 13 and 14, providing students and families with free hands-on fun and a look at futures in STEAM fields.

Imaginology will be held Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free and most activities are included; food options will be available for purchase. Parking is $12.

OC Fair’s Imaginology debuted in 1989 as Youth Expo and was renamed Imaginology in 2014, shifting its focus to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) and agriculture education.

This year, the family festival returns with a packed schedule of take-home crafts, science learning, live performances by local entertainers, youth competitions and more.

Activities include:

• Science exploration: Use a “blubber glove” to see how marine animals survive in cold water. Experience a world of butterflies, interact with reptiles from around the globe at The Reptile Zoo and try a little physical science with activities like hula hoops, Recess Revolution’s free-play area or Heroes Hall Museum’s Fort Blisters Boot Camp. Wild Science brings fun experiments and interaction.

• Tech lessons and play: The Coder School will demonstrate how to write code using computer software and techATTACK will show Imaginology attendees how robotics work. Visit Horizon Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) to build a hydrogen-powered race car.

• Engineering exploration: From circuitry to construction activities, there will be plenty to build and discover at Imaginology. Pretend City will bring kinetic sand play and the Rigamajig. Harbor Soaring Society will host aerospace adventures and Imaginology’s cardboard engineering competition will be on display.

• Arts, entertainment, displays and more: Local entertainers such as dance troupes, youth bands and musical ensembles will provide live entertainment. There will be plenty of hands-on crafting and a number of take-home projects. Plus, Imaginology’s mural competition will be on display.

• Math and strategy: We can find math in just about everything (like having students count out the cash for a burger or a brat!). But logic and mathematical reasoning are the ways to win at chess, and the local Academic Chess chapter will host their annual tournament on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m.

• Agriculture education: Livestock competitions and exhibits will be on display throughout Imaginology. Plus, OC Fair & Event Center’s year-round Centennial Farm will feature activities such as radish-seed planting, chick petting – and don’t miss a peek at the farm babies! There will also be blacksmithing and milking demonstrations and visitors can dig for roots in a play garden.

• Competitions: Last call for entries for Imaginology student contests – deadline is March 27 for this year’s competitions: Cardboard engineering, the Imaginology mural project and the academic chess tournament ($30 fee). For more information, visit ocfair.com/imaginology/competitions-contests.

• Explore: Students and families can participate in the Imaginology Scavenger Hunt and earn prizes while exploring all the fun of the free event. Pick up scavenger hunt sheets from information booths.

For more information, visit ocfair.com/steam.

Photos for media use are available here: ocfair.canto.com/b/T1HGE

Thursday, March 21, 2024 (2:15 pm)

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, April 2

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Tuesday, April 2, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Discovery Day

Fight Club OC, April 4

When: Thursday, April 4

Schedule:

Baja Bar & Grill Happy Hour 5:30-6:30 p.m.

The Hangar doors open at 6 p.m.

First fight starts at 7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar

How much: General admission is $65, military $55, free admission for children 4 and younger. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Fight Club OC

Centennial Farm Workshop: Homegrown Tomatoes, April 6

If there is just one edible plant that you should choose to grow at home, it is the tomato. Nowhere else is the contrast in flavor, nutrition and variety between homegrown and store-bought more evident. This how-to presentation will provide all the practical knowledge necessary to begin growing tomatoes. You will see plants with 50 to more than 100 tomatoes on each plant. Learn which varieties to grow, how to plant and care for tomatoes and common diseases and pests that afflict them. Bring your questions and learn how to grow tomatoes easily.

When: Saturday, April 6, 9:30 a.m. – noon; RSVP online by April 3.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building

How much: $10 class fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.

More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Centennial Farm Workshop: Integrating Organic Practices Into Your Garden, April 6

Why is organic gardening important? It’s essential for supporting Mother Nature, maintaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring our well-being. Healthy soil is the foundation of all life on Earth, and incorporating organic methods can rejuvenate your gardens, lawns and landscapes, making them more resilient to pests and diseases. This class will discuss the advantages of organic versus synthetic approaches and how they affect soil health, plant growth and the safety of your family and the environment. In addition, the speaker will discuss how to seek safe garden products to protect your family, pets and the environment.

When: Saturday, April 6, 1 – 3 p.m.; RSVP online by April 3.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building

How much: $7 fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.

More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

OC Pet & Reptile Expo, April 6-7

The OC Pet & Reptile Expo is back and bigger than ever. Featuring more animal experts, breeders, pet rescues and our all-new Terrarium Building Workshop. Bring the family out for two fun-filled days of reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, cats, dogs and wildlife exhibits. You can also support local rescues and shelters by adopting pets looking for a new home.

When: Saturday & Sunday, April 6-7

Saturday, April 6: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday, April 7: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building and OC Promenade

How much: General admission is $15, $10 for kids 4 – 12, free for kids 3 and younger. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit OC Pet & Reptile Expo

Costa Mesa Speedway – Jack Milne Cup, April 13

When: Saturday, April 13

Schedule:

Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Qualifier starts at 6 p.m.

First race at 7:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How much: $30 general admission; $20 juniors (13-17), seniors (65+) and active military; $10 for kids ages 3-12; free for kids 2 and younger. Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles.

More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

Hydrogen Grand Prix Pro, April 13-14

Join us as we revolutionize the racing world with Hydrogen Grand Prix Pro (H2GP Pro), sponsored by Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, the Mirai. Race toward a brighter, greener future — one hydrogen-powered lap at a time! H2GP Pro is a global initiative, offering students the chance to experience the thrill of 1/10th-scale hydrogen-powered RC racing. But it’s not just about speed — it’s about sustainability, innovation and teamwork.

When: Saturday & Sunday, April 13-14, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Los Alamitos Building

How much: General admission is free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit H2 Grand Prix Pro

Imaginology, April 13-14

This free family-friendly event focuses on STEAM fun and hands-on activities. At Imaginology, kids and their families will not only see a world of wonder, but can participate in a wide range of fun and educational activities designed to inspire and encourage academic and career exploration. Imaginology is OC Fair & Event Center’s largest community give-back event and curious people of all ages are invited. There will also be entertainment and food options for purchase.

When: Saturday & Sunday, April 13-14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds

How much: General admission is free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Imaginology

Garden Bros Nuclear Circus, April 18-21

Garden Bros Nuclear Circus brings all the excitement, laughter and memories to cherish with the whole family. This year’s show is packed with breathtaking special effects, arena seating, concert-style sound and lighting. The very best performers from more than 22 countries make up this action-packed, fast-paced 100-minute performance in a theatrical 5-ring setting, featuring the human cannonball, aerial artists, the wheel of death, motorcycles in the sphere of fear, the funniest clowns, jugglers, dogs and more!

When: Thursday – Sunday, April 18-21

Schedule:

Thursday, April 18: 4:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Friday, April 19: 4:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 20: 1:30, 4:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 21: 1, 4 & 7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot C

How much: Adult general admission is $35, children $20, kids 3 and under are free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Garden Bros Nuclear Circus

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, April 19

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Friday, April 19, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Discovery Day

OC Japan Fair, April 19-21

Enjoy the experience of tasting, shopping and learning about Japanese culture. There will also be a cosplay show, tuna cutting show, popular Japanese artists/comedians performances, traditional instrument performances, games, kimono models meet and greet and more!

When: Friday – Sunday, April 19-21

Schedule:

Friday, April 19: 5 – 11 p.m.

Saturday, April 20: noon-10 p.m.

Sunday, April 21: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, OC Promenade and Lot I

How much: General admission is $10, free admission for ages 6 and younger or 66 and older. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit OC Japan Fair

Orange County Wine Fest, April 20-21

Partake in three hours of wine tasting with more than 30 wineries pouring 100+ wines.

Enjoy a diverse group of wines from around the world under one roof. From crisp, refreshing whites to deep-flavored reds, whatever your preferred grape, you’ll find plenty to discover and love at the Orange County Wine Fest.

When: Saturday & Sunday, April 20-21

Schedule:

Saturday, April 20

Session 1: noon – 3 p.m.

Session 2: 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 21

Session 1: noon – 3 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar

How much: General Admission is $60. Parking is $12

More info: Visit OC Wine Fest

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, April 25

When: Thursday, April 25, 9:30 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building or virtually on Zoom

More info: Visit OC Fair Public Meetings Information

Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm is home to fruit and vegetable gardens, livestock and the Millennium Barn. Two youth educational tour programs are offered – Discovery Days and Junior Farmer Tours – as well as year-round daily hours so the public can visit the farm.

When: Monday – Friday, 1 – 4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Excluding holidays and all-grounds events).

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Want to keep tabs on our pigs all year long? Watch the Centennial Farm pigs LIVE on our official Pig Cam and see what these adorable animals are up to!

More info: Visit Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Farmers Market every Thursday

Shop local at this OC Farm Bureau-certified farmers market featuring produce, fresh flowers, fish, hummus, honey, hot sauce and more. Some vendors also sell hot food for lunch such as tamales, tacos and burritos.

When: Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot D

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit OC Farm Bureau

Heroes Hall

Heroes Hall is a free, permanent, year-round museum and education center with exhibitions, performances and educational programs that celebrate the legacy of Orange County veterans and others who have served our nation. The two-story exhibition space rotates themes semi-annually with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.

When: Closed April 1 – 23. Join us on April 24 for our newest exhibit, “The Vietnam War through the Art and Photography of Ed Bowen.”

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Coming up in May

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, May 1

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Wednesday, May 1, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Discovery Day

Gem Faire, May 10-12

Visit the largest jewelry and bead show in Southern California. Shop fine jewelry, precious and semi-precious gemstones, millions of beads, crystals, gold and silver, pearls, minerals, fossils and much more at manufacturers’ prices. Jewelry repair, cleaning and ring sizing while you shop.

When: Friday – Sunday, May 10-12

Schedule:

Friday, May 10: noon – 6 p.m.

Saturday, May 11: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday, May 12: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

No entry or re-entry after 4 p.m. on Sunday, May. 12

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa building, Santa Ana Pavilion, Main Mall

How much: General admission is $7. Children 11 and under are free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Gem Faire

Centennial Farm Workshop: Mother’s Day Floral Arrangement, May 11

Prepare for Mother’s Day this year with a heartfelt, handmade floral arrangement for your mom! Led by certified floral designer Marie Gregory, you’ll learn how to create a striking floral arrangement. Whether you’re a seasoned floral enthusiast or a beginner, this class will equip you with the skills, supplies and inspiration to make and take home a memorable Mother’s Day gift. From selecting the right flowers to mastering the art of arrangement, you’ll leave this workshop with a gorgeous bouquet and the confidence to continue your floral design journey. This class is perfect for signing up with a friend or loved one to double the fun!

When: Sunday, May 11, 9:30 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building

How much: $75 fee covers materials (including vase) and any handouts. Participants should bring floral shears/scissors and gloves. Additional decorative accents will be limited – feel free to bring your own to personalize your arrangement. Parking is free.

More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Costa Mesa Speedway – Harley Night #1, May 11

When: Saturday, May 11

Schedule:

Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Qualifier starts at 6 p.m.

First race at 7:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How much: $30 general admission; $20 juniors (13-17), seniors (65+) and active military; $10 for kids ages 3-12; free for kids 2 and younger. Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles.

More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

31st Annual Wild & Crazy Taco Night, May 16

Embark on a culinary adventure at Share Ourselves’ 31st Annual Wild & Crazy Taco Night! Enjoy a vibrant celebration of flavor, community and philanthropy as foodies and philanthropists gather to support the mission of serving others in need.

A team of talented chefs from across Orange County are dedicated to serving up sensational taco creations, each vying for the title of best taco. All proceeds go directly to Share Ourselves, providing critical social services, alleviating food insecurity and providing affordable and accessible healthcare to the underserved and underinsured.

When: Thursday, May 16, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Plaza Pacifica

How much: Early bird general admission is $85 and $160 for VIP. Early bird general admission and VIP end May 1. General admission after May 1 is $95 and $180 for VIP.

More info: Visit Share Ourselves

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, May 16

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Thursday, May 16, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Discovery Day

Costa Mesa Speedway – Knobby Night, May 18

When: Saturday, May 18

Schedule:

Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Qualifier starts at 6 p.m.

First race at 7:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How much: $30 general admission; $20 juniors (13-17), seniors (65+) and active military; $10 for kids ages 3-12; free for kids 2 and younger. Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles.

More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

Sand Sports Super Swap, May 18

Sand Sports Super Show is hosting a one-day opportunity for off-road enthusiasts to “swap” their sand toys and equipment. Sellers of new and used quads, dune buggies, motorcycles, tires, engine parts, helmets and anything for the off-road enthusiast are welcome!

When: Saturday, May 18, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot I

How much: Online general admission is $6.50 through May 17, general admission increases to $10 starting May 18. Children 12 and younger are free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Sand Sports Super Swap

Night Nation Run, May 18

The Night Nation Run is the world’s first running music festival – an ultimate blend of a music festival and a fun run. Experience a music-filled course with live DJs, light shows, bubble zones, neon and black lights. Cross the finish line into an epic main stage after-party featuring top headliner DJs.

When: Saturday, May 18, 5:30 – 10:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Country Meadows, Crafters Village, Pacific Amphitheatre, Park Plaza, Plaza Pacifica

How much: Registration cost varies. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Night Nation Run

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, May 20

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Monday, May 20, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Discovery Day

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, May 23

When: Thursday, May 23, 9:30 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building or virtually on Zoom

More info: Visit OC Fair Public Meetings Information