What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in April
COSTA MESA (March 20, 2026)
OC Fair’s Imaginology, April 11-12
Each April, OC Fair & Event Center transforms into Imaginology, a free family event produced by OC Fair staff that focuses on STEAM education and hands-on learning.
Children, teens, families and school groups dig into science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Imaginology provides unique experiences for attendees of all ages – from preschool to high school, along with their parents, grandparents and friends – to build, create, play, observe and interact through activities that help kids of all ages see the possibilities of a future in STEAM fields.
Imaginology features makeshops, demonstrations, competitions, hands-on activities and entertainment, as well as food and fun. Youth competitions give students the chance to be recognized for their unique talents and accomplishments.
When: Saturday & Sunday, April 11-12, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm, Costa Mesa Building, Country Meadows, Heroes Hall, Huntington Beach Building, Park Plaza, Plaza Pacifica, Santa Ana Pavilion
How much: Admission is free. Parking is $15.
Schedule of events: 2026 Imaginology will feature live entertainment and tons of hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
More info: Visit ocfair.com/steam
Discovery Day at the Farm, April 2
Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for parent groups, homeschool groups and more. Groups may participate in the following activities:
- Self-guided tours
- Radish seed planting
- Chick education
- Oxen demonstration
- Crop education
When: Thursday, April 2, 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 3 – 5
Grab your friends and experience tasting, shopping and learning about Japanese culture. Enjoy a cosplay show, tuna cutting show, popular Japanese artists/comedians performances, traditional instrument performances, games, a kimono models meet and greet and more!
When: Friday – Sunday, April 3 – 5
Schedule:
Friday, April 3, 4 – 10 p.m.
Saturday, April 4, noon – 10 p.m.
Sunday, April 5, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, Main Mall, Lot I, OC Promenade and The Hangar
How much: Presale admission through April 2 is $19.98, general admission is $23.18 starting April 3. Free admission for children 6 and younger and seniors over 65. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit OC Japan Fair
In the Shadows of Vietnam: A Late Vietnam War Perspective on U.S. Navy SEALs, featuring Andy McTigue, April 4
An engaging firsthand account of U.S. Navy SEAL training and combat operations during the final years of the war. Drawing on his service from Class 50 through his 1970 deployment, McTigue offers a rare, on-the-ground perspective of life and missions in Vietnam.
When: Saturday, April 4, 2 – 3:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Call 714-708-1613 to RSVP
Walk Intuit: Ponies & Paint, April 4
Give your child the chance to connect with gentle mini horses, explore their senses, and express themselves creatively in a safe, supportive environment.
Each session offers:
- Hands-on time with calm, intuitive mini horses
- Creative art activities that invite self-expression
- Sensory exploration and playful connection
Children must be able to attend without their parents present. If a caregiver or support person is needed, please reach out directly to ensure appropriate accommodations can be provided.
When: Saturday, April 4, 9:30 – 11 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: General admission is $35. Reservations are required. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit
Walk Intuit: Horses & Hearts, April 4
Join our herd for a morning of connection with horses, community, and nature. This special event is open to all ages and is a beautiful way to experience the healing bond between humans and animals.
When: Saturday, April 4, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: General admission is $25. Reservations are required. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit
Fight Club OC, April 9
The most fun you can have on a Thursday night in Orange County! Boxing and MMA fights are presented by Roy Englebrecht Promotions.
When: Thursday, April 9
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
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 varies. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Fight Club OC
Orange County Pet & Reptile Expo, April 11 – 12
The Orange County 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, wildlife exhibits and support local rescues and shelters by adopting pets looking for a new home.
When: Saturday & Sunday, April 11 – 12
Schedule:
Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, OC Promenade and The Hangar
How much: General admission is $17.99 for adults, $12.99 for kids 4-12, free for kids 3 and younger. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit OC Pet & Reptile Expo
Hydroponics for the Home Gardener: Build Your Own System, April 18
Join UC Master Gardeners for an engaging, hands-on class that takes hydroponic gardening to the next level! This session introduces participants to the fundamentals of growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water. Attendees will learn about plant care, nutrient solutions, lighting requirements and system maintenance. Additionally, the class will feature a DIY portion in which participants assemble a simple hydroponic system designed for a single plant, which they can take home and use right away. All supplies, including a lettuce seedling, will be provided. Whether you have a small patio, a second-story balcony or a free spot indoors, hydroponic gardening is a space-efficient and sustainable way to grow fresh food year-round.
When: Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m. – noon; RSVP by April 13.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building
How much: A $15 fee covers all materials, including a simple hydroponic system and a lettuce seedling to take home. Parking is free.
Refund policy: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes
TinyFest, April 18 – 19
Attend for one day or spend the weekend exploring all things tiny living. Whether you’re a tiny home enthusiast or just curious about the lifestyle, this event is perfect for you.
- Tour tiny homes, ADUs, van conversions and bus builds
- Shop the Simple Living Marketplace
- Take a seat at speaker presentations, Q&A sessions and panel discussions
TinyFest is more than a showcase – it’s a celebration of creativity and community. Whether you’re downsizing, dreaming or already living tiny, you’ll find inspiration and connection around every corner.
When: Saturday & Sunday, April 18–19, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Los Alamitos Building, Lot I
How much: Single-day general admission is $22.50; weekend passes are $30; single-day VIP admission is $119. Children 15 and younger are free. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit TinyFest
OC Wine Fest, April 18 – 19
Orange County Wine Fest is OC’s favorite celebration of wine – bringing together wineries, winemakers and wine lovers for a memorable tasting experience. Guests enjoy three hours of unlimited wine tastings, discover a wide variety of styles and regions and connect directly with the people behind the pours – all in a fun, social atmosphere.
From bold reds and crisp whites to rosé, sparkling wines and unique finds, this is your chance to explore, sip and celebrate wine.
When: Saturday & Sunday, April 18 – 19
Schedule:
Saturday, April 18
Session 1: Noon – 3 p.m.
Session 2: 5 – 8 p.m.
Sunday, April 19, noon – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: Ticket prices vary. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit OC Wine Fest
Discovery Day at the Farm, April 22
Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for parent groups, homeschool groups and more. Groups may participate in the following activities:
- Self-guided tours
- Radish seed planting
- Chick education
- Oxen demonstration
- Crop education
When: Wednesday, April 22, 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, April 23
When: Thursday, April 23, 9:30 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center Administration Building or virtually on Zoom.
More info: Visit Public Meetings
Air|Water, April 25
The 2026 installment returns to Costa Mesa, CA. Building off of the vibrant Californian Porsche passion Air|Water welcomes everyone to experience all things Porsche. From the amazing cars and people to the exhibitor hall and live Broad Arrow Porsche Auction, this is the go-to place for the newest and most dedicated fans.
When: Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: Ticket prices vary. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Air|Water
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 Jr. Farmer Tours – as well as daily hours so the public can visit our year-round working farm.
When: Monday – Friday, 1 – 4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Excluding holidays and all-grounds events; see calendar for closures.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Centennial Farm
Farmers Market
Shop local at this OC Farm Bureau-certified farmers market featuring produce, fish, hummus, honey, hot sauce and a variety of offerings. Some vendors also sell hot food for lunch, such as dumplings, burritos and more.
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 with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.
The current exhibit, “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam,” offers a powerful and immersive journey through one of modern history’s most complex and divisive conflicts. Through a rich collection of artifacts, personal stories, historical facts and poignant memorabilia, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the war’s profound impact on the soldiers who fought and the broader global context. On display through Sept. 20.
When: Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Excluding holidays and all-grounds events; see calendar for closures.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall
The Ranch Community Center
The Ranch Community Center celebrates horses, ranching and nature. Free and low-cost public programs are offered, including The Ranch Discovery Days, The Ranch After-School Program, horse shows and equine-assisted therapy. Visitors can connect with the equestrian community year-round during daily hours.
When: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Closed Sundays and all holidays.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit The Ranch
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 rascals are up to!
More info: Visit Centennial Farm Pig Cam
Coming up in May
OC Marathon, May 1 – 3
The Hoag OC Marathon Running Festival returns to the seaside streets of Orange County, California. The running festival showcases three days of events, including the Kids Run, OC 5K and half and full marathons. The race is a perfect destination event for runners, with the beaches, theme parks and near-perfect weather.
When: Friday – Sunday, May 1 – 3
Schedule:
Friday, May 1, 3 – 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 2, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 3, 5:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: Registration varies. Parking is $15.
More Info: Visit OC Marathon, weekend schedule
Discovery Day at the Farm, May 5
Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for parent groups, homeschool groups and more. Groups may participate in the following activities:
- Self-guided tours
- Radish seed planting
- Chick education
- Oxen demonstration
- Crops education
When: Tuesday, May 5, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day
SOS Wild & Crazy Taco Night, May 7
Orange County’s most generous chefs will join Share Our Selves in an evening of fun, friendship and amazing tacos. In the spirit of friendly competition and to support a great cause, these chefs will create gourmet tacos you won’t find anywhere else!
When: Thursday, May 7
Schedule:
VIP admission, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
General admission, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Plaza Pacifica
How much: $100 early-bird general admission, $150 early-bird VIP. Prices increase April 26. Free parking.
More info: Visit SOS Wild & Crazy Taco Night
Gem Faire, May 8 – 10
The largest jewelry and bead show in SoCal. Fine jewelry, precious and semi-precious gemstones, millions of beads, crystals, gold and silver, pearls, minerals, fossils and much more at manufacturer’s prices. Jewelry repair, cleaning and ring sizing while you shop.
When: Friday – Sunday, May 8 – 10
Schedule:
Friday, noon – 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
No entry or re-entry after 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 10.
Wholesale preview on Friday, May 8, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building, Main Mall, Santa Ana Pavilion
How much: General admission is $7, children 11 and under are free. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Gem Faire
Costa Mesa Speedway: Harley Night Blowout, May 9
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed night of speedway races! Watch as fearless racers rev up their fuel-burning motorcycles and push the limits at lightning speed. Expect unpredictable moments as riders take daring, high-lean turns at full throttle, right in front of your eyes – it’s a race night you won’t forget!
When: Saturday, May 9
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 6 – 7 p.m.
First race at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena
How much: $30 general admission, children 10 and younger are free. Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles.
More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway
Night Nation Run, May 9
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 9
Schedule:
Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Pre-party begins at 6 p.m.
Race starts at 8 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Country Meadows, Crafters Village, Pacific Amphitheatre, Park Plaza, Plaza Pacifica
How much: Registration varies. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Night Nation Run OC
Sand Sports Super Swap, May 16
The 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 16, 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot I
How much: Presale admission is $5 through May 15, $10 on May 16. Children 12 and younger are free. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Sand Sports Super Swap
Cost Mesa Speedway: Knobby Night Invitational, May 16
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed night of speedway races! Watch as fearless racers rev up their fuel-burning motorcycles and push the limits at lightning speed. Expect unpredictable moments as riders take daring, high-lean turns at full throttle, right in front of your eyes – it’s a race night you won’t forget!
When: Saturday, May 16
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 6-7 p.m.
First race at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena
How much: $30 general admission, children 10 and younger are free. Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles.
More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway
OC Eid Fest, May 16
Get ready for the biggest Eid celebration in Southern California! Hosted by the Islamic Center of Yorba Linda, this is not just a festival — it’s an experience!
When: Saturday, May 16, 1 – 10 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building, Huntington Beach Building, Santa Ana Pavilion, Wine Courtyard, Crafters Village, Park Plaza, Plaza Pacifica, Lot J, Crafters Village
How much: General admission is $15; children 5 and younger are free. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit OC Eid Festival
Discovery Day at the Farm, May 18
Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for parent groups, homeschool groups and more. Groups may participate in the following activities:
- Self-guided tours
- Radish seed planting
- Chick education
- Oxen demonstration
- Crops education
When: Monday, May 18, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day
Scottish Fest, May 23 – 24
Scottish Fest is Southern California’s largest Scottish, Celtic, American Festival. Experience two days of world class Celtic music, piping and drumming competitions, Highland dancing contests, Scottish heavy athletics, Scottish gifts and foods, Scottish clans and genealogy, a fantastic children’s glen and so much more!
When: Saturday – Sunday, May 23 – 24
Schedule:
Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, May 24, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: $30 general one-day admission, $26 seniors (62+), $6 for children 16 & younger, free for children 5 & younger, free for military and first responders with ID. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Scottish Fest
OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, May 28
When: Thursday, May 28, 9:30 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center Administration Building or virtually on Zoom.
More info: Visit Public Meetings
626 Night Market, May 29 – 31
626 Night Market is back at OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California. The iconic Californian festival features 200+ food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music and entertainment attractions in an epic event that appeals to all ages. Join us for warm summer days and bright nights this season!
When: Friday – Sunday, May 29 – 31, 3 – 11 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – OC Promenade, Lots I and G
How much: General admission is $6, children 3 and under are free. Parking is $15. Most vendors accept cash only. ATMs will be available.
More info: Visit 626 Night Market
Repticon, May 30 – 31
This show features everything that you’ve come to love most about Repticon’s two days of fun and excitement! See live animals from around the world, purchase pets and pet products direct from the experts at amazing prices you won’t find anywhere else and learn more about reptiles and exotic animals. Repticon Costa Mesa is one reptile and exotic animal expo that you can’t afford to miss!
When: Saturday – Sunday, May 30 – 31
Schedule:
Saturday, May 30, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, May 31, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building
How much: Adult general admission is $15, child general admission is $7. Adult two-day super tickets are $20, child two-day super tickets are $7. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Repticon Reptile Show