COSTA MESA (Aug. 3, 2026) — Southern California’s talents and uniqueness are on full display at the OC Fair, running through Aug. 16.
Fairgoers will find creativity and originality around every corner as friends and neighbors vie for blue ribbons or gather to celebrate together.
In exhibit buildings, throughout the fairgrounds, during special events and even in livestock barns, the OC Fair showcases all that makes our community special. And all are free with Fair admission.
Here are some great ways to tap into the excitement and variety you’ll find only at the OC Fair:
- Celebrate the rich history, artistry and traditions of Chicano culture at the El Pachuco Zoot Suit Fashion Show & Lowrider Exhibit on Aug. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Plaza Pacifica. Admire beautifully restored and custom-built lowriders while enjoying a Zoot Suit Fashion Show that explore the history, symbolism and lasting influence of this iconic style.
- Immerse yourself in REWIND: A VHS Revival, a tribute to the VHS era, celebrating retro pop culture with hand-painted movie poster reproductions, soundtrack displays, live-painting demonstrations, a working ’80s vintage arcade and The Hitchcock speakeasy. Come for the nostalgia. Stay for the art.
- Explore the work of featured artists Monica Esparza and Gil Ortega. The handcrafted artistry of guitar maker Esparza and the cultural legacy of street-scene painter Ortega celebrate heritage, tradition and community.
- Dive into Orange County Sand and Sea, located in the OC Promenade. Discover iconic Orange County beachside landmarks, wander through culinary entries, explore a touch tank and take a deep dive into virtual reality.
- You can’t win a blue ribbon if you don’t enter an OC Fair competition! Check out this year’s entries on display and get some ideas of what you can enter next year. Categories include Handcrafts & Fiber Arts, Table Settings, Collections, Fine Arts, Photography, Woodworking, Fruit & Vegetables and Cut Flowers.
- Roam into the livestock area and find the rotating animal exhibits. You’ll find the Barnyard Fashion Parade, Aug. 5; Dairy Goats and Cattle, Aug. 5–9; Urban Chickens, Aug. 12–16; Global Livestock, Aug. 12–16; and The Friesian Horse Club of Southern California, Aug. 12–16.
- Honor veterans at Heroes Hall by viewing Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam. This exhibit features 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.
Exhibition buildings close at 10 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
OC Fair details
Dates: July 17 – Aug. 16
Hours
- Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight
Fair prices
- Adults: $13 weekdays; $18 weekends
- Youth (6-12): $9 daily
- Seniors (65+): $10 daily
- Children 5 and younger: Free
- Every Day Passports are available for $60 and provide access any day of the Fair with no blackout dates
- Arrive early and save with Smart Start! Enter the fairgrounds between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesday or Thursday for just $11.
- General parking: $15
For tickets, promotions and complete event information, visit ocfair.com.