Saturday, December 7, 2024 (2:48 pm)

OC Fair and Event Center’s Ken Karns named board chair of industry group IAFE

At its annual conference this month in Phoenix, the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) announced that Ken Karns, chief operating officer  at OC Fair and Event Center, was
elected as board chair for 2025.

The industry association based in Springfield, MO, is a nonprofit serving state, provincial, regional and county agricultural fairs, shows, exhibitions and expositions.

Karns, who has been at OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) since 2016, started his career in the fair industry in the early 1990s at Western Fair in London, ON, Canada, where he began as the project supervisor working on its first master site plan.

Karns had many roles his 25-year career and is currently working on 
a master site plan for OCFEC. Over the years, he has been on many industry boards and committees and has served as a faculty member for IAFE’s Institute of Fair Management.

IAFE serves a large sector of the fair industry and members include state and provincial associations of fairs, nonagricultural expositions and festivals, associations, corporations and individuals engaged in providing products and services to its members.

Friday, October 25, 2024 (1:30 pm)

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in November

Art of Service – A Heroes Hall Veterans Day Celebration, Nov. 9

Join us for a vibrant Veterans Day celebration where military service meets the power of artistic expression! We’ll be shining a spotlight on the ways art connects with military service and how it is a powerful tool for healing, storytelling and connection for veterans and active-duty service members.

The celebration will include swing dancing and musical performances, arts & crafts, a cookie decorating contest, opportunities to connect with local veteran organizations, free hot dogs and drinks, and more! 

When: Saturday, Nov. 9, noon – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free admission and parking.

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What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in November

The Great Junk Hunt, Nov. 1 – 2

Shop four buildings full of the best vendors on the West Coast! At The Great Junk Hunt, you’ll not only find some amazing vintage items, home decor & more, but best of all – you’ll have a whole lot of fun along the way! It’s a roundup of curated vendors selling their best goods, plus no party is complete without cocktails, live music and aisles of junkin’ treasure. Shoppers walk away with items they can’t find anywhere else. Discover farmhouse, industrial, vintage, re-purposed, handmade, mid-mod and much more.

When: Friday, Nov. 1 – Saturday, Nov. 2
Schedule:
Friday, 4 – 9 p.m. 
Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, OC Promenade, The Hangar
How much:  Friday – first pick entry at 4 p.m. ($20), early bird entry at 6 p.m. ($15). Friday tickets are valid for both days. Saturday – early bird entry at 9 a.m. 1 hr. before general admission ($12). General admission 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ($10). Enter any time after 10 a.m. Children 12 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit The Great Junk Hunt

Discovery Day at the Farm, Nov. 5

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom 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, Nov. 5, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm 
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day

Sugar Plum Arts and Crafts Festival, Nov. 8 – 9

Sugar Plum welcomes in the season by offering a fun and unique holiday shopping experience. Celebrating 46 years, Sugar Plum offers thousands of handmade crafts from more than 175 artisans, personalized gifts and ornaments, holiday clothing for both men and women, beautiful jewelry, holiday decorations for your home and garden, shabby chic, country farmhouse, rustic and vintage furniture and palate-pleasing delights. 

When: Friday, Nov. 8 – Saturday, Nov. 9
Schedule:
Friday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building
How much: Admission is $5 on Friday, 9 – 10 a.m. Admission is free on Friday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and on Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Parking is $12. 
More info: Visit Sugar Plum Festivals

Repticon, Nov. 9 – 10

Experience the animal kingdom in an exotic way. Explore our rows of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and more!

Everything to support your hobby will be available: feeders, caging and other supplies. Join your friends and make new ones at a celebration of the reptile hobby that can only be expressed at a quality family-friendly expo.

When: Saturday, Nov. 9 – Sunday, Nov. 10
Schedule:
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building
How much: All-day general admission is $12, children 5-12 are $6 and children 4 and under are free. Military, first responders and teachers are free with ID. Super tickets are $15 for both days. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Repticon Reptile Show

Orange County Wine Fest, Nov. 9 – 10

Enjoy three hours of wine tasting for the price of a good bottle of wine. Orange County Wine Fest will bring you a diverse group of wine 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. VIPs get 30 minutes of early access.

When: Saturday, Nov. 9 – Sunday, Nov. 10
Schedule:
Saturday, Session 1: noon – 3 p.m., session 2: 5 – 8 p.m.
Sunday, Session 1: noon – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General Admission is $55. Parking is $12
More info: Visit OC Wine Fest

Hydroponics for the Home Gardener – Grow Anywhere, Anytime, Nov. 16

Join UCCE Master Gardeners for an engaging class on hydroponics, perfect for gardeners of all levels. Learn how to grow plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water, and discover innovative ways to repurpose household items to create your own simple Kratky hydroponic system.

Whether you have a small patio, a second-story balcony or a free spot indoors, hydroponic gardening is space-efficient and perfect for urban environments. This class will cover the fundamentals of hydroponics, including plant care, nutrient solutions, lighting requirements and system maintenance, and will empower you to integrate hydroponics into your gardening routine.

When: Saturday, Nov. 16, 1–3 p.m.; RSVP online by Nov. 13.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building
How much:  $7 class fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

SuperCup Jiu Jitsu, Nov. 16

Series of six Brazilian jiu-jitsu matches. Watch as these athletes grapple while demonstrating their discipline for and dedication to the sport of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

When: Saturday, Nov. 16, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission varies. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit SuperCup

LCWW Catstravaganza and Rescue Awareness, Nov. 16 – 17

Calling all cat lovers! Support local charities and rescues, witness the most beautiful cats strutting down The CatWalk, delve into everything feline at Kitty Corner and find the perfect gift for your furry friend at our amazing shopping village!

When: Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 16–17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission is $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and kids 12-17, $15 for kids 6-11 and free for children 5 & under. Parking is $12. 
More info: Visit Loving Cats Worldwide

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Nov. 21

When: Thursday, Oct. 24, 9:30 a.m. 
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info:  Visit Public Meetings

Winter Fest OC, Nov. 22 – Jan. 5

Winter Fest OC returns to bring the ultimate winter wonderland to Orange County! Over a million lights create this dazzling holiday scene, transforming the OC Fair & Event Center into an enchanted dream! Enjoy magical snowfall, thrilling rides, festive entertainment and delightful treats and eats. From ice skating under the stars to exploring whimsical holiday displays, there’s something for everyone!

When: Nov. 22 – Jan. 5, 2025
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot A
How much: Admission goes on sale Oct. 2. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Winter Fest OC

Say Cheese! Make Your Own Ricotta, Nov. 23

Have you ever wanted to make your cheese at home but thought it was too difficult? Join chef Vina in this interactive class and discover how easy it is to craft your homemade ricotta cheese. You’ll learn to work with fresh, readily available dairy ingredients, and explore the nutritional benefits of incorporating fresh cheese into your diet. Vina will also demonstrate how to make a vibrant, freshly prepared pesto—an ideal companion to your ricotta. At the end of the class, you’ll take home your own small, handmade wheel of ricotta, a sample of delicious pesto and a couple of surprises for all attendees!

Participants will partner up during the class, so consider reserving spots for two when you register!

When: Saturday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m. – noon; RSVP online by Nov. 20.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building
How much: $45 class fee covers ingredients and the use of equipment. Aprons are highly recommended. Tied-back hair and closed-toed shoes are required. Parking is free.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Seasonal Adventures Christmas Trees, Nov. 29 – Dec. 16

Get ready to jingle all the way with the freshest, high-quality Christmas trees in SoCal! This is your one-stop wonderland for finding the perfect tree to light up your home. Friendly experts are on site to help you choose the ideal tree. Plus, purchase charming Christmas tree stands, fragrant fresh garland, stunning wreaths and an array of festive accessories.

When: Nov. 29 – Dec. 16, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot E
How much: Admission and parking are free.
More info: Visit Seasonal Adventures Christmas Trees

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Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

Centennial Farm

The 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 year-round daily hours so the public can visit the farm. 

When: Monday – Friday, 1 – 4 p.m. and 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

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

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 and tacos/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 will rotate themes semi-annually with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.

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
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

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Coming up in December

Fight Club OC, Dec. 5

Series of six boxing and MMA fights, presented by Roy Englebrecht Promotions

When: Thursday, Dec. 5
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill Happy Hour, 5:30 p.m. – 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 is $22. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Fight Club OC

Gem Faire, Dec. 6 – 8

Shop fine jewelry, precious and semi-precious gemstones, millions of beads, crystals, gold and silver, pearls, minerals, fossils and much more at manufacturer prices. Jewelry repair, cleaning and ring sizing while you shop.

When: Friday – Sunday, Dec. 6–8
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, Dec. 8
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

Creative Babe Holiday Market, Dec. 7

Visit this free, family-friendly holiday event with 100+ local vendors to score your holiday gifts. Find plants, ceramics, candles, jewelry, soaps and scrubs, crystals, art, pins and stickers, graphic tees, paper goods, pet treats and more! Enjoy face painting, food trucks, photos ops with Bluey and more!

When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: Admission is free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Creative Babe Market

SoCal Judges Cup, Dec. 14 – 15

Watch gymnasts twist and twirl as they compete in this winter wonderland-themed gymnastics meet.

When: Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 14–15
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission is $20, $15 for military and seniors; parking is $12.
More info: Visit NAWGJ-SC

Share Ourselves “Adopt a Family” Annual Program, Dec. 15 – 16

Make the season brighter by supporting the 55th Annual Adopt A Family Program!

Provide comfort to families and individuals by exploring the profiles, stories and wish lists of families who could use a little extra cheer during the holidays. Select the family you’d like to support and get ready to deliver the joy!

When: Sunday & Monday, Dec. 15–16
Schedule:
Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, OC Promenade
How much: Donation requests vary based on family size and needs.
More info: Visit SOS Adopt a Family

Discovery Day at the Farm, Dec. 16

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom 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, Dec. 16, 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, Dec. 19

When: Thursday, Dec. 19, 9:30 a.m. 
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info:  Visit Public Meetings

Thursday, October 24, 2024 (3:40 pm)

OC Fair Board Chair Kovacevich to lead again in 2025

At today’s meeting, the OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors again named Nick Kovacevich as Chair and Barbara Bagneris as Vice Chair to serve as Board leadership in 2025.

The Board has taken on significant projects in the past year and the nominating committee noted the importance of continuity in asking the current chair and vice chair to continue in their positions to shepherd key initiatives.

“I am honored to be asked to continue my board leadership role through the next year,” said Board Chair Kovacevich. “As a Board, we have embarked on some truly groundbreaking work with The Ranch Community Center, the master site plan and our expanding community-focused educational programs. Along with Vice Chair Barbara Bagneris, I am greatly optimistic about the fiscal position of OCFEC coming off a record-breaking Fair and our work ahead to serve the public.”

Kovacevich and Bagneris were voted into their current leadership positions in November 2023. Bagneris has previously served as Board Chair.

Kovaçeviçh is the former CEO of Greenlane Holdings, Inc., a leading provider of ancillary cannabis products and accessories. He is a resident of Newport Beach and was appointed to the Board in 2020.

Bagneris has been the principal financial analyst at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems since 2010. Bagneris has served on the Board since 2014 and resides in Orange.

Board officers are nominated for office by a committee of fellow Board members. Board members are appointed by the Governor of California and may serve more than one term.

Monday, October 7, 2024 (2:48 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center receives Ally of the Year Award

Thank you to OC Pride for honoring OC Fair & Event Center with the Ally of the Year award during last weekend’s pride celebration at the Fairgrounds. We are proud to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

 

Friday, September 27, 2024 (11:28 am)

OC Fair announces 2025 theme and invites the community to ‘Find Your Happy’ July 18-Aug. 17

The OC Fair is excited to announce that “Find Your Happy” is the theme of the 2025 festival that will run July 18-Aug. 17, promising to be an opportunity to gather together and make memories, let go and have fun.

“There is nothing that brings us more joy than putting on the annual OC Fair and seeing the smiles and memories that this amazing event provides for the community,” said OC Fair Board Chair Nick Kovacevich. “I know that next summer people from all over Southern California will ‘find their happy’ at the Fair.” 

The 2024 OC Fair had an attendance of 1,137,555 with 12 days that exceeded 50,000 fairgoers and nine of those were total sell-outs.

Upcoming shows in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena will be on sale in the coming months, and updates will be available on ocfair.com. Tickets to performances July 18-Aug. 17 include same-day OC Fair admission so guests can enjoy all the festivities.

The OC Fair will be looking for local talent and businesses to add a special touch to the 2025 event. Community entertainment (unpaid) applications will soon be open and accepted at ocfair.com/oc-fair/be-a-part-of-the-fair/community-entertainment/. Applications for vendors and concessionaires will be available at ocfair.com/oc-fair/be-a-part-of-the-fair/vendors/. Sponsorship and marketing information is located at ocfair.com/oc-fair/sponsors/.

Artisans can show off their skills in the annual OC Fair community competitions in fine art, photography, handcrafts, woodworking, culinary, agriculture competitions and more, which will again reward many local participants with blue ribbons and bragging rights. Deadlines vary and details will be posted at ocfair.com/oc-fair/competitions-contests/.