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Kids’ Guide to OC Fair 2026: Your Adventure Awaits!

We’ve got 23 days of family-friendly fun, rides, games, entertainment — and deals — July 17 through Aug. 16

Summer excitement is just weeks away when the 2026 OC Fair returns and families are getting ready to experience this year’s theme, “Your Adventure Awaits.”

With new attractions, great family deals, kid-friendly entertainment and plenty of free activities included with admission, the Fair truly packs in the fun.

Families are encouraged to purchase tickets now and plan their OC Fair adventure. Admission is always free for children ages 5 and younger, while kids 6-12 enter for $9 every day.

Several value-packed ticket options are available only through July 16, including the Carnival Dream Pass, Weekday Unlimited Family Bundle and Family Dream Bundle. Guests can also take advantage of Smart Start admission, offering discounted adult admission on Wednesdays and Thursdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. when purchased in advance. View details here.

New this year, four family-friendly KP’s Kids Place locations will offer special kids meals for $10, with meal vouchers available for advance online purchase. The popular $5 Taste of Fair promotion is back, featuring smaller portions of Fair food favorites daily until 5 p.m.

Family fun included with admission.

Many of the Fair’s most popular attractions are free with admission, including:

  • All-Alaskan Racing Pigs
  • The Great American Petting Farm
  • Hands-on crafts and educational exhibits
  • Community entertainment stages
  • Roving performers and interactive experiences

Things to do

Families can venture to the Explorium at OC Promenade, featuring a Sand and Sea experience that highlights Orange County’s coastline and includes a hands-on touch tank.

Visitors can also meet the OC Fair’s beloved costumed characters — Strawberry Jan, Olivia Orange, Sunny Lemon, Cornelius Corn and Carl the Cotton Candy— who will be available throughout the day for photos and high-fives.

The Magic of Frank Thurston returns with daily comedy and magic performances, often inviting children from the audience to participate.

Guests can test their skills in classic contests like pie-eating and watermelon-eating contests for a chance to win prizes. It’s the messiest fun you can have!

Children ages 5-11 get excited about books when they participate in the Read and Ride program, earning two free Kidland rides by reading three books and completing an online form.

New for 2026, the OC Fair & Share program encourages guests to donate extra carnival prizes at designated collection boxes near Fair exits. Donated toys will be distributed to local children in need through a partnership with local Lions clubs.

Things to see

Roving entertainers will delight guests throughout the day, including Megan the Bubbleologist, Dragon Knights stilt walkers, the Red Light Brass Band and a strolling DJ.

The popular All-Alaskan Racing Pigs return to Plaza Pacifica, with races now broadcast on outdoor screens so more guests can enjoy the action and cheer on their favorite little happy porkers.

The Livestock area will feature adorable pygmy goats, llamas, urban chickens, miniature donkeys and animals from around the county and even the world. It will be hard for kids to choose a favorite! Visit the nearby All-American Petting Farm for special animal interactions.

At Centennial Farm, guests can meet OC Fair’s special animal educators while learning about how animals and plants grow through interactive educational exhibits.

Action Sports Arena will come alive with a lineup of thrilling crowd favorites including demolition derbies, monster trucks and daredevil circus performances.

Throughout the exhibit buildings families can find new hobbies as local artists, makers and gardeners will showcase their talents in competitions ranging from photography and fine art to cake decorating, floral design and agriculture. Kids will love checking out the collections on display!

Things to hear

Community stages across the Fairgrounds will feature hundreds of local performers daily, showcasing acoustic music, rock, country, dance and more.

Each evening, the music takes over when Fair After Dark at Plaza Pacifica gets started and there are even free lessons and everyone can learn line dancing, swing dancing and Latin dance styles.

Live music from performances in The Hangar will keep the celebration going each evening of the Fair. There’s plenty of room to gather in the Main Mall and take in the show.

New Sunday Funday matinee shows will take place in The Hangar at 2:30 p.m. on July 19, Aug. 2 and Aug. 9, providing families with afternoon entertainment in a shaded venue.

Parent pro tips:

  • Bring a wagon or stroller for younger children.
  • Don’t forget hats and sun block.
  • Pack refillable water bottles and take advantage of on-site water stations.
  • Consider bringing a soft-sided cooler.
  • Bring reusable containers for leftovers or purchase take-and-bake items to enjoy Fair flavors at home.
  • Kids love playing in the splash fountain so dry clothes and a towel are a good idea.
  • Arrive early to enjoy shorter ride lines and cooler temperatures.
  • Baby changing stations are located next to The Hangar and behind the west end of the Sky Ride.
  • Make annual Fair photos a family tradition at the iconic OC Fair sign, with Foodies characters or in a classic photo booth.

OC Fair Details
Dates: July 17 – Aug. 16
Hours

  • Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
  • Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight

Pre-Fair Admission

 

  • Adults: $13 weekdays; $15 weekends
  • Youth (ages 6-12): $9 daily
  • Seniors (65+): $9 daily
  • Children 5 and younger: Free
  • Every Day Passports are available for $60 while supplies last and provide access any day of the Fair with no blackout dates.

Admission increases for weekend adult and senior tickets once the Fair starts July 17.

Discounted carnival tickets and wristbands are available online in advance through opening day. General parking is $15.

For tickets, promotions and complete event information, visit ocfair.com.

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in July

2026 OC Fair, July 17 – Aug. 16

We are thrilled to welcome everyone back for the 2026 OC Fair! “Your Adventure Awaits,” so get ready for 23 days of fun-filled live entertainment, exhibits, food, carnival rides, shopping and more!

When: July 17-Aug. 16
Schedule:
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m.–midnight
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: Tickets and carnival deals are on sale now with value-packed bundles. Plus, don’t miss your chance to lock in last year’s prices!
Admission presale

  • Weekday adult: $13; weekend adult: $15 (weekend adult goes up to $18 after July 16)
  • Kids (6–12): $9
  • Seniors (65+): $9 (senior tickets increase to $10 after July 16)

Every Day Passport – come any day or every day

  • $60; available online now
  • Exclusive deals including two-for-one concerts and more

NEW Smart Start – early entry value

  • $11 adult; available through July 16
  • Must enter the Fair between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays

NEW Carnival Dream Pass

  • $46; available through July 16
  • 10 rides or carnival games
  • Must be purchased with an admission ticket

NEW Weekday Unlimited Family Bundle

  • $150; introductory offer ends July 16
  • 4 admission tickets (2 adult and 2 kid tickets)
  • 2 Unlimited Ride Wristbands
  • 2 $10 kids meals

NEW Family Dream Bundle

  • $155; introductory offer ends July 16
  • 4 admission tickets (2 adult and 2 kids tickets)
  • 2 Carnival Dream Passes (10 rides or games – mix and match)
  • 2 $10 kids meals

Parking: $15 for cars and motorcycles, $30 for oversized vehicles, buses and limos. 
More info: Visit 
Your Adventure Awaits


City of Costa Mesa 4th of July Celebration, July 3

The City of Costa Mesa is hosting a free Independence Day Community Celebration on July 3 at the OC Fairgrounds.
Bring your own picnic, lawn chairs and blanket and create a memorable day, as we celebrate our nation’s independence! Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
Glass containers and bottles are prohibited. No hard-sided coolers or outside alcohol permitted.

When: Friday, July 3, 5–11 p.m.
Schedule: Fireworks show starts at 9:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot A
How much: Admission and parking are free.
More info: Visit City of Costa Mesa

TNT Fireworks, June 30–July 4

Costa Mesa High School Baseball will be selling TNT Fireworks. 

When: Tuesday–Saturday, June 30–July 4
Schedule:
Tuesday, June 30, noon–10 p.m.
Wednesday, July 1, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Thursday, July 2, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Friday, July 3, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday, July 4, 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa – Lot E (on the corner of Fairview and Arlington)
How much: Firework prices vary. Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit TNT Fireworks

Walk Intuit: Our Space, Your Community Open House, July 10

Curious about what we do? Come visit our space and get a firsthand look at our programs and community!
During the open house, you can:

  • Tour our new facility and see our spaces in action
  • Meet our team and ask questions about our programs and services
  • Learn more about our mission and how you can get involved

Whether you’re new to our organization or have been following us from afar, this is a great opportunity to connect, explore and discover what we’re all about.

When: Friday, July 10, 5–7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: Registration is free. Reservations are required. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

Walk Intuit: Horses & Hearts Connection, July 11

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, July 11
Session 1: 9:30–11 a.m.
Session 2: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: General admission is $25. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit


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: Closed to the general public for the annual OC Fair season, July 1 – Aug. 25.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free to Fairgoers with 2026 OC Fair admission, July 17–Aug. 16. Parking is $15.
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. through July 16; 8 a.m.–noon, July 23–Aug. 13.
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: Closed to the general public for the annual OC Fair season, July 1 – Aug. 25.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free to Fairgoers with 2026 OC Fair admission, July 17–Aug. 16. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

The Ranch Community Center

The Ranch Community Center celebrates horses, ranching and nature. Free and low-cost public programs include 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 August

Walk Intuit: Horses & Hearts Connection, Aug. 1

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, Aug. 1
Session 1: 9:30–11 a.m.
Session 2: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: General admission is $30. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

OC Fair Fun Run 5K, Aug. 9

Run, walk or skip through the OC Fair! Every runner gets an awesome medal, a technical runners’ T-shirt and free race photos.

When: Sunday, Aug. 9
Schedule: Bib pick-up at 6 a.m.
5K race start at 8 a.m.
1.1 mile race start at 8:10 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds 
How much: Registration varies. Sign up before July 11 for discounted registration. Parking is free.
More info: Visit ocfair5k.com

Walk Intuit: Our Space, Your Community Open House, Aug. 14

Curious about what we do? Come visit our space and get a firsthand look at our programs and community!

During the open house, you can:

  • Tour our new facility and see our spaces in action
  • Meet our team and ask questions about our programs and services
  • Learn more about our mission and how you can get involved

Whether you’re new to our organization or have been following us from afar, this is a great opportunity to connect, explore and discover what we’re all about.

When: Friday, Aug.14, 5–7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: Registration is free. Reservations are required. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

Costa Mesa Speedway: Knobby Night Invitational #2, Aug. 22

Knobby Night Invitational / Speedway / Juniors

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, Aug. 22
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 under are free. Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles.
More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association, Aug. 28-30

All-breed dog show and obedience trial.

When: Friday–Sunday, Aug. 28–30, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, OC Promenade 
How much: Free general admission. Parking is $15. 
More info: Visit Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association

 

Gem Faire, Aug. 28-30

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, Aug. 28–30
Schedule:
Friday, Aug. 28, noon–6 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 30, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
No entry or re-entry after 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug, 30.
Wholesale preview on Friday, Aug. 28, 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. Free for children under 12 and seniors 70 and over. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Gem Faire

 


Cottie Petrie-Norris recognizes 50 years of the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition

Thank you to California State Assembly Member Cottie Petrie-Norris for recognizing the 50th anniversary of the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition in the recent edition of her “Catching Up With Cottie” weekly newsletter.

“Congratulations to the Orange County Wine Society and OC Fair & Event Center on the 50th anniversary of the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition! It was a pleasure for us to present resolutions honoring this remarkable milestone to both organizations in recognition of five decades of celebrating the art of winemaking and showcasing exceptional wines from across California and beyond. The OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition is a cherished tradition that highlights the incredible talent and craftsmanship of our winemakers, and we look forward to many more years of this celebrated event. Cheers to 50 years!”

Read the full newsletter here.

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in June

Discovery Day at the Farm, June 1

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: Monday, June 1, 9 a.m.–noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit 
Discovery Day

Walk Intuit: Horses & Hearts Connection, June 6

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, June 6
Session 1: 9:30–11 a.m.
Session 2: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much:  General admission is $25. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

Walk Intuit: Our Space, Your Community Open House, June 12

Curious about what we do? Come visit our space and get a firsthand look at our programs and community!

During the open house, you can:

  • Tour our new facility and see our spaces in action
  • Meet our team and ask questions about our programs and services
  • Learn more about our mission and how you can get involved

Whether you’re new to our organization or have been following us from afar, this is a great opportunity to connect, explore and discover what we’re all about.

When: Friday, June 12, 5–7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much:  Registration is free. Reservations are required. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

FuelFest, June 13

FuelFest Southern California is coming home! Join us at OC Fair & Event Center for the ultimate car show experience. See the Fairgrounds like never before as FuelFest takes over corner to corner with a massive car show, custom-built drift course, themed indoor and outdoor show zones, multiple stages, 75+ sponsor exhibits and more. There’s no better place to be!

When: Saturday, June 13, 2–9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, Main Mall, OC Promenade, Lots G & I
How much: General admission varies. Children 12 and younger are free. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit FuelFest

Heroes Hall Speaker Series – Shooter: From Vietnam Combat to Presidential Portraits, June 13

Few photographers have witnessed history as intimately as David Hume Kennerly. A Pulitzer Prize winner for his Vietnam War coverage, he went on to serve as President Gerald Ford’s personal White House photographer. With seven books, an Emmy nomination and a new book and major exhibition both debuting this fall, don’t miss the chance to hear firsthand stories from someone who has spent 60 years at the center of it all.

When: Saturday, June 13, 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

SoCal World Guitar Show, June 13 – 14

Bring all the musical instruments or related items you can carry to sell, trade or have appraised. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small cart with up to eight items to roll around the show

See everything from guitars, amps, banjos, mandolins, drums, violins, effects, memorabilia, sound gear, parts, records, books, clothing, accessories, builders, appraisers, repairmen and more!

When: Saturday & Sunday, June 13-14
Schedule:
Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday, June 14, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission is $25. Children 11 years and younger are admitted free with adult. Parking is free.
More info: Visit SoCal Guitar Show

Fight Club OC, June 18

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, June 18
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Hangar doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission varies. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Fight Club OC

OC MENA Festival, June 19 – 21

The OC MENA Festival is a three-day event that celebrates Middle Eastern and North African culture and its contributions to the world. Enjoy music, food, rides, art, community and much more.

When: Friday – Sunday, June 19-21, 11 a.m.–11:59 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: Admission varies. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit OC MENA Festival

Costa Mesa Speedway: Harley Night #2, June 20

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, June 20
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 Fair Board of Directors Meeting, June 25

When: Thursday, June 25, 9:30 a.m. 
Where: OC Fair & Event Center Administration Building or virtually on Zoom.
More info: Visit Public Meetings

Heroes Hall Speaker Series: The Legacy of the Vietnam Vet: A Helicopter Door Gunner’s Journey, June 27

Frans VandenBroek immigrated to the U.S. from the Dutch East Indies at age 12 — and by 19 he was flying combat missions over Vietnam with the 68th Assault Helicopter Company. His 15-month tour included more than 1,000 combat flight hours and survival against incredible odds, and his stories are ones you’ll never forget.

When: Saturday, June 27, 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

TNT Fireworks Stand, June 30 – July 4

Costa Mesa High School Baseball will be selling TNT Fireworks at this annual fundraiser. 

When: Tuesday–Saturday, June 30–July 4
Schedule:
Tuesday, June 30, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Wednesday, July 1, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Thursday, July 2, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Friday, July 3, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday, July 4, 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa – Lot E (at the corner of Fairview and Arlington)
How much: Free admission & parking. Firework prices vary. 
More info: Visit TNT Fireworks


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


2026 OC Fair, July 17 – Aug. 16

We are thrilled to welcome everyone back for the 2026 OC Fair, “Your Adventure Awaits!” Get ready for 23 days of fun-filled live entertainment, exhibits, food, carnival rides, shopping and more!

When: July 17-Aug. 16
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: Tickets and carnival deals are on sale now with value-packed bundles. Plus, don’t miss your chance to lock in last year’s prices!

Admission presale

  • Weekday adult: $13; weekend adult: $15 (weekend adult goes up to $18 after July 16)
  • Kids (6–12): $9
  • Seniors (65+): $9 (senior tickets increase to $10 after July 16)

Every Day Passport – come any day or every day

  • $60; available online now
  • Exclusive deals including two-for-one concerts and more

NEW Smart Start – early entry discount

  • $11 adult; available through July 16
  • Must enter the Fair between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays

NEW Carnival Dream Pass

  • $46; available through July 16
  • 10 rides or carnival games
  • Must be purchased with an admission ticket

NEW Weekday Unlimited Family Bundle

  • $150; introductory offer ends May 31
  • 4 admission tickets (2 adult and 2 kids tickets)
  • 2 Unlimited Ride Wristbands
  • 2 $10 kids meals

NEW Family Dream Bundle

  • $155; introductory offer ends May 31
  • 4 admission tickets (2 adult and 2 kids tickets)
  • 2 Carnival Dream Passes (10 rides or games – mix and match)
  • 2 $10 kids meals

Parking: $15 for cars and motorcycles, $30 for buses and limos. 
More info: Visit Your Adventure Awaits!


Coming up in July

City of Costa Mesa 4th of July Celebration, July 3

The City of Costa Mesa is hosting a free Independence Day Community Celebration on July 3 at the OC Fairgrounds.

Bring your own picnic, lawn chairs and blanket and create a memorable day as we celebrate our nation’s independence! Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Glass containers and bottles are prohibited. No hard-sided coolers or outside alcohol permitted.

When: Friday, July 3, 5–11 p.m.
Gates open at 4 p.m. Firework show starts at 9:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot A
How Much: Admission and parking are free. 
More Info: Visit City of Costa Mesa

Walk Intuit: Our Space, Your Community Open House, July 10

Curious about what we do? Come visit our space and get a firsthand look at our programs and community!

During the open house, you can:

  • Tour our new facility and see our spaces in action
  • Meet our team and ask questions about our programs and services
  • Learn more about our mission and how you can get involved

Whether you’re new to our organization or have been following us from afar, this is a great opportunity to connect, explore, and discover what we’re all about.

When: Friday, July 10, 5–7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: Registration is free. Reservations are required. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

Walk Intuit: Horses & Hearts Connection, July 11

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, July 11
Session 1: 9:30–11 a.m.
Session 2: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: General admission is $25. Parking is free.
More info: Visit Walk Intuit

OC Fair 2026 competitions invite Southern Californians to showcase their talents

COSTA MESA (May 4, 2026) – From quilts to cut flowers, competitions at the OC Fair bring out the best in Southern California skill and creativity.

Whether you’re confident your cheesecake is unbeatable or you’ve been told your woodworking deserves a spotlight, the 2026 Fair invites guests to compete for coveted blue ribbons—and ultimate bragging rights.

This year’s Fair runs July 17 through Aug. 16 at OC Fair & Event Center, celebrating the theme “Your Adventure Awaits!” Admission and entertainment tickets are available now at ocfair.com.

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, select competition categories will feature special theme awards recognizing excellence and celebrating the nation’s enduring spirit of achievement.

Participants are encouraged to submit entries soon, as deadlines for several popular contests are fast approaching:

Friday, May 15
Commercial Wine (entry and delivery deadline)

Friday, May 15, by 6 p.m.
Hobbies & Handcrafts
Fine Art
Photography
Woodworking

Wednesday, May 27
Home Wine (entry and delivery deadline)

Monday, June 8, by 6 p.m.
Honey
Preserved Food & Liqueur

Wednesday, July 1, by 6 p.m.
Bars & Brownies
Cookies
Sugar Arts & Confections
Breads & Pastries

Tuesday, July 21, by 6 p.m.
Cakes & Cupcakes

Tuesday, July 28, by 6 p.m.
Pies & Cheesecakes

Entry fees must be paid online. Participants should review individual competition guides for detailed information on entry delivery and pick up procedures.

Competitors can find full details and submit applications at ocfair.com/oc-fair/competitions-contests/.

For assistance with entries:
Phone: 714-708-1553 (Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Email: entries@ocfair.com

Additional inquiries can be directed to:
Entries Department: entries@ocfair.com
Visual Arts: visualarts@ocfair.com
Culinary Arts: culinary@ocfair.com
Hobbies & Handcrafts: hobbiesandhandcrafts@ocfair.com

With competitions spanning culinary arts, fine arts, crafts and more, the 2026 OC Fair offers something for every creator ready to share their passion. Enter today and be part of a summer tradition where talent takes center stage.