Monday, September 16, 2024 (2:44 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center sheltered 107 animals evacuated from Southern California fires

Over the past week, OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) sheltered 107 animal evacuees from wildfires across Southern California. Our facility welcomed 94 horses, four goats, four chickens, three ducks and two geese, offering them a safe haven during these challenging times.

“Thank you to everyone for your help with this vital evacuation. Once again, OCFEC is there for the community,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO.

We’re incredibly grateful to be able to support the equestrian and farming communities in this time of need, working closely with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate efforts. The swift action and collaboration ensured these animals had a secure place to stay.

As always, OC Fair & Event Center remains dedicated to serving our community – standing ready to offer our resources when needed.

 

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 (10:52 am)

OC Fair & Event Center takes in 93 horses evacuated from Southern California fires

OC Fair & Event Center is now sheltering 93 horses that have been evacuated from danger zones as fires rage across Southern California.

The displaced horses are in stables at the OC Fairgrounds’ equestrian center and space is still available for more large animals that need to move to safety.

The fairgrounds’ staff is working with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate evacuation efforts and to support the equestrian community and others with large animals that must be relocated. Temporary stalls have been constructed to house additional animals on the property and horse owners have complete access to care for their animals.

For more information on evacuations, please check Resources During a Disaster | Orange County California – Sheriff’s Department (ocsheriff.gov)

“We continue to be a resource for the community as these emergencies progress and will do all that we can to make sure animals have safe shelter as long as needed ,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO. “The OC Fair & Event Center is here to serve and we have the resources to help.”

The OC Fair staff is working to support the needs of the evacuated horses and their owners. At this time, volunteer efforts are not needed at the Fairgrounds.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024 (2:01 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center takes in animals evacuated from Southern California fires

COSTA MESA (Sept. 10, 2024) – As wildfires burn across Southern California, horses are being housed safely at OC Fair & Event Center as large animals are evacuated from danger zones.

Some 23 displaced horses are currently in stables at the OC Fairgrounds’ equestrian center and it is anticipated that more will be coming to the facility today; potentially some horses from outside the county.

The fairgrounds’ staff is working with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate evacuation efforts and a total of 85 stalls are available to support the equestrian community and others with large animals that must be relocated. Temporary stalls can also be constructed to house more animals on the property if the need arises.

For more information on evacuations, please check Resources During a Disaster | Orange County California – Sheriff’s Department (ocsheriff.gov)

“This is what we do – we support the community during times of crisis. We have the space and the expertise here to help animals that must be moved to safety during these fires,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO. “Having just wrapped up the 2024 OC Fair, the public knows we are here in times of celebration, but we are also here in times of need. Right now it is imperative that we provide a large-animal evacuation center where displaced horses and their owners from all over Southern California can find a safe escape from the wildfires.”

The OC Fair staff is working to support the needs of the evacuated horses and their owners. At this time, volunteer efforts are not needed at the Fairgrounds.

Monday, August 26, 2024 (3:43 pm)

Centennial Farm selected to receive CDFA ‘Specialty Crop Block Grant Program’ funds

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) selects “The Centennial Farm Story of California Specialty Crops” grant proposal to receive a 2024 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) Farm Bill award. 

The funding will allow OC Fair & Event Center to address the ongoing critical need to connect the region’s youth to locally grown specialty crops, while educating them about how these crops get to their plates. Through storytelling and first-hand, experiential learning, youth will be encouraged to engage with agriculture as an industry, as a field of study and as it impacts many facets of their lives.

Learn more about the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, visit https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/Specialty_Crop_Competitiveness_Grants/.

Thursday, August 22, 2024 (9:00 am)

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in September

Upcoming shows at Pacific Amphitheatre

Concerts at Pacific Amphitheatre, through Sept. 14

There’s a stellar lineup of performances coming to Pacific Amphitheatre through September! Get your heart pounding and feet moving with:

Big Time Rush / Crash Adams on Aug. 30
Counting Crows / Toad The Wet Sprocket on Aug. 31
Steel Pulse / The Green / Sammy J on Sept. 1
John Fogerty / Hearty Har on Sept. 3
Bonnie Raitt / James Hunter on Sept. 14
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Pacific Amphitheatre
How much: Ticket prices vary per show, section and seat. 
More info: Visit Pacific Amphitheatre

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What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in September

Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association Holiday Classic, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1

All-breed dog show and obedience trial.

When: Aug. 30 – Sept. 1, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center 
How much: Free general admission. Parking is $12
More info: Visit Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association

Gem Faire, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1

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, Aug. 30 – Sunday, Sept. 1 
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, Sept. 1
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

626 Night Market, Sept. 6-8

626 Night Market is back at OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California. The festival features 250+ food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music and entertainment attractions in an event that appeals to all ages. Join us for warm summer days and bright nights this season!

When: Sept. 6-8, 4 – 11 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – OC Promenade, Lots I & G
How much: Presale is $5.90 through Sept. 6. General admission for adults, seniors and children is $6.93. Children 3 and under are free. Parking is $12. Most vendors accept cash only. ATMs will be available.
More info: Visit 626 Night Market

California Bridal & Wedding Expo, Sept. 8

The Bridal & Wedding Expo features an amazing selection of wedding professionals ready to help you find the perfect gown, reception venue, invitations, photographer, music, menu, honeymoon destination and much more!

When: Sunday, Sept. 8, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building
How much: Get your free passes online, or pay $10 general admission at the door.
More info: Visit  CA Bridal & Wedding Expo

Maker Faire, Sept. 14-15

Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments and projects. We call it “The Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth” – a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness. Glimpse the future and get inspired!

When: Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 14 – 15
Schedule:
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, Sept. 15, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Park Plaza
How much: Online weekend general admission is $35, VIP Maker Weekend is $99 and Elite Maker Weekend is $500. General admission is $25 for single-day and $40 for the weekend at the gate. Parking is $12. 
More info: Visit OC Maker Faire

Gun & Collectors Show, Sept. 14-15

Exhibitors from throughout the U.S. will display modern and antique firearms, knives, hunting rifles, gun parts, artifacts, jewelry, antique art, mountain men collectibles and contemporary crafts, old west memorabilia, cleaning supplies, militaria, ammunition, collectibles and more.

When: Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 14 – 15
Schedule:
Saturday, Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, Sept. 15, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building
How much: General admission is $15, children 12 years old and younger are free. Parking is $12. 
More info: Visit Gun TV Shows

Centennial Farm’s 35th Celebration, Sept. 14

Join us as we commemorate the 35th anniversary of Centennial Farm with a family-friendly celebration that’s sure to be a hit with all ages! Dive into the rich history and bright future of our community’s beloved Centennial Farm, a beacon of agricultural education for students from Orange County and beyond that highlights the vital role of farming in our everyday lives. The day will be packed full of fun, learning and delicious food!

When: Saturday, Sept. 14, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Presale through Aug. 30: $40 adult, $20 youth (6-17), kids 5 and under are free. Beginning Aug. 31: $45 adult, $25 youth (6-17), kids 5 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Centennial Farm BBQ Bash

Costa Mesa Speedway: Knobby Night #2,

Sept. 14

When: Saturday, Sept. 14
Schedule:
Gates open 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+), active military and fire; $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 Show, Sept. 20-22

Hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees come together for the largest dune and dirt sports expo in the world. Join us for three days of fun and get up close to the latest sand rails, UTVs, ATVs, side x sides, accessories, apparel and a whole lot more. 

When: Friday – Sunday, Sept. 20-22
Schedule:
Friday, Sept. 20: 4 – 10 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 22: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Enter via Gate 3 off Fairview Drive. 
How much: Online general admission: $16 for one day, $33 for the weekend. Prices increase Sept. 19. Parking is $12.  
More info: Visit Sand Sport Super Show

Make It, Take It with Autumn Apples: Crafting a Preserve and Shallot Chutney, Sept. 21

Join us for an interactive food preservation workshop focused on turning fresh, crisp apples into delightful, shelf-stable treats. In this session, the Master Food Preservers of Orange County will guide you through making classic apple preserves and a unique shallot chutney that balances the sweetness of apples with the savory depth of shallots. Whether you’re an avid gardener looking to extend the life of your harvest or someone interested in crafting homemade preserves, this workshop offers the perfect blend of tradition and creativity.

When: Saturday, Sept. 21, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; RSVP by Sept. 18
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: $40 class fee covers ingredients, handouts and two canning jars. Parking is free
More info: Visit Farm & Garden Workshop

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Sept. 26

When: Thursday, Sept. 26, 9:30 a.m. 
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info:  Visit Public Meetings

Cruisin’ for a Cure, Sept. 28

Cruisin’ for a Cure is a one-day car show on the West Coast with over 2,500 cars, live music and fun for the entire family. Free prostate cancer screening will be available for men 40+, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Appointment not necessary.

When: Saturday, Sept. 28, 6 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Schedule:
Opening ceremony at 9 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center 
How much: General admission is $20, military with ID is $18, children under 12 are free. Parking is $12
More info: Visit Cruisin for a Cure

Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch, Sept. 28 – Oct. 31

Family-fun pumpkin patch with inflatable slides, kiddie rides, a petting zoo and a train. Pick out your perfect pumpkin or shop at our farmers market for farm-fresh squash and gourds. No pets allowed. 

When: Sept. 28 – Oct. 31
Schedule:
Monday – Thursday, 3 – 9 p.m.; Friday: 3 – 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Closes at 7 p.m. on Oct. 31
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot C 
How much: Free admission
More info: Visit Seasonal Adventures

Costa Mesa Speedway: Harley Night Finals, Sept. 28

When: Saturday, Sept. 28
Schedule:
Gates open 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+), active military and fire; $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

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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: Reopens to the public Aug. 27.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free with Fair admission. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Even when the Farm is closed to the public, you can still keep tabs on our resident rascals. 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, 8 a.m. – noon
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: Reopens to the public Aug. 28.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum
How much: Free with Fair admission. Parking is $15.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

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Coming up in October

Gem Faire, Oct. 11 – 13

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, Oct. 11 – Sunday, Oct. 13 
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, Oct. 13
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

Rooted in California: An Introduction to Gardening with Native Plants, Oct. 12

Join biologist Jonathan Mills-Anderson for an engaging and informative introduction to California’s native plants. This class will cover the basics of selecting, incorporating and managing native species in your garden. Whether you’re new to gardening or looking to enhance your landscape with sustainable and drought-tolerant plants, you’ll learn why creating an environmentally friendly garden is not only beautiful but also a meaningful way to stay rooted in California’s natural heritage.

When: Saturday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m. – noon; RSVP by Oct. 9
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: $7 fee covers materials and any handouts. Free parking.
More info: Visit Farm & Garden Workshops

Costa Mesa Speedway: 54th US National Speedway Championship/Jrs., Oct. 12

54th US National Speedway Championship/Jrs.

When: Saturday, Oct. 12
Schedule:
Gates open 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+), active military and fire; $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

OC Home & Holiday Expo, Oct. 19-20

Home improvement experts are ready to make your remodeling or building plans a reality. DIY craft and home improvement classes hourly, free prizes every hour, charity craft & cooking classes, free activities and classes for all ages. Enter to win a season pass for four (4) at Wild Rivers! New vendors, new classes and new activities at this year’s show.

When: Saturday, Oct. 19 – Sunday, Oct. 20
Schedule:
Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: Free admission. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit The Best Home Show

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Oct. 24

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

Boo Ha Ha – A Haunted Oktoberfest, Oct. 26

Boo Ha Ha will feature three hours of unlimited tastings from some of the nation’s top breweries! Enjoy samples of Oktoberfest, German-style lagers, seasonal and special releases, IPAs, seltzer, cider and more! 

When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 6 p.m. – midnight
Schedule:
Doors open at 6 p.m., beer fest is 6 – 9 p.m., concert starts at 7 p.m., after-party is 10 p.m. – midnight
Where: OC Fair & Event Center 
How much: General admission presale is $55, VIP is $93.50. Parking is $12. 
More info: Visit Boo Haha – A Haunted Oktoberfest

Fall Fruit Focus: Caring for Citrus and Avocado Trees, Oct. 26

Join local expert Isabel Barkman, a member of the California Rare Fruit Growers, for an in-depth class on fall tree care for citrus and avocados. Learn the best practices for planting, feeding, pruning and caring for your trees during this season, as well as tips for maximizing blooming and harvesting. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or new to citrus and avocado care, this lecture will equip you with the knowledge you need to ensure your trees thrive throughout the fall and beyond.

When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. – noon; RSVP by Oct. 23
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: $7 fee covers materials and any handouts. Free parking.
More info: Visit Farm & Garden Workshops