Monday, May 8, 2023 (9:00 am)

Veterans Storytelling Project is returning to Heroes Hall May 13 with four speakers

COSTA MESA – VOICES Veterans Storytelling Project returns to Heroes Hall on Saturday, May 13, at 5 p.m. for a new installment of powerfully captivating stories from those who served our country.

The public event is the culmination of a six-week veterans’ initiative, which provides servicemembers with a creative outlet and empowers them to share their memories of military duty and how their experiences have shaped them.

Participants in this VOICES installment will include:

Jersson Nieto of Baldwin Park, U.S. Army, Sergeant – 2015-2023
Khang Phi of Anaheim, U.S. Army, Specialist – 2004-2007
Tori Rhoades of Fullerton, U.S. Marines, Corporal – 1994-2000
Elizabeth Rocha of Orange, U.S. Marines, Sergeant – 2015-2020

The evening will be facilitated by Giovanni Berdejo a former sergeant who served in the U.S. Army from 2002- 2010. Berdejo is the author of “One Angry Veteran,” and he narrated his own VOICES story in 2020.

Held at Heroes Hall at OC Fair & Event Center, VOICES is a collaboration with Arts Orange County and Tierney Center for Veteran Services, and is supported through grants from the California Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, Orange County Community Foundation, Heroes Hall Veterans Foundation and the William J. Gillespie Foundation. The program began in 2015 as a way to help address issues raised in the Orange County Community Foundation 2014 report, “The State of the American Veteran: The Orange County Veterans Study,” which found that military veterans coming home to Orange County are significantly underprepared for civilian life.

RSVP for VOICES at voicesmay2023.eventbrite.com. The event is free and open to the public. The staged reading is suggested for mature audiences.

Heroes Hall is a permanent year-round veterans museum and education center at OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. The museum features exhibitions, performances and educational programs that celebrate the legacy of Orange County veterans and others who have served our nation. For more information, visit ocfair.com/heroeshall or call (714) 708-1500.

Arts Orange County is a nonprofit, countywide arts council and its mission is to be the leader in building appreciation of, participation in, and support for the arts and arts education throughout Orange County. For more information, visit artsoc.org or call (714) 556-5160.

Goodwill of Orange County’s Tierney Center for Veteran Services is a global approach to serving veterans and their families. The center serves all veterans in Orange County, including immediate family members and military personnel and families. For more information, visit ocgoodwill.org/tierney-center.

OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa is home to the annual OC Fair and Imaginology. Year-round attractions include Centennial Farm, Table of Dignity, Heroes Hall and Pacific Amphitheatre. Throughout the year events ranging from recreation shows to cultural festivals are held at the fairgrounds. For more information, visit ocfair.com.

Thursday, May 4, 2023 (10:20 am)

Employees seeking great summer jobs are needed to put on the annual OC Fair

COSTA MESA – OC Fair & Event Center needs seasonal workers who are looking for terrific summer jobs and a fun way to earn some income. The theme of this year’s Fair is “Happy Together!”

About 1,000 seasonal employees are needed for the 2023 OC Fair. Job postings are available at ocfair.com/jobs for people 16 and older. Hiring has begun for several positions, with some start dates closer to the 2023 OC Fair, July 14-Aug. 13.

Most open positions are seasonal, part-time with opportunities to build exhibits, work as a ticket taker, administrative assistant or customer service representative. Departments such as parking, security, janitorial, landscaping, maintenance and admissions are also seeking workers.

There are also some year-round jobs available.

Perks include free admission to the OC Fair, the option to purchase discounted tickets for friends and family and the opportunity to win a Fair employee scholarship.

Employees will need to follow all health and safety precautions in place at OC Fair & Event Center. More specific information will be provided to applicants and will be based on current protocols from public health agencies.

For more information, visit ocfair.com/jobs or contact the human resources department at 714-708-1563, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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Job fair, June 3

OC Fair & Event Center will be hosting a hiring event on June 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. On-site interviews will take place and applications will be accepted on the spot. Visit ocfair.com/jobs to view open positions. Resumes will be accepted, but are not required.

Tuesday, May 2, 2023 (9:59 am)

OC Fair competition deadlines are near – how to bring home a blue ribbon this year

COSTA MESA – Calling all artists, growers and creators! OC Fair’s competition entry deadlines are quickly approaching.

For the 2023 OC Fair, everyone is invited to showcase their talents by participating in more than 20 competitions in the visual arts, culinary, home arts and hobbies, wine, horticulture and livestock categories.

Competitions this year include:

Visual Arts
Fine Arts
Photography
Woodworking

Home Arts & Hobbies
Collections
Fiber Arts
Hand Crafts
Jewelry Arts
Table Setting

Horticulture
Container Plants
Cut Flowers
Floral Arrangements
Fruits & Vegetables
Pressed Botanicals

Culinary
Bars & Brownies
Cookies
Honey
Pies & Cheesecakes
Preserved Food & Liqueur
Sugar Arts & Confections
Yeast & Quick Breads

Wine
Commercial Wine
Home Wine

Livestock
Breeding Livestock Shows
Market Livestock Shows

There are also designated divisions and separate competitions for youth.

Deadlines for entries vary based on category. Competition Guides are available at ocfair.com/competitions. The guides detail rules, regulations, important dates and more. Some competitions are free to enter.

The first 2023 deadline for commercial wines, is slated to close May 19. Table settings, a fan favorite, has exceeded entries and is now closed.

Results for the 2022 OC Fair Competitions are available at ocfair.com/oc-fair/competitions-contests/results/.

ABOUT THE 2023 OC FAIR

“Happy Together” is the theme of this year’s OC Fair, which takes place July 14-Aug. 13. Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

New this year, the OC Fair is offering an Every Day Passport which allows guests to enjoy the Fair any day or every day of the 2023 season – no reservations or restrictions. The Every Day Passport is on sale now for $60, while supplies last.

There is limited daily capacity at the OC Fair and advance admission ticket purchase is required – tickets are on sale now. Prices are $13 general admission on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $15 general admission on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 are $9 all days. The OC Fair will absorb transaction fees. Parking is $12; $24 for buses and limos.

Tickets are on sale for performances in Pacific Amphitheatre, Action Sports Arena and The Hangar. Carnival tickets are also on sale with a $44 discounted ride wristband available for purchase until July 14. Guests can access unlimited rides and two free games from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wristbands must be redeemed by 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

For more information, visit ocfair.com. Photos and video for media are available here.

Monday, April 24, 2023 (9:15 am)

What’s going on at the OC Fairgrounds in May

Discovery Day at the Farm, May 3

Visit Centennial Farm for self-guided tours, radish seed planting, chick education, oxen demonstration, crop education and more!

When: Wednesday, May 3, 9 a.m. – noon.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free Admission and parking

More info: Visit Centennial Farm Discovery Days

The SDCCU OC Marathon Running Festival, May 5-7

Celebrate Orange County at the 19th Annual OC Running Festival. Event weekend includes OC Half Marathon, Full Marathon, Kids Run the OC and the Celebrate OC 5K.

When: May 5-7

Schedule:

OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo – Friday, May 5, 4-8 p.m. & Saturday, May 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Kids Run the OC – Saturday, May 6, 8 a.m.-noon

Celebrate OC 5K – Saturday, May 6, 5:30 p.m. (Finish Line Festival is 1-7 p.m.)

SDCCU OC Half Marathon start – Sunday, May 7, 6:15 a.m. (Finish Line Festival is 8 a.m.-noon)

SDCCU OC Marathon start – Sunday, May 1, 5:30 a.m. (Finish Line Festival is 8 a.m.-noon)

How much: Visit ocmarathon.com for registration fees. Admission to OC Lifestyle & Fitness Expo is free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit ocmarathon.com

Gem Faire, May 12-14

Fine jewelry, precious & semi-precious gemstones, millions of beads, crystals, gold & silver, minerals and much more at manufacturer’s prices. Nearly 200 exhibitors from around the world. Jewelry repair, cleaning and ring sizing while you shop.

When: Friday, May 12, noon-6 p.m.

Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, May 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (No admittance after 4 p.m. Sunday)

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building and Santa Ana Pavilion

How much: $7 general admission; free for kids 11 and younger. Parking is $12.

More information: Visit gemfaire.com or email info@gemfaire.com

Centennial Farm Workshop:  It’s Tea Time – How to host a TEA-rific tea party for any occasion, May 13

Learn the art of brewing hot and cold teas. Indulge in a delectable spread of traditional treats that will transport you to the heart of England. Whether you’re a tea aficionado or simply looking to add the charm of a classic tea party to your next social gathering, this class is perfect for you.

When: Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

RSVP online by May 10. Availability is limited.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: $30 fee covers ingredients and any handouts. Parking is free.

More info: Visit Centennial Farm Garden Classes

VOICES: Veterans Storytelling Project, May 13

Heroes Hall in collaboration with Arts Orange County will present “Voices: Veterans Storytelling Project.” The free event will feature local veterans reading their stories.

When: Saturday, May 13, 5-7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall

How much: Free Admission

More info: RSVP at Voices Projects, or visit Arts Orange County for additional details

Costa Mesa Speedway: Knobby Night, May 13

Knobby Night / Speedway / Juniors

When: Saturday, May 13, 6 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How much: $30 general admission; $20 for juniors ages 13-17, $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

SOS 30th Annual Wild & Crazy Taco Night, May 18

The biggest fundraising event for Share Our Shelves. All proceeds from the event go toward providing critical social services, alleviating food insecurity and health care that is affordable and accessible to the underserved and underinsured in our community.

When: Thursday, May 18, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Plaza Pacifica

How much: General Admission: $85. Early bird general admission sale ends April 30.

Parking is free in Lot E & F

More info: RSVP at Share Our Shelves

Discovery Day at the Farm, May 18

Visit Centennial Farm for self-guided tours, radish seed planting, chick education, oxen demonstration, crop education and more!

When: Thursday, May 18, 9 a.m.- noon.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free Admission and parking

More info: Visit Centennial Farm Discovery Days

Sand Sport Super Swap, May 20

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 20, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot I

How much: Presale tickets (until May 19 online only) are $5; day-of-show tickets are $10 (online and onsite); children 12 & younger are free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Sand Sports Super Show

Costa Mesa Speedway: Speedway / Hooligans, May 20

Speedway / Hooligans

When: Saturday, May 20, 6 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How much: $30 general admission; $20 for juniors ages 13-17, $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 Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Jan. 26

When: Thursday, May 25, 9:30 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building or virtually on Zoom

More info: Visit OC Fair Public Meetings

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Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

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.

Hours: Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where on the fairgrounds: Outdoors in Lot D

How much: Free admission and parking; let parking attendant know you are going to the Farmers Market.

More info: Visit ocfarmbureau.org

Centennial Farm open daily

Visit our three-acre working farm, which features seasonal crops, farm animals and knowledgeable staff.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (see calendar for closures)

Where on the fairgrounds: Centennial Farm is on the south side of our property

How much: Free admission and parking

More info: Visit Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm Pig Cam

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

Heroes Hall Museum open Wed.-Sun.

Visit our museum to view the latest exhibits and learn about local veterans.

Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (see calendar for closures)

Where on the fairgrounds: Heroes Hall is next to Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Exhibit: ‘Armed Only With A Camera’ through Sept. 2023

The World War II Photography of Stanley Troutman is now on display at Heroes Hall. Troutman served his country by photographing the war in the South Pacific Theater including the devastated cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (see calendar for closures)

Where on the fairgrounds: Heroes Hall is next to Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

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Looking ahead to June

OC Fair Job Fair

Join us for a job fair to learn about the 1,000+ openings for those 16 and older. We’ll be conducting walk-up interviews. Resumes are recommended but not required. Bring family and friends who are looking for a fun summer job!

Hours: Saturday, June 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event – Lot F

How much: Free admission and parking; enter at Gate 4 off Arlington Drive.

More info: Apply ahead at OC Fair Jobs

Tuesday, January 31, 2023 (11:46 am)

OC Fair Board approves first phase of master site plan

COSTA MESA – The OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors has approved the first phase of a master site plan that will improve the fairgrounds and position it for the future.

Phase 1 includes the expansion of the OC Fair & Event Center administration building at an estimated cost of $25 million. This will add 15,659 feet of space and will make room for employees who will be displaced by future master site plan projects.

In addition to work space, there will be meeting rooms, archive and storage areas, restrooms and additional security measures in the expanded building. The project is scheduled to begin this year and to be completed by the end of 2024.

Future master site plan projects include a new Century Barn at Centennial Farm, an agriculture education center, expanded exhibit buildings, new public restroom facilities, Pacific Amphitheatre facility improvements, Action Sports Arena upgrades and an agriplex that will provide a place for livestock shows and educational space.

“I am proud of the work that the staff and Board have put into this plan and I know it is a great path forward for OC Fair & Event Center,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards. “We are on solid financial ground and the master site plan projects will bring the property new opportunities to serve the community, generate family fun and fulfill our mission.”

Work on the eight-phase master site plan is expected to continue through 2032 and the Board will review and approve each project in sequence. The estimated total cost of all master site plan phases is $229 million.

The Board approved the first phase of the master site plan at its Jan. 26 meeting by unanimous vote.

View the master site plan PowerPoint presentation here, under Facility reports.