Thursday, September 26, 2024 (5:30 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center unveils plans for The Ranch Community Center

OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) is excited to unveil the latest expansion of its community give-back programs at its reimagined equestrian center, now called The Ranch Community Center.

The Board embraced a bold new vision and operating model for the property in January, focusing on broad community access, education, accredited equine-assisted therapy and free hands-on experiences with horses. The vision for The Ranch also includes continuing the existing boarding and training of privately owned horses at the 7.5-acre facility. Staff have been working to develop key educational, community and agriculture partners for the new public programs which will begin rolling out next month.

“In service of our mission to create equitable community access to agriculture, entertainment, cultural and educational opportunities, The Ranch will open the facility to a much wider segment of the Orange County community so our programs promoting equine education and experiences with horses will be within reach for all,” said OC Fair Board Chair Nick Kovacevich.

Key initiatives include:
· Equine exhibits
· The Ranch After-School Program
· Ranch Discovery Days, school tours and hands-on equine experiences
· Accredited equine-assisted therapy programs and services
· Educational partnerships
· Small regional horse shows and clinics
· Boarding and training of privately owned horses

Operating in concert with OCFEC’s other educational venues such as Centennial Farm and Heroes Hall, The Ranch will provide free or low-cost educational opportunities and experiences to the entire community year-round. Centennial Farm is celebrating its 35^th anniversary of public service this year and welcomes The Ranch to the family of public assets.

The Ranch will debut engaging exhibits highlighting the history and heritage of horses and their contribution to California agriculture. These exhibits will feature information on horse care, breeds and types of horses, tack and equipment, horse uses, careers in horse and ranching industries, famous horses and much more.

OCFEC’s Ranch After-School Program has traditionally operated out of Centennial Farm, but will now have its new home at The Ranch. The program inspires youth from local schools to explore careers in agriculture by providing hands-on experiences with crops and animals. The public will also be able to participate in The Ranch Discovery Days where student groups, youth organizations, senior groups and community programs can engage with horses and learn about their care.

OCFEC will also be collaborating with many nonprofit and community groups to bring unique opportunities and experiences to The Ranch, including those providing licensed mental health services as well as those serving veterans and students interested in careers working with animals or agriculture. Each will work with OCFEC to create a vibrant hub of new and expanded opportunities where members of the public can learn about horses, experience their therapeutic benefits and enjoy engaging activities.

The Ranch, along with OCFEC as a whole, will continue to serve the community during emergencies, serving as a large-animal evacuation center and providing space and assistance as needed. Looking ahead, OCFEC is exploring innovative programs such as gardening for stress relief, clinics and demonstrations as well as agriculture and equine conferences.

“We look forward to inviting the community to The Ranch Community Center to explore, learn and connect with these beautiful animals,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards.

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 (9:00 am)

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in October

Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch, through – Oct. 31

Family-fun pumpkin patch! Enjoy 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: Through 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.
Closing at 7 p.m. on Oct. 31
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot C
How much: Free admission. Parking is free Monday – Thursday and $12 Friday – Sunday. 
More info: Visit Seasonal Adventures

OC Pride Festival & Parade, Oct. 5

Join the OC Pride Festival, featuring headliners Wendy Guevara, Vanessa Vanjie Mateo, fresh off her runner-up finish on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 9” and Jessica Wild! Experience live performances and music and explore diverse zones like Trans Central, Pride Speaks, The Leather and Fetish Zone, Club Vibe, VIP Lounge, Teen Space, Kids Zone and the Pride Market. Celebrate LGBTQIA+ culture, love and unity—get your tickets now and be a part of the pride!

When: Saturday, Oct. 5, noon – 10 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much:  $20 general admission, free admission for kids 15 and under and seniors 65+. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit  OC Pride

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: 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 Workshop

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

54th U.S. 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

Newport – Mesa Unified School District College and Career Fair, Oct. 16

The College and Career Fair is returning to OC Fair & Event Center with college, university and international school representatives, career technical education explorations, workshops on financial aid, NCAA eligibility and early college credit and more!

When: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building, Huntington Beach Building, Santa Ana Pavilion
How much:  Free admission and parking. 
More info: Visit NMUSD College and Career Fair

OC Japan Fair, Oct. 18 – 20

Enjoy the experience of tasting, shopping and learning about Japanese culture. There will also be a cosplay show, tuna cutting show, popular Japanese artist and comedian performances, traditional instrument performances, games, kimono models meet and greet and more!

When: Friday, Oct. 18, 5-11 p.m.
Schedule:
Saturday, Oct. 19, noon-10 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Los Alamitos Building, OC Promenade and Lot I
How much: Early bird admission is $10, general admission is $12. Free for children 6 and younger or seniors 66 and older. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit OC Japan Fair

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

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 Silo Building
How much: $7 fee covers materials and any handouts. Free parking. 
More info: Visit  Farm & Garden Workshops

SoCal VegFest, Oct. 26 – 27

A one-of-a-kind event designed to engage curiosity and inspire consciousness in people of all ages. This event will include free plant-based food samplings, musical entertainment, guest speakers, cooking demos, raffles, interactive booths, food vendors, humane organizations, an enjoyable children’s area with a variety of engaging opportunities and more!

When: Saturday, Oct 26 – Sunday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building
How much: Adult general admission is $10, children 12 and under are free. One-day VIP ticket includes alcoholic beverage samples and a fast pass, $40. Weekend VIP package, $60. Parking is $12
More info: Visit SoCal VegFest

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 Ha Ha – A Haunted Oktoberfest

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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 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

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

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

Crossroads of the West Gun Show, Nov. 30 – Dec. 1

Crossroads of the West Gun Shows will be returning to the OC Fair & Event Center once again. Everyone from first-time owners to avid hunters and experienced collectors will find products of interest. Firearms, ammunition, training, holsters, range bags, knives, first aid and more!

When: Saturday, Nov. 30 – Sunday, Dec. 1
Schedule:
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Main Mall, Anaheim Building, Costa Mesa Building, Huntington Beach Building, Los Alamitos Building
How much: General admission is $22, children 12 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Crossroads of the West Gun Show

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.