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Tuesday, January 28, 2025 (1:12 pm)
OC Fair CEO Michele Richards announces her retirement
After more than 20 years of service at OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC), top executive Michele Richards has announced that she will retire this spring prior to the 2025 OC Fair.
She was appointed as CEO by the Board of Directors in December 2019 and led the state agency through several key projects, including shepherding the organization through the pandemic, helping lead the Board of Directors through two multi-year strategic plans, introducing a master site plan for the property, delivering five of the most successful fairs in the organization’s history, and expanding OCFEC’s free public programs through Centennial Farm, Heroes Hall, Imaginology and now The Ranch Community Center.
Richards was instrumental in the OC Fair’s adoption of a new business model, unique to the industry, that places customer satisfaction and long-term financial stability above the race for ever-increasing attendance numbers. She believes it is important to reduce crowding at the Fair, to be a good neighbor to those living nearby, to responsibly manage the organization’s resources and ensure that safety remains a top priority.
Richards will be relocating to Georgia to take on a larger role in the care of family members.
“It has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead this organization, to serve the community and to bring so much happiness through the OC Fair, Centennial Farm, Heroes Hall and the many events and festivals that take place all year long,” said Richards. “It will be so hard to say goodbye to my friends, colleagues and partners who have been so important to me, but I know that OCFEC will be in great hands with solid plans and the financial stability to successfully move forward. It is now time to focus on my family and I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to do so.”
Now leading an organization of over 250 year-round full- and part-time employees and more than 1,500 seasonal workers that help put on the highly successful annual OC Fair, Richards previously served as the organization’s Vice President of Business Development for more than seven years, leading the marketing, communications, sponsorship, creative services, events and exhibits and education departments. She was also an organizational development consultant to OCFEC for 11 years before joining the staff.
Of her many accomplishments, Richards is most proud of building what she calls “the best team in the fair industry” which she credits with going above and beyond to serve the community and create new experiences. “I’ve been so blessed to be able to lead smart and creative people, harness their ideas into reality and celebrate with them as we bring joy to so many in the community through our entertainment, educational and community support programs.”
Many changes to the OC Fairgrounds property are currently in the works following years of planning and public input including a new Master Site Plan that will make way for more educational opportunities and public access to animals and agriculture, helping to fulfill OCFEC’s mission, “Creating equitable community access to agriculture, entertainment, cultural and educational experiences.”
Another recent development is the implementation of a new vision for The Ranch Community Center. The 7.5-acre area of the fairgrounds is now operating under a new plan that provides access to horses and free or low-cost equine experiences while also setting aside space for private boarding and training. This new model opens the facility for greater public access and educational programs along with the continued boarding opportunities.
“Michele Richards has left an unforgettable mark on OC Fair & Event Center. Her leadership during challenging times, especially steering us through the global pandemic, exemplified the true essence of resilience and innovation,” said Board Chair Nick Kovacevich . “Under her guidance, OCFEC has not only weathered storms but has emerged stronger, with a business model focused on sustainability, community satisfaction and safety. As Michele steps away to dedicate her time to her family, she leaves behind an organization that is not just surviving but thriving, poised to seize new opportunities with enthusiasm. Her vision, dedication and heartfelt service have been the bedrock of our success. On behalf of the Board, our staff and the community we’ve served together, we express our profound gratitude to Michele.”
The Board has initiated a comprehensive search process to identify potential candidates for the CEO position.
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Friday, January 24, 2025 (9:00 am)
What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in February
Orange County Winter International Open Jiu-Jitsu, Feb. 1-2
A series of Brazilian jiu-jitsu matches. Watch as these athletes grapple while demonstrating their discipline for and dedication to the sport of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
When: Wednesday, Feb. 1-2, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building
How much: General admission is free. Parking is $12
More info: Visit OC Winter International Open
Discovery Day at the Farm, Feb. 5
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
Crops education
When: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day
WNO 26, Feb. 7
Immerse yourself in the energy of a passionate crowd united by your love for jiu-jitsu as submissions are threatened, escapes are made and hands are raised.
When: Friday, Feb. 7, 6-9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission starts at $49.99, and children 2 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More info: Sign up at WNO 26
Centennial Farm Workshop: A Valentine’s Truffle Making Class, Feb. 8
Learn to craft decadent chocolate treats at Centennial Farm. Create handmade truffles decorated with gourmet toppings and explore perfect pairing tips with California specialty crops for a delicious experience!
When: Saturday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m. – noon. RSVP online by Feb. 3.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
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
Fight Club OC, Feb. 13
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, Feb. 13
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill Happy Hour, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
The 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 varies. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Fight Club OC
Redo Market, Feb. 14-15
A community gathering uniting vintage fans and local artisans of California. Stroll through a curated collection of vintage finds and an authentic assortment of makers, including home, clothing, surfboards and jewelry. Live music, hands-on experiences and a selection of delicious food and drink will make it a weekend for all to enjoy.
When: Friday & Saturday, Feb. 14-15
Friday, Feb. 14, 2-7 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, OC Promenade, Los Alamitos Building
How much: Early bird admission is $20 on Friday, Feb. 14, from 2 to 5 p.m., and $15 from 5 to 7 p.m. Admission is $12 on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 8 to 10 a.m., and $10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Redo Market
Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam, Feb. 15 – Dec. 21
Our upcoming 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. The exhibit features items such as uniforms, weaponry, photographs and letters detailing firsthand accounts that highlight the cost of war and its lasting effects on individuals and society. This comprehensive display seeks to honor the experiences of those involved while providing historical insights into the war’s political, social and cultural repercussions.
When: On display Feb. 15 through Dec. 21. Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center will be open Wednesday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Feb. 15. Excluding holidays and all-grounds events; see calendar for closures.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall
How much: Admission and parking are free.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall
World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour, Feb. 15-16
World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour is a high-quality model railroad show designed to introduce the general public to model railroading, focusing on consumers and die-hard modelers alike. The event features many exciting attractions for attendees, including a free rideable Thomas the Tank Engine train, a play area, operating model railroad layouts, product demonstrations, hobby shops, industry manufacturers, how-to seminars and much more.
When: Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 15-16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building, Huntington Beach Building and Santa Ana Pavilion
How much: $25 – two-day pass, $20 – Saturday admission, $15 – Sunday admission. Free for children 15 and younger. Parking is $12.
Save on admission when you purchase passes and tickets online!
More info: Visit World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour
Homegrown Tomatoes, Feb. 22
If there is just one edible plant to grow at home, it’s the tomato. Nowhere else is the contrast in flavor, nutrition and variety between homegrown and store-bought more evident. As a specialty crop of California, tomatoes play a vital role in the state’s agricultural heritage. This how-to lecture will provide all the practical knowledge necessary to begin growing tomatoes. You’ll see tomato plants producing 50 to more than 100 tomatoes each! Learn which varieties to grow, how to plant and care for them, and how to manage common diseases and pests. Bring your questions and learn how to grow tomatoes easily!
When: Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. – noon; RSVP online by Feb. 19.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm Silo Building
How much: $7 fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes
OC Home and Garden Show, Feb. 22-23
The OC Home & Garden Show is loaded with activities, DIY seminars, hourly prizes and vendors that feature reclaimed, sustainable, re-imagined and power or water-saving products.
When: Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 22-23
Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission is free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit The Best Home Show
OC Pathways, Feb. 27
Discover the future of college and career at the OC Pathways showcase! Get ready to see students take the stage and explore how education is evolving to meet OC’s changing job market. Connect with students, parents, educators, local businesses and see how Orange County companies are building innovative programs, pushing boundaries and driving growth.
When: Monday, Feb. 27, 4-7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building
How much: General admission and parking are free. Guests are encouraged to register for the event via OC Pathways.
More info: Visit OC Pathways
OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Feb. 27
When: Thursday, Feb. 27, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info: Visit Public Meetings
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 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
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 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 will rotate themes semi-annually with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.
When: Closed through Feb. 14. Join us on Feb. 15 for the opening of “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam.” Starting Feb. 15, the museum will be open 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
Coming up in March
Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle and Boat Show, March 6-9
The Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle and Boat Show is the West Coast’s premier outdoor show. Located in beautiful Orange County, the show draws vendors from all over the country, including manufacturers, retail sales, travel lodges and dealers of hundreds of outdoor products.
When: Thursday-Sunday, March 6-9
Thursday & Friday, March 6-7, noon – 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 8, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: General admission is $20. Active duty military and children 12 and under are free. Parking is $12
More info: Visit Pacific Coast Sportfishing
Discovery Day at the Farm, March 7
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: Friday, March 7, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day
Discovery Day at the Farm, March 18
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: Friday, March 18, 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, March 27
When: Thursday, March. 27, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info: Visit Public Meetings
SoCal Super Show, March 29
Get ready for the ultimate celebration of California car culture! Featuring over 700 remarkable lowriders, motorcycles, bombs, dubs and mini-trucks from all corners of California. Enjoy a full-throttle experience with jaw-dropping rides, mouthwatering food, live music and a whole lot more! This is an event you won’t want to miss!”
When: Saturday, March 29, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: General admission is $40. Children 12 and under are free with paid adult admission. Price increases after March 28. Parking is $12
More info: Visit Impalas Magazine
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Friday, January 10, 2025 (2:24 pm)
Large-animal evacuation information for Southern California fires
OC Fair & Event Center has not yet been activated as a large-animal evacuation site, but stands ready to assist as soon as notification is given by the California Office of Emergency Services. Coordinated efforts are important to keep animals and people safe during these devastating fires.
Here is a list of emergency services from LA County Animal Care:
Emergency Animal Shelter Information
Los Angeles County Fires: Due to the ongoing Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County, the following shelters are available for animals affected by the evacuation orders. Please note capacity details and staffing information:
Large Animals
Lancaster Animal Care Center 5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536
Antelope Valley Fair 2551 W Avenue H, Lancaster, CA 93536
Industry Hills Expo 16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry, CA 91744
Capacity for 200 horses; not staffed by DACC
Pomona Fairplex 1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
Receiving horses only
Small Animals
Baldwin Park Animal Care Center 4275 Elton St, Baldwin Park, CA 91706
Carson Animal Care Center 216 W Victoria St, Gardena, CA 90248
Downey Animal Care Center 11258 Garfield Ave, Downey, CA 90242
Lancaster Animal Care Center 5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536
Palmdale Animal Care Center 38550 Sierra Hwy, Palmdale, CA 93550
Need assistance evacuating? Call (562) 940-6898.
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Thursday, December 19, 2024 (3:00 pm)
What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in January
Winter Fest OC, through 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: Through Jan. 5, 2025
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot A
How much: Early bird admission is available for a limited time, starting at $30 for adults, $25 for children 3-12, free for children under 2. General admission prices increase on Nov. 21. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Winter Fest OC
More happening at OC Fairgrounds in January
Discovery Day at the Farm, Jan. 10
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: Friday, Jan. 10, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day
Centennial Farm Workshop Greek Yogurt Masterclass – Culturing Creamy Goodness at Home, Jan. 11
Celebrate National Milk Day by diving into the world of yogurt making and learning how to create delicious, probiotic-rich yogurt with customizable flavors. Take home a jar of your homemade yogurt starter!
When: Saturday, Jan. 11, 10 a.m. – noon. RSVP online by Jan. 6.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
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
OC Brick Convention: Lego Fan Event, Jan. 11-12
LEGO lovers unite! Brick Convention is the ultimate event for LEGO lovers of all ages! The numerous play areas treat fans of all ages to a day of hands-on fun, games, and life-size LEGO models. Attractions include amazing LEGO creations, meet-and-greets with professional LEGO artists and vendors selling the latest LEGO accessories, sets, mini-figures and even retired and hard-to-find LEGO.
When: Saturday & Sunday, Jan. 11-12
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: Online general admission is $15, $20 at the door. Admission is valid for your chosen day and time period only. Children 2 and younger are free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Brick Convention
Cruisin’ 2 Freedom Car Cruise, Car Show & Dinner, Jan. 18
Join In-N-Out Burger® and the Slave 2 Nothing® Foundation for the unforgettable Cruisin’ 2 Freedom™ Car Cruise, Car Show and Dinner on Saturday, Jan. 18, to support organizations that fight human trafficking. Start the day with a classic car show in Huntington Beach, then head over to OC Fair & Event Center for a Double-Double® made fresh to order from the In-N-Out Burger cookout trucks! All attendees may participate in raffle giveaways, bid on exciting silent and live auction items and receive a commemorative t-shirt and gift.
When: Saturday, Jan. 18, 4 – 10 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: General admission is $75. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Cruisin’ 2 Freedom
Centennial Farm Workshop Branching Out: Beginner’s Guide to Grafting Fruit Trees, Jan. 18
Discover the art of grafting fruit trees in this beginner-friendly class, featuring hands-on demonstrations and expert tips, perfectly timed with the California Rare Fruit Growers’ scion wood exchange at Centennial Farm.
When: Saturday, Jan. 18, noon – 2 p.m. RSVP online by Jan. 15.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: $7 class fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes
SoCAL World Guitar Show, Jan. 25-26
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, repair vendors and more!
When: Saturday & Sunday, Jan. 25-26
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission is $25. Children 11 and younger are free with adult admission. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit SoCAL World Guitar Show
OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Jan. 30
When: Thursday, Jan. 30, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info: Visit Public Meetings
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 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
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 dumplings, burritos and more.
When: Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Closed on Nov. 28 and Dec. 26.
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: Closed through Feb. 11. Join us on Feb. 12 for the installation of our upcoming exhibit, “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam.”
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall
Coming up in February
Discovery Day at the Farm, Feb. 5
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
Crops education
When: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day
Centennial Farm Workshop Valentine’s Chocolate Truffles, Feb. 8
Learn to craft decadent chocolate treats with chef Vina at Centennial Farm. Create handmade truffles decorated with gourmet toppings and explore perfect pairing tips with California specialty crops for a delicious experience!
When: Saturday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m. – noon. RSVP online by Feb. 3.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
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
Fight Club OC, Feb. 13
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, Feb. 13
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill Happy Hour, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
The 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 varies. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Fight Club OC
World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour, Feb. 15-16
World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour is a high-quality model railroad show designed to introduce the general public to model railroading, focusing on consumers and die-hard modelers alike. The event features many exciting attractions for attendees including a free rideable Thomas the Tank Engine train, play area, operating model railroad layouts, product demonstrations, hobby shops, industry manufacturers, how-to seminars and much more.
When: Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 15-16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building, Huntington Beach Building and Santa Ana Pavilion
How much: $25 – two-day pass, $20 – Saturday admission, $15 – Sunday admission. Free for children 15 and younger. Parking is $12.
Save on admission when you purchase passes and tickets online!
More info: Visit World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour
OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Feb. 27
When: Thursday, Feb. 27, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Costa Mesa City Hall Community Room or virtually on Zoom
More info: Visit Public Meetings
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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.