Monday, August 21, 2023 (11:32 am)

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in September

Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association, Sept. 1-3
Three American Kennel Club sanctioned all-breed dog shows.

When: Friday – Sunday, Sept. 1 -3
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa building, Huntington Beach building and Santa Ana Pavilion
How much: General admission is free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association

Common Kings / Fiji / Sammy J / Jakob’s Castle / Western Conference, Sept. 2
Pacific Amphitheatre’s 40th anniversary continues with a special post-Fair concert by Common Kings, Fiji, Sammy J, Jakob’s Castle and Western Conference.

When: Saturday, Sept. 2, 6 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Pacific Amphitheatre
How much: Varies by seating selection ($29.50-$69.50). Parking is $12.
More info: Visit OC Fair Events

Chicago, Sept. 5
Pacific Amphitheatre’s 40th anniversary continues with a special post-Fair concert by Common Kings, Fiji, Sammy J, Jakob’s Castle and Western Conference.

When: Tuesday, Sept. 5, 8:15 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Pacific Amphitheatre
How much: Varies by seating selection ($42.50-$82.50). Parking is $12.
More info: Visit OC Fair Events

Cruisin’ For A Cure, Sept. 9
Cruisin’ for a Cure is the world’s largest one-day charity car show with more than 3,000 vehicles on display and over 150+ vendors and exhibitors. Be assured that your participation in the event and any donations go directly to prostate cancer research at the KSK Cancer Center of Irvine to help find a cure.

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 6 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: General admission is $17, kids 11 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Cruisin’ For A Cure

Costa Mesa Speedway, Sept. 9
Harley Night Finals / Speedway / Sidecars

See “mad men” on high-compression single-cylinders powering down short straights before throwing their bike on its ear and sliding at impossible lean angles around each end of the track. It’s a spectator’s dream!

When: Saturday, Sept. 9
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Races start at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena
How much: General admission $30; juniors (13-17), military and seniors (65+) $20; children (3-12) $10; kids 2 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

Sand Sports Super Show, Sept. 15-17
The world’s biggest sand sports expo! Join us for three days of fun and get up close to the latest sand rails, ATVs, UTVs/side x sides, accessories, apparel and a whole lot more!

When: Friday – Sunday, Sept. 15–17
Schedule:
Sept. 15, 4 – 10 p.m.
Sept. 16, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sept. 17, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: General admission $16, kids (6-12) $6, kids 5 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Sand Sports Super Show

Costa Mesa Speedway, Sept. 23
53rd U.S. National Speedway Championship

See “mad men” on high-compression single-cylinders powering down short straights before throwing their bike on its ear and sliding at impossible lean angles around each end of the track. It’s a spectator’s dream!

When: Saturday, Sept. 23
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Races start at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena
How much: General admission $30; juniors (13-17), military and seniors (65+) $20; children (3-12) $10; kids 2 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

SoCal VegFest, Sept. 23-24
A vegan festival that offers a range of activities for attendees to enjoy, including free food samples, food and drink for purchase, a cruelty-free marketplace, inspirational speakers, food demonstrations, appearances by celebrity chefs and social media influencers, live music from famous musicians and DJs, comedy performances, yoga sessions, games, a kids area and much more!

When: Saturday – Sunday, Sept. 23-24, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: General admission is $10, kids 11 and under, seniors 65+, veterans and active military are free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit SoCal VegFest

Discovery Day at the Farm, Sept. 28
Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public, and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups and more. Groups may participate in the following activities:

• Self-Guided Tours: Volunteers are present to provide information.
• Radish Seed Planting: Children will plant a radish seed to take back to school.
• Chick Education: Learn about the chick development process.
• Oxen Demonstration: Demonstration days vary depending on the volunteers’ schedules.
• Crops Education: Seasonal varieties.
• See Livestock Animals: Swine, goats, sheep, cattle, rabbits and poultry.

When: Thursday, Sept. 28, 9 a.m.-noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking
More info: Open to all grade levels, as well as the general public. Reserve your spot online at Discovery Day

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Sept. 28

When: Thursday, Sept. 28 & Oct. 26, 9:30 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building or Virtually on Zoom
More info: Visit Public Information

Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch, Sept. 29-Oct. 31

Family-fun pumpkin patch! We have 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: Friday, Sept. 29 – Tuesday, Oct. 31
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, $12 Friday – Sunday
More Info: Visit Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch

Centennial Farm Workshop: Handspun magic – Basics of spinning yarn with a drop spindle
Delve into the time-honored craft of transforming fibers into artistry as you learn the age-old techniques of the drop spindle. Guided by local fiber artisans, unlock the secrets of drafting, twirling and crafting your own yarn, bridging the gap between ancient tradition and modern creativity. Hands-on instruction from the experts will follow a brief lecture on the history and technique of handspun yarn. Guests will be provided with a drop spindle and fiber to take home!

When: Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; RSVP online by Sept. 27, 2023.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: A $25 fee covers materials and any handouts. Refund policy – There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only class fee will be refunded (not booking fees).

Parking is free.

More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Costa Mesa Speedway, Sept. 30
Fall Classic / Speedway / Sidecars / Juniors

See “mad men” on high-compression single-cylinders powering down short straights before throwing their bike on its ear and sliding at impossible lean angles around each end of the track. It’s a spectator’s dream!
When: Saturday, Sept. 30
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Races start at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena
How much: General admission $30; juniors (13-17), military and seniors (65+) $20; children (3-12) $10; kids 2 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

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Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

Centennial Farm
Centennial Farm reopens to the public Aug. 22! The 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: Re-opens Aug. 22
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Sept. 8
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 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 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 reopens to the public Aug. 23. 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: Re-opens Aug. 23
Schedule: Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Sept. 10
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Serenity Walk

Located outside of Heroes Hall, this newest addition to the Fairgrounds was designed to honor veterans and to provide a place of rest and contemplation for the community. Take a stroll and admire the Serenity Walk’s winding pathway and intricate landscaping honoring Purple Heart recipients!

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Sept. 10
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Youth Plaza Contest, through Dec. 31

Calling all youth artists! OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) is seeking to install artwork created by local youth on the two largest light towers in Plaza Pacifica. The theme of the artwork will focus on celebrating the rich diversity of Orange County and the surrounding region. Enter today!

When: Through Dec. 31
More info: Visit OC Fair & Event Center

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Coming up in October

Orange County Sustainability Decathlon, Oct. 5-15
The Orange County Sustainability Decathlon (OCSD) challenges university teams to design and build model solar-powered homes that address climate change and California’s housing needs. OCSD teams will showcase innovative, market-ready model homes to display in a sustainable village which will be open to the public. The Decathlon will take place Oct. 5-15, 2023, at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA. The event will feature the OCSD competition, as well as performances and several family-friendly activities.

When: Oct. 5-15, 2023
Schedule:
Thursday and Friday: 3 – 9 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot I, Los Alamitos Building
How much: Free admission. Parking is $12
More Info: Visit Orange County Sustainability Decathlon

California Bridal & Wedding Expo, Oct. 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, Oct. 8, 12:30 – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How Much: Free admission – register online. General admission is $10 at the door. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit CA Bridal Shows

Heroes Hall Exhibit: Valor & Virtue Opening Reception, Oct. 8

Heroes Hall’s newest exhibit Valor & Virtue focuses on all 18 Jewish American recipients of the Medal of Honor. Central to the exhibit is the story of Tibor Rubin, a Holocaust survivor who became a hero fighting with the U. S. Army in Korea before settling in Orange County. The exhibit chronicles exceptional courage while highlighting the military’s long fight to overcome boundaries of race, color and creed.”

When: Sunday, Oct. 8, 2 – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall
How Much: Free admission and parking. Please RSVP.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Rameelo Raas Garba Festival 2023, Oct. 14-15
Indulge in an unforgettable evening of culture, cuisine and captivating rhythms at Rang Taali! Join us as we celebrate the spirit of togetherness through the vibrant beats of Raas Garba. Savor a delectable array of culinary delights, immerse yourself in the joyous festivities and dance the night away with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this enchanting experience!

When: Saturday, Oct. 14, 7 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How Much: General admission is $20. Children 5 and under are free. Parking is $12.
Early bird pricing ends Aug. 31.
More info: Visit Rameelo Raas Garba Festival

OC Home & Holiday Expo, Oct. 14-15
OC’s finest home improvement experts are ready to complete your home projects in time for holiday guests. Holiday decor, gifts, special holiday cooking, crafts and interior design classes will be offered. Presenters include 5-star Chef Chad Pritchard, succulent specialist Paige Hunt, and award-winning designer Tiffani Baumgart. 

When: Saturday & Sunday, Oct. 14-15
Schedule: Oct. 14: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Oct. 15: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building
How Much: Free admission. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit  Best Home Shows

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Oct. 26

When: Thursday, Oct. 26, 9:30 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building

More Info: Visit OC Fair Public Meetings

Fight Club OC, Oct. 26
Pro Boxing & MMA

Welcome to Fight Club OC, a hybrid boxing and MMA fight series that does six shows a year. With three high definition cameras always on the action and an LED HD video board with instant replay, we’ll sell you the seat, but you need to bring the edge.

When: Thursday, Oct. 26
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill Happy Hour 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Hangar doors open at 6 p.m.
First fight 7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How Much: Free general admission is $65. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit Fight Club OC

OC Japan Fair, Oct. 27-29
Enjoy Japanese food, culture, traditions and innovations! Grab your friends, and celebrate one of the largest Japanese cultural festivals in Southern California. Experience the joy of shopping, tasting and learning about Japanese culture. There will also be live performances, games, Kimono models and more!

When: Friday – Sunday, Oct. 27-29
Schedule:
Friday: 5-11 p.m.
Saturday: Noon – 10 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot I, Los Alamitos Building
How much: General admission is $10. Free for kids 6 and younger and seniors 66+. Parking is $12.
More Info: Visit OC Japan Fair

Thursday, August 17, 2023 (2:22 pm)

2023 OC Fair by the numbers

COSTA MESA – The 2023 OC Fair is a wrap and there were a whole lot of summer memories for Fairgoers who wanted to get “Happy Together.” This year’s Fair ran July 14 through Aug. 13.

“It is an absolute joy for our team to bring the OC Fair to the community each year,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards. “There is definitely something for everyone at the OC Fair and this year was no exception. From animals and agriculture, exhibits and entertainment, food and fun, the 2023 OC Fair was the place to be this summer. We want to thank our guests for supporting the OC Fair and we look forward to seeing everyone again in 2024.”

Advance tickets were required again for the third year so daily capacity could be limited to provide a better experience for guests, neighbors and partners.

The Fair welcomed 1,048,181 Fairgoers who came out to enjoy summer’s most-anticipated event and there were 12 sold-out days during the 23-day run. In 2022, OC Fair attendance was 1,055,173 and there were 11 sold-out days.

“The Board of Directors is very pleased with the performance of this year’s Fair,” said OC Fair Board Chair Newton Pham. “Once again, our attendance model is proving to be a huge success for the organization. By controlling our daily attendance, we have achieved a high level of per capita spending, while greatly minimizing the impact of the Fair on our surrounding neighborhoods and creating a great guest experience.”

Here’s a look at this year’s OC Fair by the numbers:

16,255 competition entries came in from 3,784 exhibitors who vied for blue-ribbons. In Home Arts, there were 1,322 entries, 1,592 entries in Culinary, Visual Arts had 4,768 entries and there were 5,068 entries in Horticulture. Entries were up 21 percent over 2022.

2.3 million carnival rides were enjoyed by Fairgoers and their favorites were Sky Ride, La Grande Wheel XL, Raptor Coaster, Rave Wave and Crazy Coaster. More than 400,000 stuffed toys were won by Fairgoers trying their luck in the carnival midway.

112 53-ft. trailers delivered all the carnival rides to the OC Fair.

91,200 fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies were made from scratch at Mom’s Bakeshoppe.

35,000 pounds of fries were served up at Biggy’s and these were topped with 400 pounds of Parmesan cheese and 1,500 pounds of garlic. It took one truckload of Kennebec potatoes to get these in to feed hungry Fairgoers. Biggy’s also doled out seven miles of foot-long Big Daddy corn dogs.

29,914 tickets were purchased for performances in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena.

42 concerts were sold out in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena during the course of the Fair.

8,400 pounds of Ten Pound Buns were served up at this year’s OC Fair along with 2,758 Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.

80,000 deep-fried Oreos, 10,000 bacon-wrapped pickles, 6,000 fried Twinkies and 50,000 pounds of fries were served up at the Chicken Charlie’s stands throughout the Fairgrounds.

18,000 sheets of tissue paper were used to make approximately 2,250 flowers for the Chicano Heritage Month celebration.

$254,437 was paid out to agriculture students through the Junior Livestock Auction and this year we saw the sale of 179 animals.

800 pounds of pepperoni topped slices at Enzo’s Pizza along with 500 pounds of pickles for the new Hot Cheeto Cheese Pickle Pizza.

223,778 Fairgoers visited the Art of Music Experience in the Huntington Beach building. The debut exhibit featured a pop-up vinyl shop and there were 3,100 albums sold.

Concerts under the stars are continuing with these upcoming shows in Pacific Amphitheatre:

Aug. 18 – Los Tucanes de Tijuana / La Original Banda El Limon
Aug. 20 – Chicago
Aug. 27 – Gabriel Iglesias
Sept. 2 – Common Kings / Fiji / Sammy J and guests

Tickets are for sale on Ticketmaster.

UPDATE: The Chicago concert in Pacific Amphitheatre has been rescheduled to Sept. 5. The performance was originally slated for Aug. 20 and was postponed due to weather.

Tuesday, August 8, 2023 (9:10 am)

Last chance to enjoy summer’s best party at 2023 OC Fair – closing day is Aug. 13

COSTA MESA (Aug. 8, 2023) – The 2023 OC Fair is heading into its final days and there are plenty of exciting things to do in the last week – don’t miss out!

Attractions include plenty of animals, culinary treats, X-Treme Freestyle Moto-X, music, carnival fun and exhibits found only at the OC Fair.

The theme this year is “Happy Together” and the final day is Sunday, Aug. 13. Advance ticket purchase is required, buy online now at ocfair.com/tickets – days are selling out!

Here are 10 top tips to enjoy the final days of OC Fair fun:

• Don’t stop the music: Concerts at Pacific Amphitheatre during the final week include Beck / Phoenix and Rebelution (three shows). All Fair-time shows include free same-day Fair admission. Post-Fair shows include Los Tucanes de Tijuana, Chicago, Gabriel Iglesias and Common Kings.
• Last chance to dance: Hit La Cantina for Latin music or head to the new Western Saloon & Whiskey Bar – put your boots on and get out on the dance floor.
• Last chance for Fair romance: Get that final sunset kiss on the Ferris wheel or the Sky Ride and grab a photo booth pic to capture the memories.
• Final $4 Taste of Fair Food on Thursday: Check out the special offerings from concessionaires that give Fairgoers sample-size portions: ocfair.com/oc-fair/things-to-do/food/
• Unlimited ride carnival wristbands: The one-day wristbands can be used Wednesday and Thursday, must be purchased or redeemed by 5 p.m. and include unlimited rides and two free games; guests can ride and play from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. 
• Chicano Heritage Month: In celebration of Chicano Heritage Month, the OC Fair offers special exhibits and activities in the Visual Arts building. Every day, craft tissue flowers and showcase them on a display wall with quotes of what it means to be Chicano/a. Be sure to also visit the Chicano wardrobe display, too. Featured artists will offer painting demonstrations in the Visual Arts building.
• Take the Fair home with you: Hit the shopping buildings and get the only-at-the OC-Fair deals, grab take-and-bake options like cookie dough, cinnamon rolls and Ten Pound Buns.
• Camel dairy: Another popular yearly attraction is the camel dairy. These special animals come to the OC Fair and show off their size, agility and personalities. Don’t miss learning about camel milk and its uses including powdered milk, chocolate and soaps and lotions.
• What about wine? The final OC Fair weekend will feature wine seminars at The Courtyard with tastings including OC Fair Gold Medal-winning wines and food pairings.
• The Art of Music Experience: Free with Fair admission, this featured exhibit debuted at this year’s OC Fair and offers visitors the chance to see large-scale, hand-painted iconic album covers, shop in the pop-up vinyl record store and enjoy renderings of legendary musicians, neon signs and displays.

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Key things to know about the 2023 OC Fair

• • A limited number of tickets are available each day – days are selling out.
  • Advance online ticket sales only – no transaction fees at ocfair.com/tickets.
  • Tickets are good only for the date purchased; please choose dates carefully – no refunds.
  • Same-day Fair admission is included with tickets to concerts during the Fair.
  • Tickets are $13 weekday general admission (Wednesday, Thursday) and $15 weekend general admission (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). Admission for seniors (60+) and youth (ages 6-12) is $9 every day and children 5 and younger are free.
  • General parking is $12, $24 for buses and limos, credit card only.
  • Tickets for concerts in The Hangar and Pacific Amphitheatre can be found at ocfair.com/entertainment.
  • The 2023 OC Fair mobile app is now available with information on daily activities as well as a map, news & information and tickets.
  • The Fair will open each day at 11 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. except on Fridays and Saturdays, when it closes at midnight.

Friday, August 4, 2023 (6:05 pm)

How to do the 2023 OC Fair like a pro

COSTA MESA (Aug. 4, 2023) – Many Fair fans return every year to enjoy summer fun and make memories with friends and family. We’ve got tips for those long-time Fairgoers as well as first-timers so anyone can do the Fair like a pro!

Top tip – don’t miss out! The OC Fair closes on Aug. 13 and days do sell out. Get tickets now at ocfair.com/tickets.

Planning ahead

Tickets to the 2023 OC Fair must be purchased in advance online for specific days.

There are four new water bottle filling stations with cold water so be sure to bring your refillable bottles and stay hydrated.

Bring sandwich bags to store your leftover Fair food. There are many great shareable options, but even the mightiest of stomachs can get full, so don’t let good food go to waste.

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes (or you could be subject to spills, animal droppings or having to wear funny plastic covers available at certain rides for protecting your little piggies).

Wear sunscreen – and don’t forget to reapply. We also recommend wearing a hat or something to shade yourself from the sun. Also, dress in loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing.

Bring some quarters! Your feet will love Footsie Wootsies, the colorful foot massage chairs located throughout the Fairgrounds.

Follow us on social media. We post sold-out updates, clips from live performances and more! We’re on Facebook (@ocfair), Instagram (@oc_fair), Twitter (@ocfair) and TikTok (@oc_fair).

Getting here

Map to 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa, but then follow the directional signs, not the lines of cars. Signs will tell you which gates are open, which should help you get to your parking spot as fast as possible. 

If you have tickets to a Fair performance, remember to arrive early so you don’t miss a minute of the show if parking gets a little crowded.

In case you get separated, take a picture of your children and what they are wearing. Just in case, pick a landmark to meet up. There is a Lost Child area on the Fairgrounds – it’s with Security and First Aid, all located to the right of The Hangar building. 

Looking for deals? Plan to be here by the time we open at 11 a.m. We’ve got unlimited ride wristbands available on Wednesdays and Thursdays ($49 each, one per person/day, purchase/redeem by 5 p.m., use from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.). PLUS on Thursdays we have our $4 Taste of Fair Food promotion, which features sample-size bites from our food vendors for just $4 each. 

Monday, July 31, 2023 (9:00 am)

From The Art of Music to blue-ribbon competitions, the 2023 OC Fair exhibits will impress and entertain

COSTA MESA (July 31, 2023) – From table settings to the largest squash to fine art and woodworking, the OC Fair always showcases the best in local talent and awards coveted blue ribbons to the cream of the crop.

All exhibits are free with Fair admission. The 2023 theme is “Happy Together” and the Fair runs through Aug. 13.

Featured exhibit – The Art of Music
In addition to the exhibits and competitions that are the traditional heart of the Fair, there is a featured exhibit this year located in the Huntington Beach Building.

Debuting at the OC Fair is The Art of Music, an experiential exhibit that inspires people of all ages to discover, explore and appreciate the stories and creators behind album cover art.

Fairgoers can embark on an immersive journey through a series of themed gallery and vendor environments, flip through bins of vinyl records at a pop-up independent record store, watch live painting of album cover art, rank their favorite album cover and more.

Here’s a list of exhibits at the 2023 OC Fair

Bug Bizarre Exhibit – Explore the exotic world of bugs and learn how different cultures use insects in their daily lives.

Explorium – A special area for the younger crowd. This year’s theme is buzzing with bugs. Kids can participate in crafts and other interactive activities.

Woodworking and Scroll Saw Demonstrations – Masters will be demonstrating the different techniques, styles and steps of woodworking.

Culinary Activities & Contests – Daily stage activities and demonstrations take place on the OC Promenade stage, including a fun food-related contest.

Oasis Camel Dairy – Showcasing camels and providing educational camel milking demonstrations.

Heroes Hall
Armed Only with a Camera: World War II Photography of Stanley Troutman.
Living History – Visitors will be able to see, handle and wear military artifacts.
The SAAAB Story – Celebrate the history of the flight training center.

Arts, animals and more
Cow Milking Demonstrations
UCCE Master Food Preservers of OC
Explorium crafts & activities for kids
Great American Petting Zoo
OC Tole & Decorative Painters
OC Quilters Guild
Friesian Horse Club of Southern California
Chef Ray Duey Vegetable Carver
UCCE Master Food Preservers of OC
OC Beekeepers
Bird Exhibit
Chef Exhibits & Demonstrations

Competitions on display
Collections
Hand Crafts and Fiber Arts
Jewelry Arts
Culinary Arts
Horticulture including fruit, vegetables and floral
Table Settings
Photography
Fine Arts
Woodworking
Youth Competitions (ages 5-12)
Miniature Donkey Competition
OC Equestrian Vaulting
Angora Goat Competition
Miniature Donkey Competition
Rabbit Competition

For more details and additional exhibitions at the OC Fair, visit ocfair.com/exhibits.