Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (12:26 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center wins 13 international awards

The International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE) honored OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) with 13 awards for achievements in 2025. IAFE represents fairs and expositions worldwide, and handed out the awards at its annual conference in Denver last week.

OCFEC received six first-place honors, one second-place award and six third-place accolades.

The first-place awards were for achievement in agriculture initiatives, educational programs, competitive exhibits, marketing/communications, year-round facility usage and sponsorship innovation.

“OC Fair & Event Center had an amazing showing at the IAFE awards and I am so proud of the team that works all year long to serve, educate and engage our community,” said James Canfield, OCFEC CEO. “This recognition is significant and showcases our achievements in agriculture and beyond.”

IAFE, based in Springfield, Missouri, is a nonprofit corporation, serving state, provincial, regional and county agricultural fairs, shows, exhibitions and expositions. 

Wednesday, November 26, 2025 (11:44 am)

OC Fair Board 2026 committee assignments

Leadership Committee
• Chair Bagneris (committee chair), Vice Chair Ruiz
Purpose:
This committee provides executive support to the Board and acts on behalf of the full Board during emergency situations.
Focus:
• Consult with CEO
• Develop Board meeting agendas
• Address Board issues
• Conduct annual safety/security meeting
• Initiate strategic planning
• Complete the strategic planning process and provide ongoing monitoring

Financial Monitoring and Audit Committee
• Director Pham (committee chair) and Director Bilezikjian
Purpose:
This committee monitors the organization’s financial position and ensures financial controls are in place.
Focus:
• Monthly financial oversight
• Annual budget review
• Annual audit process
• Participate in the scoring process for key RFPs, including for carnival services

Facilities Committee
• Director Bilezikjian (committee chair) and Director Kovacevich
Purpose:
This committee reviews buildings and grounds related projects and issues and recommends site planning direction
Focus:
• Construction projects
• Capital expenditures
• Master site planning

Governance Committee
• Director Bagneris (committee chair) and Chair Kovacevich
Purpose:
This committee ensures compliance with all Board policies and regulatory requirements
Focus:
• Policy updates
• Bagley-Keene open meeting compliance
• Annual form 700 reporting
• Annual required Board training
• Legislative monitoring

Community Affairs Committee
• Director Rubalcava-Garcia (committee chair) and Director Jackson
Purpose:
This committee oversees the Board’s relationship with the community
Focus:
• Diversity, equity and inclusion
• Community engagement
• Relationships with local, county and state officials

Entertainment Task Force Committee
Director La Belle (committee chair) and Director Jackson
Purpose:
This committee, in coordination with staff, provides advisory input on programming categories, genres, themes, options, and objectives for the entertainment programming at all District entertainment venues
Focus:
• Pacific Amphitheatre programming enhancement opportunities
• Hangar and Action Sports Arena programming enhancement opportunities
• Grounds-wide programming enhancement opportunities
• Input for Fair Season and year-round events
• Utilizing Board contacts and relationships for sponsorship and new event sales opportunities

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 (4:45 am)

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in December

Winter Fest OC, Nov. 28 – Jan. 4, 2026

Get ready for Winter Fest OC as we bring the ultimate winter wonderland to Orange County! Winter Fest OC is SoCal’s largest winter festival, featuring ice tubing, ice skating under the stars, mini slides, snowball tossing and freshly falling snow. Guests can also enjoy more than 30 carnival rides and attractions, nightly tree lighting ceremonies, live entertainment, holiday treats and immersive photo opportunities.

When: Nov. 28 – Jan. 4, 2026
Schedule:

Nov. 28 – Dec. 21
Monday – Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 5 – 10 p.m.
Friday: 4 – 11 p.m.
Saturday: 4 – 10 p.m.
Sunday: 5 – 10 p.m.

Dec. 7: Closed.

Dec. 22 – Jan 4, 2026
Monday – Friday: 5 – 10 p.m.
Saturday: 4 – 11 p.m.
Sunday: 4 – 10 p.m.

Dec. 31: 5 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot A
How much: General admission prices vary. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Winter Fest OC

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What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in December

Seasonal Adventures Christmas Tree Lot, Nov. 28 – Dec. 15

Jingle all the way to the freshest, high-quality Christmas trees in SoCal! This is your one-stop wonderland for finding the perfect tree to light up your home. Friendly experts are on site to help you choose the ideal tree. Plus, purchase charming tree stands, fragrant fresh garland, stunning wreaths and an array of festive accessories.

When: Nov. 28 – Dec. 15, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot E
How much: Admission and parking are free.
More info: Visit Seasonal Adventures

Gem Faire, Dec. 5 – 7

The largest jewelry and bead show in SoCal. 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 – Sunday, Dec. 5 – 7
Schedule:
Friday, Dec. 5, noon – 6 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
No entry or re-entry after 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building and Main Mall.
How much: General admission is $7, children 11 and under are free. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Gem Faire

Make It, Take It – DIY Winter Wreaths, Dec. 6

Embrace the magic of the holiday season by creating a fresh winter wreath in the beautiful Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm! This class has become a beloved tradition at Centennial Farm and is sure to be a memorable activity for friends and family to enjoy together! All fresh greens, materials and instruction will be provided for this hands-on course to help you create a delightful wreath.

When: Saturday, Dec. 6; RSVP online by Nov. 30 
Schedule:
Session 1: 9:30 a.m. – noon
Session 2: 1 – 3:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: A $75 fee covers materials and any handouts. Ribbon and décor selection will be limited – feel free to bring your own to personalize your winter wreath. We recommend participants bring their own pruners and gloves. Parking is free.
Refund policy: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 7 days of the class, as supplies will have been ordered. For earlier cancellations, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Fight Club OC, Dec. 11

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, Dec. 11
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
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

Make It, Take It – Living Ornaments with Succulents, Dec. 13

Celebrate the holiday season with a unique, nature-inspired craft at Centennial Farm! Participants will design a festive wood-slice ornament using live succulents, moss, ribbon and optional wood-cutout adornments. Instructor Dana Gendry will begin with a lecture on succulent varieties, growth habits and care tips before guiding you step by step through the creation process. The finished ornament makes a perfect addition to your tree, a thoughtful handmade gift or a cheerful decoration for your home.

When: Saturday, Dec. 13, 9:30 a.m. – noon; RSVP online by Dec. 8.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: $35 fee covers all supplies and handouts. Each participant will receive a wood slice, live succulents, decorative moss, ribbon and optional seasonal embellishments. Participants may wish to bring small pruners or scissors.
Refund policy: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within seven (7) days of the class, as supplies will have been ordered. For earlier cancellations, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Share Ourselves “Adopt A Family,” Dec. 14-15

Make the season brighter by supporting the 56th Annual “Adopt a Family” Program!

Provide comfort to families and individuals by exploring the profiles, stories and wish lists of families who could use a little extra cheer during the holidays. Select the family you’d like to support and get ready to deliver the joy!

When: Sunday & Monday, Dec. 14 – 15
Schedule:
Sunday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 15, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, OC Promenade
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Share Ourselves Adopt A Family

Discovery Day at the Farm, Dec. 16

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: Tuesday, Dec. 16, 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, Dec. 18

When: Thursday, Dec. 18, 9:30 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center Administration Building or virtually on Zoom.
More info: Visit Public Meetings

Make It, Take It – Scents of the Season, Dec. 20

Immerse yourself in the scents of the season while learning how California’s Mediterranean climate makes it ideal for growing aromatic herbs and spices at home. Master Gardener Kylie Gilliam will begin with a short lecture on the history, cultivation and uses of herbs such as rosemary, bay and peppermint before guiding you through the creation of your own holiday simmer jar. Choose from a variety of ingredients such as dried citrus slices, apples, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and star anise or follow one of Gilliam’s suggested blends. Each participant will assemble and decorate a Mason jar, complete with a simmering instruction tag and ribbon, ready to enjoy at home or give as a unique handmade holiday gift.

When: Saturday, Dec. 20, 9:30 a.m. – noon; RSVP online by Dec. 15.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: $40 fee covers all materials, including a Mason jar, a selection of dried fruits, herbs and spices, ribbon and string for decorating, and a simmering instruction card. Participants will also receive an herb clipping from Centennial Farm’s garden to include in their blend. Parking is free.
Refund policy: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within five days of the class, as materials and supplies will have been ordered. For earlier cancellations, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

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Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm is home to fruit and vegetable gardens, livestock and the Millennium Barn. Two youth educational tour programs are offered – Discovery Days and Jr. Farmer Tours – as well as daily hours so the public can visit our year-round working farm. 

When: Monday – Friday: 1 – 4 p.m.; 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

Farmers Market

Shop local at this OC Farm Bureau-certified farmers market featuring produce, 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 with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.

The current 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. On display through Sept. 20, 2026.

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 & Education Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

The Ranch Community Center

The Ranch Community Center celebrates horses, ranching and nature. Free or low-cost public programs are offered, including The Ranch Discovery Days, The Ranch After-School Program, horse shows and equine-assisted therapy. Visitors can connect with the equestrian community year-round during daily hours.

When: Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Closed Sundays and select holidays.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Ranch Community Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit The Ranch

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

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Coming up in January

Discovery Day at the Farm, Jan. 9

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: Friday, Jan. 9, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Discovery Day

SoCAL World Guitar Show, Jan. 24 & 25

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 8 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, repairmen and more!

When: Saturday & Sunday, Jan. 24 & 25
Schedule:
Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission is $25, children 11 and younger are admitted free with adult. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit SoCal World Guitar Show

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Jan. 29

When: Thursday, Jan. 29, 9:30 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center Administration Building or virtually on Zoom.
More info: Visit Public Meetings