Tuesday, January 25, 2022 (10:44 am)

Western Fairs Association honored  OC Fair & Event Center with 19 Achievement Awards at its annual convention in Reno this month.

First-place awards included the new fair exhibit, California Fresh, and new children’s program for the OC Fair’s Experience the Great Outdoors exhibit. Other honors included the fair theme – Time for Fun – the fair logo, fair TV commercial, Junior Livestock Auction and several first-place photography awards. OCFEC also received second-place honors for agricultural programming. 

Western Fairs Association is a trade group supporting the fair and festival industry.

OC Fair & Event Center earned the following awards:

Single Television Ad

1st Award and Judges’ Choice 

Fair Logo

1st Award

Year-Round Logo

1st Award

Special Event Logo

1st Award and Judges’ Choice 

Virtual & Live Auctions

1st Award for pre-Fair Junior Livestock Auction

Agricultural Programming

2nd Award for Centennial Farm’s partnership with Don Knipp, a.k.a. “Mr. Fertilizer,” and La Verne Nursery during the 2021 OC Fair

Theme Program

1st Award and Judges’ Choice for Time For Fun and its  programming during the 2021 OC Fair

New Fairtime Exhibit 

1st Award for California Fresh: Celebrating the Bounty Of Our Counties

New Children’s Program

1st Award and Judges’ Choice for Explore the Great Outdoors

Give It Your Best Shot: Animals

Two 1st Awards

Give It Your Best Shot: Carnival

Two 1st Awards, Award of Excellence – Overall Best Photo, and Award of Excellence – Third Best Overall Photo

Give It Your Best Shot: Exhibits

1st Award and 2nd Award

Give It Your Best Shot: Entertainment

1st Award and 2nd Award

Give It Your Best Shot: People at the Fair

1st Award and 2nd Award

Monday, December 27, 2021 (8:03 am)

Congratulations to OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards on being named one of the most influential people of 2021  in Orange County by the OC Register.

“Michele Richards

As CEO of the OC Fair & Event Center, Richards helped shepherd the return of the OC Fair during the coronavirus pandemic with several sold-out dates. Even with caps on attendance, the fair turned a profit in 2021.”

Read the full article:

Most influential: Meet Orange County’s 125 top influencers for 2021

Thursday, December 16, 2021 (11:15 am)

FAQs about the 2022 OC Fair

(Updated May 13, 2022)

The theme of the 2022 OC Fair is “Feel the Sunshine,” and we can’t wait to celebrate from July 15 through Aug. 14.

When will tickets for the 2022 OC Fair go on sale?

Tickets are on sale now at ocfair.com/oc-fair/buy-tickets. The 2022 OC Fair will be July 15-Aug. 14, open Wednesdays-Sundays. 

Do I have to purchase my tickets in advance?

Yes. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster; you will be able to select a date between July 15 and Aug. 14 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays). Dates may sell out. Bonus: no transaction fees for Fair admission tickets! 

What if I buy tickets for the wrong day?

Tickets are sold through Ticketmaster and are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please select your ticket date carefully before purchasing. 

Will tickets be available at the gate?

No. We cannot guarantee tickets will be available for purchase at the gate during the run of the OC Fair. Please purchase your tickets online in advance. We’d hate to have to turn you away if we are at full capacity, and parking fees are non-refundable. 

Is it safe to buy tickets online?

The only authorized seller for OC Fair tickets online is Ticketmaster. OC Fair & Event Center is not affiliated with any other vendor for the purchase of OC Fair admission or concert tickets. 

I am fully vaccinated. Do I have to wear a mask at the fair?

Information about Covid precautions, vaccination and mask requirements, etc. will be updated as we get closer to the event, but please expect to follow state/county regulations as OC Fair & Event Center is a state agency.

What are the other restrictions?

We have a limit on the number of tickets available; when days sell out, no more tickets will be added. Information about Covid precautions, vaccination and mask requirements, etc. will be updated as we get closer to the event, but please expect to follow state/county regulations as OC Fair & Event Center is a state agency. 

Will you be selling a season pass this year?

No. The Super Pass will not be for sale for the 2022 season. Super Passes from past years will not be valid. We so appreciate our loyal fans, but with limited ticket sales, we aren’t able to offer an unlimited pass. We hope you’ll still be able to Feel the Sunshine a couple times next summer ! 

Will you offer free or discounted admission days?

No. We are sorry that we will not be able offer admission options that were available in the past.

Will Opening Day be free?

No. We are sorry that we will not be able offer admission options that were available in the past.

Can military/veterans get in free?

No. We are sorry that we will not be able offer admission options that were available in the past.

Will you offer any ride or food promotions?

This information has yet to be determined but will be posted here as it becomes available.

Will you have unlimited ride wristbands?

This information has yet to be determined but will be posted here as it becomes available.

When can I buy carnival tickets?

This information has yet to be determined but will be posted here as it becomes available.

When will concert tickets go on sale?

All performances in Action Sports Arena and The Hangar are on sale now. Most of the performances planned for Pacific Amphitheatre are on sale now as well. Visit ocfair.com/entertainment to plan your summer. 

Does my concert ticket include Fair admission?

Yes, if the performance date is during Fair-time. Tickets to shows in Pacific Amphitheatre, Action Sports Arena or The Hangar that occur during the 2022 OC Fair, July 15-Aug. 14, include same-day admission to the OC Fair. Parking is not included. 

Will there be Action Sports Arena performances?

Yes! We are so excited to bring back monster trucks, demo derbies and speedway! Go to ocfair.com/oc-fair/entertainment/action-sports-arena/ for tickets.

Can I be a vendor?

The deadline to apply to be a vendor was March 4. If you’re interested in being a Platinum Partner, which is handled through our sales department, the application is  available at ocfair.com/oc-fair/be-a-part-of-the-fair

Can I perform at the OC Fair?

The deadline to apply to be a part of the community entertainment program was March 4. To join the waitlist, the application is still available at ocfair.com/oc-fair/be-a-part-of-the-fair/community-entertainment

Will there be competitions this year?

Yes. Entries are now open and competition guides are available at ocfair.com/oc-fair/competitions-contests. Deadlines begin soon!

We will continue to add information to our website at ocfair.com/oc-fair as it becomes available.

Other frequently asked questions are below, or go to ocfair.com/about-us/faq/. For a list of upcoming events at OC Fair & Event Center, go to ocfair.com/events.

Is the swap meet open?

No. The OC Market Place, also known as the weekend swap meet, is no longer operating at OC Fair & Event Center. The company that was contracted to operate the OC Market Place through a formal agreement with OC Fair & Event Center has opted not to reopen. 

However, a new event, the Original O.C. Swap Meet, features many of the same vendors as the former swap meet. More info on our event calendar.

Why can’t the OC Fair run the OC Market Place?

As a state agency, OC Fair & Event Center is not permitted to operate a swap meet business.

Is the farm open?

Yes. Centennial Farm is open daily for visitors and is currently accepting reservations for school and group tours. See hours and more info at ocfair.com/centennial-farm/calendar-hours

Got another question? We are working hard to plan for the 2022 OC Fair. We appreciate your patience as we work out the logistics! If you have a question regarding a specific issue, please use our contact form. 

Friday, November 19, 2021 (10:49 am)

The OC Fair & Event Center received six Awards of Excellence during the International Association of Fairs and Expositions 2021 Virtual Awards Show on Nov. 18.

First place awards honored OCFEC in the categories of online advertising and unique exhibits. Second place was given to the organization for miscellaneous marketing programs.

Three third place awards recognized OCFEC for out-of-the-box marketing, a newly established or evolving agriculture program and a technique to correct an issue or challenge to an agriculture program.

The industry awards were presented during the 2021 Virtual Awards Show on Zoom and Facebook Live. The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE), based in Springfield, Mo., is a voluntary, nonprofit corporation, serving state, provincial, regional and county
agricultural fairs, shows, exhibitions and expositions.

Its associate members include state and provincial associations of fairs, non-agricultural expositions and festivals, associations, corporations and individuals engaged in providing products and services to its members, all of whom are interested in the improvement of fairs, shows, expositions and allied fields.

For more information, visit www.fairsandexpos.com

Tuesday, November 16, 2021 (8:00 am)

COVID Testing

When: Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., through Dec. 31 (closed Saturdays & Sundays)

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot E (corner of Fairview and Arlington; enter at Gate 4)

How much: Free drive-through COVID-19 testing

More info: Make an appointment online. PCR test results take 24-48 hours.

Discovery Days at the Farm

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: 9 a.m.-noon on the following dates
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Thursday, November 18, 2021
Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Thursday, December 9, 2021
Friday, December 17, 2021

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 ocfair.com/community-programs/centennial-farm/tours-and-reservations/self-guided-tours/

Progressive IMS Outdoors – Southern California

Experience the Ultimate Powersports Weekend at Progressive IMS Outdoors, the all-new version of Progressive International Motorcycle Shows. Grab your friends, get outside and ride! Take motorcycle demo rides from top manufacturers, 4-wheel offroad test rides, electric bicycle demos, learn-to-ride courses and put the kids on 2-wheels in the Kids Zone with Strider. See bikes, bikes and more bikes in the J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show and IMS Vintage collections. You can also meet the industry’s top brands, shop, enjoy live music, food and attractions.

When: Friday, Nov. 19, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 20, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center

How much: Tickets are available online, $20-$35. Kids 12 and younger are free. Parking is $10.

More info: Go to motorcycleshows.com/southern-california

Seasonal Adventures Christmas Tree Lot

When: Open daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Nov. 26-Dec. 17

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot C (corner of Fair and Fairview)

How much: Free admission and parking; tree prices vary

More info: Visit seasonaladventures.com 

Night of Lights OC

After last year’s sold-out event, Night of Lights OC is back! Don’t miss a magical and interactive Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Experience. From the safety and comfort of your own vehicle, guests will be guided through a mile-long course featuring:

Over one million dazzling lights
Themed holiday scenery & immersive vignettes
Characters and dancers including Santa (through Dec. 24), Snow Princess, Toy Soldiers, Yeti, Snow Angels and more
Animated light shows to music through your car radio
Light tunnels
Snow flurries and bubbles falling on your car!

When: Nov. 26, 2021, through Jan. 2, 2022 
Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays, 5-10 p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays, 5-11 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center 

How much: Tickets per car start at $39 for general admission and $59 for VIP (early bird pricing, limited supply)

More info: Visit NightofLightsOC.com, email Info@NightofLightsOC.com or call (657) 333-2520

Crossroads of the West Gun Show

When: Saturday, Nov. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
              Sunday, Nov. 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot I (enter at Gate 10 off Newport and park in Lots A & H) 

How much: $18 two-day admission. $17 for seniors (65+) and military; children 12 and younger are free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parking is $10 daily, credit card only; the parking lot will be open one hour prior to event time.

More information: Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online prior to the event. Visit crossroadsgunshows.com, call (801) 544-9125 or email gunshows@crossroadsgunshows.com. 

The Original O.C. Swap Meet

This event was created to provide a space for local small businesses and the community to come together in an outdoor setting. Showcasing products and goods for all to buy, with the thought of bringing common items and at times unique ones for all to enjoy.

When: Saturday, Nov. 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – NEW LOCATION! Enter the event at Green Gate, which is located on the north side of Pacific Amphitheatre

How much: Free admission, $10 parking

More info: Check instagram.com/ogocswapmeet, email ogswapmeet@gmail.com or call (949) 302-0355

Monday, November 15, 2021 (3:31 pm)

Community Entertainment

Share your talent! Whether you sing, dance or play – solo or as part of a group – the OC Fair Community Entertainment program provides the stages where you can shine.
Applications will be accepted until Friday, March 4, at 5 p.m.

Apply Now

Vendor Information

Do you sell the best food or product in the county? Become a commercial vendor or concessionaire at the 2022 OC Fair.  Applications will be accepted until Dec. 10, 2022 (returning vendors) and March 4, 2022 (new vendors).

Apply Now

Friday, October 8, 2021 (4:00 pm)

(Oct. 8, 2021) From the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom –

AB 1057 enables law enforcement to seize ghost guns under gun violence or domestic violence restraining orders, SB 320 strengthens procedures ensuring the relinquishment of firearms 

AB 1191 requires analysis of crime gun data to track gun violence trends 

AB 887 allows domestic violence survivors to file restraining orders online and SB 538 enables electronic filing and remote appearances 

SB 264 prohibits the sale of guns or ammunition at Orange County Fair and Event Center

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed legislation to enhance protections for survivors of domestic violence and bolster the enforcement of California’s nation-leading gun safety laws, including measures to strengthen gun violence restraining orders and analyze crime gun data to track trends impacting communities across the state.

“California has the strongest gun safety laws in the nation, but we’re reminded every day that we can’t afford to be complacent in the fight against the gun violence epidemic in this country – we can and must do more,” said Governor Newsom. “Today’s action strengthens enforcement of our common-sense gun safety laws, helping ensure that dangerous individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms surrender their weapons and advancing other lifesaving polices to make our communities safer.”

SB 320 requires the implementation of uniform procedures to ensure individuals who are prohibited from owning firearms due to a domestic violence restraining order relinquish their weapons. The bill also strengthens coordination between courts and law enforcement when there has been a violation of a relinquishment order. AB 1057 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Laguna Beach) allows law enforcement to seize ghost guns under gun violence restraining orders and domestic violence restraining orders, expanding an important tool to protect survivors.

AB 1191 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) requires the Department of Justice to analyze crime gun data to trace the history of firearms used in crime and identify trends, providing important insight on how these guns are trafficked. SB 264 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) prohibits the sale of guns or ammunition at the Orange County Fair and Event Center. Gun violence prevention experts warn that gun shows can create a venue to circumvent gun safety laws.

Increasing access to the courts, AB 887 by Assemblymember Marc Levine (D-Marin County) enables domestic violence survivors to file restraining orders and temporary restraining orders electronically, and SB 538 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) requires courts to enable electronic filing and remote appearances for domestic violence restraining orders and gun violence restraining orders.

Expanding access to California’s address confidentiality program, Safe at Home, the Governor previously signed AB 277 by Assemblymember Suzette Valladares (R-Santa Clarita), which requires the application and related notices for the program to be available in at least five languages. AB 673 by Assemblymember Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield) supports domestic violence shelter service providers by ensuring the timely distribution of grant funding administered by Cal OES.

A full list of today’s bills is below:

• AB 673 by Assemblymember Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield) – Domestic violence.
• AB 887 by Assemblymember Marc Levine (D-Marin County) – Domestic violence: restraining orders.
• AB 1057 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Laguna Beach) – Firearms.
• AB 1191 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Firearms: tracing.
• SB 264 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Firearms: the OC Fair and Event Center.
• SB 320 by Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton) – Domestic violence protective orders: possession of a firearm.
• SB 538 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Domestic violence and gun violence restraining orders.

California pioneered statewide gun safety protections, approved by voters in Proposition 63, to ban possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines and require background checks to keep ammunition out of the hands of dangerous people. Since assuming office, Governor Newsom has signed multiple bills aimed at reducing gun violence, including strengthening gun violence restraining orders, regulating the sale of firearms and ammunition and accelerating the regulation of ghost guns.

The 2021 state budget includes a $200 million investment in the CalVIP program to support initiatives designed to break the cycle of violence in disproportionately impacted communities. The budget also invests $11 million to facilitate outreach,  education and training efforts related to gun violence restraining orders and $10.3 million for local law enforcement agencies to support the seizure of firearms from individuals prohibited from possessing them.

The Governor advanced a series of initiatives to support survivors of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic, including support for local service providers, a partnership with the Women’s Foundation of California to raise private funds that support domestic violence organizations and private sector partnerships to provide free accommodation and transportation to survivors fleeing violence. California has also launched “text-to-911” capability throughout the state and the 2021 state budget includes $15 million in funding for Cal OES to administer grants that support domestic and sexual violence prevention efforts.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021 (10:39 am)

OC Fair & Event Center has been notified that it will receive a Shuttered Venue Operator Grant from the Small Business Administration of approximately $4.888 million.

The grant will help to replace the revenue lost from 2020 when the OC Fair performances in The Hangar and Pacific Amphitheatre summer concert series were canceled.

The SVOG grant money must be spent specifically on replacing the lost revenue and it will be earmarked to offset costs from the 2021 Hangar performances and Pacific Amphitheatre concert series.

CEO Michele Richards said the grant is “very welcomed relief from a lost concert season.”
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Sunday, July 25, 2021 (2:06 pm)

The OC Fair does not condone hate or racist symbolism on our fairgrounds. Our security staff and the OC Sheriff’s Department routinely patrol the fairgrounds to monitor threats to the community. We have reviewed our procedures and security will continue to take all necessary action in the future.

Saturday, July 24, 2021 (6:38 pm)

The Orange County Health Care Agency will administer COVID-19 vaccines at a special vaccination station at the 2021 OC Fair. The clinic will be in the Costa Mesa Building starting Wednesday, July 28 and going through the run of Fair, which ends on Aug. 15.

Initial days of operation will be Wednesday–Friday, and back again on Sunday, with hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The county plans to administer approx. 100 vaccines daily. Depending on public feedback and activity at the clinic, that number could increase to up to 200 vaccines daily and the county will adjust hours of operation accordingly.

No appointments are needed for OC Fair guests, staff or partners.

For more information, visit https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/covid-19-vaccine-resources