Category Archives: Food

Tuesday, August 26, 2025 (4:00 pm)

COSTA MESA (Aug. 26, 2025) – The 2025 OC Fair is a wrap and there were a whole lot of summer memories for fairgoers who were invited to “Find Their Happy,” the theme of this year’s Fair which ran from July 18 through Aug. 17.

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

Preliminary figures show that 1,162,872 fairgoers came out to enjoy summer’s most-anticipated event and there were eight sold-out days. In 2024, OC Fair attendance was 1,137,555 and there were eight sold-out days.

15,089 competition entries vied for blue-ribbons across all categories. In culinary, visual arts and hobbies/handcrafts, there were 7,108 entries and in floral and produce categories there were 6,042 entries. In livestock, 1,939 competed in the show ring.

$311,202 was the total revenue for the 165 animals sold at the Junior Livestock auction. These funds go directly to the FFA and 4-H youth who raised the animals. This year saw a record-setting number of entry numbers for goats, rabbits and cavies.

4 new carnival rides were at the Fair: Aviator, Sound Storm, Frog Hop and The Royal Wheel.

198,204 servings of $5 Taste of the Fair offerings were dished up. Top stands for $5 Tastes were JP’s Old West Cinnamon Rolls, Gino’s Pizza, Brander Funnel Cake & Ice Cream, Hot Dog On A Stick and Cathy’s Cookies.

50,000 ears of corn were shucked by County Fair Corn Stars.

30,000 pounds of strawberries, 8,000 pounds of chocolate and more than 1,000 gallons of Dubai pistachio cream were used to make Chocolate Strawberry Cups at Sweeties.

1 semi truck of Crunchy Flamin’ Hot Cheetos was used to top fries, pickles, corn dogs and more at Biggy’s. More than 2,000 pounds of fresh garlic was chopped for the garlic fries there and a 55-gallon drum of Mike’s Hot Honey was drizzled on turkey legs, corn dogs and pickles.

138,000 fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies were made from scratch at Mom’s Bakeshoppe.

8,900 pounds of Ten Pound Buns were served up at this year’s OC Fair.

4,450 pounds of popcorn seed was used at Snax Shack.

6,000 orders of Meatballs & Mozzarella on a Stick were sold at Chicken Charlie’s along with 10,000 Dr. Pepper pickle drinks and 4,000 Bean & Cheese Cones.

41,644 glasses of wine, more than 7,000 bottles, were served by 208 OC Wine Society volunteers working 1,486 hours in the Wine Courtyard.

10,000 bottles of chocolate milk were sold to benefit Centennial Farm’s agriculture education programs.

15 piglets were born from two litters during the Fair. Also at Centennial Farm, 49 volunteers put in more than 1,200 hours. And 100 sunflowers were in perfect bloom.

28,994 gallons of water were dispensed to fairgoers at six hydration stations located throughout the fairgrounds.

231,952 plastic bottles were diverted from landfills; laid end-to-end, the bottles would span 29.44 miles.

20,504 visitors to Heroes Hall during the Fair also had the chance to see the Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam exhibit and to decorate 1,563 postcards for the troops.

12,550 prizes were given away at the Orange County Sand and Sea (Sand & Sea) Scavenger Hunt and at sandbox games. 135,000 beads were used at the Sand & Sea bracelet-making activity.

345 local bands performed on the community stages during the Fair and six groups performed at the We Are OC! cultural day on Aug. 17.

19 concerts and shows were sold out; 6 in The Hangar, 10 in Action Sports Arena and so far there have been three sold-out shows in Pacific Amphitheatre. There was one new event, Mowterized Mayhem. There were a total of 72 shows booked during the 2025 OC Fair season.

3 concerts are still to be performed under the stars in Pacific Amphitheatre:
Aug. 30 – ZZ Top / Foghat
Sept. 11 – The Isley Brothers / The Commodores
Sept. 12 – Young the Giant / Wilderado
Tickets are on sale at pacamp.com.

Sunday, August 10, 2025 (3:35 pm)

COSTA MESA (Aug. 10, 2025) – The 2025 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, comedy hypnotist, Mark Yuzuik, entertainment, carnival fun and exhibits found only at the OC Fair.

The theme this year is “Find Your Happy” and the final day is Sunday, Aug. 17. Advance ticket purchase is required, buy online now at ocfair.com/tickets – days are selling out!

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 T-Pain, Carly Pearce, Blues Traveler and Grupo Marca Registrada. All Fair-time shows include free same-day Fair admission. Post-Fair shows include Los Angeles Azules, ZZ Top/Foghat, The Isley Brothers/Commodores and Young The Giant.
• Last chance to dance: Fair After Dark offers swing dancing on Friday, a DJ set on Saturday and Latin dance on Sunday – all free at Plaza Pacifica Stage.
• Last chance for Fair romance: Get that final sunset kiss on one of three Ferris wheels or the Sky Ride and grab a photo booth pic to capture the memories.
• Final $5 Taste of Fair: Check out the special offerings from concessionaires that give Fairgoers smaller-size portions for $5 every day until 4 p.m.: 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. Featured artists, cooking demonstrations, mariachi music, a zoot suit fashion show and hands-on crafts.
• 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.
• 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.
• REWIND: A VHS Revival: Free with Fair admission, this featured exhibit offers visitors the chance to see large-scale, hand-painted iconic movie posters. Check out the Moulin Rouge-themed bar or hit MoonGoat Coffee.
• We Are OC! A Cultural Celebration: On the final day of the Fair, celebrate the vibrant cultures of Orange County with community performances, youth poetry readings, and music from 11 a.m.- to 5 p.m. in Plaza Pacifica.

   

  Key things to know

  • A limited number of tickets are available each day – days are selling out.
  • Advance online ticket sales at ocfair.com/tickets.
  • Same-day Fair admission is included with tickets to shows and concerts during the Fair. Visit ocfair.com/entertainment.
  • 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 $15.
  • Tickets for concerts in The Hangar and Pacific Amphitheatre can be found at ocfair.com/entertainment.
  • The Fair opens each day at 11 a.m. and closes at 11 p.m. except on Fridays and Saturdays, when it closes at midnight.

Thursday, June 26, 2025 (6:00 pm)

The inventive OC Fair concessionaires have been hard at work concocting delectable delights of both the sweet and savory sort and the countdown is on to opening day when fairgoers can finally get their Fair food fix.

The theme for the 2025 OC Fair is “Find Your Happy,” running July 18-Aug. 17, Wednesday through Sunday.

The popular $5 Taste of Fair returns! Guests can enjoy smaller offerings of their favorite Fair treats for only $5 every day until 4 p.m. This incredible offer allows visitors to explore a diverse menu of delicious options sure to satisfy every palate.

Visitors will surely find their happy in deep-fried dreams, sweet escapes and savory surprises and Fairgoers can plan their visits with several food stops on the itinerary.

New food at OC Fair

• NEW STAND – Tom’s Puffs and Pie, cream puffs and apple pie a la mode
• Bacon cotton candy on a pork belly stick – Bacon Nation
• Dubai chocolate strawberry cup – Swirl Ice Cream
• Mozzarella Meatballs on a Stick – Chicken Charlie’s
• Pizza Spud – Spud Ranch
• Nopales (cactus) tacos – Pepe’s Mariscos
• Chicharron pizza – Enzo’s
• Blue raspberry Dole Whip – Pineapple Whip
• Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl – 10 Pound Buns
• Bean and cheese burrito cone – Chicken Charlie’s
• Bacon-wrapped carnitas burrito – Bacon Nation
• Mini Me turkey leg (1 1/3 lb.) – Biggy’s
• Dubai chocolate brownie – Mom’s Bakeshoppe

Lighter Fair food and plant-based options

• Guacamole and ceviche – Northgate Market stand
• Plant-based & gluten-free burgers, nachos and tacos – Vegging Out
• Salads – Wahlburgers
• Vegan and gluten-free hot dogs – Pink’s
• Seafood tacos – The Hook
• Fish, veggie and avocado tacos and burritos – Noel’s Mexican Food
• Gluten-free, vegan pastries – MoonGoat Coffee
• Corn on the cob and more – Corn Shack

Returning Fair favorites

• Oasis Fruit Co.
• Papi’s Puffy Tacos
• Sugar Puff Candy
• Garlicky’s
• Pepe’s Mariscos Fresh Mexican Seafood
• MoonGoat Coffee
• Turkey legs – various locations
• Michelaguas and aguas frescas – various locations
• Cotton candy, candied apples, kettle corn, popcorn – various locations
• Ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies, floats – various locations
• Deep-fried treats on a stick – various locations
• Hot dogs, corn dogs, hamburgers, fries, pizza – various locations
• Funnel cakes, donuts, cinnamon rolls – various locations
• Nachos, chicken bowls, roasted corn, baked potatoes – various locations

… and more!

The basics – what to know before you go

OC Fair runs July 18-Aug. 17.

Advance ticket purchase is required for admission to summer’s best event, which will be open Wednesday through Sunday with limited daily capacity. Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Guests are encouraged to buy tickets for specific days as soon as possible – days will sell out. Visit ocfair.com/tickets – there are no fees on admission tickets.

OC Fair ticket prices are $13 general admission Wednesday and Thursday and $15 Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 are $9 all days; children 5 and under are free. Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles and $30 for buses and limos.

The popular Every Day Passport gives Fairgoers access any day – or every day – to all 23 days of the OC Fair for $60 with no restrictions or blackout days. Supplies are limited. Learn more at ocfair.com/tickets.

Carnival wristbands are on sale now for Wednesdays and Thursdays. Redeem wristbands by 5 p.m. for unlimited rides and two free games from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Tickets for shows in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena include free same-day Fair admission – an all-day pass to summer fun. Post-Fair shows include admission on any Wednesday or Thursday, July 18-Aug. 17.

Ride an OCTA bus from one of five locations directly to the Fair! Bus fare is $2 one way or $4 round-trip on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., depending on location. Youth 18 and under ride for free. Advance ticket purchase for the OC Fair is required prior to boarding. For complete details and location information, visit ocfairexpress.com. 

Rideshare options are strongly encouraged. The pick-up and drop-off location is at Gate 1, Blue Gate.

Free with Fair admission

Exhibits

Orange County Sand and Sea in the OC Promenade allows guests to discover iconic beachside landmarks, wander through culinary entries, explore a touch tank and take a deep dive into the ocean with virtual reality. 

Experience an immersive tribute to the VHS era at REWIND: A VHS Revival, celebrating the bold, hand-painted movie poster art that defined a generation of pop culture.

In Heroes Hall, guests discover what life was like on the Santa Ana Army Air Base (SAAAB) when it operated in Costa Mesa from 1942-1946 via The SAAAB Story, and explore a war that shaped a generation through the featured exhibit, “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam.”

Take in thousands of competition entries from local artisans across the Fairgrounds in our Hobbies & Handcrafts Gallery, Visual Arts & Woodworking Gallery, OC Promenade and Centennial Farm.

Demonstrations

Watch chefs whip up a quick, healthy meal, learn about olive oils, get insider tips on sourdough starters, watch nightly food contests and more in the OC Promenade. Guests can also watch live milking demonstrations in the Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm.

Entertainment

Hit the new OC Fair After Dark in Plaza Pacifica: swing dance on Friday nights, drop it like it’s hot to DJ West Coast Dave spinning hits inspired by Pacific Amphitheatre on Saturdays, and cha-cha to Latin music on Sundays.

Enjoy a host of community entertainers on stages around the Fairgrounds, in Baja Bar and Grill or at The Hangar during the day. Guests can also take in a nightly Taps performance at Heroes Hall, capture memories with the OC Fair Foodies, enjoy jaunty tunes from roaming entertainers and more.

In the OC Promenade, the Magic of Frank Thurston will delight guests daily with his family-friendly antics. Comedy hypnotist Mark Yuzuik returns to captivate audiences with mesmerizing performances in Action Sports Arena, Aug. 13-17, included with Fair admission.

Animals

Cheer on your favorite swine as these happy pigs race daily in Plaza Pacifica. Near Yellow Gate, Great American Petting Farm gives guests up close and personal interactions with creatures big and small. Various animal exhibits and livestock competitions happen daily in the Livestock Arena, or visit Centennial Farm to explore the animals and crops on display on a three-acre, year-round working farm. 

For more information, visit ocfair.com.

Food photos for media use are available here.

Friday, August 9, 2024 (9:00 am)

The 2024 OC Fair is racing towards its grand finale, and there’s no better time to experience the magic before it wraps up on Sunday, Aug. 18.

With a slew of new attractions, daily events and unforgettable experiences, the final days promise to be a celebration of fun, culture and entertainment!

Enjoy these don’t-miss OC Fair favorites before they’re gone:

Celebrate Chicano Heritage Month: Engage in vibrant cultural activities including making and coloring mini paper lowriders, crafting colorful paper florals and enjoying live painting demonstrations by featured artists. It’s a unique opportunity to explore and honor Chicano culture.

Orange County Sand and Sea: Explore the sun-soaked splendor of OC’s sandy shores! Dive into beachside fun with interactive exhibits like a touch tank, virtual reality deep dive and iconic seaside landmarks perfect for kids and families.

The Art of Music Experience: Return to this beloved exhibit to delve into the stories behind iconic album cover art. Peruse themed galleries, browse through a pop-up vinyl record store, watch live album cover art painting and more in this immersive experience.

Exhibits and galleries: Enjoy a captivating photo exhibit by Fair photographers Michael Goulding and Miguel Vasconcellos, capturing the vibrant excitement of the Fair through their lenses. View the photography, paintings, furniture, jewelry, knitting, mosaics and other creative endeavors submitted by talented locals. Visit Heroes Hall to take in the featured exhibit, “The Vietnam War through the Art & Photography of Ed Bowen” for an insider’s view into the life of a combat artist, or explore life on the Santa Ana Army Air Base via the “SAAAB Story.”

Daily entertainment: Experience live entertainment daily, including comedy hypnotist Chris Mabrey, BMX Big Air Triples, The Magic of Frank Thurston, a nightly performance of Taps and a range of roving acts like the OC Fair Foodies, Red Light Brass Band and Veekay the Clown. Plus, local music groups and dance troops perform across three stages, nightly live band karaoke in Plaza Pacifica and Latin music in La Cantina keep the energy high.

Family fun: Engage in free activities like the All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, the Great American Petting Farm, color postcards for troops, participate in food-related contests and get photos with the OC Fair Foodies. Cool down in the water fountain at Main Mall, then catch a refreshing drink from one of the four chilled water stations around the Fairgrounds brought by Mesa Water.

$5 Taste of Fair: Savor smaller portions of your favorite Fair foods for just $5 daily until 4 p.m. Enjoy a few of these tasty bites while exploring the Fair with family and friends.

Concerts galore: Catch exciting performances at Pacific Amphitheatre including Rebelution, Chris Lane, Rick Springfield and Richard Marx, Alice Cooper, The Aquabats and Trevor Noah. All Fair-time concerts include free same-day Fair admission. The beat continues post-Fair with shows featuring big names like Squeeze and Boy George, NEEDTOBREATHE, Iration, 311, Big Time Rush, Counting Crows, Steel Pulse, John Fogerty and Bonnie Raitt.

Wine seminars: Indulge in wine seminars at The Courtyard featuring tastings of OC Fair gold medal-winning wines paired with delectable food.

Shop and take the Fair home: Meander through the shopping buildings for exclusive Fair deals and score take-and-bake goodies like cookie dough, pizza, cinnamon rolls and Ten Pound Buns.

Things to know

• 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.
• 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.
• General parking is $15, $30 for buses and limos.
• Tickets for concerts in The Hangar and Pacific Amphitheatre can be found at ocfair.com/entertainment.
• Ride an OCTA bus from one of four locations directly to the Fair! Bus fare is $2 one way or $4 round-trip on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., depending on location. Youth 18 and under ride for free. Advance ticket purchase for the OC Fair is required prior to boarding. For complete details and location information, visit ocfairexpress.com. 

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 (9:00 am)

This year, the OC Fair is serving up a feast of flavor and fun with a spectacular array of inventive eats and culinary delights.

The theme for the 2024 OC Fair is “Always a Good Time,” running through Aug. 18, Wednesday through Sunday.

To elevate the fair experience, last year’s popular Taste of Fair returns! Now, guests can enjoy sample-sized offerings of their favorite Fair treats for only $5 every day until 4 p.m. This incredible offer allows visitors to explore a diverse menu of delicious options sure to satisfy every palate. View the menus here.

Fair-going gourmands are in for a mouthwatering adventure, served up by creative concessionaires.

OC Fair exclusives

• Bacon Churro Fries – Bacon Nation
• Rainbow Original – Ten Pound Buns
• Mondo Birria Beef Burger – Tasti Burger
• Dr. Pepper Pickle Drink – Chicken Charlie’s
• Cookie Butter Croissant Cone – Swirl
• Honey Sriracha Bacon-Wrapped Pork Belly On a Stick – Biggy’s
• Birria Burger – Tasti Burger
• Chocolate Drizzle Strawberry Cup – Swirl
• Bacon-Wrapped Pork Belly On a Stick – Biggy’s
• Le Crookie – Mom’s Bakeshoppe
• Honeycomb Sriracha Soft Serve – Swirl

New at OC Fair

• Pickle Split – Pineapple Whip
• Cali Dog – Pink’s
• Nashville Hot Chicken Tots – Biggy’s
• Candied Watermelon On a Stick – Cowboy Kettle Corn
• Spicy BBQ Bacon Jam Tasti Chips – Tasti Chips
• The Mario Lopez Dog – Pink’s
• Hot Honey Funnel Cake Chicken Sandwich – Chicken Charlie’s
• Calamari Tacos – The Hook
• Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Sundae – Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls
• Asian Frys – Eddie’s Asian Inspired Cuisine
• Michefrescas – Noel’s Mexican Food
• Beignets – Funnel Cake
• NEW STAND – Wahlburgers, Livestock Lane
• NEW STAND – Spud Ranch, Family Fairway
• NEW STAND – Cantina Nacho & Fruit Bar, La Cantina
• NEW STAND – Vegging Out, Main Mall

Lighter Fair food and plant-based options

• Guacamole & ceviche – Northgate Market Stand
• Plant-based & gluten-free burgers, nachos & tacos – Vegging Out
• Salads – Wahlburgers
• Vegan & gluten-free hot dogs – Pink’s
• Seafood tacos – The Hook
• Fish, veggie & avocado tacos & burritos – Noel’s Mexican Food
• Gluten-free, vegan pastries – MoonGoat Coffee
• Corn on the cob & more – Corn Shack

Returning Fair favorites

• Bangin’ Berries
• Papi’s Puffy Tacos
• Sugar Puff Candy
• Garlicky’s
• Pepe’s Mariscos Fresh Mexican Seafood
• MoonGoat Coffee
• Turkey legs – various locations
• Michelaugas and aguas frescas – various locations
• Cotton candy, candied apples, kettle corn, popcorn – various locations
• Ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies, floats – various locations
• Deep-fried treats on a stick – various locations
• Hotdogs, corndogs, hamburgers, fries, pizza – various locations
• Funnel cakes, donuts, cinnamon rolls – various locations
• Nachos, chicken bowls, roasted corn, baked potatoes – various locations

… and more!

The basics – what to know before you go

OC Fair runs July 19-Aug. 18.

Advance ticket purchase is required for admission to summer’s best event, which will be open Wednesday through Sunday with limited daily capacity. Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Guests are encouraged to buy tickets for the specific days they want to attend as soon as possible – days will sell out. Visit ocfair.com/tickets – there are no fees on admission tickets.

OC Fair ticket prices are $13 general admission Wednesday and Thursday and $15 Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 are $9 all days; children 5 and under are free. Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles and $30 for buses and limos.

Returning for another year, the popular Every Day Passport gives Fairgoers access any day – or every day – to all 23 days of the OC Fair for $60 with no restrictions or blackout days. Supplies are limited. Learn more at ocfair.com/everydaypass/.

Ride an OCTA bus from one of four locations directly to the Fair! Bus fare is $2 one way or $4 round-trip on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., depending on location. Youth 18 and under ride for free. Advance ticket purchase for the OC Fair is required prior to boarding. For complete details and location information, visit ocfairexpress.com. 

Free with Fair admission

Exhibits

Orange County Sand and Sea in the OC Promenade allows guests to discover iconic beachside landmarks, wander through culinary entries, explore a touch tank and take a deep dive into virtual reality. 

See large-scale album cover art in the Art of Music Experience, featuring 150 hand-painted recreations, neon and displays, a themed cocktail lounge, a pop-up record store and interactive experiences.

In Heroes Hall, guests discover what life was like on the Santa Ana Army Air Base (SAAAB) when it operated in Costa Mesa from 1942-1946 via the SAAAB Story, or view the featured exhibit, “The Vietnam War through the Art & Photography of Ed Bowen” to explore the U.S. military’s use of combat artists during the war.

Take in thousands of competition entries from local artisans across the Fairgrounds in our Home Arts & Collections Gallery, Visual Arts & Woodworking Gallery, OC Promenade and Centennial Farm.

Demonstrations

Watch chefs whip up a quick, healthy meal, learn about olive oils, get insider tips on sourdough starters, watch nightly food contests and more in the OC Promenade. Guests can also watch live cow-milking demonstrations on Centennial Farm.

Entertainment

Enjoy a host of community entertainers on stages around the Fairgrounds, in Baja Bar and Grill or at The Hangar during the day. Take in a nightly “Taps” performance at Heroes Hall. Capture memories with the OC Fair Foodies. Listen to jaunty tunes emitting from roaming entertainers, Red Light Brass Band. Let loose and belt out a power ballad at live band karaoke and more.

In the OC Promenade, the Magic of Frank Thurston returns to delight guests daily with his family-friendly antics. Comedy hypnotist Chris Mabrey makes his OC Fair debut in Action Sports Arena, Aug. 7-11.

Animals

Cheer on your favorite swine as these happy pigs race daily in Plaza Pacifica. Near Yellow Gate, Great American Petting Farm gives guests up close and personal interactions with creatures big and small. Various animal exhibits and livestock competitions happen daily in the Livestock Arena, or visit Centennial Farm to explore the livestock and crops on display on a three-acre, year-round working farm. 

Download the 2024 OC Fair app for tickets, events, food, shopping, maps and more!

For more information, visit ocfair.com.

Food photos for media use are available here.

Tuesday, July 2, 2024 (3:42 pm)

COSTA MESA (July 2, 2024) – It’s summer and the annual OC Fair is returning on July 19 for its full 23-day run, bringing the fun through Aug. 18. The theme is “Always a Good Time!”

The fairgrounds’ team is working hard to make sure that kids and families have plenty of opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Rides are rolling in, gigantic stuffed animals are taking their places in game booths, farm animals are getting gussied up and entertainers are polishing up their acts for fairgoers.

It’s time to get tickets and plan this summer’s OC Fair adventure. Advance ticket purchase is required – no transaction fees – and daily capacity is limited; visit ocfair.com or download the OC Fair 2024 mobile app. Days will sell out – don’t miss out!

What’s happening at the Fair?

So many activities and things to see are free with Fair admission. Even the All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, The Great American Petting Farm and the Orange County Sand and Sea Exhibit are free!

Things to do

• For kids of all ages, Explorium returns to OC Promenade with new and special activities designed to help everyone learn about the unique Orange County coastline at the Sand and Sea exhibit. Visitors explore sea life in a touch tank and take a deep dive with virtual reality.
• Ever dreamed of singing with a real band? You can do it at the OC Fair! Venture over to Live Band Karaoke in Plaza Pacifica to take the microphone or just be entertained each evening.
• Fairgoers can meet the OC Fair’s costumed characters, the beloved Foodies! Strawberry Jan, Olivia Orange, Sunny Lemon, Carl Cotton Candy and Cornelious Corn are out at various times during the day and are happy to take photos with fairgoers. Too cute!
• The Magic of Frank Thurston brings laughs and surprises to the OC Promenade stage daily. Kids can even participate in the show!
• What’s more fun than a classic pie-eating contest? Contestants can try to be the fastest to chow down a Knott’s Berry Farm boysenberry pie slice or dig into a juicy hunk of watermelon to win a prize.
• Insider tip: Carnival tickets and wristbands are available online for a discount through July 18. The Read and Ride program offers kids 5-11 two free rides in Kidland for reading three books and filling out the online form.

Things to see

• All-Alaskan Racing Pigs will be back on their track in Plaza Pacifica – fairgoers can cheer on their favorites as the little porkers cavort around the course.
• In the Livestock area, there are more animals to teach and entertain. Displays will feature pygmy goats, llamas, global livestock, urban chickens and miniature donkeys.
• At Centennial Farm, the resident animal educators will teach visitors about farm life and fairgoers can check out California crops. Learn about beekeeping, gardening and growing rare fruit.
• Action Sports Arena is back with comedy hypnotism, demolition derbies, monster trucks and BMX bike shows. The new Chris Mabrey Comedy Hypnotist show is free with Fair admission.
• Local residents showcase their talents and attempt to take home coveted OC Fair blue ribbons in categories like photography, fine art, woodworking, floral arrangements, table-setting, cake decorating and growing flowers, vegetables and fruit. Check out the competitions in Visual Arts, Home Arts and OC Promenade. Some entries are still open, visit ocfair.com for more information.

Things to eat and drink

• The popular Taste of the Fair is back and better than ever with smaller-size food options for just $5 every day until 4 p.m. View the menus here.
• Creative concessionaires are cooking up some typically outrageous Fair food so guests looking for something new will not be disappointed. Feeling brave? Try a Dr. Pepper Pickle Soda or Bacon Churro Fries.
• Fairgoers will also enjoy their favorites, including classic funnel cakes, serious BBQ, deep-fried treats, cinnamon rolls, family-sized pizza, exotic floats, ice cream and everything on a stick. There are many options suitable for sharing.
• Adults looking for a break can hit The Courtyard, where award-winning OC Fair wines and a variety of others are served in a shady spot.
• Insider tip: Bring reusable containers to take along extras or purchase take-and-bake options like cookies, pizza and cheesy bread to enjoy more Fair food at home.

Things to hear

• Local talent is on display on community stages every day and night of the Fair. Watch friends, neighbors and up-and-coming performers give it all they’ve got. Look for acoustic music, rock performances, country music, dance groups and more.
• There’s music every night coming from the shows in The Hangar and fairgoers can dance and sing along, enjoying the party in the Main Mall.
• Pacific Amphitheatre is home to amazing shows under the stars. Performances include comedian Trevor Noah, concerts by The Fab Four & The Monkee Men, Stray Cats, Walker Hayes and Kool & the Gang.
• In The Hangar, tribute bands Red Corvette, Twisted Gypsy, No Duh and The Long Run join Embajadores del Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez over the course of the Fair.
• Tickets are available now for all shows at ocfair.com.

Key things to know about the 2024 OC Fair – July 19-Aug. 18

• A limited number of tickets are available each day – dates will sell out
• Advance online ticket sales are required – no transaction fees
• Tickets are good only for the date purchased; please choose days carefully – no refunds
• With the Every Day Passport fairgoers can enjoy the Fair any day or every day for $60 with no restrictions or blackout dates – quantities are limited

Same-day Fair admission is included with tickets to performances during the Fair

OC Fair schedule

• 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday
• 11 a.m. – midnight Friday & Saturday
• General admission tickets – no fees: $13 weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $15 weekends (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). Tickets for seniors (60+) and youth (ages 6-12) are $9 every day and children 5 and younger are always free.

Special deals

• Every Day Passports give fairgoers access to the Fair any day or every day for $60 – while supplies last. No restrictions or blackout days!
• Purchase carnival tickets and wristbands online in advance until opening day at discounted prices.
• $5 Taste of Fair is now every day until 4 p.m. Fairgoers can enjoy taste-size portions of Fair food favorites for only $5 each.

Free with OC Fair admission

• Exhibits and demonstrations – check out blue-ribbon winners, explore handcrafts and woodworking, marvel at large-scale album-cover art and get great tips from chefs during culinary demos
• Visit the Art of Music Experience to wander through more than 150 hand-painted recreations, neon and displays, a themed cocktail lounge, a pop-up record store or participate in one of the many interactive experiences
• Performances on community stages and nightly fun – see local talent, sing karaoke with a live band, catch a show in Baja Bar & Grill and dance in La Cantina
• Animal experiences – visit Centennial Farm’s animal educators, All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, livestock displays and Great American Petting Farm
• New – hypnotist Chris Mabrey performs free in Action Sports Arena, Aug. 7-11

Ticketed performances

• Shows in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena are on sale now – some performances are selling out. Shows start July 9 and run through Sept. 14. More information is at ocfair.com/entertainment. Please arrive early to avoid traffic
• The 2024 OC Fair mobile app is now available with information on daily activities as well as a map, news & information and tickets. Search for “OC Fair 2024” in your app store

Friday, June 30, 2023 (9:36 am)

COSTA MESA (June 30, 2023) – Concessionaires have been working hard to create even more unusual and tasty food to serve to adventurous and hungry guests at the 2023 OC Fair.

The theme this year is “Happy Together” and the dates are July 14 to Aug. 13, Wednesday through Sunday.

Here is what these fairway gourmets have been cooking up:

• Candied Bacon-Wrapped Pork Belly Bites – Bacon-A-Fair
• Campfire Breakfast on a Bun – Ten Pound Buns
• Mediterranean Bowl – Chicken Charlie’s
• Fruit Pizza – Bangin’ Berries
• Pineapple Whip Dumplings with Fruit Rollups – Swirl
• Eggroll Turkey Dog – Pink’s
• Ice Cream Sundae Flight – Sweets by Cardinali
• New vegan and vegetarian options – California Grill
• Double Trouble dual ice cream cone – Swirl
• Hot Cheetos Cheese Chicken on a Stick – Biggy’s
• Maple Bacon Smoothie – Bacon-A-Fair
• Frozen Grapes with Tajin and Fruit Rollup on a Stick – Swirl
• Mini Pies: Strawberry, apple and peach – Bangin’ Berries

Friday, July 23, 2021 (9:10 am)

The OC Fair concessionaires have been concocting tasty new treats to delight fairgoers who have been waiting for their favorite summer tradition to return – crazy Fair food!

Wednesday, July 21, 2021 (9:54 am)

Friday, September 25, 2020 (9:10 am)

The drive-up food fun will continue through October, making the fall even sweeter for fans of delicious fair fare.

The Fair Food Drive Thru will take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 25 at OC Fair & Event Center. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. There is no parking and no entrance fee. Guests drive up and order from the vendors and some take credit cards only.

Sept. 25-27 was the last week for Cathy’s Cookies, Dippin’ Dots, Hot Dog on a Stick, Hawaiian Chicken Bowls and Tasti Chips.

Remaining through October are Dole Soft Serve, Funnel Cake, Roasted Corn, Juicy’s, Fried A Fair and Who Fried the Cheese.

On Oct. 2, these vendors will be added to the lineup: Australian Battered Potatoes, Chicken Charlie’s, Kettle Corn, Mom’s Bakeshoppe, Pink’s Hot Dogs and Old Time Ice Cream. And JP’s Old West Cinnamon Rolls joins the fun on Oct. 9.

Menu items will vary and new choices will be added each week. View the weekly maps and menus here: ocfair.com/drivethru