Sunday, September 24, 2023 (3:30 pm)

From the OC Register:

The OC Fair was voted Best Fair/festival in the 2023 Best of Orange County balloting

For many locals, a trip to the OC Fair is an essential part of any summer. There’s so much to experience that multiple visits are common, with more than a million people attending annually. OC Fair Chief Business Development Officer Joan Hamill says the event “is a place where memories are made. Families, friends, and (those) you’ve never met come to gather and celebrate together. It attracts a wide variety of people from all different walks of life.”

Besides fun rides, midway games and the Ferris wheel, fair activities include dozens of shows across three venues. The 8,200-capacity Pacific Amphitheatre, which marked its 40th anniversary in July, hosted concerts by Beck, X, Styx, Dwight Yoakam, Ziggy Marley, Cheap Trick, and others this season. Tribute bands appear at The Hangar, while the Action Sports Arena is the place for motocross, rodeos, themed demolition derbies, monster trucks and the annual craft beer roundup. Local and community entertainment also happens on other stages throughout the fairgrounds.

From funnel cakes, huge turkey legs and buttery corn on the cob to Chicken Charlie’s deep-fried delights and California Grill’s vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free options, there are all types of culinary fare. Courtyard wine seminars and tastings are offered near the food contest winners. Shopping opportunities abound. Marveling at the work of OC’s best amateur visual artists and photographers provides plenty of inspiration.

Hamill notes that some chilled water stations help reduce plastic water bottle usage and the Every Day Passport allows patrons to visit anytime.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023 (12:05 pm)

Community input is important to us. If you have a few minutes to spare, please take this survey about the music and bands that play in The Hangar during the OC Fair.

Thank you in advance for your feedback to help OC Fair & Event Center improve!

Take the survey now!

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

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.

Sunday, July 30, 2023 (3:00 pm)

2023 OC Fair – Happy Together, through – Aug. 13

We are thrilled to welcome everyone back for the 2023 OC Fair, “Happy Together.” Get ready for 23 days of fun-filled live entertainment, exhibits, food, carnival rides, shopping and more!

When: Through Aug. 13
Schedule:
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much:
$13 general admission on Wednesday & Thursday
$15 general admission on Friday, Saturday & Sunday
$9 seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 every day
Free for kids ages 5 and younger
Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles, $24 for buses and limos
More information: Visit 2023 OC Fair

*Advanced ticket purchase is required and no fees on admission tickets. Purchase your tickets at ocfair.com/tickets.

OC Fair Fun Run 5K, Aug. 6
Run, walk or skip through the OC Fair! Every runner gets an awesome medal, a T-shirt and free race photos. Huge thanks to our partner OC Marathon for making this event possible!

When: Sunday, Aug. 6, 8 – 11 a.m.
Schedule:
Bib pickup: 6 – 7:40 a.m.
Race begins: 8 a.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much: $50 until July 31, $25 for youth 6-12, $10 for kids 5 and under.
More info: Visit OC Fair Fun Run 5K

Fight Club OC, Aug. 24
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, Aug. 24, 5:30 – 10 p.m.
Schedule:
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
The Hangar doors open at 6 p.m.
First fight 7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: General admission varies by seating selection ($40-$80). Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Fight Club OC

Gem Faire, Aug. 25-27
The largest jewelry & bead show in SoCal. Shop fine jewelry, precious and semi-precious gemstones, millions of beads, crystals, gold and silver, pearls, minerals, fossils and much more at manufacturer’s prices. Jewelry repair and cleaning while you shop.

When: Aug. 25 – 27, 2023
Schedule:
Friday: Noon – 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
No admittance after 4 p.m. Sunday.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Santa Ana Pavilion, Costa Mesa Building
How much: General admission is $7. Parking is $12.
More info: Visit Gem Faire

626 Night Market, Aug. 25-27
626 Night market is back at the OC Fair & Event Center. The iconic Californian festival features 200+ food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music and entertainment attractions in an epic event that appeals to all ages. Join us for warm summer days and bright nights.

When: Friday – Sunday, Aug. 25 – 27, 4-11 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – OC Promenade and Lot I/G
How much: General admission for adults, seniors and children $5. Children 3 and under are free. Parking is $12.
Most vendors accept cash only. ATMs will be available.
More info: Visit 626 Night Market

Entertainment during the 2023 OC Fair

Pacific Amphitheatre

Pacific Amphitheatre’s 40th anniversary continues to deliver the hottest entertainment with upcoming performances by comedians Gabriel Iglesias and Jeff Dunham, concerts by Beck, Ne-Yo, War, George Thorogood, Rebelution, Los Tucanes de Tijuana, -X-, Cheap Trick, Ziggy Marley, The Fab Four, Chicago, AJR, Common Kings and Sweet & Tender Hooligans.

When: Through Sept. 2
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Pacific Amphitheatre
How much: Varies by performer and seating selection
More info: Visit Pacific Amphitheatre

The Hangar
In The Hangar, tribute bands have delivered some classic tunes that have kept Fairgoers rocking. Up next: Journey Unauthorized, Wild Child, Zeppelin Live, Elton: The Early Years, Yachty By Nature, Red Corvette, Which One’s Pink?, Start Making Sense, Damage Inc., Queen Nation join Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez and Spencer Sutherland to close out the second half of the Fair.

When: Through Aug. 13
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: Varies by performer and seating selection
More info: Visit OC Fair

Action Sports Arena
The adrenaline rush carries on in Action Sports Arena with demolition derbies, rodeos, charros and motosports keeping Fairgoers entertained.

When: Through Aug. 12
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena
How much: Varies by performer and seating selection
More info: Visit OC Fair

* Entertainment tickets include same-day Fair admission for shows

happening July 14 – Aug. 13.

Things to do and see during the 2023 OC Fair

‘Armed Only With A Camera’
The World War II Photography of Stanley Troutman is now on display at Heroes Hall. Troutman served his country by photographing the war in the South Pacific Theater including the devastated cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

When: Through Sept. 2023
Where: Heroes Hall is next to Centennial Farm
How much: Included with Fair admission
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Bug Bizarre
Explore this year’s Bug Bizarre exhibit where touchable displays and hands-on demonstrations will immerse you into the exotic world of bugs! Visitors will also have the chance to learn from an expert entomologist about these critters’ intricate ecosystems, ecological importance and how different cultures utilize insects in their daily lives.

When: Through Aug. 13
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – OC Promenade
How much: Included with Fair admission
More info: Visit Exhibits

The Art of Music Experience
An experiential exhibit that inspires people of all ages to discover, explore and appreciate the stories and creators behind album cover art.

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 your favorite album cover and more.

When: July 14 – Aug. 13
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building
How much: Included with Fair admission
More info: Visit Exhibits

The SAAAB Story
The SAAAB (Santa Ana Army Air Base) Story exhibition celebrates the history of the flight training center, its contribution to the war effort, the servicemembers that served here and its role in the development of the growth of Orange County through film, photographs, maps, oral histories, works of art and ephemera. 

When: Ongoing
Where: Heroes Hall is next to Centennial Farm
How much: Included with Fair admission
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Ongoing at the OC Fair & Event Center

Centennial Farm
Centennial Farm reopens to the public Aug. 21! 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-opening Aug. 21
Schedule: Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Sept. 22
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Centennial Farm

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. 

Hours: Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where on the fairgrounds: Outdoors in Lot D
How much: Free admission and parking; let parking attendant know you are going to the Farmers Market.
>More info: Visit OC Farm Bureau 

Centennial Farm Pig Cam
Want to keep tabs on our pigs during the Fair? 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

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-opening Aug. 23
Schedule: Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Coming up in September

Fight Club OC, Sept. 2
DAZN Special Edition

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: Saturday, Sept. 2
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: General admission varies by seating selection ($40-$80). Parking is $12. More Info: Visit Fight Club OC

Cruisin’ For A Cure, Sept. 9
Cruisin’ for a Cure is the world’s largest one-day charity car show with over 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.
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! Take part in the world’s largest sand sports expo.

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: Sunday, 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.
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

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.
More Info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

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

Wednesday, June 28, 2023 (4:06 pm)

I think we can all agree the hottest ticket in town is the 2023 OC Fair! The Fair promises to bring everything from cute, cuddly animals to thrilling shows, exhibits and entertainment. There’s something for everyone in the lineup that will surely keep you and the family coming back for more. But don’t forget to join us for the City of Costa Mesa’s Independence Day Community Celebration happening pre-Fair. And, of course, we’re working to keep the party going post-Fair with some exciting events and exhibits in the fall. Whether pre-, during or post-Fair we can’t wait to host your good time.

See you on the Fairgrounds!

2023 OC Fair Tickets

Tickets are on sale now at ocfair.com/tickets. Advance admission purchase is required, please choose dates carefully as there are no refunds or exchanges. Buy now – days will sell out. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Our on-site box office will sell admission tickets only until July 13. Tickets will not be available at entry gates during the Fair. There are no transaction fees for admission tickets. Do not purchase tickets elsewhere as they may not be valid. 

EVERY DAY PASSPORT

New for 2023 is the Every Day Passport. Now, you can enjoy the Fair any day or every day – no restrictions or blackout dates!

The Every Day Passport is available for $60. Availability is limited and the offer is valid only while supplies last. To purchase, visit ocfair.com/everydaypass/.

TNT Fireworks Stand, June 30 – July 4

Costa Mesa High School Baseball is selling safe and sane TNT fireworks.
When:  June 30 – July 4, hours vary by day.
Schedule:
June 30, Noon – 10 p.m.
July 1 – 3, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
July 4, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot E
How much: Free admission and parking. Firework prices vary. 
More info: Visit Costa Mesa High School Baseball

Independence Day Community Celebration, July 3

What better way to commemorate America’s 247th birthday than with an Independence Day Community Celebration! The festivities include free entry, activities and a firework show. Bring your picnic, lawn chairs and blanket and create a memorable evening as we celebrate our nation’s independence.

Food and drinks will be available. Glass containers and bottles are prohibited. No hard-sided coolers or outside alcohol permitted.

When: Monday, July 3, 5 – 11 p.m.
Firework show starts at 9:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot A
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: Visit City of Costa Mesa 

2023 OC Fair – Happy Together, July 14 – Aug. 13

We are thrilled to welcome everyone back for the 2023 OC Fair, “Happy Together.” Get ready for 23 days of fun-filled live entertainment, exhibits, food, carnival rides, shopping and more!

When: July 14 – Aug. 13
Schedule:
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
How much:
$13 general admission on Wednesday & Thursday
$15 general admission on Friday, Saturday & Sunday
$9 seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 every day
Free for kids ages 5 and younger
Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles, $24 for buses and limos
More information: Visit 2023 OC Fair

Entertainment during the 2023 OC Fair

Pacific Amphitheatre

Pacific Amphitheatre is celebrating its 40th anniversary and delivering entertainment you don’t want to miss. Performances include comedians Gabriel Iglesias and Jeff Dunham, concerts by Beck, Ne-Yo, War, George Thorogood, Rebelution, Los Tucanes de Tijuana, -X-, Stephen Marley, Cheap Trick, Bee Gees Gold, The Green, Dwight Yoakam, 3 Doors Down, Yung Gravy, Ziggy Marley, The Fab Four, Styx, Chicago, Gerardo Ortiz, Smokey Robinson, Midland, Ramon Ayala, AJR, Common Kings and Sweet & Tender Hooligans.

When: July 1 – Sept. 2
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Pacific Amphitheatre
How much: Varies by performer and seating selection
More info: Visit Pacific Amphitheatre

The Hangar

In The Hangar, tribute bands Dead Man’s Party, Twisted Gypsy, Devotional, Journey Unauthorized, Wild Child, Don’t Look Back, Sweet Home Alabama, Zeppelin Live, Elton: The Early Years, Yachty By Nature, Ticket to the Moon, 24K Magic!, Red Corvette, Which One’s Pink?, Start Making Sense, Damage Inc., Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers, The Beatles vs The Stones and Queen Nation join Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez and Spencer Sutherland over the course of the Fair.

When: July 14 – Aug. 13

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar

How much: Varies by performer and seating selection

More info: Visit OC Fair

Action Sports Arena

Non-stop adrenaline is scheduled in Action Sports Arena with Monster Truck Nitro, demolition derbies, rodeos, charros and more taking over. There’s sure to be something to keep everyone entertained.

When: July 14 – Aug. 12

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How much: Varies by performer and seating selection

More info: Visit OC Fair

* Entertainment tickets include same-day Fair admission for shows

happening July 14 – Aug. 13.

Exhibits during the 2023 OC Fair

‘Armed Only With A Camera’

The World War II Photography of Stanley Troutman is now on display at Heroes Hall. Troutman served his country by photographing the war in the South Pacific Theater including the devastated cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

When: Through Sept. 2023

Where: Heroes Hall is next to Centennial Farm

How much: Included with Fair admission

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Junior Livestock Auction

For a classic fair experience visit OC Fair’s Livestock Show Ring and view the Junior Livestock Auction! OC Fair’s annual Junior Livestock Auction supports 4-H and FFA agriculture education programs throughout Orange County. Bidding at the OC Fair will be in person with add-on contributions online only. Market shows will be held in person and viewing will be available during OC Fair public hours.

When: Saturday, July 22, auction begins at 10 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Livestock Showring

How much: Included with Fair admission

More info: Visit Junior Livestock Auction

The Art of Music Experience

An experiential exhibit that inspires people of all ages to discover, explore and appreciate the stories and creators behind album cover art.

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 your favorite album cover and more.

When: July 14 – Aug. 13

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building

How much: Included with Fair admission

More info: Visit Exhibits

The SAAAB Story

The SAAAB (Santa Ana Army Air Base) Story exhibition celebrates the history of the flight training center, its contribution to the war effort, the servicemembers that served here and its role in the development of the growth of Orange County through film, photographs, maps, oral histories, works of art and ephemera. 

When: Ongoing

Where: Heroes Hall is next to Centennial Farm

How much: Included with Fair admission

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Ongoing at the OC Fair & Event Center

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. 

Hours: Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where on the fairgrounds: Outdoors in Lot D

How much: Free admission and parking; let parking attendant know you are going to the Farmers Market.

More info: Visit OC Farm Bureau 

Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Want to keep tabs on our pigs during the Fair? 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

Coming up in August

OC Fair Fun Run 5K, Aug. 6

Run, walk or skip through the OC Fair!

When: Sunday, Aug. 6, 8 – 11 a.m.

Schedule:

Bib pickup: 6 – 7:40 a.m.

Race begins: 8 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center

How much: $45 until July 13, $25 for youth 6-12, $10 for kids 5 and under.

More info: Visit OC Fair Fun Run 5K

Fight Club OC, Aug. 24

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, Aug. 24, 5:30 – 10 p.m.

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: General admission is $65. Parking is $12. 

More info: Visit Fight Club OC

Gem Faire, Aug. 25-27

The largest jewelry & bead show in SoCal. Shop fine jewelry, precious and semi-precious gemstones, millions of beads, crystals, gold and silver, pearls, minerals, fossils and much more at manufacturer’s prices. Jewelry repair and cleaning while you shop.

When: Aug. 25 – 27, 2023

Schedule:

Friday: Noon – 6 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

No admittance after 4 p.m. Sunday.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Santa Ana Pavilion, Costa Mesa Building

How much: General admission is $11. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Gem Faire

Monday, June 19, 2023 (8:05 am)

Wednesday, June 7, 2023 (8:35 am)

COSTA MESA (June 7, 2023) – The OC Fair has announced its entertainment lineup for the summer, featuring 71 performances across three venues, Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena.

Entertainment tickets are on sale now at ticketmaster.com.

Pacific Amphitheatre is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and will kick off its summer season with two pre-Fair concerts: Stephen Marley on July 1, and The Green/Hirie/Mike Love/Jesse Royal/Common Sense on July 8.

Then, the Toyota Summer Concert Series marks the opening weekend of the 2023 OC Fair with Bee Gees Gold/ABBA LA on July 14, 3 Doors Down/Candlebox on July 15, and The Happy Together Tour on July 16.

Pacific Amphitheatre shows also include Dwight Yoakam/Asleep at the Wheel on July 20, Gerardo Ortiz/Los Farmerz on July 23, X/The English Beat/Save Ferris on July 30, Beck/Phoenix on Aug. 9, Jeff Dunham on Aug. 10, and Ne-Yo/Robin Thicke/Mario on Aug. 4.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. Pacific Amphitheatre’s summer season includes four post-Fair shows this year: Los Tucanes de Tijuana/La Original Banda El Limon on Aug. 18, Chicago on Aug. 20, Gabriel Iglesias on Aug. 27 and Common Kings/Fiji and guests on Sept. 2. Visit pacamp.com for the full venue lineup.

This year’s entertainment in The Hangar includes Devotional (Depeche Mode tribute), Dead Man’s Party (Oingo Boingo tribute), Spencer Sutherland/DOUBLECAMP, Twisted Gypsy (Fleetwood Mac tribute), Queen Nation (Queen tribute), and Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez. See ocfair.com for the complete venue lineup.

Action Sports Arena will launch the Fair season with OC Brew Hee Haw, a craft beer roundup with live music, on July 14 and 15. The Monster Truck Nitro Tour, demolition derbies, rodeos, X-Treme Freestyle Moto-X and the Speedway Fair Derby on Aug. 1 will round out the entertainment. Check out ocfair.com for the detailed venue lineup.

Fair-time entertainment tickets include free same-day admission to the OC Fair, July 14-Aug. 13. Shows are selling out so guests are encouraged to purchase tickets now at ticketmaster.com.

Tuesday, May 2, 2023 (9:59 am)

COSTA MESA – Calling all artists, growers and creators! OC Fair’s competition entry deadlines are quickly approaching.

For the 2023 OC Fair, everyone is invited to showcase their talents by participating in more than 20 competitions in the visual arts, culinary, home arts and hobbies, wine, horticulture and livestock categories.

Competitions this year include:

Visual Arts
Fine Arts
Photography
Woodworking

Home Arts & Hobbies
Collections
Fiber Arts
Hand Crafts
Jewelry Arts
Table Setting

Horticulture
Container Plants
Cut Flowers
Floral Arrangements
Fruits & Vegetables
Pressed Botanicals

Culinary
Bars & Brownies
Cookies
Honey
Pies & Cheesecakes
Preserved Food & Liqueur
Sugar Arts & Confections
Yeast & Quick Breads

Wine
Commercial Wine
Home Wine

Livestock
Breeding Livestock Shows
Market Livestock Shows

There are also designated divisions and separate competitions for youth.

Deadlines for entries vary based on category. Competition Guides are available at ocfair.com/competitions. The guides detail rules, regulations, important dates and more. Some competitions are free to enter.

The first 2023 deadline for commercial wines, is slated to close May 19. Table settings, a fan favorite, has exceeded entries and is now closed.

Results for the 2022 OC Fair Competitions are available at ocfair.com/oc-fair/competitions-contests/results/.

ABOUT THE 2023 OC FAIR

“Happy Together” is the theme of this year’s OC Fair, which takes place July 14-Aug. 13. Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

New this year, the OC Fair is offering an Every Day Passport which allows guests to enjoy the Fair any day or every day of the 2023 season – no reservations or restrictions. The Every Day Passport is on sale now for $60, while supplies last.

There is limited daily capacity at the OC Fair and advance admission ticket purchase is required – tickets are on sale now. Prices are $13 general admission on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $15 general admission on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 are $9 all days. The OC Fair will absorb transaction fees. Parking is $12; $24 for buses and limos.

Tickets are on sale for performances in Pacific Amphitheatre, Action Sports Arena and The Hangar. Carnival tickets are also on sale with a $44 discounted ride wristband available for purchase until July 14. Guests can access unlimited rides and two free games from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wristbands must be redeemed by 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

For more information, visit ocfair.com. Photos and video for media are available here.

Thursday, December 15, 2022 (4:02 pm)

COSTA MESA (Dec. 15, 2022) – Today the OC Fair announced that “Happy Together” will be the theme of the 2023 event that will run July14-Aug. 13, highlighting community inclusion.

Advance ticket purchase will again be required with limited capacity for summer’s best party, which will be open Wednesday through Sunday.

Admission tickets will go on sale online in early 2023 and will be restricted to 45,000 admissions available per day. This is the third year the Fair has imposed a limited-capacity model and days are again expected to sell out.

A new offering, the OC Fair Every Day Passport, will also be on sale in early 2023 and will allow guests to visit the Fair any day of its 23-day run without advance tickets required. The price will be $60 for all and sales will be limited to 10,000 passports.

“There is no better way to celebrate summer than to be ‘Happy Together’ at the OC Fair,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO. “We’ve been working all year to once again bring the community together for all the special fun and goodness the OC Fair offers – food, rides, animals, entertainment, shopping, exhibits and more. We can’t wait for opening day on July 14!”

Ticket prices will slightly increase this year with general admission prices going up by $1 for the first time since 2014 to $13 general admission on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $15 on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Weekend admission prices were raised by $2 in 2017. Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-13 are $9 all days, a $2 increase, also the first since 2014. OC Fair will again absorb the online admission ticket transaction fees since advance purchase is required. Admission tickets will not be available for sale at OC Fair entry gates. Parking will be $12, a $2 increase year-round.

New hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

Tickets are now available for purchase for the first OC Fair concerts announced for Pacific Amphitheatre and The Hangar. Live music performances include Dwight Yoakam and Asleep at the Wheel, Bee Gees Gold with ABBA LA and Queen Nation.

Returning OC Fair favorites include magician Frank Thurston, Brew Hee Haw craft beer festival, monster trucks, demolition derbies, All-Alaskan pig races and, of course, zany fair food.

The Junior Livestock Auction will be back in person on July 22 and the traditional OC Fair competitions will begin accepting entries in February.

Also on display during the Fair at Heroes Hall will be Armed Only with a Camera: World War II Photography of Stanley Troutman. The SAAAB Story exhibit continues on the second floor educating visitors on the history of the Santa Ana Army Air Base. Admission is free with Fair entry.

The OC Fair is looking for local people to participate in the annual 2023 event. Community entertainment (unpaid) applications will be accepted beginning Jan. 9 at https://ocfair.com/oc-fair/be-a-part-of-the-fair/community-entertainment/ Applications for vendors and concessionaires are now open at https://ocfair.com/oc-fair/be-a-part-of-the-fair/vendors/ Sponsorship and marketing information is available at https://ocfair.com/oc-fair/sponsors/

The 2022 OC Fair had attendance of 1,055,173 with 11 sold-out days. The Fair returned to an in-person event in 2021 after going virtual in 2020.