Category Archives: Uncategorized

Monday, March 16, 2026 (9:17 am)

Michael Searle becomes Chief Operating Officer at OC Fair & Event Center

Michael Searle has been chosen as OC Fair & Event Center’s new Chief Operating Officer to lead fair production, security, event operations, facility operations, planning & production and food & beverage departments. Searle started in his new role this month.

Searle brings more than three decades of leadership experience in the fair and event industry, with expertise in operations, strategic planning and infrastructure development. Throughout his career, he has focused on building strong, collaborative teams and fostering a culture of accountability, innovation and shared purpose.

Most recently, he served as Deputy Director of the Arizona State Fair, where he helped lead significant operational and financial advancements. During his tenure, he oversaw major capital improvements, implemented site redesign initiatives that enhanced guest flow and expanded family seating, launched the popular Backyard concert venue and introduced innovative concepts to expand year-round facility usage. He also strengthened financial reserves while securing increased state appropriations to support long-term sustainability.

Searle entered the fair industry in 1988 with Snuffy’s Magical Clown Review, developing firsthand expertise in event production and guest engagement that would underpin his leadership in large-scale operations. In 2000, he co-founded Fair Executives Company, providing management and production services to fairs throughout the western United States and supporting strategic growth across multiple events.

A respected industry leader, Searle has served in executive and board roles with the Arizona Fairs Association and Western Fairs Association, and on committees within the International Association of Fairs and Expositions. He was inducted into the Arizona Fairs Association Hall of Fame and has been recognized as Fair Manager of the Year for his contributions to advancing the fair industry. Searle was appointed to serve on the Arizona Tourism Council in an effort to share his talents and knowledge with the state.

His leadership combines operational discipline with forward-thinking strategy, grounded in the belief that strong community involvement is essential to the long-term vitality of public event venues, strengthening organizations while preserving the agricultural and community traditions at the heart of the fair experience.

 

Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (3:24 pm)

Step inside a bubble, invent something, meet a llama: It’s Imaginology 2026!

Get ready for two high-energy days where imagination takes the lead and learning feels like play. Imaginology returns Saturday and Sunday, April 11–12, transforming OC Fair & Event Center into an interactive playground of science, technology, engineering, arts, agriculture and math.

Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, this free family event welcomes kids of all ages to build, experiment, observe and explore together. In 2025, nearly 20,000 guests attended — and even more are expected in 2026 as excitement continues to grow.

Where STEAM comes to life

Imaginology is built on a simple but powerful philosophy: learning should feel like real life. Every exhibitor will offer a hands-on activity rooted in STEAM, empowering youth to explore skills that directly connect to future careers.

Across the fairgrounds, visitors will discover:

Wild Science adventures

Step into an immersive world of discovery featuring dozens of visually captivating, highly interactive displays. Guests can experiment with a plasma lightning tube, step inside a giant bubble, test their sense of smell, explore a Rube Goldberg machine, create music, challenge hand-eye coordination and design inventions in a maker’s fair-style space. It’s science you can see, hear and feel.

Centennial Farm experiences

The three-acre working farm will be buzzing with activity. Visitors can meet animals, learn about California crops and watch live demonstrations including oxen showcases, blacksmithing, chick education, radish-seed planting, milking demos, root digging, shearing and spinning, terrarium-making and the popular OC Beekeepers exhibit. It’s agriculture in action — up close and hands-on.

Obstacle course challenge at Heroes Hall

On the Sky Hawk lawn at Heroes Hall, kids can race, climb and jump through an inflatable obstacle course designed to test strength and agility. It’s the perfect way to mix physical activity with playful competition – and science!

Youth competitions take center stage

Imaginology 2026 features four free student competitions for preschool through 12th grade – competitions are now open:

• New! Upcycling Project – Turn discarded materials into something innovative and useful.
• Mural Project – Collaborate on large-scale artwork that comes together in a powerful final display.
• Cardboard Engineering – Dream big using one of the most versatile building materials around.
• Poster Art – Showcase creativity by blending science, technology, engineering, arts and math into a visual masterpiece.

In addition, local 4-H and FFA youth will be judged on livestock projects, animal and veterinary science knowledge, and educational exhibits. Llama and rabbit competitions will add to the agriculture excitement. More at ocfair.com/imaginology/competitions-contests.

Exhibits and entertainment for all ages

Live community entertainment will keep the energy high throughout the weekend. New this year, Sunday will feature lively rounds of bingo as part of the entertainment lineup. And Megan the Bubbleologist will wow audiences on the Plaza Stage with dazzling bubble artistry.

Exhibit spaces throughout the fairgrounds will feature nonprofit organizations, community groups and educational programs offering interactive demonstrations and creative activities. From arts organizations and robotics programs to nature centers and public safety demonstrations, every corner of Imaginology offers something new to discover.

A community tradition of discovery

Produced by OC Fair staff as a community give-back, Imaginology debuted in 1989 as Youth Expo before being renamed in 2014 to reflect its expanded STEAM focus. Today, it stands as one of the largest free family STEAM festivals in the region — a place where curiosity is celebrated and creativity shines.

Whether attendees are designing inventions, planting seeds, engineering with cardboard or cheering on young competitors, Imaginology is where ideas take flight.

For full details and updates, visit ocfair.com/imaginology.

Event at a glance

Dates: April 11–12
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission: Free
Parking: $15
Location: 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Public Info: 714-708-1500 | ocfair.com/imaginology | ocfinfo@ocfair.com

Follow the fun using #Imaginology and connect with OC Fair, Centennial Farm and Heroes Hall on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok for updates and sneak peeks.

Thursday, February 12, 2026 (9:31 am)

OC Fair & Event Center wins 22 industry awards from Western Fairs Association

COSTA MESA (Feb. 12, 2026) – OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) earned 22 Achievement Awards from Western Fairs Association, including 21 first-place honors.

The annual program recognizes innovation and excellence among fairs and festivals in the Western U.S.

Eleven of the first-place awards were in photography categories including entertainment, carnival, first responders, exhibits, animals and people at the fair. Other top honors were for community outreach for OC Fair’s We Are OC! A Cultural Celebration, agricultural programming, volunteerism and sponsorship. Marketing and creative wins went to logo and program design as well as TV and radio ads.

OC Fair Radio also brought home a top award and OCFEC was honored for large-animal evacuation and for the new Ranch Discovery Days at The Ranch Community Center. OCFEC received one second-place design award.

“I am incredibly proud of the team here at OC Fair & Event Center and I am elated to see this industry recognition shine a spotlight on the work we do all through the year to provide wonderful experiences and service for the community,” said OCFEC CEO James Canfield.

Western Fairs Association sponsors annual awards programs to recognize excellence in the areas of competitive exhibits, communications and agriculture and to share successful ideas and programs with other fairs throughout the organization. More than 150 fairs throughout the Western U.S. and Canada are eligible to participate in this prestigious awards program.

The awards for 2025 achievements were announced following the organization’s annual conference last month in Reno.

OC Fair is the top fair in California and number nine in North American based on attendance. The 136th annual Fair will run this year from July 17 through Aug. 16.

Thursday, July 31, 2025 (9:00 am)

What’s Happening at OC Fairgrounds in August

COSTA MESA (July 15, 2025) – 2025 OC Fair, through Aug. 17

With acres of mouthwatering Fair food, heart-pounding carnival rides, adorable farm animals and spectacular competitions, there’s something for everyone! Grab your family, friends and sense of adventure and come Find Your Happy!

Tickets must be purchased online in advance – buy them online now with no fees!

When: Through Aug. 17
Schedule:
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight
How much: 
$13 general admission on Wednesday & Thursday
$15 general admission Friday – Sunday
$9 seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 every day
Free for kids ages 5 and younger every day
Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles, $30 for buses and limos. 

Special deals:

• Every Day Passports give Fairgoers access to the Fair any or every day for only $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 back this year, serving up taste-size portions of Fair food favorites for only $5 each every day until 4 p.m.

Free with OC Fair admission:

• Exhibits and demonstrations – check out blue-ribbon winners, explore handcrafts and woodworking, marvel at large-scale movie-poster art and get great tips from chefs during culinary demos.
• Performances on community stages and nightly fun – see local talent, dance the night away and catch a show in Baja Bar & Grill.
• Animal experiences – visit Centennial Farm’s animal educators, All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, livestock displays and Great American Petting Farm.

Ticketed performances:
From high-energy concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre to electrifying shows at The Hangar and jaw-dropping thrills in the Action Sports Arena, there’s something for everyone! Events run from July 18 – Sept. 12, and tickets are selling fast! Buy your tickets now to make this summer one to remember.

More info: Visit Find Your Happy

Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

 

Centennial Farm

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

When: Centennial Farm is open to Fairgoers with paid admission through Aug. 17. The Farm reopens to the public on Monday, Aug. 25.
Schedule through Aug. 17:
Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm
How much: Free with Fair admission. Parking is $15.

More info: Visit Centennial Farm

Farmers Market and Goodwill donations

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 dumplings, burritos and more.

OC Farm Bureau now partners with Goodwill of Orange County! Drop donations off at the designated donation truck before or after shopping for local produce!

When: Through Aug. 14, Thursdays, 8 a.m. – noon; Starting Aug. 21, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot D
How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit OC Farm Bureau 

Heroes Hall

Heroes Hall is a free, permanent, year-round museum and education center with exhibitions, performances and educational programs that celebrate the legacy of Orange County veterans and others who have served our nation. The two-story exhibition space will rotate themes semi-annually with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.

The current exhibit, “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam,” offers a powerful and immersive journey through one of modern history’s most complex and divisive conflicts. Through a rich collection of artifacts, personal stories, historical facts and poignant memorabilia, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the war’s profound impact on the soldiers who fought and the broader global context. On display through Dec. 21.

When: Heroes Hall is open to Fairgoers with paid admission through Aug. 17.
Schedule:
Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free with Fair admission. Parking is $15.

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Want to keep tabs on our pigs all year long? Watch the Centennial Farm pigs LIVE on our official Pig Cam and see what these adorable rascals are up to!

More info: Visit Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Coming up in September

 

Heroes Hall Speaker Series – Orange, California to Pleiku, Vietnam, Sept. 6

Join us for a special speaker series presentation by Heroes Hall docent and Vietnam veteran Paul Todd. 

U.S. Army veteran Todd was teaching middle school history in 1971 when he was drafted. After his advanced training at Fort Rucker, Alabama, he received orders for Vietnam. He was stationed at Tuy Hoa, then at Artillery Hill, a firebase located in Pleiku in the Central Highlands. Todd will share his personal story and the lessons he learned. He’ll also share his father’s story, a submariner in World War II who was captured by the Japanese and spent two years in a POW camp in Ofuna.  

When: Saturday, Sept. 6, 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum & Education Center
How much: Free admission and parking.
More info: RSVP here, or call 714-708-1613
Costa Mesa Speedway, Sept. 13

Harley Night Finals / Speedway / Sidecars

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed night of speedway races! Watch as fearless racers rev up their fuel-burning motorcycles and push the limits at lightning speed. Expect unpredictable moments as riders take daring, high-lean turns at full throttle, right in front of your eyes – it’s a race night you won’t forget! 

When: Saturday, Sept. 13
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 6-7 p.m.
First race at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena 
How much: $30 general admission; free for kids 10 and younger. Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles. 

More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

Rameelo Raas Garba, Sept. 13

Get ready for the most vibrant Garba night of the year! Join us at the OC Fairgrounds for Navlakh Navratri 2025 featuring the sensational Jigardan Gadhavi (Jigrra) live in concert. Experience authentic Gujarati Garba, Raas and high-energy beats as Jigrra brings his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence to Orange County.

When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Huntington Beach Building
How much: $25 general admission through Aug. 15; $30 general admission starting Aug. 16. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Rameelo Raas Garba

SoCAL World Guitar Show, Sept. 13 – 14

Bring all the musical instruments or related items you can carry to sell, trade or have appraised. Plus, purchase everything from guitars, amps, banjos, mandolins, drums, violins, effects, memorabilia, sound gear, parts, effects, records, books, clothing, accessories and more!

When: Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 13-14
Schedule:
Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar
How much: $25 general admission; free for kids 11 and younger with an adult. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Amigo SoCAL

Sand Sports Super Show, Sept. 19 – 21

Join us for three days of fun! Get up close to the latest sand rails, ATVs, UTVs/side x sides, accessories, apparel and a whole lot more. 

When: Friday – Sunday, Sept. 19-21
Schedule:
Friday, Sept. 19, 4 – 10 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m .- 7 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: Presale through Sept. 18 – $16 general admission, $6 children 6-12, $33 weekend pass. Gate prices – $20 general admission, $10 for children 6-12, $15 for military. Children under 5 are free. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit Sand Sport Super Show

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, Sept. 25

When: Thursday, Sept. 25, 9:30 a.m. 
Where: OC Fair and Event Center Administration Building or virtually on Zoom
More info: Visit Public Meetings

Costa Mesa Speedway, Sept. 27

Knobby Night Invitational #2 / Speedway / Jrs.

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed night of speedway races! Watch as fearless racers rev up their fuel-burning motorcycles and push the limits at lightning speed. Expect unpredictable moments as riders take daring, high-lean turns at full throttle, right in front of your eyes – it’s a race night you won’t forget! 

When: Saturday, Sept. 27
Schedule:
Gates open at 6 p.m.
Baja Bar & Grill happy hour, 6-7 p.m.
First race at 7:30 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena 
How much: $30 general admission; free for kids 10 and younger. Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles. 

More info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

OC Pride Festival & Parade, Sept. 27

Join us for Orange County’s largest LGBTQIA+ celebration of the year!

This year’s theme, Revolutionary, is a bold call to action—a celebration of unity, visibility and the unshakable power of community. Whether you’re marching in the FREE pride parade, dancing at the pride stage or exploring vibrant zones throughout the festival, be part of the movement.

When: Saturday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds
How much: General admission is $20. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit OC Pride Festival

Tuesday, July 15, 2025 (3:00 pm)

The OC Fair is the place to Find Your Happy – opening day is this Friday so grab your tickets

COSTA MESA (July 15, 2025) – Summer’s most anticipated celebration is returning this week for its 23-day run, July 18-Aug. 17.

This year’s OC Fair theme is “Find Your Happy,” and fairgoers will find a plethora of delicious and exciting opportunities to do just that.

There’s fun every day, with activities ranging from interacting with animals in the petting zoo to checking out exhibits, enjoying performances by local groups on community stages and more.

Ten terrific tips to help plan your OC Fair visit

• Carnival – New rides have arrived at this year’s Fair, including Aviator, Soundstorm and the Royal Wheel in the main carnival midway. Frog Hopper will make its debut in the kids’ carnival. There will be more than 60 rides and a thrilling lineup of games delivering a rush of adrenaline and plenty of chances to win giant stuffed animals. ocfair.com/oc-fair/things-to-do/carnival/. Pro tip: purchase carnival wristbands online now for Wednesdays and Thursdays before prices go up on opening day, when wristbands must be purchased onsite.

• Food – The popular $5 Taste of Fair is back each day until 4 p.m.! Concessionaires will be serving smaller-size Fair favorites for only $5 each. Check out the food finder to scope out crazy new creations, like bacon cotton candy, and to track down your faves: ocfair.com/oc-fair/food-finder/. Pro tip: Grab shareable options and pack reusable containers to take extras home.

• Entertainment – Tickets to shows in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena include same-day Fair admission – it’s your all-day pass to fun! Post-Fair show tickets include admission on any Wednesday or Thursday during the Fair. From ZZ Top to Mowterized Mayhem lawnmower races, there’s something for everyone: ocfair.com/oc-fair/entertainment/.

• Kid stuff – Yes, the OC Fair is a kids’ paradise! Here are some don’t-miss, kid-friendly things to do: All-Alaskan Racing Pigs shows, Sand and Sea exhibits and experiences highlighting the Orange County coastline and our aquatic friends, and Megan the Bubbleologist will be roaming the fairgrounds. Look for the OC Fair Foodies – costumed characters ready for their closeups with kids of all ages. Pro tip: Look for the new baby pigs at Centennial Farm.

• Every Day Passport – Get Fair access any day or every day with no restrictions or blackout days. Pass holders also get special two-for-one offers on select concerts and entertainment. The Every Day Passport is $60 and supplies are limited. ocfair.com/oc-fair/admission.

• Daily schedule – Check out each day’s activities and choose your adventure. Find pro athlete pop-up visits, live painting demonstrations at Rewind: A VHS Comeback, entertainment schedules, livestock shows and more. ocfair.com/oc-fair/things-to-do/activities/.

• Shopping – Savvy shoppers wait all year long for those only-at-the-OC Fair deals. Look for your favorite vendors and discover new sellers, several are OC staples. Pro tip: Look for vendors with take-and-bake options to bring a taste of the Fair home. ocfair.com/oc-fair/things-to-do/shopping/.

• Learn something fun – Check out wine and food seminars in the Wine Courtyard, participate in handcraft demonstrations and crafts, catch chef talks in the culinary building and head to Centennial Farm to chat with master gardeners, beekeepers and exotic fruit growers.

• Stay cool and comfy – Sun hat? Check! Sunscreen? Check! Refillable water bottle? Check! Walking shoes? Check! Fair map? Pick one up at an info booth to find exhibit buildings, indoor entertainment, water stations and more. Pro tip: There’s always a nice breeze on Sky Ride, and it takes you across the fairgrounds.

 

• Getting there – Leave the driving to someone else! Hop on the OC Fair Express bus from one of six OCTA locations straight to the Fair for only $2 each way. Fair tickets are required to board. The bus drops passengers right at Yellow Gate. Rideshare is a great option to save time and parking fees. The rideshare drop-off and pick-up is located at Gate 1.

• The OC Fair opens at 11 a.m. and closes at 11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, and at midnight Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
• General admission is $13 Wednesday and Thursday and $15 Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for seniors (60+) and youth (6-12) are $7 every day—no fees.
• Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles, $30 for buses and limos.
• A limited number of tickets are available each day – advance online purchase required.

  More information is at ocfair.com/thefair.

Got questions? Check out our FAQs.

Photos and video for media, as well as OC Fair’s media access request form, are available on the Media Center.

OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California, is home to the annual OC Fair. Year-round attractions include Centennial Farm, Table of Dignity, Heroes Hall and Pacific Amphitheatre. OC Fair & Event Center also hosts year-round events. For more information, visit ocfair.com.

Support of OC Fair & Event Center provides year-round educational opportunities and helps fund community give-back programs.

Tuesday, July 1, 2025 (2:30 pm)

2025 OC Fair opens this month and runs through Aug. 17 – what’s free with admission?

COSTA MESA (July 1, 2025) – OC Fair fans have been waiting all year for the return of summer’s best party – and it starts July 18! Here are some awesome things that are free with Fair admission that will help you Find Your Happy.

For a full OC Fair schedule, visit ocfair.com. Advance tickets are required – no fees. The Fair runs July 18 – Aug. 17.

ENTERTAINMENT

• NEW! OC Fair After Dark at Plaza Pacifica is the place to find dancing and music Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights – swing dancing, DJ sets and Latin music set the beat
• Roving entertainment including the OC Fair Foodies costumed characters, Megan the Bubbleologist, Red Light Brass Band and strolling pianos – throughout the Fairgrounds
• Community entertainment featuring local music groups, dance troupes and more – daily on three stages; evenings in Promenade/Culinary
• Live music in a more intimate setting – nightly in Baja Bar & Grill
• Latin music and dancing – nightly in La Cantina
• The Hangar and Action Sports Arena – performances accessible via standing room with Fair admission (or via paid ticket for reserved seating)
• Comedy hypnotist Mark Yuzuik returns with a week of entertainment in Action Sports Arena
• Performance of Taps – 6 p.m. nightly at Heroes Hall

ANIMALS

• Aquatic touch tank – Explorium/Sand and Sea
• All-Alaskan Racing Pigs – daily in Plaza Pacifica
• Animal judging and displays – daily in Livestock
• Great American Petting Farm – daily near Yellow Gate
• OC Fair’s resident animal educators including pigs, goats, cattle, chickens, rabbits, peacocks and sheep – daily at Centennial Farm. Look for the baby animals!
• Pro tip: Look up on the berm area surrounding Pacific Amphitheatre to see our animal landscapers at work

DEMONSTRATIONS

• Llama show – adult and youth competitions in livestock (rotating)
• Milking – daily in Millennium Barn
• Food preservation, chef’s tips and more – daily in OC Promenade/Culinary
• Chef Ray creates amazing sculptures out of produce – daily in Promenade/Culinary
• Crafts and handmade goods – daily in Home Arts & Collections Gallery plus Cane’s Craft Corner with hands-on fun for everyone
• Pro tip: Hands-on scroll saw demonstrations in woodworking

EXHIBITS

• FEATURED EXHIBIT – REWIND: A VHS Revival: This exhibit showcases hand-painted large scale reproductions of album covers and movie posters, live-painting demonstrations and more that bring the VHS era to life
• Produce and floral competitions – daily at Centennial Farm
• Woodworking, quilting, table setting, baking and more – daily in Home Arts & Collections Gallery and OC Promenade/Culinary
• Fine arts and visual arts competitions and displays in addition to featured artists – daily in Visual Arts Gallery

KID STUFF

• Explorium kids’ Orange County Sand and Sea learning and play area – daily in OC Promenade. Pro tip: Beach games at noon
• Food-related contests for kids – daily in OC Promenade
• Photos with OC Fair Foodies – daily throughout the Fairgrounds
• Color postcards for troops and veterans – daily at Heroes Hall
• Kids’ carnival area
• Fair favorite magician Frank Thurston – Daily on the Promenade/Culinary stage

For more ideas on what to do and see at the OC Fair, visit ocfair.com/oc-fair/things-to-do/

Things to know before you go

• Advance ticket purchase is required – days will sell out – get tickets at ocfair.com for the days you want to attend. No fees on admission tickets.
• The Fair will be open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and 11 a.m. to midnight weekends (Friday and Saturday) July 18 – Aug. 17.
• General admission is $13 on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $15 general admission on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 are always $9.
• Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles and $30 for buses and limos.
• Performances in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena during Fair-time include same-day Fair admission – it’s an all-day pass to enjoy the Fair. Admission for post-Fair shows include Fair admission any Wednesday or Thursday through Aug. 17. Tickets are on sale now. For more information visit ocfair.com.
• Unlimited ride carnival wristbands are back this year for $49. The one-day wristbands can be used Wednesdays and Thursdays, 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. till 8 p.m. Prices increase after July 17.

More information is at ocfair.com/thefair.

Got questions? Check out our FAQs.

Photos and video for media, as well as OC Fair’s media access request form, are available on the Media Center.

Friday, January 10, 2025 (2:24 pm)

Large-animal evacuation information for Southern California fires

OC Fair & Event Center has not yet been activated as a large-animal evacuation site, but stands ready to assist as soon as notification is given by the California Office of Emergency Services. Coordinated efforts are important to keep animals and people safe during these devastating fires.

Here is a list of emergency services from LA County Animal Care:

Emergency Animal Shelter Information

Los Angeles County Fires: Due to the ongoing Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County, the following shelters are available for animals affected by the evacuation orders. Please note capacity details and staffing information:

Large Animals

Lancaster Animal Care Center 5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536

Antelope Valley Fair 2551 W Avenue H, Lancaster, CA 93536

Industry Hills Expo 16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry, CA 91744

Capacity for 200 horses; not staffed by DACC

Pomona Fairplex 1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona, CA 91768

Receiving horses only

Small Animals

Baldwin Park Animal Care Center 4275 Elton St, Baldwin Park, CA 91706

Carson Animal Care Center 216 W Victoria St, Gardena, CA 90248

Downey Animal Care Center 11258 Garfield Ave, Downey, CA 90242

Lancaster Animal Care Center 5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536

Palmdale Animal Care Center 38550 Sierra Hwy, Palmdale, CA 93550

Need assistance evacuating? Call (562) 940-6898.

Monday, October 7, 2024 (2:48 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center receives Ally of the Year Award

Thank you to OC Pride for honoring OC Fair & Event Center with the Ally of the Year award during last weekend’s pride celebration at the Fairgrounds. We are proud to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

 

Monday, September 16, 2024 (2:44 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center sheltered 107 animals evacuated from Southern California fires

Over the past week, OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) sheltered 107 animal evacuees from wildfires across Southern California. Our facility welcomed 94 horses, four goats, four chickens, three ducks and two geese, offering them a safe haven during these challenging times.

“Thank you to everyone for your help with this vital evacuation. Once again, OCFEC is there for the community,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO.

We’re incredibly grateful to be able to support the equestrian and farming communities in this time of need, working closely with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate efforts. The swift action and collaboration ensured these animals had a secure place to stay.

As always, OC Fair & Event Center remains dedicated to serving our community – standing ready to offer our resources when needed.

 

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 (10:52 am)

OC Fair & Event Center takes in 93 horses evacuated from Southern California fires

OC Fair & Event Center is now sheltering 93 horses that have been evacuated from danger zones as fires rage across Southern California.

The displaced horses are in stables at the OC Fairgrounds’ equestrian center and space is still available for more large animals that need to move to safety.

The fairgrounds’ staff is working with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate evacuation efforts and to support the equestrian community and others with large animals that must be relocated. Temporary stalls have been constructed to house additional animals on the property and horse owners have complete access to care for their animals.

For more information on evacuations, please check Resources During a Disaster | Orange County California – Sheriff’s Department (ocsheriff.gov)

“We continue to be a resource for the community as these emergencies progress and will do all that we can to make sure animals have safe shelter as long as needed ,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO. “The OC Fair & Event Center is here to serve and we have the resources to help.”

The OC Fair staff is working to support the needs of the evacuated horses and their owners. At this time, volunteer efforts are not needed at the Fairgrounds.