Press Release

This weekend: Imaginology makes learning fun for the whole family – including the animal lovers


Costa Mesa, Calif. (April 11, 2018) Bring education to life by learning the science of animals, insects and all living things at Imaginology, taking place at OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa this weekend, April 13-15.

At this free event, there will be plenty of hands-on activities for kids of all ages – including interacting with furry, slimy, scaly creatures – all in the name of S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math).

Here are our top 10 suggestions for the child who loves animals of all sorts.

UCCE Master Gardeners

Where do ladybugs like to live? Are they good for your garden? Do they really bring good luck? Get answers to these questions and more! Learn about the daily habits of ladybugs and why these beautiful and tiny creatures are vital to the world around us.

Where: Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm

When: Friday-Sunday, all day

Cow milking on the demo cow

You may drink milk, but have you ever seen firsthand how it got from cow to carton? It may not be as easy as it looks! Come to the Millennium Barn to view demonstrations on how to milk cows. Plus, you can try your hand at milking the demo cow, Maxine.

Where: Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm

When: Friday-Sunday, all day

Ox demo

Being as strong as an ox refers to the powerful strength of these animals. At Millennium Barn, witness the force firsthand in a working oxen demonstration that highlights just what these burly beasts can do.

Where: Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm

When: Friday-Sunday, all day (closed 12:30-1:30 p.m.)

The Great Egg-Scape

How long does it take for a baby chicken to hatch? Enjoy the Great Egg-Scape and watch chicks hatch from eggs and experience their cuteness and all their furry glory as you pet them.

Where: Silo Building at Centennial Farm

When: Friday-Sunday, all day

4-H Dog Show-Obedience / Showmanship / Agility

Watch man’s best friends prove they can also be the best listeners at the 4-H Dog Show. Obedience, showmanship and agility are all qualities that should be applauded – good boy!

Where: Camping Area

When: Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon

OC Beekeepers

Bees are wonderful pollinators of the world who provide honey, beeswax and many other contributions to the ecosystem. Come see what all the “buzz” is about and join the OC Beekeepers to learn about backyard beekeeping and see a real hive in action.

Where: Centennial Farm

When: Friday-Sunday, all day

Horse vaulting demo

If you love horses and creative sports, check out equestrian vaulting. View horses as they majestically move during a vaulting demo. Watch in awe as they walk, trot, canter and gallop.

When: Friday at 1 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday at 1 & 3 p.m.

Where: Livestock Area

Wild Science’s Animal Discovery Show

Wild Science’s Animal Discovery Show will feature cool facts and finds on some of nature’s most mystifying animals. Gain a better understanding of animals you already know about and meet new ones. Some guests will have the opportunity to go up on stage to interact with the animals and insects first-hand.

Where: The Hangar

When: Friday at noon, Saturday at 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Reptile Zoo Show/Prehistoric Pets Presentation

Scales, nails and tails, oh my! Observe more than 100 exotic species of reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids from around the world. Learn about animals so rare that they are not even displayed in some of the largest zoos in the country.

Where: Presentation at Main Mall Stage; exhibit at Action Gallery North

When: Presentation is Friday at 1 p.m.; exhibit on display Friday-Sunday, all day.

Learn about worms and vermicomposting with ENRECOS

Although worms aren’t everyone’s favorite insect, they just may prove to be little underground allies. They do so many things that help soil remain clean and fertile. But how exactly do they accomplish so much? Learn about worms, vermicomposting and more.

Where: Country Meadows

When: Friday-Sunday, all day

Imaginology is open Friday, April 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, April 14-15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free and most activities are included. Parking is free on Friday, $8 on Saturday and Sunday. Read more about Imaginology.

Friday is Field Trip Day and is open to the public; schools and large groups of 10 or more are encouraged to register, but it is not required. On Sunday, Imaginology will also host the Dia del Niño festival, in collaboration with Arts OC and Media Arts Santa Ana; activities include workshops and performances throughout the day.

For a complete schedule of events and a list exhibitors, visit ocfair.com/steam.