COSTA MESA (July 29, 2026) — Early birds have a delicious and cost-saving reason to head to the OC Fair.
Guests can kick off their Fair day with the Smart Start value, offering admission for just $11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Wednesday and Thursday, making it easier than ever to enjoy the Fair’s morning atmosphere, great food and family-friendly fun.
Coming early is a terrific way to beat the heat and traffic – and parking is a breeze!
Wednesday and Thursday are also Unlimited Ride Wristband days. Fairgoers can layer on the savings by purchasing wristbands that include unlimited rides and two free games. Redeem by 5 p.m.; ride until 8 p.m. Every Day Passports are still available for $60 and include admission any day or every day with no restrictions.
Whether you’re craving a sweet treat, a hearty breakfast or a leisurely brunch with friends, the OC Fair serves up plenty of early favorites to satisfy every appetite.
Fairgoers can also take advantage of the $5 Taste of the Fair that runs daily until 5 p.m. and offers up smaller portions of Fair favorites. A great way to start the day by sampling several tastes.
Dig into one of the Fair’s not-so-secret breakfast-inspired bites throughout the fairgrounds, including:
- Fresh, warm cinnamon rolls – including the $5 Taste portion (pictured above)
- Rich affogatos and coffee combos
- Fresh fruit smoothies
- Breakfast burritos from Noel’s
- Ten Pound Bun Campfire Breakfast (pictured at bottom)
- Iced coffee drinks to fuel your Fair adventure
- Milk tea and boba beverages
- Fresh fruit cups and fruit kebabs
- Fresh pan dulce and pastries at Cafe de Olla
- Plant-based breakfast options from participating vegan food vendors
- Specialty coffee and gluten-free treats from MoonGoat Coffee
- Make it a real brunch with Bloody Marys, Micheladas, margaritas and more. Discover hidden locations for special libations in The Secret Butterfly Garden, The Hitchcock Speakeasy, The Promenade Bar and La Cantina brings the spice with Mexican drinks and eats any time of the day
The morning hours also offer a more relaxed Fair experience, making it the perfect time to stroll exhibits, browse shopping, enjoy live entertainment and experience attractions before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Come hungry, arrive early and make mornings at the OC Fair your newest summer tradition.
OC Fair details
Dates: July 17 – Aug. 16
Hours
- Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – midnight
Fair prices
- Adults: $13 weekdays; $18 weekends
- Youth (6-12): $9 daily
- Seniors (65+): $10 daily
- Children 5 and younger: Free
- Every Day Passports are available for $60 and provide access any day of the Fair with no blackout dates
- Arrive early and save with Smart Start! Enter the fairgrounds between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesday or Thursday for just $11.
- General parking: $15
For tickets, promotions and complete event information, visit ocfair.com.