New Santa Ana | Category Archives: OC Fair

Enjoy wacky food at the OC Fair starting this Friday!

Posted on July 12, 2022 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Entertainment, Food, OC Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (July 12, 2022) – The annual OC Fair is returning on Friday and that means it’s time for unexpected combinations of sweet and savory treats to eat.

New items range from a float topped with hot Cheetos to a brand-new take on potstickers and even a sandwich topped with Cap’n Crunch.

Kool-Aid Chicken Sandwich (made with cherry Kool-Aid)- Chicken Charlie’s

There are also three new concessionaires who will tempt fairgoers during the 23-day run of the Fair, July 15-Aug. 14. And $4 Taste of the Fair is back on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. when fairgoers can try sample-size versions of Fair food. View the menus here.

Also new this year is the Blender Bar – guests mix up their own smoothies or margaritas by peddling a special blender bike located in the Culinary Arts Building where chef demonstrations, eating contests and more will take place daily.

Advance admission purchase is required – no transaction fees – and daily capacity is limited; visit ocfair.com. Tickets must be purchased for specific days and some days are expected to sell out.

New concessionaires this year are:

Garlicky’s – Garlic dogs, garlic sausages, garlic chicken kabobs
Sweets By Cardinali – Milkshakes, ice cream, frozen bananas
Moongoat Coffee – Vegan and gluten-free pastries, coffee

Hot Cheeto Float (lemon-lime float topped with Hot Cheetos) – Biggy’s and Candy Factory

New foods include:

Kool-Aid Chicken Sandwich (made with cherry Kool-Aid)- Chicken Charlie’s
OC Deluxe Avocado Toast (topped with onions and tomatoes) – Ten Pound Buns
Hot Cheeto Chicken Sandwich – Biggy’s
Potstickers with Hot Cheetos batter (chicken and vegetables inside) – Chicken Charlie’s Pineapple Express
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich – Biggy’s
Flaming Hot Ten Pound Bun (topped with Hot Cheetos) – Ten Pound Buns
Hot Cheeto Float (lemon-lime float topped with Hot Cheetos) – Biggy’s and Candy Factory
Cap’n Crunch Chicken Sandwich (topped with cereal) – Biggy’s
Flaming Hot Cheeseburger (topped with Hot Cheetos) – Biggy’s
Hot Cheetos Chicken Sandwich – Biggy’s

New at at the 2022 OC Fair is a Food Guide – guests can pick up a food listing and map at any of the information booths.

As always, fairgoers will enjoy their annual 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 to share.

Check out the full food listing on ocfair.com.

Things to know before you go

The Fair will be open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and 11 a.m. to midnight weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday).
General admission is $12 on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $14 general admission on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-12 are $7 all days.
Parking is $10 for cars and motorcycles and $20 for buses and limos.
Tickets are on sale now and must be purchased in advance with no fees on ocfair.com. Fairgoers should make sure to get tickets for special days and group adventures now, with limited capacity days could sell out (in 2021 17 out of 23 days sold out).
Performances in Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena during fair-time include same-day Fair admission. Tickets are on sale now. For more information visit ocfair.com.
Unlimited ride carnival wristbands are back this year for $44 presale online through July 14 and $49 during the Fair. The one-day wristbands can be used Wednesdays and Thursdays, must be 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.
Carnival ride and game tickets can also be bought online now and are $1.25 each. Tickets required for each ride range from two to 14 tickets and games require between two and eight tickets each. For more information on this year’s rides and games, visit our website.

In-N-Out Burger owner is hosting a charity car show and car cruise on Jan. 15 at the OC Fairgrounds

Posted on January 11, 2022 by Editor Posted in automobiles, Cars, Charities, Costa Mesa, Entertainment, Food, OC Fair, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The owner of In-N-Out Burgers, Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, and her husband Sean Ellingson are hosting the Cruisin’ 2 Freedom Car Show and a Car Cruise on Jan. 15 at the OC Fair and Event Center to benefit their non-profit, Slave 2 Nothing, which was established in 2016 to help improve the lives of individuals and families affected by substance abuse and/or human trafficking.

Here are the event details:

Polish up those wheels, maybe throw on an extra coat of wax and head down to the OC Fairgrounds for an unforgettable Car Show & Car Cruise.

Cars you’ve seen featured on In-N-Out T-shirts will be brought out from the Snyder Garage!

Enter a display vehicle in the Car Show for the chance to win prizes and take home Cruisin’ 2 Freedom commemorative gifts!

Or, start your engines and get ready to cruise, when you set off on a 22-mile drive that includes photo-worthy moments at iconic In-N-Out Burger restaurants located along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway.

At the end of the cruise, you’ll wheel on back to the OC Fairgrounds, where you can enjoy a Double-Double fresh from In-N-Out Burger’s Cookout Trucks, take part in Special Raffle Giveaways, and bid on exciting Silent & Live Auction packages, all while learning more about the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation’s impactful work in our communities.

Wrap up the evening with a heartwarming Give Back activity as we come together to provide comfort and support to trafficking survivors.

Every penny raised by your registration and donations goes directly to organizations that are working tirelessly on the front lines to help eliminate human trafficking and save lives.

See you at the starting line!

AGENDA

1:30-3:00PM – Display Vehicle Check-In
2:30PM – Sponsor Cruise Line-Up
3:00PM – Car Show Opens! Food Trucks & Music!
3:30PM – Sponsor Car Cruise Begins
4:30PM – Cruise Sponsors Return
6:00PM – Welcome & S2N Program, Live Auction
7:00PM – Car Show Awards & Special Raffle Winners
7:15PM – Giveback Hygiene Kit Activity
7:30PM – Thank You!

Click here to register for the event.

Free COVID-19 test kits and testing locations now available for O.C. residents

Posted on December 29, 2021 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Disease, Health and Medical, OC Fair, OC Health Care, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Free at-home COVID-19 test kits are now available for individuals that live in Orange County. Both saliva-based and nasal swab options available to accommodate individual preferences.

Please visit https://ochealthinfo.com/covidtest to place your order and know your status.

Free COVID-19 testing will also be administered at the OC Fair fairgrounds during the week, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Orange County residents can schedule an appointment by texting “COVID” to 888-210-6758.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and you cannot get a test though your healthcare provider, you can also get a FREE medical assessment and a test through the OC COVID-19 Testing Network. These are all community health centers that offer testing and care, even if you do not have health insurance. If you test positive your close contacts (within 6 feet for at least 15 minutes within a 24 hour period during the infectious period) will be tested or referred to another location for testing. Click here for more info regarding COVID-19 symptoms and testing.

Testing locations are listed below:

Family Health Matters Community Health Center Fullerton Monday – Friday, https://hipaa.jotform.com/201466740399159, (714) 441-0411
Families Together of Orange County Tustin Wednesday-Friday (714) 332-6359
KCS Health Center Buena Park Tuesday & Thursday https://www.kcshealthcenter.org/covid19-testing, (714) 503-6550
Laguna Beach Community Clinic Laguna Beach Monday – Friday www.lbclinic.org, (949) 494-0761
Serve the People Community Health Center Santa Ana Tuesday & Thursday Saturday (714) 742-2738
SOS Health Center Costa Mesa Monday – Friday (949) 270-2100
SOS Health Center Mission Viejo Monday – Friday (949) 270-2100
SOS Health Center Newport Beach Monday – Friday (949) 270-2100
SOS Health Center, Santa Ana Monday – Friday (949) 270-2100
Southland Integrated Services, Inc. Garden Grove Monday – Friday (714) 620-7001
St. Jude Neighborhood Health Center Fullerton Monday – Friday (714) 446-5100

The next OC Fair is set for July 15-Aug. 14, 2022

Posted on December 16, 2021 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, OC Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (Dec. 16, 2021) – Today the OC Fair announced that “Feel the Sunshine” will be the theme of the 2022 annual event which will be back July 15-Aug. 14 and tickets are on sale now.

Advance ticket purchase will again be required with limited capacity for summer’s best party, which will be open Wednesday through Sunday. Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

“We are excited to invite everyone to come out to the 2022 OC Fair and ‘Feel the Sunshine,’” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards. “Our limited capacity, advance ticket sale model worked out so well last year that we are bringing it back so fairgoers can have more great experiences.”

Fair officials kept the ticket prices at the same as the past several years, $12 general admission on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday) and $14 general admission on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Tickets for seniors 60+ and kids 6-13 are $7 all days. OC Fair will absorb the online admission ticket transaction fees. Parking is $10 for cars and motorcycles and $20 for buses and limos.

Tickets are also on sale for the first OC Fair concerts announced for Pacific Amphitheatre and The Hangar. Live music performances include Steve Miller Band, ABBA LA and Bee Gees Gold, Which One’s Pink?, 24K Magic and the brand new show, LA Sound Machine.

“The annual OC Fair is a wonderful opportunity to provide fun and education to the community,” said OC Fair Board Chair Doug La Belle. “Our guests get to experience agriculture, our competitions, Centennial Farm and Heroes Hall along with all the excitement of the carnival, food and entertainment.”

Returning OC Fair favorites include magician Frank Thurston, Brew Hee Haw craft beer fest, monster truck races, Dragon Knights stilt walkers, Russell Brothers Circus, hypnotist Mark Yuzuik, demolition derbies, All-Alaskan pig races and, of course, crazy fair food.

The OC Fair returned to an in-person event during the summer of 2021 with attendance at 1,055,770 after a virtual Fair was held online in 2020 due to the pandemic.

For more information, visit ocfair.com.

Over one million guests attended the 2021 OC Fair

Posted on August 26, 2021 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, OC Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (Aug. 25, 2021) – The OC Fair has announced that 1,055,770 guests attended the 2021 event which ran from July 16 through Aug. 15, 2021.

Advance tickets were required for the first time as the Fair moved forward with limited daily capacity and a slightly slimmed down array of booths and attractions. Also for the first time, the OC Fair sold out 16 of its 23 days due to capacity limitations.

“While we’re so pleased that more than a million people came out to support the return of the OC Fair this year, increased attendance is no longer a number by which we will measure the success of the Fair,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards. “More important to us is the great guest experience we were able to create, our ability to responsibly manage our resources and achieve profitability, and our efforts to be good neighbors and support the community in times of need.”

“Time for Fun,” was the theme of this year’s Fair and guests agreed. The 2021 guest survey showed that the Fair earned an overall enjoyment rating of 4.2 out of 5 and the advance ticketing process earned a 4.5 out of 5 rating from visitors.

Some 16 percent who answered the survey said they attended the OC Fair for the first time and fairgoers said their favorite parts of the event were food, animals and exhibits.

Visitors also enjoyed music at this year’s Fair with 20 sold-out concerts in The Hangar and so far nine sold-out shows in Pacific Amphitheatre.

Concerts under the stars are continuing with five more shows in Pacific Amphitheatre:

Aug. 25 – Goo Goo Dolls with special guest Sister Hazel – Buy tickets

Aug. 26 – Flaming Lips with special guest Greer – Buy tickets

Sept. 2 – Chase Rice with special guest Breland – Buy tickets

Sept. 11 – Pacific Symphony performing Tchaikovsky’s “1812” Overture – Buy tickets

Sept. 23 – Hank Williams Jr. with special guest Jackson Dean – Buy tickets

The 2020 OC Fair was canceled due to the pandemic and a virtual event was held online. Attendance at the 2019 OC Fair was 1,393,482.

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

The OC Fair opens this week

Posted on July 12, 2021 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Entertainment, OC Fair, Youth Activities Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (July 12, 2021) – Summer’s most anticipated celebration is returning this week for its full 23-day run the OC Fair is back July 16-Aug. 15.

With limited daily capacity, tickets could sell out. Advance admission purchase is required; visit ocfair.com or download the OC Fair 2021 mobile app.

“Bringing back the OC Fair to our community means our staff can do what we love to do and what we do best – make people happy!” said Michele Richards, OC Fair & Event Center CEO. “This year’s fair theme is ‘Time for Fun’ and it could not be more fitting.”

There is lots of fun planned for every day with activities ranging from experiencing the animals in the petting zoo to checking out exhibits and enjoying local groups performing on community stages.

New rides will debut at this year’s Fair with Windsurf, Moonraker and New York New York in the main carnival midway. Winky the Whale and Liberty Wheel will be new attractions in the kids carnival. There will be more than 35 games, giving fairgoers many ways to win giant stuffed animals and other prizes.

A new show, Piano Madness, featuring dueling piano players, will perform nightly in Plaza Pacifica. More evening music will be coming from the shows in The Hangar and fairgoers can enjoy the party in the Main Mall.

For the kids and families, Explorium is moving into OC Promenade this year with special activities designed to help little ones adventure into the great outdoors and California’s National Parks. The Magic of Frank Thurston will entertain there each day.

At Centennial Farm, fairgoers can learn from OC Beekeepers, UCCE OC Master Gardeners, California Rare Fruit Growers and more. There are also milking demonstrations and produce and floral exhibits along with the farm’s resident animals and crops.

In the livestock area, there are more animals to teach and entertain. Displays and demonstrations include Oasis Camel Dairy, Friesian horses, game birds, sheep, goats, llamas and urban livestock.

The OC Fair has added more shaded tables and seating areas for dining and has increased sanitization procedures to help keep everyone safe.

Tickets must be purchased in advance with no fees on ocfair.com. Fairgoers should make sure to get tickets for special days and group adventures now, since limited daily capacity days could sell out.

Key things to know about the 2021 OC Fair:

A limited number of tickets are available each day
Advance online ticket sales only – no transaction fees
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
OC Fair is not currently planning to increase capacity
Ticket prices will not increase
Sales are no longer restricted to California residents
Masks are required indoors for unvaccinated guests

Tickets are $12 weekday general admission (Wednesday, Thursday) and $14 weekend general admission (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). Admission for seniors (60+) and youth (ages 6-12) is $7 every day and children 5 and younger are free.

The 2021 OC Fair mobile app is now available with information on daily activities as well as a map, news & information and tickets. Search for “ocfair 2021” in your app store.

The Fair will open each day at 10 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays and midnight on weekends.

General parking is still $10, $20 for buses and limos, credit card only. The free shuttle from Experian and OCTA’s OC Fair Express bus service will not be available this year. Carnival tickets are also on sale now so fairgoers can skip the ticket booths, and tickets for concerts in The Hangar and Pacific Amphitheatre can be found at ocfair.com/entertainment.

More information is at ocfair.com/thefair. Got questions? Check out our FAQs.

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

The OC Fair’s Imaginology goes virtual April 19-25, youth competitions now open for entries

Posted on January 14, 2021 by Editor Posted in Education, OC Fair, Science, Youth Activities Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (Jan. 14, 2021) – This year, Imaginology will be virtual – all the S.T.E.A.M. fun will be at the fingertips of students, parents and teachers from April 19-25.

Still free and open to all, Imaginology is bringing science, engineering, arts and math to students of all ages with lots of activities and hands-on learning.

Imaginology student competitions are now open for entries. Categories include collage, cosplay, digital art, drawing, painting, photography, poetry and 3D creations. The deadline to enter is March 19. Divisions range from pre-K to grades 9-12 and include an any-age special needs category.

Each year thousands of students submit their projects to be judged by professionals as they vie for Blue (Excellent), Red (Wonderful) and White (Great) awards. There is no limit to the number of awards given in a division and every project will receive an e-ribbon. Out of these awards, Division Winners will be selected as well.

This year all competitions are virtual and students will submit photos of their projects.

More information on Imaginology, competitions and an entry link here. The Deadline to enter is March 19, 2021, 6 p.m.

“Although we will miss having students, teachers and parents here at the fairgrounds for a whole lot of hands-on learning, we know this year we have to find other creative ways to connect everyone with S.T.E.A.M.,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards. “Imaginology remains a favorite community give-back for us and we are looking forward to introducing new ways to educate and entertain students this spring.”

Imaginology involves OC Fair & Event Center’s educational venues, Centennial Farm and Heroes Hall, and staff members are working hard to create virtual fun to help students learn about animals, plants and the physical world.

Activities for students include a scavenger hunt, educational games, videos and more. There will be an e-sports component featuring Esports College & Career Pathways hosting tournaments, expert panels and giveaways. OC Fair & Event Center is also partnering with OC Marathon to create a unique fun run experience special to Imaginology. A full schedule of activities, events and exhibits will be announced in March.

OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa is home to the annual OC Fair. Year-round attractions include Centennial Farm, Table of Dignity, Heroes Hall and Pacific Amphitheatre. Throughout the year events ranging from recreation shows to cultural festivals are held at the fairgrounds. For more information, visit ocfair.com.

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

Fair Food Drive-Thru extended into October at the OC Fair & Event Center

Posted on September 28, 2020 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Food, OC Fair Leave a comment

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. New 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.

Concessionaires remaining through October are Dole Whip, 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 Tyme 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.

The O.C. Fair to launch Fair Food Drive-Thru starting Aug. 28

Posted on August 21, 2020 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Food, OC Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (Aug. 21, 2020) – OC Fair fans won’t have to miss out on their food fix this year after all. Starting Aug. 28, the Fair Food Drive-Thru will offer summer treats from four food vendors bringing a taste of the OC Fair to go.

Guests longing for their favorite delightful indulgences can head to the fairgrounds in Costa Mesa and choose from special menus from one or all of the following:

• Cathy’s Cookies
• Dippin’ Dots
• Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
• Hot Dog on a Stick and Veggie Dog on a Stick

Menu items include turkey legs, teriyaki chicken bowls, hot dog and cheese dog on a stick, and chocolate chip cookies. See a map and full menu at ocfair.com/drivethru.

Guests will enter through Gate 1 off Fair Drive, and will be directed toward the order lane or passing lane. Guests will be required to stay in their vehicle and wear a mask while ordering from the vendor. Credit card payment is preferred. No walkups will be allowed and no parking will be available.

Fair Food Drive-Thru, starting Aug. 28
Fridays & Saturdays, noon-8 p.m.
Sundays, noon-6 p.m.

For more information, visit ocfair.com.

Also coming to the fairgrounds:

DRIVE-IN CONCERT EXPERIENCE

Autosonic Concerts presents Dead Man’s Party in a drive-in concert experience at OC Fair & Event Center on Sept. 27. The Oingo Boingo tribute band will perform live while guests enjoy the concert from the comfort of their vehicles. Tickets are on sale now at autosonicconcerts.com.

DRIVE-THRU HALLOWEEN HAUNT

Urban Legends of Southern California has come to save Halloween! The drive-thru Halloween haunt will run from Oct. 1 through Nov. 1. Tickets are on sale now at urbanlegendshaunt.com.

FARMERS MARKET

Every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., local farmers and merchants sell fresh produce, food items, home goods and more. Parking and admission are free. See safety guidelines and more info at ocfair.com/events.

OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa is home to the annual OC Fair and Imaginology. Year-round attractions include Centennial Farm, Table of Dignity, Heroes Hall and Pacific Amphitheatre. Throughout the year, events ranging from recreation shows to cultural festivals are held at the Fairgrounds. For more information, visit ocfair.com.

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

Free food distribution this Saturday at the MainPlace Mall and the OC Fair

Posted on August 14, 2020 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Food, OC Fair, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The Power of One Foundation (POOF) is offering free drive-through food distributions on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020, at MainPlace Mall in Santa Ana and OC Fair & Events Center in Costa Mesa.

Details:

• MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 8-10 a.m.; the line begins at MainPlace Drive and Main Street beginning at 7 a.m.

• OC Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (noon); line begins on Fairview Boulevard at Gate 3 beginning at 6 a.m.

Please stay in your car with the windows rolled up when receiving food. Make sure your vehicle trunk is empty so food can be placed in it.

For more information on POOF food events, visit www.powerofonefoundation.org.

Comida Gratis el Sábado 15 de Agosto en MainPlace Mall y OC Fai

The Power of One Foundation (POOF) está ofreciendo distribuciones gratuitas de alimentos en carro el sábado 15 de agosto de 2020 en MainPlace Mall en Santa Ana y OC Fair & Events Center en Costa Mesa.

Detalles:
• MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 8-10 a.m.; la línea comienza en MainPlace Drive y Main Street a partir de las 7 a.m.
• OC Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, de las 8 a.m. a las 12 p.m. (mediodía); la línea comienza en Fairview Boulevard en la Entrada 3 (Gate 3) a partir de las 6 a.m.

Por favor, quédese en su automóvil con las ventanas cerradas cuando reciba alimentos. Asegúrese de que el baúl de su vehículo esté vacío para que se puedan colocar alimentos adentro.

Para más información sobre los eventos de comida de POOF, visite www.powerofonefoundation.org.

Free food on Saturday, Aug. 1, at the MainPlace Mall and at the OC Fairgrounds

Posted on July 30, 2020 by Editor Posted in Civic Affairs, Costa Mesa, Food, OC Fair, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The Power of One Foundation (POOF) is offering free drive-through food distributions on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2020, at MainPlace Mall in Santa Ana and at the OC Fair & Events Center in Costa Mesa.

Details:

• MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 8-10 a.m.; the line begins at MainPlace Drive and Main Street beginning at 7 a.m.

• OC Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (noon); line begins on Fairview Boulevard at Gate 3 beginning at 6 a.m.

Please stay in your car with the windows rolled up when receiving food. Make sure your vehicle trunk is empty so food can be placed in it.

For more information on POOF food events, visit www.powerofonefoundation.org.

Comida Gratis el Sábado 1 de Agosto en MainPlace Mall y OC Fair

The Power of One Foundation (POOF) está ofreciendo distribuciones gratuitas de alimentos en carro el sábado 1 de agosto de 2020 en MainPlace Mall en Santa Ana y OC Fair & Events Center en Costa Mesa.

Por favor, quédese en su automóvil con las ventanas cerradas cuando reciba alimentos. Asegúrese de que el baúl de su vehículo esté vacío para que se puedan colocar alimentos adentro.

Para más información sobre los eventos de comida de POOF, visite www.powerofonefoundation.org.

The OC Fair & Event Center will launch the 2020 Virtual OC Fair on July 17

Posted on July 2, 2020 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Entertainment, Family, OC Fair, Youth Activities Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (July 2, 2020) – The 2020 OC Fair is going virtual! While fairgoers may not be able to hop on their favorite carnival ride or enjoy crazy Fair food in person, we are keeping the spirit of the Fair alive on social media and ocfair.com.

Starting July 17, several Virtual OC Fair elements will be highlighted each day on social media through July 27, with lots of fun content on ocfair.com all summer long.

Videos of your favorite performers, photo galleries of summer memories, family activities, special contests and more will bring that OC Fair connection to people no matter where they are. Even the OC Fair Fun Run 5K is going virtual and the prizes are terrific!

Virtual fairgoers can learn how to create Fair-style crafts at home, get the skinny on making deep-fried Oreos, take a tour of Centennial Farm, decipher a magic trick, get the best garden pesto recipe and more from OC Fair staff and partners. There is even a virtual dance party in the works.

Plus, there are ways to win virtual ribbons this year with contests; entrants just need to submit photos of their creations. There are 33 unique categories this year, including Doughmestic Baking, Home Landscapes, Best Hen House and photography categories like Bedhead, Empty Streets and Essential Workers. Deadline for entries is July 6.

In a twist to the virtual theme, We Care Wednesday will take place July 22 with our nonprofit partner Goodwill of Orange County. Participants can donate gently used clothing items at specific Goodwill locations instead of at the fairgrounds. Donors will receive a ticket to the 2021 OC Fair and a coupon for a free Wahoo’s taco as thanks for giving back to the community.

Through this year’s Virtual Market Livestock Show, 49 agriculture students who raised 82 animals to show at the Fair had the opportunity to be matched with buyers. Usually 4-H and FFA students can sell their animal projects at the Fair’s Junior Livestock Auction, but with that not possible this year, OC Fair staff wanted to help the students recoup costs and devised a virtual way to make that happen.

Here is a directory of vendors commonly found at the OC Fair who are offering online shopping.

For more information on the 2020 Virtual OC Fair, visit ocfair.com or follow @ocfair on Facebook and @oc_fair on Instagram.

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

The OC Fair Board issues a solidarity proclamation in support of the Black Community

Posted on June 30, 2020 by Editor Posted in African Americans, Costa Mesa, OC Fair, Orange County Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA – The OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors unanimously issued a proclamation today in support of the Black Community and stands united against discrimination and committed to inclusion, diversity and equality.

Recognizing this painful time for many members of our community, the Board voted to reaffirm its commitment to denounce discrimination or violence in any form.

The following statement was approved at today’s Board of Directors meeting:

Proclamation of the Board of Directors of the 32nd District Agricultural Association

WHEREAS, the mission of the 32nd District Agricultural Association (the 32nd DAA) is the “Celebration of Orange County’s Communities, Interests and Heritage”; and

WHEREAS, the 32nd DAA is against discrimination on the basis of race, creed, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, disability, political affiliation, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, or marital, parental or military status; and

WHEREAS, the 32nd DAA condemns the deeply troubling actions that occurred in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which led to the inexcusable and senseless death of Mr. George Floyd; and the same troubling actions that have taken the lives of so many other Black men, women, boys and girls, even since Mr. Floyd; and

WHEREAS, the 32nd DAA stands in solidarity with those that peacefully protest against violence, inequality and excessive force; and

WHEREAS, the 32nd DAA recognizes the community is in turmoil, and looking to its leaders to affirm their commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equality; and

WHEREAS, the 32nd DAA stands with the members of our Black Community and all people of color who have been ignored, marginalized and disenfranchised;

NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of the 32nd District Agricultural Association hereby does proclaim on June 25, 2020, that it stands in solidarity with the Black Community and reaffirms its commitment to denounce discrimination or violence in any form.

The 2020 Orange County Fair has been canceled

Posted on April 27, 2020 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, OC Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (April 27, 2020) – The OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors voted unanimously today to cancel the 2020 OC Fair, one of the most anticipated and enduring summer celebrations in Southern California for 130 years. The Board considered ongoing guidance and updated information from State and County health care and government officials about the status of the coronavirus pandemic and the improbability that mass gatherings like the OC Fair could safely and responsibly take place this summer.

In addition to the regularly scheduled monthly meeting, the Board called a second April meeting specifically to review all options and discuss whether or not to move forward with the 2020 OC Fair. The action comes amid unprecedented community stay-at-home and social distancing orders and will protect guests, vendors and staff during the COVID-19 crisis.

“The decision to cancel the 2020 OC Fair was not taken lightly by the Board. As Governor-appointed representatives the Board has a responsibility to provide a safe experience to the community-at-large, the hundreds of people who depend on county fairs for their livelihood, fairgoers and OC Fair staff,” said Board Chair Sandra Cervantes. “While many of our guests have expressed extreme disappointment over the idea of the 2020 Fair being canceled, we strongly believe it is the right thing to do in this current situation. However, we will keep the spirit of the OC Fair alive with virtual fair concepts such as contests, competitions, entertainment and concessions to bring the fair experience to guests through ocfair.com and social media.”

The 23-day OC Fair welcomes more than 1.3 million fairgoers each year and has an estimated economic impact of $350 million annually. The Fair was canceled 1942-1947 during wartime, but otherwise has been a summer staple since 1890. Information on refunds for concert tickets and Super Passes that have already been purchased can be found at ocfair.com/refunds. “We love the OC Fair as much as our guests do. And, while it’s disappointing that the Fair can’t take place this year, we fully support the Board’s decision,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair & Event Center CEO. “But please know OC Fair & Event Center will still be here to serve the community as we plan for the next OC Fair and the eventual return of our wonderful events.”

OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA, is home to the annual OC Fair and Imaginology. Year-round attractions include Centennial Farm, Table of Dignity, Heroes Hall and Pacific Amphitheatre. Throughout the year, events ranging from recreation shows to cultural festivals are held at the fairgrounds.

The 2019 O.C. Fair is starting this Friday

Posted on July 11, 2019 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, OC Fair Leave a comment

COSTA MESA (July 9, 2019) – The 129th annual OC Fair opens this Friday with all of the crazy food, great rides summer concerts and one amazing craft beer festival.

This year OC Brew Hee Haw is moving into The Hangar and the 6th annual craft beer roundup is set to showcase more than 80 regional favorite and rarely seen craft beers on July 12 and 13.

There will be live entertainment from Orange County Oingo Boingo Tribute band Dead Man’s Party during Friday’s session and Los Angeles ’80s tribute act Fast Times during both Saturday sessions.

The new location at The Hangar offers room for more breweries than ever before, with the brewery lineup including Artifex Brewery, Chapman Crafted Beer, Four Sons Brewing, Burgeon Beer Co., Beachwood Brewing, Pizza Port Brewing Co., Stereo Brewing, Bottle Logic Brewing, Unsung Brewing Co., and many more.

Tastings will be held in three sessions from 8-11 p.m. on Friday; 1:30-4:30 p.m. and 7:30-10:30 p.m. on Saturday. VIP guests are invited one hour early for additional tasting time.

Tickets include free OC Fair admission, so attendees can come for the beer and stay for the Fair! OC Brew Hee Haw’s location at The Hangar offers attendees easy access to the OC Fair’s vendors and attractions. Guests can have Acres of Fun with the OC Fair’s annual pig races, carnival games, extensive Fair food options and classic rides.

Tickets to the 6th Annual OC Brew Hee Haw at the OC Fair are available for purchase at BrewHeeHaw.com. Ticket prices are $55 each and, if available, day-of prices are $65 each. VIP tickets are available for $65 each and, if available, $75 day-of ticket.

Getting to the OC Fair

Traffic advisory: Plan to arrive early – especially for OC Fair ticketed events, including concerts. Ride-hailing services, public transportation, carpooling, OC Fair Express bus (Saturday and Sunday) and free offsite parking at Experian (Saturday and Sunday) are highly recommended.

If you do drive, check the latest traffic and 405 Project updates on Google Maps and Waze. Full construction updates are available on the OCTA website and OCTA’s interactive map.The 2019 OC Fair runs July 12 through Aug. 11 and offers 23 days and nights of entertainment, food, rides, shopping, exhibits and more. Hours are noon to midnight Wednesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, visit ocfair.com.

OC Fair Express Returns July 13!

It’s back! Enjoy non-stop travel to the OC Fair from nine convenient Orange County locations Saturdays and Sundays through Aug. 11 from approximately 10 a.m. to midnight. Only $2 each way, and you get a coupon for $4 OC Fair admission. Save $10—a great value!

Free Connections

Transfer free to the OC Fair Express with your valid Metrolink or Amtrak Pacific Surfliner ticket at the Anaheim Canyon, Anaheim ARTIC, Santa Ana, Irvine, or Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink stations.

Kick off the OC Fair Express this Saturday in Anaheim

Let’s get this party started! There’ll be lots to do, plenty of freebies, plus the first 100 people in attendance ride free to the OC Fair! Enter to win a prize package that includes an OC Fair lunch for 4, carnival rides, signed Ducks memorabilia, and more!
Listen to music
Enjoy refreshments
Grab some freebies
Catch a free ride
Snap a Photo with Olivia the orange and Scoop the ice cream cone.
Meet Anaheim Ducks Wild Wing and Street Team!