New Santa Ana | Category Archives: OC Fair

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!

The OC Fair & Event Center is looking for 1,300 summer workers

Posted on May 9, 2019 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Jobs, OC Fair Leave a comment

The OC Fair & Event Center needs 1,300 seasonal workers to help people make memories at the 2019 OC Fair.

Jobs include everything from building exhibits to working as a costumed character, farm attendant or food safety inspector.

There are also a handful of year-round civil service jobs available, including an accounting officer and traffic and safety manager. Most positions that are currently open fall into the seasonal part-time category with numerous opportunities available in departments such as parking, security and admissions. There are jobs available for those who are interested in being a video editor, marketing coordinator, sign language interpreter or customer service representative.

With only about 150 year-round employees, the OC Fair & Event Center staff works hard to gear up for the busy summer season. Most seasonal jobs have been posted at ocfair.com/jobs and positions are available for people 16 and older. Hiring has begun for key jobs, with other start dates staggered toward the OC Fair, July 12-Aug. 11.

Perks include free admission to the OC Fair, the option to purchase up to 20 Fair tickets for $1 each for friends and family and the opportunity to win a Fair employee scholarship.

For more information, visit ocfair.com/jobs or contact the human resources department at 714-708-1563, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

About the OC Fair & Event Center

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. More at ocfair.com.

Take the bus to the OC Fair and get into the Fair for only $3

Posted on July 29, 2017 by Editor Posted in OC Fair, OCTA, Orange County, Santa Ana, Transportation Leave a comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2017

Go Stress-Free, Go OC Fair Express

The OC Fair Express continues to attract higher weekend ridership than previous years

ORANGE – Since the express bus service to the OC Fair began in 2011, more fair-goers have continued to discover how the OC Fair Express provides a convenient, stress-free ride to and from the OC Fair.

After its first two weekends of service this year, ridership on the Orange County Transportation Authority’s OC Fair Express has grown 36 percent compared to last year. Nearly 30,000 people so far this summer have taken the express service, saving time and money along the way. Continue reading→

Crossroads of the West Gun Show coming to the OC Fair & Event Center on 3/19-20

Posted on March 2, 2016 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Guns, OC Fair Leave a comment

The Crossroads of the West Gun Show, a two-day gun and western Americana show, is coming to the OC Fair and Event Center on March 19 and 20, 2015. Hours are Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: $16 (Children 12 & younger are free when accompanied by a parent or guardian). Information: crossroadsgunshows.com, (801) 544-9125, gunshows@crossroadsgunshows.com. Continue reading→

Orange County Fair traffic and parking advisory

Posted on July 16, 2015 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, OC Fair, Traffic Leave a comment

Costa Mesa Police Department

Advisory: OC Fair Traffic and Parking Advisory

It’s OC Fair time, and this year, it’s One Big Party! The OC Fair will be in town from July 17th – August 16th, and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

We all know that along with the fair comes a large increase in traffic volume on streets adjacent to the fairgrounds. This year, the OC Fair has several promotions that will certainly have an impact on attendance and traffic.

Officer Chris Brunt, who oversees traffic control for the streets during the fair, offers these suggestions: Continue reading→

Solorio hired by the law firm that was involved in the OC Fairgrounds fiasco

Posted on February 3, 2015 by Editor Posted in Democratic Party, Jose Solorio, Lawyers, OC Fair, Orange County, Politics 1 Comment

Former State Assemblyman Jose Solorio was badly beaten last November in the race for the 34th State Senate District, by then Supervisor Janet Nguyen. However things are now looking up for Solorio as he has landed a new job.

Solorio was retained by Nossaman LLP to serve as a Senior Policy Advisor.

Here is Nossaman’s official press release with my comments appearing afterwards: Continue reading→

2014 OC Fair’s closing week features the return of the Budweiser Clydesdales

Posted on August 5, 2014 by Editor Posted in Costa Mesa, Family, Food, OC Fair, Orange County, Orange County Fair, Youth Activities Leave a comment

2014 OC Fair’s Closing Week Features Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Brand New Wild Turkey Stampede, Return of the Budweiser Clydesdales and 5 Nights of Demolition Derby August 6-10

The OC Fair will salute Brea, Buena Park, Cypress, Fullerton, Irvine, La Habra, Lake Forest, Tustin, Villa Park and Yorba Linda on select days August 6-8 with a community flag salute and admission discount

Costa Mesa, Calif. (August 4, 2014) – The 2014 OC Fair (July 11-August 10) continues into its last week of summer fun and festivities featuring world-class entertainment in the Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre and hit tribute band concerts in The Hangar. The OC Fair also welcomes the new Wild Turkey Stampede event and the return of the Budweiser Clydesdales exhibit and parade. Both events are held daily for the rest of the 2014 Fair and are free with Fair admission. The Fair is closed Monday and Tuesday.

Here is a quick look of the events going on this week (August 6-10) at the 2014 OC Fair: Continue reading→