The 2026 OC Fair is officially entering its action-packed third week! Running Wednesday through Sunday until August 16, 2026, at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, this week’s “Your Adventure Awaits” lineup brings an incredible mix of legendary music icons, high-octane crash derbys, and retro exhibits. Whether you are hunting for the best Fair food deals, looking for a world-class outdoor concert, or seeking a thrilling night at the arena, here is your ultimate guide to everything happening from August 6 to August 9, 2026.
Headlining Concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre
Catching a show under the stars at the Toyota Summer Concert Series is the quintessential Southern California summer experience. Best of all, your concert ticket includes same-day admission to the OC Fair!
- Aug. 6 (7:30 PM): Patti LaBelle guest starring The O’Jays
- Aug. 7, 8 & 9 (6:00 PM): Rebelution with Skip Marley & Niko Rubio (Three-night run!)
Action Sports Arena: Demolition Derbys are Back!
If you love loud engines and spectacular crashes, head over to the Action Sports Arena. High-flying demolition derbys kick off at 7:30 PM nightly:
- Thurs., Aug. 6: Mini Car Demolition Derby
- Fri., Aug. 7: Team Mini Car Demolition Derby
- Sat., Aug. 8: Damsels of Destruction Demolition Derby
- Sun., Aug. 9: Orange Crush Demolition Derby
Free Tribute Bands at The Hangar
Get ready to sing along to the greatest hits of all time. Shows at The Hangar are completely free with your Fair admission ticket!
- Aug. 6 (8:15 PM): Queen Nation (A Tribute to the Music of Queen)
- Fri., Aug. 7 (8:15 PM): Wallen & Wilson (A Tribute to Morgan Wallen & Lainey Wilson)
- Sat., Aug. 8 (8:15 PM): Start Making Sense (The Talking Heads Tribute)
- Sun., Aug. 9 (2:30 PM): Jimmy’s Buffet (A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett)
- Sun., Aug. 9 (8:15 PM): Catch A Wave (The Beach Boys Show)
Daily Attractions & Special Events
Beyond the main stages, you can experience classic community events and brand-new features all week long:
- Special Sunday Events (Aug. 9): Start your morning with the OC Fair Fun Run, and stay for the culturally rich El Pachuco Zoot Suit Fashion Show & Lowrider Exhibit.
- Retro Vibes: Check out the new REWIND: A VHS Comeback exhibit.
- Family Favorites: Don’t miss the iconic All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, Centennial Farm, and the Great American Petting Farm.
- Hidden Spots: Keep your eyes peeled for the Fair’s hidden, secret speakeasy-style bars.
How to Save Money: Deals & Discounts
Planning ahead can help you save big on admission and carnival rides:
- Smart Start Admission ($11): Available Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 AM to 1 PM through August 13 (advance online purchase required).
- Taste of Fair ($5): Try sample-sized portions of over 90 fair-favorite food items daily until 5 PM.
- Unlimited Ride Wristband ($55): Purchase online for unlimited rides on Wednesdays and Thursdays (must redeem by 5 PM and ride until 8 PM).
- Every Day Passport ($60): Valid for entry on any open day of the Fair with zero blackout dates (available while supplies last).
Standard daily admission rates are $13 on weekdays (Wednesday and Thursday) and $18 on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Youth tickets for ages 6 to 12 are $9 daily, senior tickets for ages 65 and up are $10 daily, and children aged 5 and younger get in free. General parking at the venue is $15.
Plan Your Visit
The OC Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Doors open at 11:00 AM from Wednesday through Sunday. Because capacity limits apply, advance online tickets are highly recommended. Snag your tickets and view the complete schedule by visiting ocfair.com.