OC Fair
Each summer, the OC Fair takes over Costa Mesa with larger-than-life fun. Think big flavors (deep-fried everything, anyone?), big sounds (hello, live concerts), and big energy across 150 acres of rides, games, exhibits, and live entertainment. This Orange County summertime staple, dating back to 1890, is the place where childhood nostalgia meets new memories, and the only thing more outrageous than the food is the fun.
More than a fair, it’s a full-on summer tradition. The OC Fair & Event Center fills with art and agriculture competitions, unexpected photo ops, live performances at Pacific Amphitheatre, and enough food to fuel a full day of exploring. Whether you’re here for carnival thrills, craft brews, or just to people-watch while snacking on something deep-fried and delicious, the OC Fair is a celebration of all things bold and totally Costa Mesa.
Hours
OC Fair Hours
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – Midnight
Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Pacific Amphitheatre Box Office Hours
Saturday: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Admission & Parking
The only way to attend the OC Fair is to purchase tickets as only a limited number of admission tickets will be available for each day.
Pricing
$13 General Admission on Wednesday & Thursday
$18 General Admission on Friday, Saturday & Sunday
$10 Seniors 65+
$9 Kids 6-12 every day
Free for kids ages 5 and younger
Buy an OC Fair Every Day Passport and enjoy the Fair all day, every day for $60 Plus,
receive 2-for-1 entertainment offers and exclusive discounts on select performances
Parking
General parking at the OC Fair & Event Center costs $15 per day. Payment must be made onsite upon arrival.
Maps & Directions
In Orange County
5, 22, 73, 91 and 405 Freeways all connect with the Newport (55)
South Freeway. Exit Del Mar/Fair Drive.
From Los Angeles
5 South or 405 South to 55 South. Exit Del Mar/Fair Drive
From Riverside
91 West to 55 South. Exit Del Mar/Fair Drive
From San Diego
5 North to 405 North to 55 South. Exit Del Mar/Fair Drive
OC Fair FAQs
When is the OC Fair open?
The OC Fair opens July 17 and ends August 16, 2026. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, but closed Monday and Tuesday.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes. The OC Fair caps its daily attendance, so buy OC Fair tickets online to reserve a spot.
What’s the weather like during the OC Fair?
Daytime highs hover around 77°F to 80°F with a cooling coastal breeze in July and August. Evening temperatures dip to the mid-60s as the marine layer rolls in. Rain is virtually nonexistent during these months.
What hotels are near the OC Fair?
There are several Costa Mesa hotels within walking distance of the fairgrounds, including the Best Western Newport Mesa Inn, Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach, and OC Hotel Costa Mesa.
What’s the history of the OC Fair?
The OC Fair began in 1890 as a small, three-day horse race and livestock show in Santa Ana before bouncing to different cities across Orange County. In 1949, it found its permanent 150-acre home at a former Army Air Base in Costa Mesa, growing over the decades into a massive, month-long summer tradition.
What happened to the OC Swap Meet at the OC Fairgrounds?
The OC Swap Meet (officially named the Orange County Market Place) ended its run in 2020. However, the Orange Coast College (OCC) Swap Meet has been running for over 40 years and is less than a mile away from the fairgrounds.
Your once-a-year excuse to go all out.
The fairest prices around.
From special admission days to ride bundles and food promos, the OC Fair hooks you up with plenty of ways to stretch your dollars and maximize the fun. Check out all the ways to save before you go.
It’s anyone’s game.
From baking battles to livestock showdowns and creative arts contests, the OC Fair brings out the best (and most competitive) in the community. Whether you’re entering or just cheering from the sidelines, it’s all part of the tradition.
Bites, sips, and big flavors.
From mile-high funnel cakes to bacon-wrapped everything, the OC Fair is a foodie’s dreamland. Go classic or try something wild—there’s no wrong way to dig in.
The fun doesn’t stop here.
There’s more to explore beyond the fair. Discover nearby hotels, concerts, exhibits, and year-round entertainment that make Costa Mesa a destination for more than just summer fun.
Costa Mesa Hotels
Pacific Amphitheater
Shows at the Hanger
Exhibits
Carnival Rides
Entertainment
Costa Mesa Hotels
Pacific Amphitheater
Shows at the Hanger
Exhibits
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