Skip to Main Content

Costa Mesa’s most loved
days of the year.

Every year, Costa Mesa delivers a lineup of can’t-miss events that show off what the city does best: creativity, community, and good times. Signature favorites like The OC Fair, and oncerts at Pacific Amphitheater pack the calendar with bold flavors, big talent, and plenty of local flair. Whether you’re into art, food, culture, or all three, you’ll find something worth planning a trip around.

Your fair share of fun.

Every July, the OC Fair takes over Costa Mesa with larger-than-life fun. Wild rides, over-the-top fair food, live music, and creative exhibits that showcase local makers, artists, and performers. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your favorite summer tradition.

Explore Now
A large Ferris wheel is lit up against a colorful sunset sky at the OC Fair Costa Mesa, with tents, rides, and booths visible in the foreground.

Ready. Set.
Costa Mesa.

The OC Marathon brings thousands of runners to town every May for a weekend of miles and coastal views. Whether you’re running the marathon, or cheering from the sidelines, the event is filled with nonstop race-day energy.

Explore Now
Runners in athletic gear begin a race at the starting line of the OC Marathon and Half Marathon, one of the top annual events Costa Mesa hosts, beneath a blue banner, with palm trees and a partly cloudy sky in the background.

Curiosity in Action

Imaginology turns the OC Fair & Event Center into a giant playground for kids of all ages every April, with a free weekend packed with hands-on STEAM fun. Creative experiments and interactive exhibits make it one of Costa Mesa’s most imaginative annual events.

Explore Now
A group of children and adults laugh and reach out excitedly as colorful bubbles float around them at a lively outdoor event in Costa Mesa. The joyful scene reflects the playful spirit of annual events Costa Mesa is known for.

You might also love…

Hotels in Costa Mesa

A stay for every style

Explore Hotels
Three women pose and smile in front of a large mural with handwritten text about art, perfect for a Costa Mesa travel blog. Another person with curly hair faces them, possibly taking a photo. The mural is on a tan wall with greenery above.

Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Best of Fall in Costa Mesa

Read More
Two women sit on outdoor steps, chatting near the Orange County Museum of Art—a modern, angular building with large windows and a unique architectural design—under a bright blue sky with wispy clouds.

Free Things to do in Costa Mesa

Read More
Dancers in vibrant costumes perform traditional Mexican folklórico on a checkered outdoor stage, with musicians playing in the background and a metal scaffold structure overhead.

How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Costa Mesa

Read More

Let’s keep
this trip going.

By providing your email address, you agree to receive communications as per our Privacy Policy.