The OC Fair is back in 2024, promising a summer full of fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fairgoer, there’s always something new to discover. Here’s your insider’s guide to making the most of your visit to the Orange County Fair.

 

Plan Your Visit

OC Fair Attractions, concerts and live entertainment

Admission

The OC Fair runs from July 14 to August 13, 2024 on Wednesdays through Sundays, and is located at the OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA. General admission tickets are available online with limited capacity, and it’s required to purchase them in advance to avoid long lines or sold-out days. Tickets are only good for the day you choose, so make sure you choose carefully as there are no exchanges or refunds. Want to attend any day or every day? There is an Every Day Passport for $60 you can purchase with no restrictions or blackout dates. General Admission varies from $13 during the week and $15 for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Seniors and kids are $9 every day. It is free for kids ages 5 and younger. Buy Admission Tickets.

 

OC Fair General Parking

Parking is available on-site purchase only, but spaces fill up quickly, so arriving early is a good idea. General car and motorcycle parking is $15 and general buses and limos are $30. There are no ins or out privileges so make sure you are prepared. For more detailed information on tickets, schedules, and specific events, visit the official OC Fair website.

 

 

Must-See Attractions

Centennial Farm Oc Fair Pig Race and petting zoo

Centennial Farm

The OC Fair is packed with attractions for all ages. Centennial Farm is a three-acre working farm on-site where visitors can learn about agriculture, see livestock, pet and feed animals and even watch a pig race!

 


The Art of Music Experience

Inside the Huntington Beach Building, The Art of Music Experience is 2024’s headline exhibit that inspires visitors to discover, explore, and appreciate the stories and creators behind iconic album cover art. The exhibit features over 100 hand-painted recreations, neon displays, a themed cocktail lounge, a pop-up record store, and interactive experiences for all ages.

 

 

Food Stalls Galore

Oc Fair Food, hotdogs and vendors

The food at the OC Fair is legendary, and this year is no different! Indulge in classic fair treats like deep-fried Oreos, funnel cakes, and giant turkey legs. For a more unique culinary experience, check out Chicken Charlie’s, Biggy’s Meat Market, and Pignotti’s Pasta for unique twists on classic fare.

 

 

Carnival Rides and More

Carnival Rides

The OC Fair offers a thrilling selection of carnival rides that cater to all ages and adrenaline levels. From classic attractions like the Ferris wheel and carousel to high-energy rides such as the Zipper and the Mega Drop, there’s something for everyone. For those seeking a bit of nostalgia, the fair provides traditional midway games where you can test your skills and win prizes!

 

Kids' Zone

Families with younger children will love the Kids’ Zone, which features age-appropriate rides and interactive exhibits designed to keep the little ones entertained and engaged. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for some family fun, the OC Fair’s carnival rides are sure to create lasting memories.

 

 

Special Events and Live Performances

Oc Fair Live Entertainment and concerts

The OC Fair’s live entertainment lineup for 2024 is packed with 83 exciting shows across three venues, featuring artists from various genres. Head to the Pacific Amphitheatre for big-name concerts, the Hangar for tribute bands, and the Action Sports Arena for thrilling events like motocross and monster trucks.

 

The Pacific Amphitheatre

The Pacific Amphitheatre lineup features Keyshia Cole, Joe, and Eric Bellinger on July 25; Sublime with Rome and Fortunate Youth on July 27; Stray Cats on August 1 and 2; Walker Hayes and Kylie Morgan on August 7; Chris Lane on August 14; and Trevor Noah on August 18. View the full lineup at the Summer Concert Series at Pacific Amphitheatre.

 

The Hanger

This year's entertainment in The Hangar includes tributes such as Dead Man’s Party (Oingo Boingo/Danny Elfman), Ticket To The Moon (Electric Light Orchestra), 24K Magic! (Bruno Mars), No Duh (No Doubt), I Am King (Michael Jackson), and Embajadores del Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez. See the full lineup.

 

Oc Fair monster truck, sports arena at oc fair

Action Sports Arena

The OC Brew Hee Haw, a craft beer roundup with live music, takes place on July 19 and 20, while the Monster Truck Nitro Tour, demolition derbies, comedy hypnotist Chris Mabrey, and BMX Big Air Triples will also take the stage. View the full lineup at the Action Sports Arena.

 

Be sure to check the fair’s entertainment schedule to plan your visit around your favorite acts.

 

 

Annual Competitions, 5k Runs and Contests

oc fair ferris wheel, rides and attractions

Competitions and Contests

One of the unique aspects of the OC Fair is its annual competitions and contests. From baking and quilting to photography and gardening, there are numerous ways for locals to showcase their talents. The livestock competitions are a staple of the fair, featuring everything from cattle and poultry to rabbits and guinea pigs.

 

Visitors can view the entries in the various exhibition halls and even participate in some of the contests. Whether you’re cheering on a friend or competing yourself, these events add a community spirit to the fair.

 

 

Oc Fair 5K Run

Run the OC Fair 5K

The OC Fair 5K Fun Run is an annual event held on August 11, 2024, at the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, California. Participants can enjoy a 5K run through the fairgrounds before it opens to the public, with opportunities to play games and win prizes along the course. For more details and to register, visit OC Fair 5K.

 

 

Get ready to create unforgettable memories at the OC Fair this summer! Whether you’re there for the food, the rides, the shows, or just to soak in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at this beloved annual event.

 

 

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