The OC County Fair is back this summer—earlier than you’d think—and this year’s theme, Find Your Happy, is all about rediscovering joy together from July 18 to August 17. If you’ve been before, you know the vibe: pigs waddle, rides whirl, live music fills the air, and the smell of funnel cake strains the air—but we’ll let you in on the tricks for making this your best Fair yet.
Plan Your Visit
Fair Hours
Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 11 a.m. – midnight
Please note that the OC Fair is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays - All dates, times, prices and event details listed are subject to change, please check the event website for the latest details.
Admission
$13 midweek / $15 weekends / $9 for seniors (60+) and kids (6–12) / Free for kids 5 and under. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.
The OC Fair runs from July 18 to August 17, 2025 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. Buy Admission Tickets.
Want to attend any day or every day? For the ultimate OC Fair experience, you can also purchase the $60 “Every Day Passport,” which includes unlimited access to all 23 days + 2-for-1 show deals!
Parking at the OC Fair
Parking is simple: $15 per car, $30 for buses, payable onsite only. Carpooling or ride-sharing is always handy, especially with the weekend crowds. You’ll find drop-off zones at Gate 1 of the fairgrounds. And, if you prefer to bike, racks are available near each entrance!
Carnival Rides
Some ride specials are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays, click here for details.
New rides for 2025 include: Sling Shot, Raptor, and Joker 360. If you’re up for something bold, these are it! 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.
Top Things to Do at the Fair
Kids & Family Events
Steer younger guests toward KidLand, with a mini carnival, crafts, and meet-and-greets . For hands-on learning, Imaginology returns April 12–13, but during the Fair, you’ll find Centennial Farm, where kids can meet livestock and plant seeds. Heroes Hall is another must-see for history buffs—it features rotating exhibits and veterans’ stories.
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!
Food and Flavor
Forget dieting—this is your fair pass to indulgence. On the culinary menu: giant turkey legs, bacon-wrapped everything, and fried treats at every corner . Don’t miss the $5.00 Taste of Fair specials before 4 p.m., where you can try popular items without emptying your wallet. Farmers Market lovers will also appreciate that Centennial Farm hosts a weekly market during the Fair, featuring fresh produce and local crafts. 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.
Competition & Community
Bring your blue-ribbon game face: OC Fair hosts contests in baking, photography, gardening, woodworking, brewing, and even gingerbread house building . Kids can shine too—the Junior Livestock Auction is July 26th. And on opening day, the “carnival reading promotion” gives two free ride passes to kids who read—a sweet way to combine fun and learning!
Special Events and Live Performances
Live Performances
Live shows happen all day and into the night. Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar, and Action Sports Arena host a wide range of events, from tribute bands to extreme stunts. Some of this year's main acts include:
July 25: Fitz and The Tantrums with Aloe Blacc.
July 26: Dispatch, G. Love & Special Sauce, and Donavon Frankenreiter.
July 27: Pancho Barraza and Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán.
August 7: Ludacris with Ying Yang Twins.
August 8: Brett Young with Conner Smith.
August 9: Melissa Etheridge with Indigo Girls.
August 15: Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, and Spin Doctors.
August 16: Swift Nation and Bad Guy Billie.
Note: Tickets for these shows include a complimentary entry to the fair; however, seats should be reserved early, as some concerts fill up fast!
Action Sports Arena
Events at the Action Sports Arena (think monster trucks and demolition derbies) offer free general admission, although reserved seats can be purchased for a more intimate experience. Be sure to check the fair’s entertainment schedule to plan your visit around your favorite acts.
Festival Tips and Tricks
Our Tips for a Smooth Fair Day
- Get there early on busy weekends to beat lines and find parking.
- Dress comfortably and bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Download the OC Fair app for maps, ride wait times, show schedules, and food finders.
- Bring cash and cards to ensure you can buy everything you need!
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water; summer days in Orange County can be warm.
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From the thrill of new rides to the comfort of classic pie contests, this is one experience where you can truly Find Your Happy. See you in the midway!
