New Rides:: The Aviator, a 180-foot-tall ride, offers a 360-degree view. Other additions include the Frog Hop and the Royal Wheel.
Culinary Innovations:: Look out for bacon cotton candy on a pork belly stick and blue raspberry Dole Whip.
Ticketed Admission:: Daily admission is capped, and tickets must be purchased online in advance. Popular dates sell out quickly.
Parking Costs:: Parking is $15 for cars and motorcycles.
New CEO:: James Canfield from Alabama has been appointed as the new CEO of the OC Fair & Event Center.
Immigration Policy:: The OC Fair & Event Center complies with SB 54, limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Why this matters: The OC Fair is a major event for Orange County residents and visitors. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. The changes in leadership and policies reflect ongoing developments in the region.
The OC Fair, a staple of Orange County summers, is back with a mix of new attractions and familiar favorites. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie eager to try the Aviator or a foodie on the hunt for the latest culinary creations, the fair has something for everyone.
Getting There and Around:
Dates and Hours:: July 18 - August 17 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays). Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and 11 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Location:: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
Parking:: $15 per car/motorcycle. Use Gate 1 on Fair Drive for rideshare drop-off/pickup. Gates 1 or 3 are recommended as Gate 10 often closes during peak hours.
Public Transportation:: The OC Fair Express offers weekend bus rides from five locations for $2 one-way or $4 round-trip. Find schedules at [ocfairexpress.com?ref=yanuki.com](ocfairexpress.com?ref=yanuki.com).
Tickets and Discounts:
General Admission:: $13 (Wednesdays/Thursdays), $15 (Fridays/Weekends). Seniors (60+) and children (6-12): $9 any day. Children 5 and under are free.
Online Purchase Required:: Tickets must be bought online in advance.
Every Day Passport:: $60 for unlimited admission.
Concert Tickets:: Include fair admission on the same day.
Kids' Discounts:: Kids who read three books can earn free rides in Kidland via [ocfair.com?ref=yanuki.com](ocfair.com?ref=yanuki.com).
Taste of Fair:: $5 samples at food booths until 4 p.m. daily.
Fair Policies:
Allowed Items:: Soft-sided coolers, sealed food/beverages, factory-sealed or empty water bottles.
Prohibited Items:: Cans, glass, outside alcohol, hard-sided coolers, smoking/vaping, selfie sticks, drones, weapons.
Financial Overview:
Despite high costs for fairgoers, the OC Fair & Event Center's reserves have been growing, with a balance of $52.7 million as of December 31, 2024.
Q: When is the OC Fair?
July 18 to August 17, 2025 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).
Q: How much does it cost to get in?
General admission is $13 on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and $15 on Fridays and weekends. There are discounts for seniors and children.
Q: Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets must be purchased online in advance at [ocfair.com?ref=yanuki.com](ocfair.com?ref=yanuki.com).
Q: What are the parking options?
Parking is $15. Consider using the OC Fair Express or rideshares.
Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid sell-outs.
Plan your transportation to save on parking costs.
Take advantage of discounts and special offers.
Be aware of the fair's policies regarding allowed and prohibited items.
What are you most excited to see or do at the OC Fair this year? Let us know in the comments!
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