Summer in Orange County isn’t complete without a trip to the Orange County Fair. Returning to the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa from July 17 through August 16, 2026, this year’s 23-day celebration invites guests to experience its theme, “Your Adventure Awaits!”
Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning for another year of fair food, carnival rides, live entertainment, and family fun, a little planning can help you make the most of your day. From the best times to go and must-see attractions, to insider tips and safety information, here’s everything you need to know before heading to the 2026 OC Fair.
A Longstanding Orange County Tradition
Since 1890, the Orange County Fair has been one of Southern California’s favorite summer traditions. Now celebrating its 136th year, the fair welcomes more than 1 million visitors each summer with a unique mix of agriculture, entertainment, local vendors, exhibits, concerts, and community events. While the fair has grown over the decades, it continues to celebrate its agricultural roots while offering something for visitors of all ages.
What to See and Do at This Year’s Fair
While many people come for the carnival rides, the Orange County Fair offers much more, from live concerts and award-winning exhibits to unique food, shopping, and hands-on agricultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for live entertainment, family activities, or classic fair favorites, there’s something for everyone.
Some of this year’s highlights include:
- Thrilling carnival rides and family-friendly attractions.
- Headlining concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre.
- Live performances at The Hangar, Plaza Pacifica, and stages throughout the fairgrounds.
- Action-packed events at the Action Sports Arena.
- The historic Centennial Farm, where visitors can explore working gardens, livestock, and agricultural exhibits.
- Heroes Hall, featuring military history exhibits honoring Orange County veterans.
- The Fine Arts, Photography & Woodworking Gallery.
- The Hobbies & Handcrafts Gallery showcases quilts, jewelry, collections, fiber arts, and handcrafted creations.
- Culinary Arts exhibits and live cooking demonstrations.
- Fruit, vegetable, and floral competitions.
- Shopping, games, local vendors, and community exhibits.
Of course, no trip to the fair is complete without trying the food. From giant turkey legs and funnel cakes to fried Oreos, BBQ, fresh lemonade, and creative limited-time specialties, the Orange County Fair is known for serving some of Southern California’s most iconic fair food.
Best Days to Visit
Choosing the right day can make a big difference in your experience, especially if you’re hoping to avoid long lines or catch a concert.
- Wednesday and Thursday afternoons: Typically offer lighter crowds, making them ideal for exploring exhibits, enjoying rides, and trying popular food vendors with shorter wait times.
- Friday and Saturday evenings: These are the busiest days, but they also offer the liveliest atmosphere with concerts, entertainment, and the full excitement of the fair.
- Sunday afternoons: A great option for families looking for a balance between activities and more manageable crowds.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
A little planning can help you get the most out of your day at the fair.
- Purchase your tickets in advance, as admission is limited by date.
- Arrive early to avoid traffic and long parking lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely spend several hours walking the fairgrounds.
- Stay hydrated, especially during warm summer afternoons.
- Walk the fairgrounds before deciding what to eat. Some of the most creative food vendors are tucked away beyond the main midway.
- If you’re planning to attend a concert or special event, check the entertainment schedule early because popular performances often sell out.
- Don’t skip the exhibit halls. While many visitors come for the rides and food, the galleries, Centennial Farm, Heroes Hall, and culinary exhibits are among the fair’s most unique attractions.
Staying Safe During Your Visit
The Orange County Fair is committed to providing a safe experience for guests, and rides undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Although the fair has a strong safety record, ride malfunctions and accidents have occurred over the years, reminding visitors that it’s always important to follow posted safety instructions. Notable incidents include:
- 1993: Eight people were injured when the Cyclone roller coaster was involved in a chain reaction collision. A coaster train carrying passengers failed to stop as it entered the loading station, struck an empty train, and pushed it into another train that was boarding passengers. State investigators later determined the crash was caused by operator error after the ride’s braking system was not properly engaged.
- 2017: The G Force ride was temporarily shut down and reinspected after a similar ride at the Ohio State Fair suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure that killed one person and injured several others. Although inspectors found no issues with the Orange County ride, fair officials kept it closed as a precaution to help ensure guest safety.
- 2024: Nine riders were safely escorted off the Raptor Coaster after the ride experienced a temporary mechanical interruption. No injuries were reported, and the ride reopened after passing all required safety inspections.
Whether you’re riding the Ferris wheel or simply walking through the midway, taking a few simple precautions can help make your visit safer and more enjoyable:
- Follow all posted ride instructions and height requirements.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Keep children close in crowded areas and near attractions.
- Stay aware of your surroundings while walking through the fairgrounds.
- Report any ride malfunctions, unsafe conditions, or safety concerns to fair staff immediately.
By staying alert and following basic safety guidelines, you can help reduce your risk of injury and enjoy everything the Orange County Fair has to offer.
If an Accident Happens
While most visits to the Orange County Fair are safe and enjoyable, accidents can happen. Knowing what to do afterward can help protect both your health and your legal rights.
If you or someone with you is injured:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Notify the fair staff or the ride operator about what happened.
- Take photos of the area, the ride or hazard involved, and your injuries if you’re able.
- Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Keep your tickets, receipts, and any medical records related to the incident.
If your injuries are serious or you believe they were caused by unsafe conditions or another party’s negligence, it may be helpful to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to better understand your legal options.
Our team at TORKLAW is here to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options. Give us a call at 888.845.9696 for a free consultation.
