What to Know

  • OC Fair 2025
  • July 18-Aug. 17; Wednesdays through Sundays
  • $13 weekday general admission; $15 weekend general admission; other ticketing tiers are available
  • Advance tickets are required
  • While there are items and events available for purchase inside the fair, including concerts and treats, the month-long spectacular also has several free-with-your-ticket magic shows, musical extravaganzas, and exhibits to enjoy

Another word for a county fair? One spritely synonym for a classic summertime fair might be “an everything-tacular,” because it is an enormous, multi-prismatic event that, yes, has a little bit of everything for everyone.

But as with all county fairs, you’ll pay for some things once you’re inside the gate, like treats and special offerings, while other goodies will be gratis, meaning you can keep your wallet stowed.

And keeping your wallet stowed at the OC Fair is something that happens much of the time, thanks to this festive fact: The joyful Costa Mesa jamboree is absolutely flush with free music, free animal encounters, free craft demonstrations, and a caboodle of creative art moments that are absolutely open to all, no payment needed.

Some of those complimentary experiences include the chance to cheer on the iconic All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, watch a milking demonstration, dance to Latin rhythms at La Cantina, and check out the woodworking competitions.

“REWIND: A VHS Revival” is the featured exhibit, so don your neon and stroll by a variety of artworks that pay colorful homage to the album covers and pop culture of the ’80s.

There are plenty of free things for kids to jump into, too, including magic shows with Frank Thurston (“a fair favorite”), daily beach games at Orange County Sand and Sea, contests inspired by food, oh yummy.

The theme of the 2025 OC Fair is “Find Your Happy,” a spirited call to action that doesn’t have to fall on the pricier side.

For all of the activities and events, from free fun to ticketed choices, run as fast as a fast little piggie by this page.

And yes: Your admission is ticketed, so be sure to buy it in advance. A weekday general admission is $13, with other ticketing tiers available.