Community News

OC Fair starts this week - don't miss opening weekend excitement

 

by: Terry Moore
Published: July 14, 2026

 

 

COSTA MESA...The 2026 OC Fair opens this Friday and it's the last chance for fairgoers to snag the best deals of the season and to make plans to be part of summer's best launch party.

Gates open at 11 a.m. and the excitement starts right away. The ceremonial opening of the OC Fair will feature the thrill of an amazing flyover of T-34 Mentor aircraft at noon along with the unfurling of the American Flag at The Hangar and the official kickoff of the annual OC Fair where the theme "Your Adventure Awaits" celebrates the American spirit of exploration.

And World Cup fans don't have to miss the finals this weekend while celebrating at the Fair because it's been designated as an official FIFA watch site. Huge screens will be set up in four locations. FIFA and Fair - it's a win-win!

The Brew Hee Haw Craft Beer Roundup will tap the kegs at 6 p.m. this Friday while Sweet Revenge, a tribute to My Chemical Romance, gets the beer festival crowd ready to party. There are two more brew-tasting sessions with live music on Saturday in the Fair's Action Sports Arena.

Midland performs opening night in Pacific Amphitheatre bringing their heart-on-your-sleeve, drinkin' and cheatin' country songs to Orange County. In The Hangar, Twisted Gypsy reimagines the best of Fleetwood Mac. View the full entertainment schedule.

Special value bundles are available only until Friday and the OC Fair continues with its limited-capacity model so advance tickets are required and on sale at ocfair.com.

For more information about the 2026 OC Fair, including admission, entertainment and food offerings, visit ocfair.com.

Photo:OCFair