Community News

OC Fair & Event Center takes in evacuees from Garden Grove chemical emergency

 

by: Terry Moore
Published: May 26, 2026

 

 

COSTA MESA...OC Fair & Event Center took in 11 RVs with evacuees from the Garden Grove chemical emergency over the Memorial Day weekend.

The California Department of Emergency Services activated the fairgrounds to assist with evacuations and 100 camping spaces were prepared.

“We are always glad to be of service when the community is in need and we are fortunate to have the space and the facilities here to provide a safe place for evacuees with RVs,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO James Canfield. “We will be available as long as the need exists in this crisis.”

As of Tuesday morning, eight RVs remained on the fairgrounds and some evacuees were preparing to return home as the emergency evacuation orders were being lifted in the impacted area. The fairgrounds readied the 100 RV spaces, 25 with power and water hookups, brought in temporary restroom facilities and provided security for the evacuees.

OC Fair & Event Center was also prepared to assist with the evacuation of any large animals that may have been impacted by the situation in Garden Grove.

Photo:OCFair