Michael Searle becomes Chief Operating Officer at OC Fair & Event Center
Michael Searle has been chosen as OC Fair & Event Center’s new Chief Operating Officer to lead fair production, security, event operations, facility operations, planning & production and food & beverage departments. Searle started in his new role this month. Searle brings more than three decades of leadership experience in the fair and event industry, […]
OC Fair & Event Center wins 22 industry awards from Western Fairs Association
COSTA MESA (Feb. 12, 2026) – OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) earned 22 Achievement Awards from Western Fairs Association, including 21 first-place honors. The annual program recognizes innovation and excellence among fairs and festivals in the Western U.S. Eleven of the first-place awards were in photography categories including entertainment, carnival, first responders, exhibits, animals […]
OC Fair’s Imaginology returns April 11–12 with free STEAM fun for everyone
Have you ever wondered how math can help you cook, what causes a rainbow or how baby chicks know when to hatch? Set a course full STEAM ahead at OC Fair’s Imaginology, returning Saturday and Sunday, April 11–12 for a weekend where science, technology, engineering, art, agriculture and math come alive through hands-on discovery. Imaginology […]
OC Fair unveils theme for 2026: Your Adventure Awaits!
COSTA MESA (Jan. 14, 2026) – Southern California’s most anticipated summer celebration will return July 17 through Aug.16 and the theme of this year’s annual OC Fair is “Your Adventure Awaits!” The 136th OC Fair will celebrate the American spirit of exploration and discovery across 23 action-packed days. From thrilling rides and creative competitions to […]
OC Fair & Event Center wins 13 international awards
The International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE) honored OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) with 13 awards for achievements in 2025. IAFE represents fairs and expositions worldwide, and handed out the awards at its annual conference in Denver last week. OCFEC received six first-place honors, one second-place award and six third-place accolades. The first-place […]
Boo Ha Ha is better than ever with craft beer tastings, hearse demolition derby and music
Get ready to scream and party at Boo Ha Ha: A Haunted Oktoberfest. The Halloween fave takes over OC Fair & Event Center on Oct. 25 and tickets are on sale now. Dust off your costume, grab your crew and prepare for a night of chills, thrills and brew! New this year, the Dead Man […]
Chief Operating Officer Recruitment
OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) is currently recruiting for the position of Chief Operating Officer. Serving as a member of OCFEC’s executive management team, the Chief Operating Officer provides strategic direction for the organization by working with executive management as well as the Board of Directors to establish long-range goals, strategies, plans and policies. […]
What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in June
626 Night Market – OC, May 30 – June 1 626 Night Market is back at OC Fair & Event Center. The iconic Californian festival features 200+ food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music and entertainment attractions in an epic event that appeals to all ages. Join us for warm summer days and bright nights this […]
What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in May
Hoag OC Marathon Running Festival, May 2-4 The 21st Hoag OC Marathon Running Festival returns to the seaside streets of Orange County, California and will showcase three days of events, including the Kids Run the OC Empowered by Hoag, the U.S. Bank OC 5K at sunset on Saturday and Sunday’s half and full marathons. The […]
New Vietnam exhibit to open at Heroes Hall on Feb. 15
The next Heroes Hall exhibit, “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam,” offers a powerful and immersive journey through one of modern history’s most complex and divisive conflicts. Through a rich collection of artifacts, personal stories, historical facts and poignant memorabilia, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the war’s profound impact on the soldiers who fought […]