News Summary
The Orange County Fair has opened its gates in Costa Mesa, offering a variety of culinary delights and entertainment options. This year’s theme, ‘Find Your Happy,’ showcases over 100 food vendors and includes unique attractions such as original movie poster exhibits. With an affordable $5 Taste of the Fair program and tiered admission prices, the event aims to provide an enjoyable experience for families and individuals alike. Running until mid-August, attendees can look forward to concerts, carnival rides, and activities perfect for all ages.
Costa Mesa Welcomes the 2025 Orange County Fair
The highly anticipated 2025 Orange County Fair opened its gates on July 18, 2025, in Costa Mesa, inviting fairgoers to indulge in a plethora of unique food offerings and exciting attractions. This year’s theme, “Find Your Happy”, sets the stage for an event tailored to both thrill-seekers and food enthusiasts alike. With the fair running until August 17, attendees can look forward to an array of entertainment options and culinary delights.
Affordable Food Experience
The fair has introduced a $5 Taste of the Fair program, allowing visitors to sample smaller portions from more than 100 food vendors until 4 p.m. each day. Among the mouthwatering offerings are deep-fried Twinkies, bacon cotton candy served on a pork belly stick, and the ever-controversial fried butter. Other standout dishes include a Krispy Kreme triple decker cheeseburger, Fried Oreo cookies, and even a Flamin’ Hot Pickle Pizza from Enzo’s Pizza.
For those seeking plant-based options, Vegging Out offers a hearty meatball sandwich, while Chuckwagon BBQ tempts with its barbecued pork sundae. Sweet treats aren’t left behind with a refreshing pineapple whip topped with fruity pebbles and fluffy cream puffs from Tom’s Puff and Pie stand. Visitors can also find bacon-wrapped delights, fried avocado, and more inventive snacks throughout the fairgrounds.
Admission and Attendance Details
To ensure a smooth visitor experience, advance tickets are required for entry. The fair is open Wednesday through Sunday, running from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on most days, and extending to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Ticket prices are tiered, starting at $13 for general admission on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and escalating to $15 on weekends. Seniors and children aged 6-12 can enter for $9, while children under 5 gain free admission.
Parking is available for a fee of $15 for cars and motorcycles and $30 for larger vehicles such as buses and limousines. Due to capped attendance, it is advisable to secure tickets online ahead of time.
New Attractions and Entertainment
This year’s fair introduces exciting attractions, including a unique exhibit showcasing original movie posters from iconic films such as “Back to the Future” and “Star Wars”. Fairgoers can also partake in various concerts featuring renowned artists like George Thorogood, Foghat, and captivating tribute acts to Abba and the Bee Gees.
The fair offers more than just food and music; attendees can experience the excitement of carnival rides, explore livestock areas, and engage in live animal events, including pig races and petting zoos. With attractions designed to entertain visitors of all ages, the Orange County Fair promises to be a wholesome family adventure.
Conclusion
The 2025 Orange County Fair combines culinary exploration and rich entertainment, highlighting a local tradition that attracts thousands each year. With an emphasis on accessibility, affordability, and variety, the fair is positioned to create memorable experiences for all who attend, ensuring that everyone can truly find their happy.
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Additional Resources
- Newport Beach Independent
- Orange County Register
- ABC 7 News
- Los Angeles Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orange County Fair
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA
The Costa Mesa Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, performances at the Pacific Amphitheatre, and community gatherings at The LAB Anti-Mall. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Visit Costa Mesa, plus leading businesses in retail, entertainment, and innovation that shape the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
