Costa Mesa’s OC Fair, the 125th annual event this year, has historically attracted more than one million people each summer, making it one of the top-10 largest fairs in the United States. The Fair, complete with mouthwatering food, topsy-turvy rides, fun shopping and over-the-top exhibits and performances, is scheduled to start July 17 and to conclude Aug. 16. The Fair opens Wednesday through Sunday.
The newest feature this year at the Fair: Fairhenheit 32, an ice skating ring and ice museum that will melt away the summer heat.
Star-studded artists will perform at the Pacific Amphitheatre, including powerhouse duo and rock ‘n’ roll legends Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, who bring their chemistry and sound to the OC Fair to celebrate their 35 years together. Also, The B-52s, known as the “world’s greatest party band,” will perform, using their more than three-decade history together to pump out such classic hits like “Rock Lobster,” “Love Shack” and “Summer of Love,” fusing ska, pop, soul, reggae and punk rock to create unforgettable memories.
The Fair wasn’t always this spectacular. It started from its humble beginnings in 1890 as a small event with a horse race in what was then a largely agricultural region. Since then, coinciding with the rise of Orange County into an economic powerhouse, the Fair has mushroomed into one of the biggest fairs in the country, entertaining guests with star performers known the world over. It has also paid service to its roots by serving an array of all-American delicacies like roasted corn and funnel cakes.
Some of the performances at The Hangar include everything from a tribute to Metallica to Depeche Mode to Fleetwood Mac, who are some of the biggest pop musicians in history. Others include a Jim Morrison celebration, as well as tributes to Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, all of whom are iconic in the music history books.
Music isn’t the only thing at the Fair, indicating the sprawling nature of what is easily one of Orange County’s most significant events. Some of the activities at the Action Sports Arena include an extreme rodeo, a martial arts competition and a motor home demolition derby.
A parade of galleries will also be at hand to display award-winning photographs, paintings, ceramics and woodwork, among other arts and crafts. Shoppers can peruse through scores of vendors, selling the latest kitchen gadgets, one-of-a-kind clothing and home décor.
For more info, please visit www.ocfair.com.
