The Orange County Fair in Costa Mesa, California: Fun in the Sun for All Ages

Looking for a fun place to go to with friends and family that does not cost as much as an amusement park, but has the atmosphere and thrill like one? Want to go some place where they offer unique entertainment and special shows for an inexpensive price? Want somewhere local where your kids won't be repetitively asking if you are there yet? Then the OC Fair in Costa Mesa, California is just the right place to go to.

Every year from the middle of July to the middle of August, the OC Fair is held beckoning visitors and regular attendees from Los Angeles and the surrounding vicinities. It is located at the Fairgrounds in the city of Costa Mesa, California just off of the 55 Freeway. The 55 Freeway can be accessed from the 405 Freeway, 22 Highway, 91 Freeway, 73 Highway, and the Interstate 5 Freeway. The exit off of the 55 Freeway is Del Mar/Fair drive.

Various events and activities are held that suit every age and interest. Carnival rides, special exhibits, and art galleries are available all day, and special passes can be purchased at a discount for the rides. Musical concerts are held frequently featuring well-know mainstream pop bands, country singers, oldies, legendary tributes, and even American Idol contestants. Actions sport events include Moto-X, bull riding, demolition derby, speedway, and mixed martial arts. There also a wide range of free entertainment, such as acrobatic performances, musicals, and animal themed shows. Other unique events include a 5K run, a livestock auction, a courtyard wine tasting, and ice skating.

The fair event usually lasts for about a month. The fairgrounds are usually open from noon to midnight, Wednesdays through Fridays, and from ten in the morning until midnight on Saturday and Sundays. General admission entrance fees costs about ten dollars. Children ages 6 to 12 years old cost about five dollars. Children under the age of 6 are free to enter. Seniors (60 years and older) cost about seven dollars. Those who are in active duty in the military can have free admission with their identification. Parking costs about seven dollars.

There are also various promotions available such as "Kids Free Thursdays" where kids that are ages twelve and under are granted free admission. They also have "Senior Day Fridays" where various senior themed activities are held. Carnival Promotions such as "$1 Rides" and "$1 Food Tastings" are also offered on certain days.

Sources:
http://www.ocfair.com/2010/