Category Archives: Board of Directors

Thursday, October 23, 2025 (3:30 pm)

Barbara Bagneris elected as OC Fair Board Chair

COSTA MESA (Oct. 23, 2025) – At today’s meeting, the OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors named Barbara Bagneris as Chair and Robert Ruiz as Vice Chair to serve as Board leadership in 2026.

Bagneris leaves her role as Vice Chair to take the Board’s lead position and has also previously served as Chair. Bagneris resides in Orange and was appointed to the Board in 2014. She has been a principal financial analyst at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems since 2010.

The Board has lead the development of the Fairgrounds’ Master Site Plan and strategic planning efforts over the past year and has seen fiscal growth and increased community engagement from the annual OC Fair and year-round events.

“I’ve seen the incredible growth and impact of this organization. I’m especially pleased to be working alongside Robert Ruiz again as Vice Chair,” said Bagneris. “Together, we’re focused on deepening our connection with the community through entertainment, events and agricultural education. The organization is well-managed, financially strong and ready to build on its success to do even more for Orange County.”

Ruiz has served on the Board since 2014 and previously held the positions of Board Chair and Vice Chair. He resides in Irvine and has been secretary-treasurer at Laborers Local 652 since 2003, where he was a field agent from 2002 to 2003.

Kovacevich ends two terms of service as Board Chair and will remain as a Director. He is the former CEO of Greenlane Holdings, Inc., a leading provider of ancillary cannabis products and accessories. He is a resident of Newport Beach and was appointed to the Board in 2020.

Board officers are nominated by a committee of fellow Board members each year. Board members are appointed by the Governor of California and may serve more than one term.

Monday, June 16, 2025 (11:00 am)

OC Fair Board names James Canfield as new CEO

COSTA MESA (June 16, 2025) – The OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) Board of Directors announced today that James Canfield is OCFEC’s new Chief Executive Officer. Canfield brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in venue management, live events and large-scale projects. Most recently, he served as Senior Director and General Manager of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex in Alabama where he led initiatives including the completion of Protective Stadium and a major renovation of Legacy Arena.

Canfield has also held executive roles at major California venues including the Palm Springs Convention Center, Pasadena Convention Center and Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center. His work has focused on driving economic impact, community engagement and strategic growth.

“On behalf of the OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors, I am very happy to welcome James Canfield as our new Chief Executive Officer. With his extensive experience in managing premier convention and entertainment venues, James is exceptionally well-suited to lead our organization into its next chapter,” said Board Chair Nick Kovacevich.

“His innovative approach and dedication to operational excellence will ensure that the OC Fair and our year-round events continue to be cherished community traditions delivering joy, education and memorable experiences to all who visit. We look forward to the fresh perspective and dynamic leadership he will bring to our team,” Kovacevich continued.

Canfield will start July 1 as staff and partners prepare for the 135^th annual OC Fair which will run July 18-Aug. 17. Canfield replaces former CEO Michele Richards who retired in May after serving OCFEC for more than 20 years.

“I am very excited to return to California and to have the great opportunity to lead OC Fair & Event Center into a new era that builds on its rich legacy while advancing innovation and community-focused programming,” Canfield said. “I am very much looking forward to opening day of this year’s OC Fair.”

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 (1:12 pm)

OC Fair CEO Michele Richards announces her retirement

After more than 20 years of service at OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC), top executive Michele Richards has announced that she will retire this spring prior to the 2025 OC Fair.

She was appointed as CEO by the Board of Directors in December 2019 and led the state agency through several key projects, including shepherding the organization through the pandemic, helping lead the Board of Directors through two multi-year strategic plans, introducing a master site plan for the property, delivering five of the most successful fairs in the organization’s history, and expanding OCFEC’s free public programs through Centennial Farm, Heroes Hall, Imaginology and now The Ranch Community Center.

Richards was instrumental in the OC Fair’s adoption of a new business model, unique to the industry, that places customer satisfaction and long-term financial stability above the race for ever-increasing attendance numbers. She believes it is important to reduce crowding at the Fair, to be a good neighbor to those living nearby, to responsibly manage the organization’s resources and ensure that safety remains a top priority.

Richards will be relocating to Georgia to take on a larger role in the care of family members.

“It has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead this organization, to serve the community and to bring so much happiness through the OC Fair, Centennial Farm, Heroes Hall and the many events and festivals that take place all year long,” said Richards. “It will be so hard to say goodbye to my friends, colleagues and partners who have been so important to me, but I know that OCFEC will be in great hands with solid plans and the financial stability to successfully move forward. It is now time to focus on my family and I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to do so.”

Now leading an organization of over 250 year-round full- and part-time employees and more than 1,500 seasonal workers that help put on the highly successful annual OC Fair, Richards previously served as the organization’s Vice President of Business Development for more than seven years, leading the marketing, communications, sponsorship, creative services, events and exhibits and education departments. She was also an organizational development consultant to OCFEC for 11 years before joining the staff.

Of her many accomplishments, Richards is most proud of building what she calls “the best team in the fair industry” which she credits with going above and beyond to serve the community and create new experiences. “I’ve been so blessed to be able to lead smart and creative people, harness their ideas into reality and celebrate with them as we bring joy to so many in the community through our entertainment, educational and community support programs.”

Many changes to the OC Fairgrounds property are currently in the works following years of planning and public input including a new Master Site Plan that will make way for more educational opportunities and public access to animals and agriculture, helping to fulfill OCFEC’s mission, “Creating equitable community access to agriculture, entertainment, cultural and educational experiences.”

Another recent development is the implementation of a new vision for The Ranch Community Center. The 7.5-acre area of the fairgrounds is now operating under a new plan that provides access to horses and free or low-cost equine experiences while also setting aside space for private boarding and training. This new model opens the facility for greater public access and educational programs along with the continued boarding opportunities.

“Michele Richards has left an unforgettable mark on OC Fair & Event Center. Her leadership during challenging times, especially steering us through the global pandemic, exemplified the true essence of resilience and innovation,” said Board Chair Nick Kovacevich . “Under her guidance, OCFEC has not only weathered storms but has emerged stronger, with a business model focused on sustainability, community satisfaction and safety. As Michele steps away to dedicate her time to her family, she leaves behind an organization that is not just surviving but thriving, poised to seize new opportunities with enthusiasm. Her vision, dedication and heartfelt service have been the bedrock of our success. On behalf of the Board, our staff and the community we’ve served together, we express our profound gratitude to Michele.”

The Board has initiated a comprehensive search process to identify potential candidates for the CEO position.

Thursday, October 24, 2024 (3:40 pm)

OC Fair Board Chair Kovacevich to lead again in 2025

At today’s meeting, the OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors again named Nick Kovacevich as Chair and Barbara Bagneris as Vice Chair to serve as Board leadership in 2025.

The Board has taken on significant projects in the past year and the nominating committee noted the importance of continuity in asking the current chair and vice chair to continue in their positions to shepherd key initiatives.

“I am honored to be asked to continue my board leadership role through the next year,” said Board Chair Kovacevich. “As a Board, we have embarked on some truly groundbreaking work with The Ranch Community Center, the master site plan and our expanding community-focused educational programs. Along with Vice Chair Barbara Bagneris, I am greatly optimistic about the fiscal position of OCFEC coming off a record-breaking Fair and our work ahead to serve the public.”

Kovacevich and Bagneris were voted into their current leadership positions in November 2023. Bagneris has previously served as Board Chair.

Kovaçeviçh is the former CEO of Greenlane Holdings, Inc., a leading provider of ancillary cannabis products and accessories. He is a resident of Newport Beach and was appointed to the Board in 2020.

Bagneris has been the principal financial analyst at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems since 2010. Bagneris has served on the Board since 2014 and resides in Orange.

Board officers are nominated for office by a committee of fellow Board members. Board members are appointed by the Governor of California and may serve more than one term.

Thursday, September 26, 2024 (5:30 pm)

OC Fair & Event Center unveils plans for The Ranch Community Center

OC Fair & Event Center (OCFEC) is excited to unveil the latest expansion of its community give-back programs at its reimagined equestrian center, now called The Ranch Community Center.

The Board embraced a bold new vision and operating model for the property in January, focusing on broad community access, education, accredited equine-assisted therapy and free hands-on experiences with horses. The vision for The Ranch also includes continuing the existing boarding and training of privately owned horses at the 7.5-acre facility. Staff have been working to develop key educational, community and agriculture partners for the new public programs which will begin rolling out next month.

“In service of our mission to create equitable community access to agriculture, entertainment, cultural and educational opportunities, The Ranch will open the facility to a much wider segment of the Orange County community so our programs promoting equine education and experiences with horses will be within reach for all,” said OC Fair Board Chair Nick Kovacevich.

Key initiatives include:
· Equine exhibits
· The Ranch After-School Program
· Ranch Discovery Days, school tours and hands-on equine experiences
· Accredited equine-assisted therapy programs and services
· Educational partnerships
· Small regional horse shows and clinics
· Boarding and training of privately owned horses

Operating in concert with OCFEC’s other educational venues such as Centennial Farm and Heroes Hall, The Ranch will provide free or low-cost educational opportunities and experiences to the entire community year-round. Centennial Farm is celebrating its 35^th anniversary of public service this year and welcomes The Ranch to the family of public assets.

The Ranch will debut engaging exhibits highlighting the history and heritage of horses and their contribution to California agriculture. These exhibits will feature information on horse care, breeds and types of horses, tack and equipment, horse uses, careers in horse and ranching industries, famous horses and much more.

OCFEC’s Ranch After-School Program has traditionally operated out of Centennial Farm, but will now have its new home at The Ranch. The program inspires youth from local schools to explore careers in agriculture by providing hands-on experiences with crops and animals. The public will also be able to participate in The Ranch Discovery Days where student groups, youth organizations, senior groups and community programs can engage with horses and learn about their care.

OCFEC will also be collaborating with many nonprofit and community groups to bring unique opportunities and experiences to The Ranch, including those providing licensed mental health services as well as those serving veterans and students interested in careers working with animals or agriculture. Each will work with OCFEC to create a vibrant hub of new and expanded opportunities where members of the public can learn about horses, experience their therapeutic benefits and enjoy engaging activities.

The Ranch, along with OCFEC as a whole, will continue to serve the community during emergencies, serving as a large-animal evacuation center and providing space and assistance as needed. Looking ahead, OCFEC is exploring innovative programs such as gardening for stress relief, clinics and demonstrations as well as agriculture and equine conferences.

“We look forward to inviting the community to The Ranch Community Center to explore, learn and connect with these beautiful animals,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards.

Friday, May 24, 2024 (10:14 am)

OC Fair Board of Directors Declare May Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

On May 23, the OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors proudly proclaimed May as Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Heritage Month. This special declaration was received by A.G. Kawamura.

A.G. Kawamura is as a third-generation fruit and vegetable grower and shipper in Orange County, former Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and co-developer of Centennial Farm. We are honored to celebrate his dedication to the goal of ending hunger in our lifetime, working to provide fresh produce to local food banks through his nonprofit, Solutions for Urban Agriculture

The proclamation was presented by Director Dimetria Jackson and Director Natalie Rubalcava-Garcia, representing both the OC Fair Board of Directors and the 32nd District Agricultural Association.

 

Monday, April 29, 2024 (11:09 am)

OC Fair & Event Center Administration Groundbreaking Ceremony

OC Fair & Event Center embarked on a momentous journey with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Administration Building expansion, phase 1 of the 10-phase Master Site Plan.

With shovels in hand, representatives from California Construction Authority, Barnhart-Reese Construction Inc. and LPA Design Studios symbolically dug into the soil, paving the way for innovative growth and enhanced capabilities.

This expansion not only promises a physical space, but a beacon of progress and possibility, amplifying the organization’s role as a hub for creativity, culture and connection.

California Construction Authority representatives
Josh Brones        Chief Operations Officer
Sean Slay          Project Manager
Tom Stevens      Project Manager
Krystal Toledo      Project Coordinator
Bren Walker        Program Manager

Barnhart-Reese Construction Inc. representatives
Chuck McArthur    Executive VP
Dave Christensen   General Superintendent
Jeff Stratton         Project Manager
Mike Rintoul         Project Engineer 

LPA Design Studios representatives
Jim Wirick
Denise Mendelssohn
Kyle Griffin
Justin Argomaniz
Nicole Fennell
Amy DiCosola
Sonaly Dudheker
Jessie Hong
Kitty Cheung
Greg Bistritz

Friday, April 26, 2024 (4:22 pm)

OC Fair Board of Directors Declare April Arab-American History Month

COSTA MESA (April 26, 2024) – On April 25, the OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors proudly proclaimed April as Arab-American History Month. This special declaration was received by Nahla Kayali.

Nahla Kayali is a Palestinian refugee from Syria who founded the nonprofit organization Access California Services (AccessCal) in 1998. Each year, AccessCal serves approximately 12,000 underserved and vulnerable individuals, including immigrants and refugees.

The proclamation was presented by Director Dimetria Jackson and Director Natalie Rubalcava-Garcia, representing both the OC Fair Board of Directors and the 32nd District Agricultural Association.

Friday, March 29, 2024 (10:12 am)

OC Fair Board votes to move community equine center plans forward for more public use

The OC Fair & Event Center Board of Directors reaffirmed, on March 28, its plans to open up the fairgrounds’ equestrian center by introducing public programming centered around equine education, mental health support and entertainment for the whole community.

The new equine center model will provide greater access for the public to benefit from these free and low-cost programs.

Staff updated the Board on plans to host a free public horse show in June, one of the first programs developed by OC Fair staff for the public in the new plan. The organization’s Ranch After School Program will move from Centennial Farm to the new community equine center with plans for expanding to include many more student participants by providing agricultural education and hands-on learning experiences for local youth. Staff is partnering with the North Orange County Veterans Center to provide certified equine therapy to veterans and their families. And, soon, college veterinary tech students will use the center for experiential learning.

“We’re very excited to advance the Board’s vision for the community equine center. Our public programs will provide equine education, support and entertainment to the greater Orange County community and to those who may not otherwise have access to horses,” said OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards.

The new community equine center will continue to provide boarding and training activities for privately owned horses. The Board voted to approve new rental rates and facility usage plans to ensure the expense of operating the boarding and training activities is fully covered by tenants to avoid a gift of public funds. A three-phase approach to rent adjustments will start with a 45 percent increase in June, followed by 10 percent adjustments in October and January 2025.

“We are excited to continue making progress toward the future of the equine center, where we can maintain the legacy horse boarders, while also taking direct control of the expansive public programming soon to be offered,” said OC Fair Board Chair Nick Kovacevich. “Under the new model, it’s critical that as state property, the rental fees charged to private tenants cover our operating expenses for boarding and training.”

Kovacevich also emphasized that, by opening up a sizable portion of the facility to public programming, the District can now use state funds to directly support programs for the public at large. 

He says the Board has been moving toward a more equitable use of horse property on the fairgrounds and looks forward to providing equine education, entertainment and therapeutic opportunities with certified partners, in addition to more open access for all in Orange County to the benefits horses provide.

For the media:

Board meeting agenda and packet 3.28.24: https://ocfair.com/publicmeetings/board-of-directors-meeting-march-28-2024/

Equestrian center rate background and comparisons: https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/ocfair.com/wpcontent/uploads/2024/03/22154516/24_03_Item9B_New_EQC_Rental_Rates.pdf

Monday, February 26, 2024 (9:00 am)

What’s happening at OC Fairgrounds in March

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, March 1

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Friday, March 1, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More Info: Visit Discovery Day

California Bridal & Wedding Expo, March 2

The Bridal & Wedding Expo features an amazing selection of wedding professionals ready to help you find the perfect gown, reception venue, invitations, photographer, music, menu, honeymoon destination and much more!

When: Saturday, March 2, 12:30 – 5 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building

How Much: Free online registration, $10 general admission at the door. Parking is $12.

More info: Visit California Bridal Show

Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle, Boat & Travel Show, March 7-10

Welcome to California’s premier fishing, tackle, boat, travel & outdoors show! Located in Orange County California the show draws vendors from all over the country including manufacturers, retail sales, travel lodges and dealers of hundreds of outdoor products.

When: Thursday – Sunday, March 7 – 10.

Thursday & Friday, March 7-8: noon – 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 9: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday, March 10: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds

How Much: General admission is $20, children 12 and younger are free. Free admission for active duty military with ID. Parking $12

More info: Visit Pacific Coast Sportfishing, Tackle, Boat, Travel and Outdoor Show

Centennial Farm Workshop: Make it, take it – Food preservation with UCCE Master Food Preservers, March 9

This class will provide you with up-to-date process recommendations, teach you how to process your food safely and explain the reasons behind the process. You’ll also learn about the essential equipment required and effective storage practices.

When: Saturday, March 9, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. RSVP online by March 5.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: $40 class fee covers ingredients, handouts and two (half-pint) canning jars with lids and rings. Parking is free.

More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Centennial Farm Workshop: Urban Hops – Rabbits as a Diverse Agricultural Journey, March 16

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the enchanting world of rabbits! This comprehensive introduction covers the diverse realm of pedigreed show rabbits, showcasing 52 unique breeds. Explore the advantages of rabbit manure for gardens and gain insights into the fundamentals of raising rabbits as a sustainable food source. Additionally, dive into the process of ethically sourced angora wool, learn how rabbits can enhance your child’s 4-H or FFA youth project and discover why these gentle creatures make fantastic pets and quiet urban companions. As a bonus, this class aligns with a rabbit show at Centennial Farm, offering a post-lecture tour to meet local breeders, appreciate beautiful rabbit breeds and explore the potential of incorporating rabbits into your urban farming endeavors!

When: Saturday, March 16, 10 a.m. – noon; RSVP online by March 13.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: $7 fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.

More info: Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

Impalas Magazine Orange County Super Show, March 17

Impalas Magazine’s best in the West low rider tour rolls into OC Fair & Event Center. Check out the amazing classics, low riders, bombs, mini trucks, dubs and low rider bicycles. Plus, live on stage: Kurupt and Daz!

When: Sunday, March 17, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds

How much: General admission is $30, children 12 and younger are free with paid adult admission. Parking is $12.

More info: Sign up at Impalas Magazine

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, March 21

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public, and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Thursday, March 21, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More Info: Visit Discovery Day

Hope Fest OC 2024, March 23

Hope Fest OC is a convergence of movements, non-profits, ministries and churches dedicated to bringing transformational hope to the communities of Orange County. Through a captivating evening of music, video, language and togetherness we believe in the impact that one changed life can have on another and the community.

When: Saturday, March 23, 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Pacific Amphitheatre

How much: Donations accepted. Parking is $12.

More Info: Visit Hope Fest OC

Apartment Association of Orange County, March 28

Rental property owners, resident managers, realtors and property management companies will have the opportunity to network with over 100 vendors, offering various products & services specific to their industry. One day, all under one roof!

When: Thursday, March 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building & Huntington Beach Building

How Much: General admission is free, parking is $12.

More Info: Visit Apartment Association of Orange County

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, March 28

When: Thursday, March 28, 9:30 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building or virtually on Zoom

More Info: Visit OC Fair Public Meetings Information

Crossroads of the West Gun Show, March 30-31

When: Saturday & Sunday, March 30-31

Schedule:

Saturday, March 30: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, March 31: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Costa Mesa Building, Huntington Beach Building, Main Mall, Santa Ana Pavilion, OC Promenade

How Much: General admission is $22. Children 12 and under are free with a parent or guardian. Parking is $12.

More Info:  Visit Crossroads of the West Gun Show

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Ongoing at OC Fair & Event Center

Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm is home to fruit and vegetable gardens, livestock and the Millennium Barn. Two youth educational tour programs are offered – Discovery Days and Junior Farmer Tours – as well as year-round daily hours so the public can visit the farm.

When: Monday – Friday, 1 – 4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Excluding holidays and all-grounds events).

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Centennial Farm

Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Want to keep tabs on our pigs all year long? Watch the Centennial Farm pigs LIVE on our official Pig Cam and see what these adorable animals are up to!

More info: Visit Centennial Farm Pig Cam

Farmers Market every Thursday

Shop local at this OC Farm Bureau-certified farmers market featuring produce, fresh flowers, fish, hummus, honey, hot sauce and more. Some vendors also sell hot food for lunch such as tamales, tacos and burritos.

When: Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Lot D

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit OC Farm Bureau 

Heroes Hall

Heroes Hall is a free, permanent, year-round museum and education center with exhibitions, performances and educational programs that celebrate the legacy of Orange County veterans and others who have served our nation. The two-story exhibition space will rotate themes semi-annually with each focusing on an aspect of the personal stories and experiences of veterans.

When: Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Excluding holidays and all-grounds events).

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall Museum

How much: Free admission and parking.

More info: Visit Heroes Hall

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Coming up in April

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, April 2

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public, and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Tuesday, April 2, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More Info: Visit Discovery Day

Fight Club OC, April 4

When: Thursday, April 4

Schedule:

Baja Bar & Grill Happy Hour 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Hangar doors open at 6 p.m.

First fight starts at 7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – The Hangar

How Much: General admission is $65, military $55, free admission for children 4 and younger. Parking is $12.

More Info: Visit Fight Club OC

Centennial Farm Workshop: Homegrown Tomatoes, April 6

If there is just one edible plant that you should choose to grow at home, it is the tomato. Nowhere else is the contrast in flavor, nutrition and variety between homegrown and store-bought more evident. This how-to presentation will provide all the practical knowledge necessary to begin growing tomatoes. You will see tomato plants with 50 to more than 100 tomatoes on each plant. Learn which varieties to grow, how to plant and care for tomatoes and common diseases and pests that afflict them. Bring your questions and learn how to grow tomatoes easily!

When: Saturday, April 6, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; RSVP online by April 3.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: $10 class fee covers materials and any handouts. Parking is free.

More info:  Sign up at Centennial Farm Garden Classes

OC Pet & Reptile Expo, April 6-7

The OC Pet & Reptile Expo is back and bigger than ever! Featuring more animal experts, breeders, pet rescues and our all-new Terrarium Building Workshop. Bring the family out for 2 fun-filled days of reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, cats, dogs and wildlife exhibits. You can also support local rescues and shelters by adopting pets looking for a new home. We’ll see you there!

When: Saturday & Sunday, April 6 – 7

Saturday, April 6: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday, April 7: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building and OC Promenade

How much: General admission is $15, $10 for kids 4 – 12, free for kids 3 and younger. Parking is $12.

More Info: Visit OC Pet & Reptile Expo

Costa Mesa Speedway – Jack Milne Cup, April 13

When: Saturday, April 13

Schedule:

Gates open at 6 p.m.

First race at 7:30 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Action Sports Arena

How Much: $30 general admission; $20 juniors (13-17), seniors (65+) and active military; $10 for kids ages 3-12; free for kids 2 and younger. Parking is $12 for cars and motorcycles.

More Info: Visit Costa Mesa Speedway

Imaginology, April13-14

A family-friendly event that focuses on STEAM. At Imaginology, kids and their families will not only see a world of wonder, but can participate in a wide range of fun and educational hands-on activities designed to inspire and encourage academic and career exploration.

When: Saturday & Sunday, April 13-14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds

How much: General admission is free. Parking is $12.

More Info: Visit Imaginology

Garden Bros Nuclear Circus, April 18-21

Garden Bros Nuclear Circus brings all the excitement, laughter and memories to cherish with the whole family. This year’s show is packed with breathtaking special effects, arena seating, concert-style sound and lighting. The very best performers from over 22 countries make up this action-packed, fast-paced 100-minute performance in a theatrical 5-ring setting, featuring the human cannonball, aerial artists, the wheel of death, motorcycles in the sphere of fear, the funniest clowns, jugglers, dogs and more!

When: Thursday – Sunday, April 18 – 21

Schedule:

Thursday, April 18: 4:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Friday, April 19: 4:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 20: 1:30, 4:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 21: 1, 4 & 7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – All Fairgrounds

How Much: Adult general admission is $30, children $15, kids 13 and under are free. Parking is $12.

More Info: Visit Garden Bros Nuclear Circus

Centennial Farm Discovery Day, April 19

Discovery Days at Centennial Farm are open to the public and are perfect for mom groups, homeschool groups, families and more. Visitors may participate in the following activities:

Self-guided tours
Radish seed planting
Chick education
Oxen demonstration
Crops education
See livestock animals

When: Friday, April 19, 9 a.m. – noon

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Centennial Farm

How much: Free admission and parking.

More Info: Visit Discovery Day

OC Japan Fair, April 19-21

Enjoy the experience of tasting, shopping and learning about Japanese culture. There will also be a cosplay show, tuna cutting show, popular Japanese artists/comedians performances, traditional instrument performances, games, kimono models meet and greet and more!

When: Friday – Sunday, April 19-21

Schedule:

Friday, April 19: 5 – 11 p.m.

Saturday, April 20: noon-10 p.m.

Sunday, April 21: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Anaheim Building, OC Promenade and Lot I

How much: General admission is $10, free admission for ages 6 and younger or 66 and older. Parking is $12.

More info: Sign up at OC Japan Fair

OC Fair Board of Directors Meeting, April 25

When: Thursday, April 25, 9:30 a.m.

Where: OC Fair & Event Center – Administration Building or virtually on Zoom

More Info: Visit OC Fair Public Meetings Information