by The Orange County Fair will officially open on July 18, welcoming over 1 million expected visitors despite continued high prices for admission and parking. While prices remain unchanged from last year, they are still significantly higher than pre-2023 levels. The fair opens under the direction of a new CEO and amid a commitment to follow California’s sanctuary laws as federal deportation efforts continue. Financially, the OC Fair & Event Center remains well-funded, with over $52 million in reserves as of the end of 2024.
Key Highlights:
- Opening and Leadership:
- Fair opens July 18
- New CEO from Alabama began July 1
- Admission Prices:
- Adult admission: $13 (Wed–Thurs), $15 (Fri–Sun)
- Seniors and children: $9 every day
- Every Day Passport: $60 for full access to the entire fair
- Parking Costs:
- $15 per vehicle, same as 2024
- 2017–2022: $10
- 2023: $12
- 2024 and 2025: $15
- Price History:
- 2017–2022: Adult tickets $12 (weekdays), $14 (weekends); senior/child $7
- 2023: Adult tickets rose to $13/$15; senior/child to $9
- Sanctuary Law Compliance:
- OC Fair will follow California’s sanctuary policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities
- Financial Reserves:
- 2022: Reserves exceeded $67 million
- 2023: Dropped by $15 million
- 2024: Rose by $1 million to $52.66 million as of Dec. 31
Despite elevated costs, the fair continues to draw large crowds and sustain strong financial footing.
