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The excitement is just beginning, as the OC Fair just announced their triumphant return this summer, bringing back the Southern California staple to fair fans of all ages. The OC Fair returns on July 16th and will thrill fairgoers through August 15th with a brand new theme, “Time for Fun”. After the challenging summer that followed the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the news comes as a breath of fresh air and brings back a sense of optimism that is needed now more than ever.
“We are grateful to plan for an exciting, and safe, OC Fair this year,” said OC Fair Board Chair Natalie Rubalcava-Garcia. “This milestone will allow the community to come together to celebrate the future and generate much-needed opportunities for economic development and growth in Orange County. The Board and staff have done a fantastic job of responsibly managing our finances and preparing to meet safe reopening guidelines to not just make it through the pandemic, but to emerge resilient and ready for 2021 and beyond.”
Safety is key this year, as OC Fair officials have been working diligently with public health agencies to develop a covid-safe environment and protocols to keep fairgoers safe while bringing back popular carnival rides, fair foods, entertainment, competitions, animals, and much more. The plans currently follow local health projections for the summer season but are made to adapt to adhere to local health conditions and changes.
Advance ticket sales will be required, limiting capacity and giving fairgoers a fun and socially distanced experience that will bring peace of mind to families big and small. The number of concessions, rides, and shopping vendors will also be at a reduced capacity to allow for a safer experience. Tickets will go on sale May 1st through the OC Fair Official Site.
“We have worked through many different scenarios for the 2021 OC Fair and we are so excited to move forward with this plan because it means that we really can bring back the fun, and that’s why I love this year’s theme,” said Michele Richards, OC Fair & Event Center CEO. “We want everyone to continue to follow health guidelines and get vaccinated so we can finally celebrate summer together again.”
The Fair Board voted to keep ticket prices at the 2019 OC Fair rates, $12 general admission and $7 for children and seniors on weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday), and $14 general admission and $7 for children and seniors on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). The current plan is for the fair to be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, as it traditionally has been. There is a change to move Friday into weekend pricing and OC Fair will absorb the online ticket sale fees.
Announcements regarding concerts in Pacific Amphitheater and The Hangar will be coming soon. Are you ready for the fun? Stay tuned for more details!
