The OC Fair Is Back for Summer 2026

One of Orange County’s favorite summer traditions is almost here. The 2026 OC Fair returns to the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa from Friday, July 17 through Sunday, August 16, bringing back the food, rides, exhibits, concerts, competitions, animals, shopping, and classic fair fun that locals look forward to every year.

This year’s theme is “Your Adventure Awaits!” making it a perfect outing for families, friends, date nights, and anyone looking for a fun summer experience in Orange County.

2026 OC Fair Dates & Hours

The OC Fair runs from July 17 through August 16, 2026 and is open Wednesday through Sunday. The fair is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Fair Hours:

Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to midnight

The fair takes place at:

OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Tickets & Admission

Advance ticket purchase is required, and the OC Fair has limited daily attendance, so it is a good idea to buy tickets before the day you plan to go.

Current admission pricing includes:

Wednesday & Thursday: $13 general admission
Friday, Saturday & Sunday: $18 general admission
Seniors 65+ and kids ages 6–12: $9 every day
Kids 5 and under: Free

The OC Fair also offers special deals such as weekday early-entry savings, ride wristbands, ride/game passes, and family bundles. Availability and pricing can change, so be sure to check the official OC Fair website before you go.

What to Expect at the OC Fair

The OC Fair is known for its fun mix of food, entertainment, rides, exhibits, and community traditions. Whether you go every year or this is your first visit, there is something for everyone.

Fair Food

For many visitors, the food is one of the main attractions. Expect fair favorites like barbecue, funnel cakes, corn dogs, roasted corn, sweet treats, and plenty of unique creations you probably will not find anywhere else.

Carnival Rides & Games

The midway is always a highlight, especially for families and teens. From classic rides to carnival games, there are plenty of ways to make a full day or evening out of your visit.

Live Entertainment

The OC Fair includes multiple entertainment venues, including Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar, and Action Sports Arena. Depending on the day you visit, you may find concerts, tribute bands, local performers, action sports, racing events, or other live shows.

Exhibits, Animals & Competitions

The fair also celebrates Orange County’s agricultural and creative roots with livestock, competitions, visual arts, handcrafts, horticulture, culinary exhibits, and more. It is a great way to experience a different side of Orange County beyond the beaches and neighborhoods we know and love.

Local Tips for Visiting the OC Fair

Here are a few helpful tips before you go:

Buy tickets in advance because fair dates can sell out.

Go on a Wednesday or Thursday for lower general admission pricing and potentially lighter crowds.

Arrive earlier in the day if you are visiting with kids or want to take advantage of early-entry savings.

Check the entertainment schedule before choosing your date, especially if you want to see a specific concert or show.

Plan for parking and give yourself extra time, especially on weekends.

Wear comfortable shoes because you will likely do a lot of walking.

Why Locals Love the OC Fair

The OC Fair is one of those events that brings all of Orange County together. Whether you live in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, San Clemente, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, or anywhere in between, it is an easy summer outing that feels nostalgic, fun, and uniquely local.

It is also a great reminder of why so many people love living in Orange County. We have beaches, trails, restaurants, shopping, great neighborhoods, and community events like this all within reach.

Thinking About Making Orange County Home?

Local events like the OC Fair are part of what makes Orange County such a special place to live. If you are thinking about buying, selling, or simply want to understand what is happening in the local real estate market, I am always happy to help.

For more Orange County lifestyle updates, local events, and real estate insights, stay connected here.

San Clemente Summer Beach Concert Series: July 23, 2026 Local Guide

Summer in San Clemente is hard to beat, and the San Clemente Summer Concert Series is one of the best ways to enjoy the coastal lifestyle our town is known for. With live music, ocean views, beachside sunsets, and a fun community atmosphere, these free summer concerts are a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

The 2026 concert lineup includes rock, country, reggae, 80s/90s hits, classic rock, and even a sunset symphony performance. Concerts are held at some of San Clemente’s most loved locations, including Linda Lane Park, the San Clemente Pier, and Ole Hanson Beach Club.

2026 San Clemente Summer Concert Series Lineup

July 9: Wigs & Ties — Rock
Location: Linda Lane Park

July 16: Knyght Ryder — 80s/90s
Location: San Clemente Pier

July 23: V-Time Firefighter Band — Classic Rock
Location: San Clemente Pier

July 30: The Pistol Blonde — Country
Location: San Clemente Pier

August 13: Common Sense — Reggae/Rock
Location: San Clemente Pier

August 27: Pacific Symphony Quartet — Sunset Symphony
Location: Ole Hanson Beach Club

Where to Watch the Concerts

Many of the summer concerts take place near the San Clemente Pier, one of the most iconic spots in town. Bring a beach chair, picnic blanket, or towel and enjoy live music with the ocean as your backdrop.

Linda Lane Park is another great coastal location with a more relaxed park setting, while Ole Hanson Beach Club offers a beautiful historic setting for the Sunset Symphony performance.

What to Bring

Plan for a comfortable summer evening outdoors. A few helpful items to bring include:

• Beach chairs or a blanket
• Sweatshirt or light jacket for after sunset
• Snacks or dinner
• Water
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Sand-friendly shoes
• Small trash bag to keep your area clean

These concerts are casual, family-friendly, and perfect for a laid-back San Clemente summer night.

Parking Tips for San Clemente Summer Concerts

Parking near the pier, Linda Lane, and beach areas can fill up quickly during summer events, so it is best to arrive early. Consider carpooling, walking, biking, or using the San Clemente Trolley when available.

For pier concerts, give yourself extra time around Avenida Del Mar, Avenida Victoria, the Pier Bowl, and nearby beach parking areas. For Linda Lane and Ole Hanson Beach Club events, watch for posted parking signs and neighborhood restrictions.

Make It a Full San Clemente Evening

One of the best things about the Summer Concert Series is how easy it is to turn the event into a full night out. Before the concert, you can grab dinner downtown, walk Avenida Del Mar, visit local shops, stroll the beach trail, or enjoy the sunset by the water.

San Clemente’s summer concerts are a perfect example of why so many people love living here: ocean views, community events, walkable local spots, and a relaxed beach-town lifestyle.

Living in San Clemente

Events like the San Clemente Summer Concert Series are part of what makes this city so special. From beach concerts and surf culture to charming neighborhoods, local restaurants, coastal trails, ocean-view homes, and a strong sense of community, San Clemente offers a lifestyle that is truly unique.

Thinking about buying or selling in San Clemente? I would be happy to help you explore the different neighborhoods, beach-close homes, ocean-view properties, and local market opportunities.

Holly McKhann
San Clemente Realtor®
Helping buyers and sellers throughout San Clemente, Dana Point, and South Orange County

Dana Point Concerts in the Park: August 2, 2026 Local Guide

One of the best parts of summer in Dana Point is the return of Concerts in the Park, a free, family-friendly music series held at beautiful Sea Terrace Park. On Sunday, August 2, 2026, locals and visitors can enjoy an afternoon of live music, ocean breezes, food, and community fun from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

2026 Concert Lineup

• July 12​

  • ​2:30-4:00pm: Cassie B

  • 4:30-6:00pm: Yachty by Nature

• July 19

  • ​2:30-4:00pm: Sega Genecide

  • 4:30-6:00pm: Decades

• July 26

  • ​2:30-4:00pm: Flashback Heart Attack

  • 4:30-6:00pm: Electric Avenue

• August 2​

  • 2:30-4:00pm: 90's Rock Show

  • 4:30-6:00pm: The Reflexx

• August 9​​

  • 2:30-4:00pm: Tunnel Vision

  • 4:30-6:00pm: Common Sense

• August 16​

  • 2:30-4:00pm: Emo Kids 

  • 4:30-6:00pm: Tijuana Dogs

Where Is Dana Point Concerts in the Park?

The concert takes place at Sea Terrace Park, located at 33418 Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, near Pacific Coast Highway and Niguel Road, behind the Dana Point Library. It is one of Dana Point’s most scenic community gathering spots, with plenty of open lawn space for blankets, chairs, and picnic-style seating.

What to Bring

Concerts in the Park is casual and family-friendly, so plan to bring everything you need for a comfortable afternoon outside.

Consider packing:

• Beach chairs or a picnic blanket
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Light layers for the evening
• Water
• Snacks or dinner
• Cash/card for food and beverage purchases
• A small trash bag to keep your area clean

Food and spirits for guests 21 and older are expected to be available for purchase at the event.

Parking and Trolley Tips

Parking can get busy for Dana Point summer events, so it is smart to arrive early. Additional parking may be available at Salt Creek Beach Parking Lot, though fees may apply. Free parking may also be available along portions of Ritz Carlton Drive, Stonehill Drive, Niguel Road, and Pacific Coast Highway. The Dana Point Trolley is also expected to be running with a stop near the concert area.

Make It a Dana Point Summer Day

Concerts in the Park is a perfect excuse to enjoy a full day in Dana Point. You can spend the morning at Salt Creek Beach, grab lunch in the Lantern District, walk around Dana Point Harbor, or meet friends for an afternoon picnic before the music starts.

Dana Point offers the kind of coastal lifestyle people dream about: beach days, harbor walks, ocean-view parks, local restaurants, and a strong sense of community. Events like Concerts in the Park are part of what makes living here so special.

Living in Dana Point

Whether you love the beach, the harbor, the walkable Lantern District, or the quiet coastal neighborhoods tucked throughout town, Dana Point offers a unique blend of relaxed beach living and everyday convenience.

Thinking about buying or selling in Dana Point? I would be happy to help you understand the neighborhoods, ocean-view opportunities, coastal market trends, and what makes each pocket of Dana Point unique.

Holly McKhann
Dana Point Realtor®
Helping buyers and sellers throughout Dana Point, San Clemente, and South Orange County

San Clemente 4th of July Fireworks: A Local Guide to Celebrating by the Pier

There is nothing quite like the 4th of July in San Clemente. With ocean breezes, beach chairs, red-white-and-blue outfits, and fireworks lighting up the sky over the Pacific, it is one of the most beloved summer traditions in town.

Each year, locals and visitors gather near the San Clemente Pier to enjoy the annual Independence Day fireworks show. The fireworks are scheduled to begin at 9:00 PM from the San Clemente Municipal Pier, creating a beautiful coastal backdrop for one of San Clemente’s most popular community events.

Where to Watch the San Clemente Fireworks

The most popular viewing areas are near the San Clemente Pier, the beach, and the coastal trail. You can also find great views from nearby beach areas, blufftop locations, and some areas throughout town with ocean visibility.

Popular viewing options include:

• San Clemente Pier area
• San Clemente Beach Trail
• T-Street area
• Linda Lane Park area
• Nearby blufftop streets with ocean views
• Beach areas north and south of the pier

Because this is one of the busiest days of the year at the beach, plan to arrive early if you want a prime spot.

Parking Tips for the 4th of July in San Clemente

Parking near the pier and beach fills up quickly, so it is best to plan ahead. The City and San Clemente Guide recommend using remote parking and the San Clemente Trolley when possible. The Outlets at San Clemente can be a helpful parking option, with trolley access into town depending on the day’s route and schedule.

Expect heavy traffic around the Pier Bowl, Avenida Victoria, Avenida Del Mar, and nearby beach streets before and after the fireworks.

What to Know Before You Go

The pier and beach area may have closures and restrictions for safety during fireworks setup and the show. The end of the pier typically closes ahead of time, and the full pier may close on the day of the event. Ocean access near the pier may also be restricted during the fireworks window.

A few helpful reminders:

• Arrive early
• Bring layers because it can cool down by the water
• Use the trolley or walk if possible
• Pack out what you bring in
• Expect crowds and post-show traffic
• Check city updates before heading out

Make a Full Day of It

The 4th of July is a great time to enjoy everything San Clemente is known for: beach time, local restaurants, the pier, Avenida Del Mar, coastal walks, and small-town charm. Whether you start with breakfast downtown, spend the afternoon at the beach, or meet friends for dinner before the show, Independence Day in San Clemente is a true coastal experience.

Living in San Clemente

Events like the 4th of July fireworks are part of what makes San Clemente such a special place to live. From the pier and beaches to local shops, restaurants, trails, surf culture, and community traditions, San Clemente offers a lifestyle that is hard to duplicate.

Thinking about buying or selling in San Clemente? I would be happy to help you explore the different neighborhoods, beach-close communities, ocean-view homes, and local market opportunities.

Holly McKhann
San Clemente Realtor®
Helping buyers and sellers throughout San Clemente, Dana Point, and South Orange County

Why San Clemente Continues to Be One of Orange County’s Most Desirable Beach Towns

San Clemente, California is one of the most sought-after coastal communities in South Orange County, known for its ocean views, beautiful beaches, Spanish-style architecture, surf culture, walkable downtown, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. For buyers looking for a true beach-town feel with access to Orange County, San Diego, and Los Angeles, San Clemente offers a rare combination of charm, lifestyle, and long-term real estate appeal.

As a San Clemente REALTOR® and Orange County real estate agent, I work with buyers and sellers who are drawn to San Clemente for many different reasons. Some are looking for ocean view homes, some want a walkable beach-close condo, some love the family-friendly neighborhoods, and others are searching for a home they can improve, renovate, or customize over time.

Whether you are buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, relocating, or preparing to sell, understanding what makes San Clemente special can help you make a more confident real estate decision.

The San Clemente Lifestyle

San Clemente is often described as a coastal village with a small-town feel. The city offers beautiful beaches, coastal trails, ridgeline trails, parks, surf spots, local restaurants, boutique shopping, and a charming downtown centered around Avenida Del Mar.

One of the biggest reasons buyers search for homes in San Clemente is the lifestyle. Many neighborhoods offer easy access to the beach, the San Clemente Pier, the beach trail, local coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and community events. The city also has a free trolley service that helps connect popular areas of town during certain times of the year, making it easier to enjoy the coast, downtown, and nearby attractions.

For many buyers, San Clemente feels more relaxed and authentic than some other coastal Orange County cities. It has a strong community feel, beautiful scenery, and a lifestyle that appeals to families, surfers, retirees, investors, second-home buyers, and luxury home buyers.

Popular Types of Homes in San Clemente

San Clemente real estate offers a wide variety of property types, which is one reason the market appeals to so many different buyers.

Common home types in San Clemente include:

• Ocean view homes
• Beach-close condos
• Single-family homes
• Luxury coastal estates
• Spanish-style homes
• Newer construction homes
• Townhomes
• Investment properties
• Homes with ADUs or rental potential
• Fixers and renovation opportunities

Some buyers prioritize walkability to the beach or downtown San Clemente, while others prefer larger homes, newer communities, gated neighborhoods, golf course proximity, or panoramic ocean views. Because San Clemente has so many different micro-markets, it is important to work with a local real estate agent who understands neighborhood-by-neighborhood value.

Best Areas to Consider When Buying in San Clemente

San Clemente has several distinct areas, each with its own personality, price points, and buyer appeal.

Southwest San Clemente

Southwest San Clemente is known for its beach-close lifestyle, surf access, charming homes, and proximity to T-Street, Riviera, Lost Winds, and the San Clemente Beach Trail. Buyers who want a classic San Clemente beach lifestyle often love this area.

Central San Clemente

Central San Clemente offers access to downtown, Avenida Del Mar, the pier, restaurants, shopping, and beach activities. This area can be especially appealing for buyers who want walkability and coastal convenience.

Southeast San Clemente

Southeast San Clemente is known for ocean views, larger homes in some pockets, and proximity to beaches, trails, and freeway access. It can be a great fit for buyers who want coastal living with a little more space.

Forster Ranch

Forster Ranch is popular with buyers looking for larger homes, neighborhood parks, trails, and a more residential feel. Many families appreciate the space, community feel, and access to outdoor areas.

Talega

Talega offers a master-planned community feel with parks, trails, pools, golf, newer homes, and a variety of neighborhoods. Buyers who want amenities and a planned community lifestyle often consider Talega.

Rancho San Clemente

Rancho San Clemente offers homes and condos with convenient access to shopping, schools, parks, and freeway access. Some properties also offer beautiful hills, city lights, or ocean views.

Marblehead

Marblehead is known for coastal proximity, ocean view properties, and access to shopping and nearby amenities. Buyers looking for a convenient coastal location often include Marblehead in their search.

Why Sellers in San Clemente Need a Strategic Plan

Because San Clemente is such a desirable market, sellers can often do very well when their home is prepared, priced, marketed, and negotiated correctly. However, buyers in today’s market are also more selective. Presentation matters.

Before listing a San Clemente home for sale, sellers should consider:

• Pricing strategy
• Pre-listing repairs
• Paint, flooring, lighting, and curb appeal
• Staging and furniture placement
• Professional photography and video
• Online marketing
• Local SEO exposure
• Buyer objections
• Showing preparation
• Negotiation strategy

As a REALTOR® with extensive renovation and construction experience, I help sellers evaluate which improvements are worth making before going on the market and which updates may not provide a strong return. The goal is always to help my sellers maximize their net proceeds while making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Renovation Knowledge Matters in San Clemente Real Estate

One of the biggest advantages buyers and sellers can have is working with a real estate agent who understands both market value and property condition.

For buyers, renovation experience can help identify homes with hidden potential, understand improvement costs, and evaluate whether a home is a smart long-term purchase.

For sellers, renovation knowledge can help determine what should be updated before listing, how to improve first impressions, and how to position the home to attract stronger offers.

With experience flipping and renovating more than 250 homes, I help my clients look beyond the surface and make informed real estate decisions. Whether a home needs cosmetic updates, staging, repairs, or a larger renovation plan, having the right guidance can make a significant difference.

What Buyers Should Know Before Moving to San Clemente

If you are thinking about buying a home in San Clemente, it is important to understand that not all neighborhoods, streets, views, HOAs, floor plans, and locations are valued the same way.

Before buying in San Clemente, consider:

• Do you want to be walkable to the beach?
• Is an ocean view important?
• Do you prefer a condo, townhome, or single-family home?
• Are you comfortable with an HOA?
• Do you want newer construction or classic coastal charm?
• Is school proximity important?
• Do you need quick freeway access?
• Are you open to renovating?
• Do you want rental potential?
• Are you looking for a primary home, second home, or investment property?

A good San Clemente real estate search starts with understanding your lifestyle goals first. From there, you can narrow down the neighborhoods and property types that make the most sense.

What Makes San Clemente Real Estate Unique?

San Clemente is unique because it offers a blend of beach lifestyle, community charm, architectural character, outdoor recreation, and long-term desirability. Many buyers are not simply looking for a house in San Clemente — they are looking for a lifestyle.

The most desirable properties often include one or more of the following:

• Ocean views
• Walkability to the beach
• Walkability to downtown
• Outdoor living space
• Updated interiors
• Good parking
• Natural light
• Functional floor plans
• Privacy
• Rental flexibility
• Strong neighborhood appeal

Because inventory can vary significantly by neighborhood and price range, buyers and sellers benefit from local guidance and a clear strategy.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in San Clemente?

Whether you are searching for San Clemente homes for sale, preparing to sell your San Clemente property, or simply trying to understand your home’s value, I would be happy to help.

I’m Holly McKhann, a San Clemente REALTOR® and Top 1% Orange County real estate agent with more than 500 transactions, 250+ property flips and renovations, and hundreds of five-star reviews on Google and Zillow.

My background as a former CPA with an MBA in Finance, combined with my hands-on renovation experience, allows me to help buyers and sellers make smart, confident real estate decisions.

If you are thinking about buying or selling in San Clemente, reach out today. I would love to help you understand the market, evaluate your options, and create a strategy that helps you move forward with confidence.

Are you looking to make an extra $100,000, $200,000 or even more when you sell your home? If so, you'll want to listen up, because I'm going to share with you how you can do just that. My name is Holly McKhann, and I'm a Realtor with a unique set of skills that can help you maximize the value of your home. As a house flipper, I have extensive experience, knowledge, contracts, and vendor relationships that I can leverage to help you get the most money for your property.

Let me tell you a story about a gentleman I recently helped in San Clemente. This was his childhood home, and when his parents passed away, he inherited it. He wanted to sell it but received a low offer that he wasn't happy with, so he came to me for help. I told him that I could help him make a lot more money by bringing in my contractor and using my contacts to update the home and make it more attractive to buyers. I even fronted the money for him, so he wouldn't have to spend any of his own.

We spent about $75,000 on updates, including paint, flooring, light fixtures, and a whole new kitchen. We analyzed the market carefully to figure out what would bring the best return on investment, and it paid off. When we put the house on the market, we received an all-cash offer for $1.9 million the first weekend it was listed. That's $250,000 more than the initial offer, and needless to say, the gentleman was thrilled.

This is just one example of how I can help you get more money for your home. If you have a property that could use some updating, and you don't know what buyers are looking for these days to get top dollar, contact me. I'll come to your home and give you a complimentary assessment of what needs to be done to maximize your property's value. My goal is to help you sell your home for the most money in the shortest amount of time, with the least amount of stress.

When you work with me and my team, you can feel confident and comfortable that you're in great hands. We have a proven track record of success, and we'll work tirelessly to help you achieve your goals. Plus, with my background as a house flipper, I have a unique perspective on what buyers are looking for and what updates will make the most impact on your home's value.

So if you're ready to make more money when you sell your home, don't hesitate to contact me. You'll find all of my contact information below, and I'm excited to help you achieve your real estate goals. Thanks for reading, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Watch Youtube Video Here

Are you planning on selling a home in South Orange County, CA? I have flipped over 250 homes and I bring my expertise and team of contractors priced better than anywhere else to help my clients maximize their home sales. I have yet to meet another realtor who can do what I do! I have also helped multiple clients get their home renovated before selling, to generate them an extra $100K+ on the sale of their home!

https://youtu.be/xXOcufyH2Ng

Did you know you can actually MAKE money when you purchase a home? I have flipped over 250 homes so one of my specialties as a realtor is helping my buyers purchase an outdated home, get it renovated for less than retail pricing, and generating instant equity! They get the perks of having a beautiful home just the way they like it, while adding value for whenever they decide to sell it. It is such a smart strategy and I love helping my clients do this. I have the connections and contractors to get the work done fast and for significantly less money than they could find anywhere else. Interested in doing something like this for yourself? Call or text me (949)295-7770

Watch The OC Market Update Here

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We can definitely fill you in on details that are not listed on the report and help you determine the best home for you. If you are wondering if now is the time to sell, please try out our INSTANT home value tool. You’ll get an estimate on the value of your property in today’s market. Either way, we hope to hear from you soon as you get to know our neighborhoods and local real estate market better.