History of OC Fair & Event Center in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 15, 2026

The OC Fair & Event Center, located in Costa Mesa, California, is a premier multi-purpose venue serving as the permanent home of the annual OC Fair. Spanning 150 acres, the facility hosts a diverse array of year-round events, including trade shows, conventions, concerts, and community gatherings. Managed by the 32nd District Agricultural Association, an agency of the State of California, the center plays a significant role in promoting regional agriculture, education, and cultural engagement. Beyond the popular summer fair—which attracts over a million visitors annually—the grounds feature expansive arenas, exhibit halls, and outdoor spaces like the Pacific Amphitheatre. Its mission focuses on providing educational opportunities and entertainment while maintaining historic agricultural roots. As a hub for local commerce and tourism, the venue remains a cornerstone of Orange County's social and economic landscape, facilitating everything from equestrian competitions to major exhibitions.

1916: Transfer of Sponsorship to Orange County Farm Bureau

In 1916, the oversight and sponsorship of the county fair were officially transitioned to the Orange County Farm Bureau.

1925: Relocation to Anaheim and Board Reorganization

In 1925, the fair was transferred to the Orange County Fair Board and underwent a significant geographic relocation to the city of Anaheim.

1949: Formation of the 32nd District Agricultural Association

In 1949, the 32nd District Agricultural Association was established as a state special-purpose district under the California Department of Food and Agriculture to manage the OC Fair & Event Center.

1953: City of Costa Mesa Incorporation

In 1953, the fairgrounds, which were originally established on land formerly occupied by the Santa Ana Army Air Base after World War II, officially became part of the newly incorporated City of Costa Mesa.

March 18, 2009: President Barack Obama Town Hall Meeting

On March 18, 2009, the OC Fair & Event Center hosted a town hall meeting conducted by President Barack Obama during his official visit to the Southern California region.

May 2009: Proposed Sale of the Orange County Fairgrounds

In May 2009, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recommended that the Orange County Fairgrounds be sold, classifying the public land as surplus assets. This proposal sparked significant controversy, with the Orange County Fairgrounds Preservation Society alleging that the move was a deliberate, deceptive land grab by powerful individuals seeking to privatize the property.

January 27, 2011: OCFEC Board Policy Statement on Fairgrounds Sale

On January 27, 2011, following a closed session meeting, the OCFEC Board of Directors formally issued a policy statement concerning the potential sale of the fairgrounds property.

February 8, 2011: 32nd District Agricultural Association Correspondence

On February 8, 2011, the 32nd District Agricultural Association initiated formal communication by sending a letter to Governor Jerry Brown, which was subsequently made available as a digital document.

February 2011: Governor Jerry Brown Questions Property Sale

In February 2011, California Governor Jerry Brown expressed skepticism regarding the sale of state real estate, noting that it was not an ideal time for such transactions and arguing that the previous administration's plan would have negatively impacted taxpayers in the long term.