2026 OC Fair Features Popular Prize for Attendees
The 2026 OC Fair, running until August 16, has once again captivated visitors with its vibrant carnival atmosphere, featuring a wide array of games and prizes. Traditionally known for the joyful expression of children clutching oversized stuffed animals won from various booths, this year’s event is no exception.
Ben Pickett, Vice President of Ray Cammack Shows, the fair’s long-standing ride and game provider, has announced that the carnival midway is home to 60 games, showcasing popular attractions such as beer pong, balloon pop, and water races that challenge participants to squirt water at moving targets. Growing public interest has resulted in an impressive prize inventory, reflecting current trends in pop culture. Prizes include beloved characters from franchise favorites like Pokémon, as well as quirky offerings such as dumpling-shaped squishy toys, which have emerged as viral sensations this season.
Attendance at the fair is not only an opportunity for recreation but also an avenue for community engagement. In 2022, fair participants took home over 430,000 prizes—equivalent to filling 78 semi-trucks. Highlighting a new initiative, the OC Fair & Share program allows attendees to donate surplus prizes to children in need through collection bins placed at fair exits.
Facilitated by multiple local Lions Clubs, including the Costa Mesa Newport Harbor Lions Club, the toy drive aims to channel excess winnings to deserving youngsters in the community. Jennifer Kelder, who is spearheading the project, has expressed enthusiasm for the outreach potential the initiative represents. She anticipates a substantial collection of toys, with hopes of gathering at least 1,000 toys in the first two weeks alone, buoyed by a donation from a group of YouTube content creators during the opening weekend.
Upon collection, these toys will undergo a thorough cleaning process before being redistributed to local nonprofits, ensuring that they reach those who would benefit from them most. Each participating Lions Club will manage its allocation to maximize the impact on local families in need.
The OC Fair continues to blend entertainment with community service, creating lasting memories for attendees while fostering a spirit of goodwill and generosity. As the event progresses, it remains a quintessential example of how local festivities can contribute positively to the community, enhancing the overall fair experience for all involved.
