FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 16, 2026
Latisha Townsend – Communications Director, Supervisor Foley
(714) 559-8364 | Latisha.Townsend@ocgov.com
OCTA’s OC Fair Express Returns July 18, Offering Convenient Service on Saturdays and Sundays to OC Fair
ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA – The Orange County Transportation Authority is making it easier than ever to enjoy the OC Fair this summer by once again offering the popular OC Fair Express, providing convenient weekend bus service from six locations throughout Orange County beginning Saturday, July 18
“The City of Costa Mesa can look forward to reduced weekend congestion and a cleaner community due to fewer cars on roads near the fairgrounds. Last year, a record-breaking 22,888 passengers avoided traffic and parking by riding the OC Fair Express,” said Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley. “Riding this bus costs less than a cup of coffee! Skip the parking, save money and start your experience the moment you board the OC Fair Express – your adventure awaits."
The OC Fair Express will operate every Saturday and Sunday through Aug. 16, providing direct service from six locations throughout Orange County to the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes from each location, with schedules varying by departure point.
The service offers a convenient alternative to driving and parking, allowing riders to relax on the way to and from the fair while helping reduce traffic congestion around the fairgrounds.
Riders pay just $2 each way ($4 round trip) using a Wave card, the Wave mobile app, contactless payment, or exact cash fare on board. Youth ages 18 and under ride free through OCTA's Youth Ride Free program with a Wave card. Seniors receive discounted fares.
This year’s OC Fair Express will depart Saturdays and Sundays from the following six locations, including a new stop in Irvine:
- Anaheim – Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), 2626 E. Katella Ave.
- Fullerton – Fullerton Park & Ride, 3000 W. Orangethorpe Ave.
- Huntington Beach – Goldenwest Transportation Center, 7301 Center Ave.
- Irvine – Irvine Train Station, 15215 Barranca Parkway.
- Laguna Hills – Laguna Hills Transportation Center, 24282 Calle de los Caballeros.
- Santa Ana – Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center (SARTC), 1000 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
OC Fair Express buses conveniently drop off and pick up passengers just inside the Yellow Gate entrance on the east side of the OC Fairgrounds. Riders are encouraged to arrive at their departure location at least 10 minutes before scheduled departure times.
Fair admission tickets should be purchased online in advance, although tickets may also be available for purchase at the venue on the day of attendance, subject to availability. This year’s OC Fair is themed “Your Adventure Awaits,” and OCTA can help get you there more conveniently so attendees don’t have to wait as long for the adventure to begin.
Kick-Off Celebration at ARTIC
OCTA will celebrate the return of the OC Fair Express with a free kick-off event on Saturday, July 18, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), 2626 E. Katella Ave. in Anaheim. The first 100 attendees at the event will get a free OC Fair Express Ride.
The family-friendly event will feature:
- Games, prizes and giveaways
- OC Fair mascots
- Photo opportunities
- Crafts and activities for children
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- Prize drawing opportunities for those who RSVP by Thursday, July 16
Following the celebration in Anaheim, attendees can board the 10:35 a.m. OC Fair Express and head directly to the OC Fair.
The OC Fair Express has helped tens of thousands of riders reach the fair since it debuted in 2011, providing an affordable, convenient and environmentally friendly transportation option while reducing traffic and parking demand during one of Orange County's busiest annual events.
For route schedules, fares, RSVP information for the kick-off event, and additional details, visit OCFairExpress.com. To inquire about Supervisor Foley’s media availability, please contact Latisha Townsend at (714) 559-8364.
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Vice Chair Katrina Foley was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2022 to represent the newly established District 5, which includes the cities of Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, a large portion of Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Newport Beach, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, as well as the unincorporated areas of Coto de Caza, Emerald Bay, Ladera Ranch, Las Flores, Rancho Mission Viejo, Stonecliffe and Wagon Wheel. This is her second term on the Board of Supervisors, where she previously served District 2.
Vice Chair Foley’s 2026 Board appointments include:
Orange County Housing Finance Trust
Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA)
Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA)
Orange County Audit Oversight Committee
OC Public Libraries Advisory Board
Newport Bay and South Orange County Watershed Executive Committees
Transportation Corridor Agency - Foothill/Eastern
Transportation Corridor Agency - San Joaquin Hills
Coastal Greenbelt Authority
Urban Counties Caucus
