4-08-2026 5:06am

Imaginology (Edutainment!) | OC Fairgrounds | Apr 11-12

Eric Bergstrom Editor

Have you ever wondered how math can help you cook…or what causes a rainbow…or how baby chicks know when to hatch?

Set a course full STEAM ahead to OC Fair’s Imaginology, where science, technology, engineering, art and math come alive in the most fun and exciting ways.

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Children, teens, families and school groups dig into science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Imaginology provides unique experiences for attendees of all ages – from preschool to high school, and their parents and grandparents – to build, create, play, observe and interact through activities that help them see the possibilities of a future in STEAM fields. Imaginology features makeshops, demonstrations, competitions, hands-on activities and entertainment, as well as food and fun. Youth competitions give students the chance to be recognized for their unique talent and accomplishments.

WHAT TO EXPECT

At Imaginology, kids and their families will not only see a world of wonder, but can participate in a wide range of fun and educational hands-on activities designed to inspire and encourage academic and career exploration.

All exhibitors at Imaginology will feature activities from one of the five STEAM subject areas: science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. Students are invited to build, interact and explore various activities using skills that directly correlate with a STEAM career.

When

Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, April 12, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Admission

Admission is free. Parking is $15.

Location

Imaginology at the OC Fairgrounds
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Schedule of events

2026 Imaginology will feature live entertainment and tons of activities. View the program for a list of activities and exhibitors, or see the schedule for Main Stage performance times.

Food and beverages

There will be food options available for purchase at Imaginology. See the program for a list foods.

Outside food and beverages are permitted if stored in factory-sealed receptacles. No cans, glass, outside alcohol or hard-sided coolers. Water bottles are permitted if factory-sealed or emptied upon entry (drinking fountains will be available for refills).

Things to leave at home

To promote a safe, secure and enjoyable environment, all guests are subject to bag/package checks, as well as magnetic wanding. Any dangerous, unlawful or prohibited items that are surrendered at the gate will not be returned. Please leave these items at home:

Cans or glass bottles
Hard-sided coolers
Folding chairs
Clothing that is indecent or offensive; exposed tattoos that are indecent or offensive
Pets or other animals with the exception of service animals as defined by the ADA
Alcohol
Selfie sticks
Photography tripods or professional camera equipment
Drones or remote-controlled surveillance devices
Guns, knives, stun-guns, tasers, mace, pepper spray, tear gas or any other firearms or weapons, regardless of whether the guest holds a concealed weapons permit
Narcotics or other illegal substances
No smoking or vaping at OC Fair & Event Center