The Orange County Fair is back for another summer of fun, festivities, and fantastic food from July 18 through August 17, 2025. Among the most exciting highlights returning to this year’s event is the popular $5 Taste of the Fair program, offering fairgoers a variety of budget-friendly, delicious snacks and small bites, available daily until 4 p.m.
This beloved $5 deal gives visitors the chance to explore a diverse range of flavors without breaking the bank. From savory to sweet, there are plenty of options to satisfy every craving. The best part? Many vendors rotate their $5 specials throughout the fair’s run, allowing guests to mix and match multiple dishes during their visit.
Tasty Highlights at the OC Fair
Some standout offerings within the $5 menu include:
- Bacon-wrapped pickles from Chicken Charlie’s, perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy, smoky snack.
- Spicy cheese tots courtesy of Wahlburgers, ideal for fans of bold, cheesy flavors.
- The strawberry funnel cake from The Lazy Toucan, a sweet twist on a fair classic.
Additionally, vendors like Crazy Nachos rotate their $5 specials periodically. From asada nachos early in the fair to horchata agua fresca in the final days, there is always a new flavor to try.
Where to Find the $5 Deals
The fairgrounds are divided into several sections, each hosting unique $5 selections:
- Carnival Area: Treat yourself to jalapeño cheese corn dogs, mini funnel cake bites, fried Twinkies, or flamin’ hot pickle pizza.
- Centennial Farm: Enjoy chocolate chip cookie cones, kettle corn, giant western sausages, and mini fish tacos.
- Main Mall: Grab chicken nachos, egg rolls with fried rice, pretzel logs, or refreshing lemonade.
- Fair Square: Sample BBQ pork sundaes, chips with salsa and guacamole, or spicy cheddar popcorn.
- Family Fairway: Dive into bacon-wrapped hot dogs, fried avocado, mini soft-serve cones, or tater tots with chili and cheese.
- Livestock Area: Savor pulled pork sliders with fries, chicken nuggets, chicken and steak street tacos, and cinnamon rolls.
This extensive lineup ensures that visitors have plenty of variety and value, making it easier than ever to enjoy multiple $5 bites during a day at the fair.
Why the $5 Taste of the Fair Is a Must-Try
The return of the $5 food options program at OC Fair 2025 allows guests to savor a diverse array of tasty treats without waiting too long in lines or splurging on a single large meal. This bite-size format encourages tasting multiple items, perfect for families and groups eager to share and experience the fair’s culinary creativity.
In addition to affordability, this initiative supports fair vendors by increasing foot traffic throughout the day and showcasing their unique menu highlights. It’s a win-win for both guests and food sellers.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of the $5 deals, arrive before 4 p.m., as this offer is only available during the day. Check vendor schedules for rotating items to catch your favorites or try something new each time you visit. With the fair running through mid-August, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge without overspending.
Whether you’re on the hunt for nostalgic favorites like funnel cakes and corn dogs, or looking to try innovative bites bursting with flavor, the $5 Taste of the Fair program at OC Fair 2025 promises delicious food experiences for every visitor. Don’t miss out on these tasty deals that bring great value and great flavors to the biggest summer celebration in Orange County.
