Orange County: How to score free admission to the O.C. Fair on opening day

The O.C. Fair in Costa Mesa starts Friday with an offer of free admission and free parking for visitors who come during a one-hour period on opening day. It’s a good way to sample the fair -- and save money too.

The deal: The O.C. Fair will run through Aug. 14 from noon to midnight Wednesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to midnight Saturdays and Sundays.

Arrive between noon and 1 p.m. on opening day and receive free admission and free parking. The savings can add up, depending on how many people you bring. Tickets usually cost $11 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 12 (children younger than 6 are free). Parking usually costs $7. Just remember: Free admission doesn’t cover food, rides or musical events.

When: Free admission noon to 1 p.m. July 15.

Other freebies: Check out all the freebies and promotions available during the month if opening day doesn’t work for you. Some examples:

- -Noon to 4 p.m. July 20: Donate five cans of food and receive one free admission and a free carnival ride.

-- Noon to 4 p.m. July 27: Donate one new children’s book and receive one free admission and a free carnival ride.

Contact: O.C. Fair