A Big New Year’s Eve at Winter Fest OC: Live Tribute Band, DJ Ryan, Fireworks and Fun for Families

What’s happening, where and why it matters

Winter Fest OC is rolling out a loud, family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. The night promises live music, a popular DJ set, a fireworks display and plenty of winter-themed attractions. The event is aimed at people who want a festive night out with family or friends without heading into downtown crowds.

The gathering is one of the larger holiday events in Orange County this season and offers a single venue where food, entertainment and kid-friendly activities happen all in one place. That matters because it gives families and groups a controlled, easy way to celebrate the new year while avoiding the usual street congestion and long waits at bars and clubs.

Live show and DJ lineup: what to expect on stage

Headlining the evening is Queen Nation, a longtime tribute band known for energetic performances of classic Queen songs. They’ll be followed by DJ Ryan, who will keep the beat going with dance-friendly mixes into the late hours. The night’s schedule mixes a full-band set with DJ time so the crowd can move from sing-along moments to a dance-party vibe.

The program also includes a countdown to midnight and a fireworks show to close the night. Organizers say the fireworks are timed to create a centerpiece moment — not a long spectacle, but a bright, celebratory finish that should be visible from much of the venue.

This setup makes the event flexible: show up for the band and stay for the DJ, or bring kids early for family activities and leave after the fireworks. The mix of live music and DJ sets is designed to appeal to a broad age range without turning the night into a late-night club scene.

Attractions and who will enjoy this night most

Beyond the music, Winter Fest OC recreates a winter fair atmosphere. Expect an ice rink for skating, holiday-themed rides, themed photo spots and roaming entertainers. Food vendors and warm drinks will be on site, along with places to sit and watch the stage or enjoy a quieter corner with children.

The event is clearly aimed at families and mixed-age groups. It’s a good fit for parents who want a holiday feel plus live entertainment, for groups of friends looking for a low-stress night out, and for anyone who prefers a single, well-run venue for New Year’s celebrations instead of a street festival or bar crawl.

Getting in and getting around: tickets, timing and access

Winter Fest OC runs on New Year’s Eve at the OC Fairgrounds. Ticket options typically include general admission and family packages; prices vary by age and whether you want early access or special seating. Organizers recommend buying tickets in advance since the event draws a sizable crowd on the holiday.

There is parking at the fairgrounds and local public transit options that serve the area, though street and lot traffic may be heavier than usual close to midnight. The venue is wheelchair accessible and provides standard accommodations for guests with mobility needs.

Who’s behind the night and what it means locally

The festival is produced by the Winter Fest OC team in partnership with the OC Fair & Event Center. Sponsors and local partners are involved to provide food, rides and production support. Organizers say the event boosts local winter tourism by keeping holiday dollars in the county and offering an attractive alternative to central-city New Year’s options.

For the fairgrounds, the event helps extend the site’s seasonal calendar and brings a crowd that supports nearby restaurants and shops — a small but tangible local economic lift on a holiday night.

Practical tips before you go

Arrive early if you plan to skate or ride, since those attractions can fill up. Dress in layers: even in Southern California, evenings can feel chilly near the fairgrounds, especially if you’re standing for performances. Bring cash or a card that most vendors accept, and plan a meeting spot if you’re with a larger group.

If you’re coming with kids, check the schedule for the fireworks timing and have ear protection handy; the display is bright and loud enough that younger children may be startled. Finally, expect heavier traffic leaving the venue at midnight — allow extra time or consider a short wait in a safe area until the busiest surge passes.

Sources

• prnewswire.com