Nibbles of Tidbits, a Food Blog

Tickets are on sale now — Since it’s at the Newport Dunes, we plan to kayak there.

If you don’t enter, you can’t win.  Why not enter?  Anyone can win a Culinary Arts Competition at the Orange County Fair.  The deadline for competition entries is fast approaching.  Do you know how to enter?  Do you know what to do after you enter?  If not, this post may help.

First, enter (most competitions) online — The OC Fair’s website can get you on the way.

Go to the OC Fair Competitions’ page to learn ‘How to Enter an OC Fair Competition’.

When you’re ready to enter, visit the OC Fair & Event Center On-line Entries page (below).

Entrants are called Exhibitors, thus register as such before entering a competition.

Choose Department (Culinary Arts in this instance), then Division and Class for each entry.

Each entry costs $5.00 and one ticket to the OC Fair is presented on delivery day.

After online entry, note delivery date and time and have all goods ready — Learn more here.

On delivery day you’ll drive onto the fairgrounds, while all is being assembled for opening day.

Culinary Arts Competition entries are generally submitted at the Exhibit Promenade (above).

All entries must have a list of ingredients on an index card attached, as shown above.

Pictured herein are previously submitted entries and a was-gonna-be entry mishap below.

The above was going to be Tangerine Dream Bars (similar to Lemon Bars), but it didn’t set.

Fortunately most past entries have turned out well — It’s what’s hoped for on delivery day.

Above shows what YOUR entry/submission should look like, and below shows what it could look like when checking the competition results displayed on opening day at the OC Fair.

It’s exciting to see how well you did or didn’t do — You can’t win ’em all.

Entering a competition at any Fair makes all more fun.

June 10th, 2013 is the last day to enter the Culinary Arts Competition (excluding Special Culinary Contests) online — See the Culinary Arts Competition Guidelines for all specifics.

Guidelines are available for all OC Fair Competitions.

Come & Get It is the theme of this year’s Orange County Fair.

Good luck to all!

Tickets aren’t cheap, but have immeasurable value.  We last attended in 2012.  For more information, see official Press Release below.  Photos were taken during last year’s event.

THE HOTTEST CHEFS COOK TO FIGHT CHILDHOOD HUNGER IN ORANGE COUNTY AND ACROSS AMERICA — SOS’s Taste of the Nation Laguna Beach Hosts Annual Culinary Event.

Hot chefs, restaurants, and mixologists will gather for Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation^®, the city’s premier culinary benefit. Taste of the Nation Laguna Beach will raise critical funds needed to support Share Our Strength’s^® efforts to end childhood hunger in Orange County and across the nation. This year’s event will be held on June 2, 2013 at the beautiful Montage Laguna Beach from 4pm to 7pm, with a VIP reception beginning at 4pm.

More than 9 of Country’s finest chefs will participate in the gastronomic event. Along with Executive Chef Craig Strong, participating restaurants will include Lee Smith – Montage Laguna Beach, Lizzie Binder – San Francisco, Josiah Citrin-Mélisse – Los Angeles, Chris Crary – Santa Monica, Jenn Louis-Lincoln – Sunshine Tavern, Portland, Nick Roberts & Brooke Williamson – Hudson House/The Tripel, Los Angeles, Alan Wong – Alan Wong’s Restaurant, Honolulu. Guests will enjoy the finest foods paired with wines and cocktails.

In addition to fabulous food and drinks, the event will feature an auction of extraordinary items including, A Wine Preservation unit from Sub-Zero filled with wonderful wines from the Jackson family valued at over $2,500. Sub-Zero’s 315W Model is a built-in single-zone wine storage unit with a capacity of 26 (750 ml) bottles. At 15″ wide, this undercounter unit is perfect for those installations where space is an issue.

“We are thrilled once again to be back at the beautiful Montage and are grateful for their generous support and the support from our amazing celebrity chefs! Because of their generosity, 100% of our ticket sales will go to ensure No Kid Hungry is a reality in Orange County,” said Teresa Siriani Event Chair, Taste of the Nation Laguna Beach Area charities that will benefit from this year’s event include Community Action Partnership of Orange County and Second Harvest Orange County Food Bank. Since 1988, Taste of the Nation has raised more than $82.5 million, including more than $125,000 in Laguna Beach alone.

With more than 16 million children facing hunger in America (that’s almost one in five), and 200,000 in Orange County Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation is more vital than ever. The event raises funds to end childhood hunger in America by connecting children with the nutritious food they need to lead healthy, active lives. Funds raised through Taste of the Nation events support No Kid Hungry^™, Share Our Strength’s campaign to end childhood hunger in America.

“An end to childhood hunger in the United States is within reach,” said Bill Shore, Founder and Executive Director of Share Our Strength. “With all the participants in Taste of the Nation Laguna Beach sharing their strength, we are creating more resources to help the children of Orange County and our great nation receive the nutritious food they need to live healthy, active lives.”

Taste of the Nation Laguna Beach is nationally sponsored by American Express, Sysco, Food Network, ONEHOPE Wine, Emmi Roth USA, Cavit Collection Wines, OpenTable and S. Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral Water. Taste of the Nation Laguna Beach is locally sponsored by Lexus, Celebrity Cruise, Orange Coast Magazine, Epstein Becker Green, Evans Family Foundation and ICG. One hundred percent of ticket sales support Share Our Strength’s efforts to end childhood hunger.

Tickets for Taste of the Nation Montage Laguna Beach are $150 for General Admission and $250 for VIP and can be purchased by calling 1-877-26-TASTE or visiting TasteOfTheNation.org.

About Taste of the Nation
Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation^® is the nation’s premier culinary benefit dedicated to making sure no kid grows up hungry. Each spring and summer, the nation’s hottest chefs and mixologists donate their time, talent and passion at nearly 40 events across the United States and Canada, with one goal in mind: to raise the critical funds needed to support Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry^® campaign to end childhood hunger. Taste of the Nation is nationally sponsored by American Express, Sysco, Food Network and in select markets by ONEHOPE Wine, Emmi Roth USA, Cavit Collection Wines, OpenTable and S. Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral Water. Since 1988, Taste of the Nation has raised more than $82.5 million. To purchase tickets or to get involved, visit TasteOfTheNation.org.

About SHARE OUR STRENGTH’S NO KID HUNGRY CAMPAIGN
No child should grow up hungry in America, but one in five children struggles with hunger. Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign is ending childhood hunger in America by ensuring all children get the healthy food they need, every day. The No Kid Hungry campaign connects kids in need to effective nutrition programs like school breakfast and summer meals and teaches low-income families to cook healthy, affordable meals through its Cooking Matters program. This work is accomplished through the No Kid Hungry network, made up of private citizens, public officials, nonprofits, business leaders and others providing innovative hunger solutions in their communities. Join us at NoKidHungry.org.

Our first experience at the California Wine Festival — Wine glasses lined up for tasting.

We grabbed a couple glasses and sought out the FOOD, because it’s how we roll.  Plenty of Wine was all around and available from noon to 4 — Best get some food in us to start.

Ribs and Chicken Wings from The Point Restaurant & Bar in Dana Point.

Messy with a Wine glass in hand, but the meat fell off the bone and both were flavorful.

Tall tables were scattered throughout the event and came in handy when free.

For a list of Participating Wineries, check with the California Wine Festival.

Pasta from Gemmell’s Restaurant may not look like much in the photo, but it was amazing!

I don’t know what it was, but if everything they make tastes as good, I’ve been missing out.

A generous Taco Plate from Chelas Mexican Grill was another winner for me.

Wine has the leading role at this event, so the heartier food options were appreciated.

VIP Pavilion (above) — It didn’t look more exciting, but had more chairs and shade.

Grilled Fish Tacos from Rubio’s.

Sushi from Mahé.

White Chocolate Dipped Strawberries from Celebrity Cruises.

Cheers — We’re hoping to win a free Celebrity Cruise, if they haven’t picked the winner yet!?

An Alcove similar to one on a Celebrity Cruise Ship — Our favorite Festival Sponsor.

We had White Wine on this warm, sunny day — Missed out on Red and want to do it again.

We frolicked and planked on Doheny State Beach afterwards and then went out for Sushi.

One fine day.

California Wine Festival — Seems like a great way to spend a beautiful day.  We’ll be at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point this Saturday for the Beachside Wine & Food Fest.  We look forward to sipping Wine from all over California to live Caribbean music on the beach.

Competitions & Contests Announced for 2013 OC Fair

Think you  bake one delicious apple pie, brew the best beer or have an uncanny knack for  making crafts? Enter [YOUR] 2013 OC Fair competitive entries for an opportunity to earn an award and have your winning entry on display for more than one million Fairgoers from July 12th – August 11th. The 2013 OC Fair invites locals to put their skills and knowledge to the test and sign up to compete in the many competitions and contests being offered this year.

Categories and divisions available this year include:

• Culinary/Wine/Beer: Baked Goods & Confections, Preserved Foods, Sugar Arts, Food Blog Posts, Table Setting Designs, Homemade Beers, Commercial Wines & Home Wines
• Crafts & Hobbies: Collections, Fiber Arts, Hand Crafts & Hobbies, Jewelry Arts
• Visual Arts: Woodworking, Photography & Non-Traditional Prints, Sculpture, Painting, Graphics, Ceramics, Student Video Festival
• Garden & Floral: Fruit & Vegetable, Cut Flowers, Container Plants, Floral Arrangements, Floral Design Contest
• Livestock: Market Shows (Orange County 4-H and FFA only): Beef, Calves, Swine, Sheep, Goats, Rabbits, Broilers, and Turkeys, Breeding Shows: Dairy Goats, Pygmy Goats, Open Angora Goats, Cavies, Poultry, Rabbits, Youth Breeding Sheep, Youth Egg Laying Contest, Educational Posters & Contest
• Youth: Collections, Culinary, Garden & Floral, Fiber Arts, Youth Fine Arts, Hobby & Craft, Jewelry Arts, Photography

The OC Fair competitive entries require online registration in advance and the deadlines for entry registrations are as follows:

• April 26 – Commercial Wine
• May 3 – Homemade Beer
• May 18 – Home Wine
• June 1 – Crafts & Hobbies, Visual Arts, Youth (Fiber  Arts, Collections, Hand Crafts & Hobbies, Jewelry Arts)
• June 7 – Livestock
• June 10 – Culinary Arts Baked Goods & Confections, Preserved Foods, Sugar Arts, Table  Design

Entry registration deadlines for Garden & Floral competitions vary, visit ocfair.com/competitions for the list of dates. Entry registration for all competitions is currently being accepted online at ocfair.com/competitions. For participants who need help with an online entry, the OC Fair has scheduled “Help Days” from May 29 – May 31, Wednesday – Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the OC Fair & Event Center Administration Building.

In addition to the traditional competitions, the OC Fair is also hosting Special Culinary Arts Contests for amateur cooks and bakers to show off their skills. Most contests are only open to adults 18 and older. Each contest will be judged and awarded live at the Fair. The entry registration forms and contest details are available online at ocfair.com/competitions in the Culinary Arts Guide under the “Culinary/Wine/Beer” section. Entry forms are due the Wednesday before each contest:

• Get Baking Cookie Contest – July 20 (Also open to ages 5-18) (Register by July 17)
• Hot! Hot! Hot! Chili, Wings or Salsa Contest – July 27 (Register by July 24)
• OC Cupcake Classic – August 3 (Also open to youth ages 5-18) (Register by July 31)
• Salad Daze Contest – August 10 (Register by August 7)

The 2013 OC Fair, themed Come & Get It, is July 12th – August 11th and brings 23 days of food, rides, exhibits, animals, music, action sports and fun, as well as the Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena. The Fair is open Wednesday – Sunday. Concert tickets, action sports reserved seats and single-day general admission are available for purchase online at ticketmaster.com or from the on-site Box Office. The popular Super Pass, which offers the passholder 23 days of admission, is available for purchase online at ocfair.com from the onsite Box Office.

The OC Fair & Event Center is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, visit ocfair.com, become a fan at Facebook.com/OCFair and/or follow them at twitter.com/ocfair.

Note:  Press Release is from the OC Fair & Event Center and Photo Credit is here.

At the 4th Annual Taste Awards with Cat Cora, an award presenter and recipient.

This year I was one of numerous Judges — Award Winners were announced in December.

Medals were handed out at The Taste Awards Ceremony at the Vibiana this January evening.  Flipping Out won for Best Home Decor and Design Program, as represented by Jenni (above).

P. Allen Smith presented a few awards — A fine fellow we just met.

All went well, no one slipped or tripped, but the sound could’ve been better.

The Vibiana is grand and gorgeous — Inside it glowed in RED, pink and purple.

Outside there was little food — We liked what we ate, but hoped for more.

Can you guess the meat?

It’s Goose for Goose Tacos — Plain looking and simple as can be, yet quite tasty.

Above is a Potato/Chorizo appetizer of some sort from the Idaho Potato peeps.

Plates with a hole for a drink glass (above) may be cooler than the people below.

Champagne? Tequila? Thanks for offering.

Too much Tequila for our Idaho Potato Guy — Had to chill on the bench for a while.

Below:  Me on stage pretending to present an award after the show was over, and with my friend Michelle, pretending others are taking pictures of us — In between are Caramels by Amella and the address of the Vibiana.  Thanks for the invitation.  It was a good experience.

I’m hungry, but happy.  Tommy’s or Pink’s sounds good.

At The Getty Center in Los Angeles surrounded by works of art indoors and out.

A tasteful way to spend a day B at the Get-TAY — It ain’t no ghetto. We sang… At the Get-TAY.

A Banquet Piece by Pieter Claesz (1630), a favorite of our food related selections is pictured above — Others are woven between photos of pristine grounds and architecture, spectacular views, and surprisingly great Pizza.  Admission is FREE to see all.  Parking is $15.00.

Flowering Maze over a reflecting pool — Go through it on a boat. JK, it’s just for viewing.

Still Life Tea Set by Jean-Etienne Liotard (Circa 1781).

City and ocean views are framed within 30-inch square grids of travertine — Beauty abounds.

Still Life with Grapes and Other Fruit by Luca Forte (1630).

There are endless angles to appreciate at The Getty Center.

The Restaurant (below) offers Brunch and sophisticated Lunch and Dinner MENUS.

And the Cafe at The Getty Center is located below it.

The Cafe is somewhat cafeteria-style offering convenient, prepared and cook to order food.

We opted for the Pepperoni Pizza, Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio.

It (above) unexpectedly turned out to be one of the best Pizzas I’ve ever had.

Cheers to the Pizza — I’m ready to go back for IT, more exhibits and new views.

Still Life with Lemons, Oranges and a Pomegranate by Jacob Van Hulsdonck (Circa 1620).

Just a few of the 360-degree available views.

Still Life with Fish, Vegetables, Gougeres, Pots and Cruets on a Table by Jean-Baptiste Simeon Chardin (1769) is shown above, and more architectural wonder is modeled below — A photography student’s or wide-eyed explorer’s jackpot is at The Getty Center daily.

Did you know that Vincent Van Gogh’s Irises (1889) is there too?

Sit amongst courtyard fountains and well manicured trees — Nothing is out of place.

The Museum Store is entertaining in itself with its unique items for play and purchase.

We were at the Get-TAY at the right time to see one of infinity beautiful sunsets.

And A Maid Milking a Cow in a Barn by Gerard Ter Borch (Circa 1652).

Is the cow on the left looking at us?  I loved its face in person and miss him already. 😉

We saw (and ate) some thaaangs!  Don’t miss it.

It’s always a great year when it starts at the OC Fair New Year’s Eve Block Party.

Happy 2013 — God Bless the USA with BBQ and liberty for all.

Block Party entrance view from VIP/Media Lounge (above) and its satisfying food (below).

Familiar OC Fair food like Bacon Wrapped Turkey Legs were found between food trucks.

The Lime Truck, one of many Gourmet Food Trucks throughout an area of the OC fairgrounds.

Queen Nation, one of several (1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s & 1990’s) cover bands playing about.

Young and old enjoyed the Game Room, Demolition Derby, rides and midnight confetti.

After the fireworks, it was fun to gather and throw the confetti in the air like snow.

We’d gladly attend every year!

Start the OC Fair New Year’s Eve Block Par-tay early at its Pre-Party Event: It’s Free.

The New Year’s Eve Block Party returns for a third year with a celebration that only the OC Fair could offer with hit tribute bands, gourmet food trucks, a demolition derby, Vegas-style games and a midnight pyrotechnic celebration, all for one affordable admission price.

For music lovers, the New Year’s Eve Block Party will feature four stages with tribute bands covering four decades of rock music:

• For the 1960’s: Hot August Night – A Neil Diamond Tribute and Abbey Road with Jumping Jack Flash – The Beatles vs. The Stones
• For the 1970’s: Heartbreaker – “Led Zeppelin Live”, Queen Nation – A Tribute to the Music of Queen and Journey Unauthorized – A Salute to the Music of Journey
• For the 1980’s: Strangelove – A Live Depeche Mode Tribute, Atomic Punks – A Van Halen Tribute and Dead Man’s Party – The Oingo Boingo Tribute
• For the 1990’s: Green Today – A Tribute to Green Day, No Duh – The Ultimate No Doubt / Gwen Stefani Concert Tribute Experience and The Joshua Tree – A Tribute to U2

For foodies, the New Year’s Eve Block Party will feature gourmet food truck grub from: Bakery Truck (desserts), Dos Chinos (Latin-Asian fusion), A Bite Truck (California fusion), Baconmania (bacon-inspired dishes), Dogzilla (gourmet hot dogs), White Rabbit (Filipino-fusion), Piaggio On Wheels (Argentinean), Garlicscapes (garlic-inspired dishes), Ragin Cajun (Cajun), Macho Nacho (gourmet nachos), Me So Hungry (gourmet sliders and hamburgers), The Burnt Truck (gourmet sliders), Shortstop BBQ (BBQ fare) and The Lime Truck (fresh California cuisine).

The NYE Bash Demolition Derby will bring the fun of mass destruction for the adventurous types and the free Vegas-style games will offer revelers a chance to test their luck.

At midnight, everyone can enjoy as the OC Fair lights up the night sky with a pyrotechnic celebration to welcome in the New Year.

Tickets are currently available at pre-sale discounts of General $37.50 and VIP $75. For those avid summer Fairgoers, a Block Party admission plus 2013 OC Fair Super Pass Combo is also available at a discounted $57.50. Prices will increase December 1 and the Super Pass combo is only available through December 20.

General admission includes access to the Block Party with standing-room-only tribute band performances, unreserved general admission seating at the NYE Bash Demolition Derby, Vegas-style games with free prizes and access to food trucks, cash bars and other food and beverage options (food and drink prices vary). A VIP ticket offers all the same access as General admission plus complimentary parking, access to a VIP lounge with a private bar serving premium liquor and specialty cocktails, two drink tickets, party favors, hors d’oeuvres, a reserved premium seat at the NYE Bash Demolition Derby and a ticket to return in the summer for the 2013 OC Fair. Group general admission discounts are also available.

Admission and parking can be purchased online at ocfair.com/blockparty or from the onsite Box Office on a limited-time basis (visit ocfair.com/blockparty for the days and hours).

The OC Fair & Event Center is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, please visit ocfair.com, become a fan on Facebook.com/OCFair, or follow at twitter.com/ocfair.

Note:  Above is a Press Release from the OC Fair — Nibbles of Tidbits LOVES this event and we hope to see YOU at the OC Fair’s New Year’s Eve Block Party this year.  It’s a local party where there’s much to do and it really feels like a comfortable Block Party. 🙂

It’s my 2nd year as a Judge at the Los Angeles Luxury Chocolate Salon — Last year is here.

Though it sounds glamorous, it really isn’t — Too much Chocolate is possible.

Its location, the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium is best as a venue for an 80’s concert.

For this purpose, booths/tables were set up to hand-out tiny to full size pieces of Chocolate (and other unique Candies) to those who paid to attend the event.  Personally I never love to stand in line after line, but some products and people make it worth it, like Deuvo (above).

All may take a Chocolate making class at The Gourmandise School of Sweet and Savories.

It’s in Santa Monica — At the end of the class, you’re sent home with lots of custom Chocolate.

Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts students sculpted Chocolate Flowers and more.

They made this mostly edible Cake (above) to display their talents — I just LOVE it.

More Chocolate and Brittle samples — I’ve already voted and will say this… I most appreciated Mignon Chocolate and might of preferred to buy those pictured at top and head to the beach.

Since the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium was a short walk from the booming Santa Monica Pier, that’s where we went — We hadn’t been there in years and luckily arrived intact, once passed the crazy guy yelling every word that shouldn’t be written here, plus all the other clowns along the way.  It’s a bit of a weird world there, Venice like we come to realize.  Interesting.

Cheers to the Chocolate, from the Mexican Restaurant at the end of the Santa Monica Pier.

It was cool kickin’ it there with Sirloin, Chicken and Shrimp Fajitas — All was tender but bland.

Overall, nothing to complain about this day, but all is checked off the list.  Thank you.

Oh what a night, early September back in ’33 — As I recall it ended much too soon.

We stepped back into the 1930’s for a Progressive Dinner on the Queen Mary — A delight!

It started in the Observation Bar with Canapés and Specialty Drinks, progressed to Chelsea’s Chowder House & Bar for Appetizers and more Specialty Drinks, then continued at Sir Winston’s Restaurant for a most incredible Dinner with Wine, and concluded in the Tea Room for Dessert, Coffee and Digestifs.  The MENU is posted above — Enlarge for a better view.

In the Observation Bar we joined fellow Food Bloggers and various media peeps for Canapés.

Cheese, Figs, Cherries, Almonds, Pomegranate, Honeycomb and Lavosh.

We liked the Brie & Kiwi Canapé best, but mostly anticipated the rest.

My scarf matched our first Specialty Drink called a Purple something?!  Don’t ask too many questions, as some things became purple-hazy progressively.  Each drink was just so pretty.

Pay no attention to the woman behind the purple, she’s excited to explore the Queen Mary.

On to Chelsea Chowder House & Bar with Stasha of Coastal Food & Wine and several others.

Stop two of four for sophisticated appetizers and new colorful drinks.

A favorite was the Bass Ale Braised Short Ribs with Caramelized Shallots and Natural Jus.

Also pictured, the Maryland Style Crab Cake Slider and Truffle Fries.

Chef Todd Henderson made all shown and described on the menus above — Thank you!

View on the way to Sir Winston’s Restaurant, stop three and having an amazing time.

Up the stairs for the best yet to come.

Tables set in a historic place for a refined meal amongst the most discerning.

I wanted to do it all again, before the first bite of Beef Wellington — Oh what a meal.

Truffle Sauce, Sea Scallops and Wild Mushroom Chevre Strudel (with my sweetie Freis), oh my.

And it was on to the Tea Room for Dessert and farewells.

It was hard to pace myself throughout, as I wanted everything available at each stop.

Bravo and thank you very much — Nothing lacked this evening but my capacity.

It was an honor to be aboard the Queen Mary and nice to meet Commodore Everette Hoard.

He knows a great deal about the ship — Say hello to him onboard.

I’m told the food is supposed to be better at ballparks these days, but typical food stands still overcharge and barely suffice — Though that’s the case, we still had fun and the Angels won.

We made the best of it by having the price of a 12-pack in one giant can. 😉

Cheers to a striking day!  It was a hot one too.  Good thing we had it made in the shade.

Enter the I Love Newport Beach Photo Contest here to win a Private Party Suite for 10 at the Newport Hyatt Jazz Concert Series — Click on flyer above to enlarge or go here to learn more.

In celebration of the Whole Foods Market soon to open in Newport Beach on September 19th, 2012, they want YOU to show them a photo that captures what you love most about Newport Beach, and they’re giving away prizes.  I’ll be writing more about all, as I’m poised to shop there for a big dinner I’ve got planned.  Come back to see how it goes down.  It’ll be good.

Until next year… Check out the stats released (below) by The OC Fair & Event Center Communications Department — The 2012 Orange County Fair was a success on many levels.

The 2012 OC Fair Rolls Up The Welcome Mat For Its More Than 1.3 Million Guests

The 2012 OC Fair wrapped up another successful Fair season by welcoming 1,357,355 Fairgoers for 23 days and nights of “Home Sweet Home” with food, fun and farm animals.

“In my first year as CEO, this Fair has exceeded all expectations. Every year, the Orange County Fair manages to deliver a high quality event and this one was no exception. Of course, we owe it all to our loyal guests, all 1.3 million of them, who make the OC Fair the success it is,” said Jerome Hoban, OC Fair & Event President & CEO.

Fairgoers came to the OC Fair for outstanding entertainment as the Pacific Amphitheatre saw a record-breaking year with its highest-grossing summer concert series yet that also featured 7 sold-out performances, including Young The Giant/The Steelwells, Steel Pulse/The Dirty Heads, Earth, Wind & Fire, Tears For Fears, Victoria Justice/Max Schneider, Heart, and Duran Duran. Music fans also came out in masses for rocking tribute and original bands booked in The Hangar, which broke records with its highest attended season since opening in 2010. Sellout shows included Journey Unauthorized – A Salute to the Music of Journey, “Led Zeppelin Live” Starring Heartbreaker, Purple Reign – THE Prince Tribute Show, Queen Nation – A Tribute to the Music of Queen, Wild Child – A Jim Morrison Celebration, The English Beat/The Originalites, Which One’s Pink? – The Best of Pink Floyd, Moonwalker – The Reflection of Michael Jackson, Dead Man’s Party – The Oingo Boingo Tribute, and Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez. And not to be left out, adrenaline junkies packed the Action Sports Arena for X-treme Freestyle Moto-X, Bull Riding (Saturday, July 21 show) and five nights of demolition derby which featured traditional derby cars and motorhomes as well as a special all-female derby that raised around $6,000 for the OC Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for The Cure.

Fairgoers arrived at the 2012 OC Fair hungry and left with bellies full of deep-fried concoctions, grilled wonders and bacon masterpieces. Chicken Charlie’s top “Totally Fried” item was the new Deep-Fried PB&J (9,000 sold) and at his new Pineapple Express, some 10,000 pineapples were used. Bacon A-Fair’s Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Legs flew off the grill 7,500 times while 100,000 pieces of Chocolate-Covered Bacon tantalized sweet tooths. The new Biggy’s Meat Market satisfied everyone’s inner caveman by selling approximately 3,900 17-inch Big Ribs, which amounted to more than 10,000 pounds of bone and grilled meat. Some 30 percent of Big Ribs sold were packed up and taken back to the mancave by Fairgoers with the largest to-go order at 20 massive ribs. Of the more traditional Fair food items, Juicy’s sold more than 60,000 turkey legs and enough corn dogs to stretch 3.5 miles end-to-end.

Fairgoers also looked to save on their trip to the Fair by taking advantage of the daily opportunities for free or discount admission. More than 382,298 Fairgoers took advantage of the free or discount admission promotions and of that number, 79,774 generous Fairgoers took advantage of free admission and a carnival ride offered with donations of canned food, children’s books, clothing and school supplies during the four We Care Wednesday drives. Plus, 13,899 Fairgoers in total scooped up a Super Pass (featuring 23 days of admission).

The annual Jr. Livestock Auction welcomed increased numbers of animals sold and money raised with 323 cattle, sheep, rabbits, swine, turkeys and goats selling for more than $310,000, which benefits the youth participants in local 4-H and FFA programs.

In celebration of the 2012 theme of “Home Sweet Home,” 12,177 active duty and veteran military were welcomed to the Fair for free through the Salute to Heroes daily promotion to enjoy the Fair and view the new Let Freedom Ring Exhibit and nightly Salute to Heroes presentation in The Hangar. (Press Release by OC Fair & Event Center and photos by me)

More interesting numbers from 23 days at the 2012 OC Fair:

• Centennial Farm welcomed 27 piglets, 1 Jersey calf and 3 kids (baby goats)
• Of the 4,597 competitors that submitted more than 12,900 hand-woven blankets, homemade cookies, stunning photography, exquisite woodworking and more creative entries in the various competitions and contests, the Fair awarded more than 2,940 people with award ribbons and more than $33,220 in cash awards
• The new Bacon A-Fair sold 20,000 pounds of bacon either beer-battered, dipped in chocolate or wrapped around turkey legs, hot dogs and stuffed jalapenos
• Fairgoers consumed 300 cans of Spam and 5,000 orders of Deep-Fried Cereal from Chicken Charlie’s and 600 Red Velvet Funnel Cakes from Toucan Funnel Cakes
• Potato-loving guests kept Tasti Chips busy cutting 35,000 pounds of potatoes; Biggy’s Meat Market with 20,000 pounds of potatoes and Juicy’s with 50,000 pounds of curly fries and 39,000 pounds of waffle fries
• 48,125 thrill-seekers took unlimited enjoyment of rides in the two carnivals on the Unlimited Ride Wristband days (Wednesdays and Thursdays)
• During We Care Wednesdays, Fairgoers donated 43.5 tons of canned food, 59,353 books, 113,310 items of clothing and thousands of school supplies
• The 45 showings of the new Salute to Heroes presentation, shown nightly in The Hangar, used 8,858 pyrotechnics to thank our country’s service men and women 

The 2012 OC Fair, themed Home Sweet Home featured 23 days of food, rides, exhibits, animals, music, action sports and fun, as well as the Super Pass, Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena. (Related posts are here)

The OC Fair & Event Center, home to the OC Fair, is located off the 405 and 55 freeways at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. For more information, please visit ocfair.com, become a fan at Facebook.com/OCFair, or follow them at twitter.com/ocfair.

Awe, Home Sweet Home, I end up where I wanted to be, with a Division Win in anything.

At the Orange County Fair in receipt of a Certificate of Recognition for my Confections Entry (Fruit Bursts aka Shelly’s Jellies) in the Culinary Arts Competition.  Thank you very much!

2012 Awards (center) and entries are linked — A hard act to follow in 2013, but will try. 🙂

Brunch at Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment aka Italian Grill and Jazz Club.

I’ve liked Spaghettini for years, but hadn’t experienced their Brunch.

Thanks to a friend who won Brunch for Two at Spaghettini’s, I got to partake.

Spaghettini’s Brunch is $49.95 per person for (1) off the menu Entrée and Buffet.

And Bottomless Champagne — Something I always appreciate in a Brunch.

Pictured are just a few of the Entrée Choices (above) and Buffet offerings (below).

It’s nice they don’t overwhelm with too many options, instead a well-prepared, fine amount.

The quality, taste and selection of all made me happy.

Unlimited Champagne with hours to enjoy the Buffet and Entrée makes for a great Sunday.

I particularly liked the Artichoke Dip (below) — It’s much tastier than it looks here.

On to Dessert — Again, not all offerings are shown here.  There’s a lot more.

One bummer about Spaghettini’s Brunch is… No food will be packaged to-go.

I guess Spag’s doesn’t want you to mow down the Buffet to take your Entrée home for later.

That’s what I’d do (written above), but instead I have to think to myself… I don’t want to load up on the Buffet so to save room for my Entrée, since I can’t take any of it home.  Darn.

See MENU at top to learn more about the Sea Bass, Salmon and Sirloin Steak revealed herein.

The Wave 94.7 broadcasts live from Spaghettini during Sunday Brunch and some danced to the smooth jazz playing in the lounge.  In a Wave giveaway, my friend won the basket above.

We’re still not done eating at the Fair.  Madness, I call it Madness — Well listen buster you better start to move your feet to the rockinest rock steady beat of the Orange County Fair.

We appreciated the Foodie Tour and sampling of the indulgent and healthy OC Fair food.

The Pineapple Express by Chicken Charlie remarkably offers a few of the healthier options this year (in a Pineapple) — Naked Shrimp, Maui Chicken and a Shrimp Cocktail in a Pineapple.

Fried Pineapple with Chocolate and Coconut (above).

Associated with Juicy, the food concession stands with music, is Dogsville (above).

They serve up Ham and Cheese Corn Dogs, Jumbo Sausages and more.

Chicken Kabobs by Charlie is an OC Fair staple.

Fried Cornish Game Hen from Baja Blues — How about a Carne Asada Stuffed Avocado?

Tasti Chips is family owned and treats Potatoes with tender loving care, from earth to Chip.

Tasti Chips deserve respect and they’re most appetizing with the Jalapeno Cheese Sauce.

The Tasti Chips’ group also mans Grant Burgers — They’re not bad and have tasty Pickles.

And musn’t leave out Bacon-A-Fair, where everything comes with Bacon.

Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs.

A Pound of Bacon Wrapped around a Turkey Leg (below).

Cheese Stuffed Jalapenos Wrapped in Bacon.

Beer Battered Deep Fried Bacon (below).

Deep Fried Beer Battered Bacon Dogs.

Bacon Wrapped Turkey Leg ready to be had.

Salted Chocolate Covered Bacon popularly photographed by Local Food Bloggers.

And my favorite Beef Brisket Sandwich is from the Chuckwagon.

I love this Sandwich and look forward to it every year.

Corn on the Cob grills throughout.

There’s a large amount of Meat.

Smokin’ Meat — It makes it so good.

On Fridays, small tastes of most seen here and more are available for $2.

Mini and singular variations of Fair favorites are offered (examples above) — It’s a great deal.

Legendairy Gelato has almost every flavor, including Birthday Cake — It really tastes like one.

And we always visit the Wine Garden for friendly tastings poured by the OC Wine Society.

We value the livestock too — Sshhhhhh, don’t tell ’em about the food.

With Hercules shown below — Worth more than the Alligator, if you get what I’m sayin’.

View of the OC Fair from the Ferris Wheel at night.

I never want to come down, well, until it’s time to eat again.

See you at the OC Fair.

The Pineapple Express by Chicken Charlie offers a Shrimp Cocktail in a Pineapple.  I felt good after eating this one at the OC Fair — There’s much more to be reported here about the healthy options and super indulgent at the Fair, once we’re able to sojourn from the fun.

It’s a Deep Fried Avocado Stuffed with Carne Asada.  Have you heard of such a thing?  Does it even sound good?  Well… It’s now at Baja Blues near the Action Sports Arena at the Orange County Fair and a favorite of many, I’m told.  I recently got to try it during a Fair Foodie Tour.

It’s not bad, but I discovered other preferences on the tour — Report posted on 07/28/12.

My Orange Zest Cheesecake with a Milk Chocolate Ganache recently won a 2nd Place Ribbon at the Orange County Fair.  I plan to submit its recipe for the 2012 Orange County Fair Cookbook and will subsequently link to it here.  Until then, stay tuned for snapshots of our recent OC Fair Foodie Tour.  We found several healthy options in addition to the indulgent.

Shelly’s Jellies — I thought they were winners and now I’m glad to have it confirmed.

Made with real Pink Grapefruit, Oranges, Lemons and Limes (Juice and Zest), they burst with natural flavor — Some days I can’t stop eating them.  They are fairly easy to make, but time consuming to cut, sugar and rotate (when necessary to dry out extra moist sides).  Since Shelly’s Jellies taste and yield is so great, some have asked me about selling ’em.  That’s TBD.