Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo is a vibrant event designed for fitness enthusiasts and families. Taking place at the OC Fair & Event Center from April 30 to May 1, 2027, the expo will showcase over 75 fitness and fun brands.
Attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including runner packet pickups and family fun days. Organised by The OC Marathon, this expo is a perfect opportunity to explore health and wellness resources.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: The OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo takes place from April 30 to May 1, 2027, at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California.
- 2Scale and Focus: This expo features over 75 fitness and fun brands, catering to health enthusiasts and families.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by The OC Marathon, known for its community-focused running events.
- 4Entry: The expo is open to the public, providing free access to all attendees.
Why visit
The OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo is a vibrant event designed for fitness enthusiasts and families. The expo is open to the public, providing free access to all attendees.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting connects your brand with a concentrated audience of race entrants, fitness consumers, and Orange County families in a free-to-attend format that encourages trial. This expo features over 75 fitness and fun brands, catering to health enthusiasts and families.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Registered OC Marathon race entrants collecting packets and testing race-day nutrition, hydration, and footwear.
First-time 5K or half-marathon runners looking for beginner plans, apparel, and local running clubs.
Experienced runners comparing shoes, insoles, watches, and recovery tools.
Fitness enthusiasts shopping activewear and home workout equipment.
Families with children seeking free, active weekend activities.
Health and wellness professionals scouting referrals, coaching tools, and community programmes.
Local personal trainers and studio owners sourcing equipment and client resources.
Orange County residents looking for gyms, races, and wellness services close to home.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Performance running footwear and apparel brands showing shoes, socks, and technical layers.
Sports nutrition and hydration companies sampling gels, chews, electrolytes, and recovery drinks.
Recovery and injury-prevention providers offering compression, massage tools, and gait or movement checks.
Fitness technology and wearable brands demonstrating GPS watches, heart-rate monitors, and training apps.
Gyms, studios, and coaching services signing up local members and race-training groups.
Health screening and wellness providers offering blood pressure, mobility, or nutrition resources.
Family fitness and active-lifestyle brands with beginner-friendly programmes and equipment.
Local retailers and race organisers connecting with Orange County runners and walkers.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Running footwear and gait-analysis services
Technical running apparel and socks
Sports nutrition, energy gels, and hydration
Hydration packs, belts, and bottles
Compression and recovery tools
GPS watches and fitness wearables
Strength and mobility equipment for home workouts
Personal training, coaching, and running clubs
Health screenings and wellness services
Family-friendly fitness activities and race information
Location & Facilities
Venue
OC Fair & Event Center
Costa Mesa, United States
Facilities
Parking
OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at OC Fair & Event Center for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Free registration
Who runs the show
Organisers
The OC Marathon
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Costa Mesa, United States
Why it matters
On 2027-04-30 to 2027-05-01, OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo in Costa Mesa covering Fitness apparel and accessories for all ages., Health foods and nutritional supplements., Wellness services including pe gives food buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
John Wayne Airport
to venue
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa
4-star
Costa MesaUSD 180–230 / night
4-star Costa Mesa base, usually 10-15 min drive to the fairgrounds outside peak traffic; confirm parking and any shuttle options.
Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County by IHG
4-star
Costa MesaUSD 165–210 / night
South Coast Metro area with convenient I-405 and SR-55 access; confirm parking fees and breakfast inclusion.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Costa Mesa / Newport Beach
3-star
Costa Mesa / Newport Beach borderUSD 110–145 / night
Budget-friendly Costa Mesa/Newport border option; confirm parking fees and room configuration for families.
Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
4-star
Costa Mesa (South Coast Metro / arts district)USD 190–240 / night
Upscale South Coast Metro stay near restaurants and the arts district; allow for event-weekend rate increases.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Irvine John Wayne Airport/Orange County
3-star
Irvine, near SNA airportUSD 125–160 / night
Near SNA and suitable for families or exhibitors needing workspace; confirm airport shuttle availability.
City Express by Marriott Santa Ana/Orange County Airport
3-star
Santa Ana, near SNA airportUSD 105–140 / night
Value airport-area option; confirm breakfast and parking inclusions before booking.
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Tustin Orange County
3-star
TustinUSD 115–150 / night
Tustin base with easy access to I-5 and SR-55; confirm drive time during race-weekend traffic.
Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Resort/Convention Center
3-star
Anaheim Resort districtUSD 130–170 / night
Anaheim Resort area; useful if combining the expo with theme-park travel, but allow 25-40 min to Costa Mesa.
Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel
4-star
Aliso Viejo / Laguna BeachUSD 185–235 / night
South Orange County 4-star with fitness facilities; longer drive to the fairgrounds, so check traffic before booking.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana - Orange County by IHG
3-star
Santa AnaUSD 115–150 / night
Santa Ana base near SNA and I-405; confirm parking and breakfast inclusion.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forJohn Wayne Airport (SNA) to OC Fair & Event Center
Shortest option outside peak traffic; confirm the live app quote, airport pickup zone, and fairground drop-off gate.
taxi
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forSNA taxi rank to OC Fair & Event Center
Metered fare; traffic on I-405 and SR-55 can push it higher. Confirm payment method with the driver.
OCTA bus
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forLocal OCTA routes serving OC Fair & Event Center
No rail link to the fairgrounds; use the OCTA trip planner and allow extra time for transfers. Confirm current fares.
rental car
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forSNA or LAX to Costa Mesa hotels and OC Fair & Event Center
Useful for LAX arrivals and multi-day stays; confirm insurance, tolls, and hotel parking fees.
parking
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forOC Fair & Event Center on-site lots at 88 Fair Drive
Confirm the event-specific rate, lot opening time, and card or cash payment. Arrive early for packet pickup.
rideshare from Costa Mesa hotels
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forCosta Mesa hotel cluster to OC Fair & Event Center
Convenient for evening arrivals when buses are less frequent; confirm the app quote and venue drop-off point.
Weather
Late April in Costa Mesa is typically mild and dry, with daytime highs around 68-75 F (20-24 C) and overnight lows around 54-59 F (12-15 C). A coastal marine layer can bring morning clouds, and evenings cool down quickly. Rain risk is low but not zero; check the 7-day forecast before packing and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light layer for early starts.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
US mobile networks are widely available in Costa Mesa, but foreign visitors should confirm roaming or buy a US eSIM or prepaid SIM before the expo. Venue Wi-Fi may be limited in busy halls, so carry a power bank and download maps, tickets, and race confirmations for offline use.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Race-weekend dress
Activewear, running shoes, and layers are the norm at the expo. Business casual is fine for meetings with brands or race officials, but comfortable shoes matter for walking the halls and fairgrounds.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in US restaurants and for rideshare or taxi. Table service usually expects 15-20%, and apps prompt for driver tips. Check whether a service charge is already included.
Sun and marine layer
Coastal Orange County can be cloudy in the morning and sunny later. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light layer for early packet pickup or outdoor activities.
Hydration and queues
Packet pickup and popular demo booths can queue. Go early, carry a refillable bottle, and confirm whether the venue allows outside drinks or requires purchases inside.
Local etiquette
Costa Mesa and Newport Beach are car-oriented. Allow extra time for traffic, use crosswalks around the fairgrounds, and keep right on shared paths if you are testing shoes outdoors.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: SNA
SNA is the closest airport but has limited long-haul service; many international and East Coast attendees connect through a US hub or fly into LAX and drive 50-75 min to Costa Mesa. A Google Flights search for JFK-SNA on 30 Apr 2027 returned nonstop and one-stop options, with a nonstop of about 6 hr 23 min and fares classified as typical; fare levels were not captured for this listing. Set a price tracker once dates are fixed, compare SNA versus LAX plus rental car or rideshare, and budget for checked bags and seat fees. Arrive at least one day before your race or expo commitment and confirm the expo packet-pickup window.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: John Wayne Airport (SNA). Allow road or rail time to OC Fair & Event Center; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near OC Fair & Event Center: Costa Mesa: Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa; Costa Mesa: Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County by IHG; Costa Mesa / Newport Beach border: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Costa Mesa / Newport Beach.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely used across Orange County. From SNA to OC Fair & Event Center, expect approx. USD 22-35 one way outside surge; from Costa Mesa hotels, approx. USD 10-18. Confirm the SNA pickup zone and the fairground drop-off gate in the app before booking, and allow extra time during race-weekend traffic.
Public transit: Orange County has no metro rail link to OC Fair & Event Center; OCTA buses are the public-transit option. Use the OCTA trip planner at octa.net to build a route from SNA, Costa Mesa hotels, or Santa Ana, and allow extra time for transfers. Fares are approx. USD 2 per boarding or about USD 5 for a day pass; confirm current OCTA pricing. The OC Fair Express is a seasonal July shuttle for the OC Fair, not for this April 2027 expo.
Parking: On-site parking is available at OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive. Budget approx. USD 10-15 per day and confirm the event-specific rate, lot opening time, and card or cash payment on the venue site. Arrive early for packet pickup and popular demo hours; traffic on Fair Drive and the SR-55 off-ramps is common during race weekend.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: April 2027
Temperature: Daytime approx. 68-75 F (20-24 C); overnight approx. 54-59 F (12-15 C)
Seasonality: Low seasonal rain risk, but morning marine layer and cool evenings are common. Confirm the 7-day forecast before packing and bring a light layer for early starts.
Packing: Daytime approx. 68-75 F (20-24 C); overnight approx. 54-59 F (12-15 C) Low seasonal rain risk, but morning marine layer and cool evenings are common. Confirm the 7-day forecast before packing and bring a light layer for early starts. Late April in Costa Mesa is typically mild and dry, with daytime h
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 1
book SNA or LAX flights and a refundable hotel in Costa Mesa, Irvine, or Santa Ana.
Day 2
check passport, ESTA, or visa status if travelling internationally to the United States.
Day 3
confirm hotel parking fees and decide between rideshare, rental car, or OCTA bus for expo day.
Day 4
check the race confirmation for packet-pickup ID requirements and your specific pickup window.
Day 5
review the 7-day Costa Mesa forecast and pack layers for cool mornings and sunny afternoons.
Day 6
download OCTA trip-planning and rideshare apps, and save the venue address at 88 Fair Drive.; pack race confirmation, photo ID, refillable bottle, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
Day 7
confirm flight or drive times and allow extra buffer for I-405 and SR-55 traffic.
Day 8
arrive in Orange County, pick up any race essentials early, and avoid a same-day dash to the expo.
Day 9
confirm expo dates, venue, and whether your race entry requires packet pickup at OC Fair & Event Center.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at OC Fair & Event Center
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo registration concourse
OC Fair & Event Center
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
OC Fair & Event Center
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Fitness apparel and accessories for all ages. and Health foods and nutritional s solutions and benchmarking suppliers at OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo in Costa Mesa.
Min. budget
$630.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Fitness apparel and accessories for all ages. and Health foods and nutritional s products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,835.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Costa Mesa show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is the OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo?
It is a fitness and lifestyle expo tied to OC Marathon race weekend at OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. The current listing describes 75+ fitness and fun brands, free public access, and activities for runners, families, and health-focused visitors.
Where is the expo held?
The expo is held at OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, California. Use the venue maps and directions page before travel and confirm the specific hall or entrance on the organiser schedule.
Is the expo free to attend?
The listing states that the expo is open to the public with free access. Confirm any separate race-registration, packet-pickup, or activity fees with the organiser before you go.
Do I need to be registered for the OC Marathon to attend?
No. The expo is described as open to the public, so non-runners can browse fitness brands and family activities. Registered race entrants should still check their race confirmation for mandatory packet-pickup steps.
Can I pick up my race packet at the expo?
The expo is normally the packet-pickup point for OC Marathon race weekend. Check your race confirmation and the organiser schedule for your specific distance, pickup window, and required photo ID.
What brands and products are at the expo?
Expect running footwear, technical apparel, sports nutrition, hydration gear, recovery tools, wearables, personal training and coaching services, health screenings, and family-friendly fitness activities. The listing cites 75+ fitness and fun brands.
Is parking available at OC Fair & Event Center?
Yes, on-site parking is typically available at the fairgrounds. Budget approx. USD 10-15 per day and confirm the event-specific rate, lot opening time, and payment method on the venue site.
How do I get to the expo from John Wayne Airport?
SNA is the closest airport, about 8 miles and 15-25 min by rideshare or taxi outside peak traffic. OCTA buses also serve the area, but there is no metro rail link to the fairgrounds. Confirm live fares and traffic before departure.
Are children welcome at the expo?
The listing describes family activities and fun brands, so children are likely welcome with an adult. Check the organiser page for any age restrictions, stroller rules, or activity waivers before attending.
What should I bring to the expo?
Bring your race confirmation or QR code if collecting a packet, photo ID, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a light layer for coastal morning clouds. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to demo products or walk the halls.
Is the venue accessible for visitors with mobility needs?
OC Fair & Event Center is a large fairgrounds venue; confirm specific accessible parking, entrance, and hall access with the venue or organiser before travel. Allow extra time for distances between lots and exhibit halls.
Can I buy race entries or expo products on site?
Brands may sell products directly at the expo, but race entries and packet pickups follow organiser rules. Check the official OC Marathon registration page for entry availability and deadlines rather than assuming on-site sales.
Glossary
- Race expo
- A pre-race event where participants collect packets, browse running and fitness brands, and attend short product demos or health checks.
- Packet pickup
- The process of collecting your race bib, timing device, and event information before race day; at this event it is typically handled at the expo.
- Bib
- The numbered race document pinned to your shirt or worn on a belt; it identifies you on course and often carries your timing chip.
- Chip timing
- A disposable or reusable tag attached to the bib or shoe that records your start and finish times electronically.
- Corral
- A seeded starting group at a race, organised by expected pace or finish time to reduce congestion at the start line.
- Pace group
- A group led by an experienced runner targeting a specific finish time, often with a visible sign or balloon.
- Gait analysis
- A short assessment of how your foot strikes and rolls while running, used to recommend shoe support or insoles.
- Sports nutrition
- Products such as energy gels, chews, bars, and electrolyte drinks formulated for training or race-day fuelling.
- Hydration vest
- A close-fitting pack with soft flasks or a reservoir, used by runners to carry water on longer training runs or races.
- Recovery zone
- An expo area for compression, massage tools, foam rolling, and advice on post-run recovery and injury prevention.
- Activewear
- Moisture-wicking tops, shorts, tights, and socks designed for exercise rather than everyday fashion.
- Foam roller
- A cylindrical self-massage tool used to release muscle tension in the legs and back after training.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo 2027
- OC Lifestyle and Fitness Expo Costa Mesa 2027
- OC Lifestyle 2027
- OC Lifestyle Costa Mesa 2027
- OC 2027
- OC Costa Mesa 2027
- Costa Mesa United States
- Fitness apparel and accessories for all ages
- Health foods and nutritional supplements
- Wellness services including personal training
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.