Newport Beach families can explore financial aid, NCAA recruiting and career pathways at a free fair Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) holds its annual College & Career Fair from 5 to 8 p.m. at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, according to the district's event page. No registration is required.

Parking is free.

Six workshops begin at 5:30 p.m. Topics include dual enrollment, financial aid for two- and four-year colleges, NCAA recruiting and eligibility, apprenticeships and career conversations for younger students. A session on college transition planning for students with disabilities is new this year, according to a Stu News Newport report, offering families guidance on accommodations and support services in higher education.

Students at Newport Harbor High, Corona del Mar High and Ensign Intermediate all fall within the district. The fair is open to families with children of all ages, including elementary students.

Younger students can try hands-on activities at the Pathway Playground, an interactive area tied to the district's Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. At the October 2025 fair, stations covered robotics, engineering, broadcast media, nursing and computer science, according to the district's recap.

The fair also features representatives from colleges, universities, international schools, trade schools, military branches and business partners. At the 2024 event, the district reported more than 50 four-year colleges, 25 two-year colleges and trade schools, all Armed Services branches and more than 30 industry exhibitors.

Last year's fair drew more than 1,200 attendees. Lisa Snowden, the district's coordinator of work-based learning, said at the October 2024 fair that the goal is "to provide students and their families with resources to make informed decisions about their academic and career goals."

The OC Fair & Event Center is at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. Families should enter off Fair Drive at Gate 1 and park in Lots A or B. Free transportation runs to and from select district sites.

The full workshop schedule and transportation details are available on the district's College & Career Fair page. Families can also contact Snowden at 714-424-5036.