The 2026 Overland Expo season officially kicks off in Southern California, and Overland Expo SoCal is setting the tone in a big way. Taking place March 14–15 at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, this first event of the year is where new gear debuts, friendships reconnect, and the community comes together after winter with fresh energy and big plans for the road ahead.
By day, it’s all about new ideas, hands-on learning, and the latest gear. As the sun sets, the focus shifts to what makes Overland Expo truly special by bringing the community together with happy hour, in-booth parties, and the kind of after-hours gatherings where conversations run long and connections are made.
Saturday evening brings the community together in the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres for the official Happy Hour sponsored by Toyo Tires; a chance to unwind with friends, grab a drink, and trade stories after a full day. The post-event activities also support a good cause, with the Overland Expo Foundation raffle inviting attendees to give back while scoring the chance to win great prizes. It’s the perfect mix of celebration and purpose and sets the tone for the season ahead.
Eat, Drink, & Party at Overland Expo SoCal
Fueling the weekend is an elevated food and beverage experience anchored by the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres, the central gathering spot to relax, refuel, and catch up with friends both new and old. This year’s official beer sponsor is pFriem Beer, bringing a standout lineup of craft beers.
Attendees can enjoy a crisp Pilsner with floral hops, a tart lemon zest, with a touch of honey, and a crisp, snappy finish, a delicate and aromatic Japanese Lager with notes of jasmine rice and green tea, a classic West Coast IPA bursting with strawberry and tangerine brightness, or a Tropical Hazy IPA layered with pineapple, mango, and passion fruit. After winding down after a full day of exploring the venue, this is the place to be.
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Saturday, March 14: In-Booth Parties & Happy Hour
Saturday delivers a full afternoon and evening of social energy across the exhibitor area and Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres.
The party starts early with in-booth gatherings, including Anker Solix hosting light bites and beverages from 1–3 PM at Booth #GG-1000. From 3–5 PM, Subaru brings the vibes to Camp Subaru Live at Booth #GG-1055, featuring light bites, drinks, and live music. From 5–7 PM, the official Saturday Happy Hour sponsored by Toyo Tires takes over the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres. It’s a perfect window to relax, grab a drink, and connect after a packed day of exploring.
Also happening Saturday evening is the Overland Expo Foundation Raffle from 5:30–7 PM, located in the Oasis Bar and Food Court, sponsored by Nokian Tyres. A great list of prizes will be available. Proceeds support the Overland Expo Foundation, with raffle tickets available both online and on-site at the Foundation booth.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14th
IN-BOOTH PARTIES
ANKER SOLIX 1 PM – 3 PM
- Booth #GG-1000
- Light Bites and Beverages
SUBARU- CAMP SUBARU LIVE 3 PM – 5 PM
- Booth #GG-1055
- Light Bites and Beverages
- Live Music
HAPPY HOUR 5 PM – 7 PM
- Sponsored by Toyo Tires
- Located in the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres
OVERLAND EXPO FOUNDATION RAFFLE 5:30 PM – 7 PM
- Located in the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres
- Supports the Overland Foundation
- Purchase raffle tickets on the website and on-site at the Overland Foundation Booth
Sunday, March 15: Community & Connection
SUNDAY, MARCH 15th
WOMEN WHO WANDER NETWORKING EVENT 11 AM
Sunday morning shifts the focus to connection and conversation with the Women Who Wander networking event at 11 AM in the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres. Sponsored by MAXXIS Tires, this gathering features Jess Stone, along with mimosas and meaningful discussion, an ideal way to close out the weekend with inspiration and community.
- Sponsored by MAXXIS TIRES
- Located in the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nokian Tyres
- Featuring Jess Stone
As the kickoff for the 2026 season, Overland Expo SoCal blends education, gear, food, and unforgettable social moments into one coastal weekend. Schedules and offerings may continue to evolve, so be sure to check the Overland Expo website for the latest updates. If you’re ready to start the year surrounded by great rigs, great people, and great conversations, Costa Mesa is where it all begins.
