SocalEXHIBITOR FAQs
MARCH 14-15, 2026
OC FAIR & EVENT CENTER // COSTA MESA, CA
SAT 9-5 | SUN 9-4
DEADLINES TO NOTE
PLEASE NOTE: THESE DATES WILL BE STRICTLY ADHERED TO.
THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS.
-
Deadline for Exhibitor Demo Applications:
Friday, January 23, 2026 -
Deadline for Sourcebook Creative:
Friday, January 23, 2026 -
Deadline for Sampling:
Friday, February 13, 2026 -
Deadline to add extra badges:
Friday, February 13, 2026 -
Deadline for media kit submissions:
Friday, February 13, 2026
-
Deadline to submit COIs:
Friday, February 13, 2026 -
Deadline to update app profile:
Friday, February 13, 2026 -
Deadline for exhibitor rentals & discounts (chairs, tables & tents):
Friday, February 20, 2026
BEFORE THE SHOW: MARKETING
Apply to Host a Demo at Your Booth
Registered exhibitors are invited to present live demonstrations of the products or technologies they are selling at their booth. Product demos are a great way to engage attendees, showcase your expertise, and highlight the value of your offerings.
All approved product demos take place within your exhibit space and may be promoted in Overland News’ printed show schedule and the event mobile app.
Product Demo Rules & Regulations
To ensure a safe and positive experience for all attendees and exhibitors, the following rules apply to all product demonstrations:
General Guidelines
- Demonstrations must be conducted entirely within your assigned exhibit space.
- Demos may not block or disrupt aisle traffic, common areas, or neighboring exhibitors.
- Exhibitors are responsible for providing appropriate safety measures to prevent injury to spectators.
Demo Content Requirements
- Product demos must showcase a product being sold at the exhibitor’s booth.
- Submissions that are educational in nature (e.g., Recovery 101, How to Overland, etc.) will not be accepted, as these topics are part of the curated general education program.
- Exhibitors interested in teaching a class in the general education area should contact the Director of Programming at [email protected].
Safety, Fire & Compliance
- Exhibitors must comply with all local fire, safety, environmental, and health regulations.
- Extra caution must be taken when demonstrating equipment with moving parts.
- Wood-burning fires are not permitted.
- Cooking demos using open flames must:
- Use propane tanks equipped with an on/off switch
- Comply with all local health department regulations
- A minimum 3-foot setback must be maintained, or appropriate hazard barriers installed, to protect spectators.
- All demonstrations must be conducted by qualified personnel only.
Conduct & Approval
- Attention-getting devices, stunts, or gimmicks that detract from the professional, educational, or business purpose of the show are prohibited.
- Exhibitors are encouraged to seek approval from Show Management for any activities that may be in question before the event.
Scheduling & Promotion
- All exhibitor demos must be pre-approved by the Director of Programming in order to be included in the event schedule and marketing materials.
- While time-slot requests may be submitted, they are not guaranteed. Scheduling priority is determined on a first-come, first-served basis based on completed applications.
Apply to host a product demo – CLICK HERE
*Subject to approval*
Deadline: January 23, 2026
We will have one 2026 issue of the Overland Sourcebook Guide. Please use the guide below to access ad specifications for your Overland Sourcebook ad. This document includes sizes, specs, and deadlines.
2026 OVERLAND SOURCEBOOK SPECS
Deadline: January 23, 2026
Overland Expo is hosting a charity raffle to benefit the Overland Expo Foundation and other charities. All prizes will be raffled and awarded to attendees at the Overland Expo event.
Overland Expo Foundation Raffle
- Saturday at 5:30 PM at the Oasis Bar & Food Court
- Please fill out this form for your donation!
Launching new gear or looking for press coverage? Submit your information to our Media Kit to connect with top journalists and content creators attending Overland Expo SoCal. Share your press releases, product launches, and brand story to maximize exposure and secure valuable media attention. Don’t miss this opportunity—submit before February 13th!
Deadline: February 13, 2026
We encourage you to have your own patches made (with the hook part) and give them away at your booth. This drives people around the exhibitor area to collect as many as they can! This is a great way to get your logo out to the community and to be a very interactive and important part of this event. Keep the patches no bigger than 2″ ideally (2.5″ max) please! We had good luck with Patches4Less.com. Bring these to the show to give out on your own for more interaction with your brand (we don’t recommend making these your attendee bag items).
Share with your fans and followers that you’ll be exhibiting at Overland Expo SoCal in March! Below are frames to overlay on a photo of your own.
Overland Expo Logo – Dark / Light
Tag @overlandexpo and #overlandexposocal on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Add the Official Overland Expo SoCal 2026 Facebook event to your FB page. Once in the event, click the 3 dots next to the “share” button, and click “add to page.”
- Demonstrations must be conducted entirely within your assigned exhibit space.
- Demos may not block or disrupt aisle traffic, common areas, or neighboring exhibitors.
- Exhibitors are responsible for providing appropriate safety measures to prevent injury to spectators.
- Product demos must showcase a product being sold at the exhibitor’s booth.
- Submissions that are educational in nature (e.g., Recovery 101, How to Overland, etc.) will not be accepted, as these topics are part of the curated general education program.
- Exhibitors interested in teaching a class in the general education area should contact the Director of Programming at [email protected].
- Exhibitors must comply with all local fire, safety, environmental, and health regulations.
- Extra caution must be taken when demonstrating equipment with moving parts.
- Wood-burning fires are not permitted.
- Cooking demos using open flames must:
- Use propane tanks equipped with an on/off switch
- Comply with all local health department regulations
- A minimum 3-foot setback must be maintained, or appropriate hazard barriers installed, to protect spectators.
- All demonstrations must be conducted by qualified personnel only.
- Attention-getting devices, stunts, or gimmicks that detract from the professional, educational, or business purpose of the show are prohibited.
- Exhibitors are encouraged to seek approval from Show Management for any activities that may be in question before the event.
- All exhibitor demos must be pre-approved by the Director of Programming in order to be included in the event schedule and marketing materials.
- While time-slot requests may be submitted, they are not guaranteed. Scheduling priority is determined on a first-come, first-served basis based on completed applications.
We will have one 2026 issue of the Overland Sourcebook Guide. Please use the guide below to access ad specifications for your Overland Sourcebook ad. This document includes sizes, specs, and deadlines.
2026 OVERLAND SOURCEBOOK SPECS
Deadline: January 23, 2026
Overland Expo is hosting a charity raffle to benefit the Overland Expo Foundation and other charities. All prizes will be raffled and awarded to attendees at the Overland Expo event.
Overland Expo Foundation Raffle
- Saturday at 5:30 PM at the Oasis Bar & Food Court
- Please fill out this form for your donation!
Launching new gear or looking for press coverage? Submit your information to our Media Kit to connect with top journalists and content creators attending Overland Expo SoCal. Share your press releases, product launches, and brand story to maximize exposure and secure valuable media attention. Don’t miss this opportunity—submit before February 13th!
Deadline: February 13, 2026
We encourage you to have your own patches made (with the hook part) and give them away at your booth. This drives people around the exhibitor area to collect as many as they can! This is a great way to get your logo out to the community and to be a very interactive and important part of this event. Keep the patches no bigger than 2″ ideally (2.5″ max) please! We had good luck with Patches4Less.com. Bring these to the show to give out on your own for more interaction with your brand (we don’t recommend making these your attendee bag items).
Share with your fans and followers that you’ll be exhibiting at Overland Expo SoCal in March! Below are frames to overlay on a photo of your own.
Overland Expo Logo – Dark / Light
Tag @overlandexpo and #overlandexposocal on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Add the Official Overland Expo SoCal 2026 Facebook event to your FB page. Once in the event, click the 3 dots next to the “share” button, and click “add to page.”
BEFORE THE SHOW: BOOTH PLANNING
Overland Expo SoCal has contracted Event-Hype to be the official general service contractor for this event. They will be reaching out to you directly to take care of many of your exhibitor needs.
All Shipments (Inbound/Outbound) – if you will be arranging any inbound or outbound shipping, THIS FORM must be completed.
Advance Warehouse – shipments accepted Monday, February 9, 2026 through Monday, March 9, 2026; Mon-Fri, 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Direct Shipments to show site accepted from Thursday, March 12, 2026, through Friday, March 13, 2026.
OC Fair & Event Center
c/o Overland Expo [Exhibitor Name/Booth #]
88 Fair Drive, Gate 5
Costa Mesa, CA. 92626
If you are planning on attending Overland Expo SoCal and have not secured a hotel reservation, search for hotel availability via our trusted partner HotelMap.com.
In-Booth Exhibitor Camping – Let us know you plan to camping in your outdoor booth space HERE!
- Outside Exhibitor space only, no camping in the buildings
- Must camp within exhibitor booth footprint.
- Primitive camping, no hook ups
- Camping is only allowed upon approved exhibitor check in – Monday until 11am
- No open flames, propane only, must have an on/off switch
- Vehicles are NOT allowed to move once placed in booth space. No exceptions allowed.
- Overland Centric vehicles only.
- No RVs, Toy Haulers etc…
- Must receive an Exhibitor In-Booth Camping hang tag for vehicle or trailer, if camping in exhibit vehicle. Please request at check-in.
- Must have Exhibitor Camping ID on EXHIBITOR BADGE. Or you may be asked to leave after hours.
- We highly recommend that if you are camping, please plan to stay within the show all weekend long.
- Quiet Hours: 10pm – 7am
- REMINDER – you will not be able to drive any form of vehicle to or from the exhibitor space
Lot G Exhibitor Camping
- Must register to camp via this LINK – $165 for Friday – Monday
- If you need to add Thursday camping additional fees will apply. Please contact [email protected]
- Camping Check In will be Friday from 8am – 6pm ONLY! No exceptions.
- Limited Space available will sell out. Must register in advance. No camping will be available on-site.
- Campsite is per vehicle/RV/Trailer not per person
- RVs are allowed in LOT G Exhibitor Camping
- No open flames, propane only, must have an on/off switch
- This camping area is asphalt
- Lot G Exhibitor Camping incudes:
- 20amp electrical hookups
- Water hookups
- Sewer
- You will NOT have access to the exhibitor area after the show closes
- Quiet Hours: 10pm – 7am
- Once a camping pass is purchased, there will be no refunds.
Deadline to submit COI: February 13, 2026
Overland Expo does not provide any type of insurance coverage for the property and/or personnel of exhibiting companies. Exhibitors must maintain insurance that meets the requirements below and provide proof to Overland Expo Show Management before the show.
An exhibitor shall, at their own expense, secure and maintain through the term of this contract, including move-in and move-out days, the insurance listed below. All such insurance shall be primary of any other valid and collectible insurance of the exhibitor and shall be written on an occurrence basis. Claims-made policies are not acceptable and do not constitute compliance with the exhibitor’s obligations under this paragraph.
The following three types of insurance are required:
- Workers’ Compensation insurance, unless you are the sole proprietor. A sole proprietor is a business entity that is owned and run by one individual. If you have even one other person in the booth working with you, you will need worker’s compensation coverage.
- Comprehensive General Liability insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000 each occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate, combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage, including coverage for personal injury, contractual, and operation of mobile equipment, products, and liquor liability (if applicable).
- Automobile Liability insurance with limits not less than $500,000 for each occurrence combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage, including coverage for owned, non-owned, and hired vehicles, including loading and unloading operators. Auto coverage is only required if there is a vehicle in your booth or if you are using a designated loading/unloading area i.e. POV area.
If you need to purchase General Liability Insurance, you can do that directly from Rainprotection. You can purchase that HERE
Comprehensive General Liability and Automobile Liability insurance policies shall name as additional insured, Emerald (Show Management), OC Fair & Event Center (Facility), and Eventhype (General Service Contractor). If requested, copies of additional insured endorsements, primary coverage endorsements, and complete copies of policies satisfactory to Emerald, shall be furnished to Emerald thirty (30) days before the first day of the event. Certified copies of the Certificates of Insurance or policies shall ensure that they may not be canceled without a 30-day advance written notice to Emerald.
The following MUST be included on the certificate: CLICK HERE FOR AN EXAMPLE.
- “Producer” – Name, Address, and Phone Number of the insurance carrier
- “Description of Special Items” – “Emerald – Overland Expo 2026, Event Hype, OC Fair & Event Center and each of its subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, employees, agents, and representatives” must be listed as additional insured for the dates March 12-16, 2026.
- “Insured” – Company Name, Address, Phone Number, and Booth Number
Certificate Holder Information should be listed as:
Overland Expo SoCal
31910 Del Obispo, Ste 200
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Copies of certificates of insurance, satisfactory to Emerald, shall be furnished to Emerald at least thirty (30) days before the Event. Event Partner may not be permitted to enter the Facility until these requirements have been met. Certified copies of the certificates of insurance shall provide that if any of the above-described policies are cancelled before the expiration date thereof, notice will be delivered to Emerald in accordance with policy provisions.
To order additional exhibitor badges, please do so through our portal below:
Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
Wifi will not be available at Overland Expo SoCal. Please come prepared to provide your own connectivity devices.
At OC Fair & Events Center, staking is NOT allowed; however, all booth tents must be secured.
Please make sure to bring supplies for securing tents and displays properly.
Water weights of any kind are NOT approved by OC Fair & Event Center.
If you are using an awning, tent, or truss structure 400 sq ft or larger, we would request that you let us know, so we can be aware and make sure all requirements are met before the Fire Marshall walkthrough. Your tent will be inspected by the Fire Marshall, and if all of the below requirements are not met then you may be asked to take it down.
- 700 lbs Ballast on each tent leg
- Proper way to secure tent to ballast
- Fire Extinguisher with current up to date permit
- Exit Sign (if the tent has walls)
- Fire Certification from tent manufacture
- No Smoking Sign
INSIDE EXHIBIT BOOTH SPACE
including Breezeways
NO POPUP OR EZ-UP TENTS INSIDE OF BUILDINGS
Overland-Centric ROOFTOP, AWNINGS attached to vehicles, GROUND TENTS must have the trio…anything in question, please reach out to your sales rep.
Only Overland Centric Trailers are approved to be inside the building, max length is 13ft.
Overland Centric Vans and Truck Campers are approved to be in the building but must have the Trio!
“THE TRIO” (All 3 required to be next to each other for quick inspection)
No Smoking Sign: Must be posted and visible
Fire Extinguisher: The best type of car fire Extinguisher uses a 5lb dry powder and has a rating of ABC. The Extinguisher should be certified and up to date. All Fire Extinguishers must be visible and easily accessible.
Smoke Detector: Standard residential working smoke detector placed in each tent
OUTSIDE EXHIBT BOOTH SPACE
At the OC Fair & Events Center, staking is NOT allowed; however, all booth tents must be secured. The weather is unpredictable, and the winds are often gusty.
Structural stability and anchorage are required. Tents must be adequately braced or anchored by manufacturer recommended product specs. We highly recommend nothing less than 50lbs per leg; this is a minimum for a 10×10. It is your responsibility to determine what is safe and secure for your own tent needs.
Bring supplies for securing tents and displays properly. NO water ballasts are allowed. Sandbags and concrete ballasts are available through Event-Hype’s ORDERING PORTAL.
Be prepared to take your tent down, as needed, depending on the severe weather conditions.
Displays using awnings on trailer, truss systems, or tents (equal or larger to 20×20 or 400 sq ft) must have a “No Smoking” sign and a fire extinguisher visible. Fire extinguishers must be Class ABC Fire Extinguisher – 5lb, 2A:10B:C.
All large structures and trussing units require engineering specs to be provided to Show Management prior to set up. It must have a California rated stamp on it, and it needs to be dated 2026.
DISPLAYING OF MOTOR VEHICLES
Liquid and gas fueled vehicles and equipment used for display under tents or membrane structure shall be in accordance with the fire code. This includes any vehicles that are partially displayed under a covering, and they must also abide by the following:
Batteries shall be disconnected
Vehicles or equipment shall not be fueled or defueled within tent or membrane structure
Fuel in the fuel tank shall not exceed one-quarter of the tank capacity or 5 gallons (19 L), whichever is less
Fuel tank opening shall be locked and sealed to prevent the escape of vapors
The location of vehicles or equipment shall not obstruct means of egress
Under no circumstance should your display vehicle be started within your booth space.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Windows must be down
Keys must be provided to floor manager by end of day, Friday, March 14th
All display vehicles will be verified by floor managers.
COOKING GUIDELINES
No cooking is allowed within / under any tents and buildings, no exceptions.
No cooking or open flame in or within 20 feet if open to the public.
No heating or cooking equipment within 10 ft. of exits.
Outdoor cooking that produces grease laden vapors or sparks located at least 20 ft. from tents.
REQUIREMENTS FROM INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE (IFC)
Permanently affixed label indicating size, type of fabric
A membrane structure or tent shall have a permanently affixed label bearing the following information:
The identification of size and fabric or material
The names and addresses of the manufacturers of the tent or air-supported structure.
A statement that the fabric or material meets the requirements of Flame propagation performance testing and certification.
If treated, the date the fabric or material was last treated with flame-retardant solution, the trade name or kind of chemical used in treatment, name of person or firm treating the fabric or material and name of the testing agency and test standard by which the fabric or material was tested.
If untreated, a statement that no treatment was applied when the fabric or material met the requirements of the section.
LP GAS CONTAINERS & COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
Secure compressed gas containers, cylinders, and tanks. Compressed gas containers, cylinders, and tanks shall be secured to prevent falling caused by contact, vibration, or seismic activity. Securing compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be by; 1. To a fixed object with one or more straps, 2. On a cart or other mobile device designed for movement of tanks, 3. To or within a rack or framework, cabinet or other assembly designed for such use.
LP gas containers must be located outside
Small (under 500 gal.) LP containers at least 10 ft. from tent
Large (over 500 gal.) LP containers at least 25 ft. from tent
LP gas containers secured and protected from damage
No flammable liquids or liquid fueled equipment shall be stored inside tents; storage of flammable and combustible liquids at least 50 ft. away
No refueling within 20 ft. of the tent
All rules and regulations for sampling at Overland Expo can be found on the Sample Request Form below. Anyone wishing to sample at Overland Expo SoCal must submit the form by Friday, February 13, 2026.
Overland Expo SoCal has contracted Event-Hype to be the official general service contractor for this event. They will be reaching out to you directly to take care of many of your exhibitor needs.
All Shipments (Inbound/Outbound) – if you will be arranging any inbound or outbound shipping, THIS FORM must be completed.
Advance Warehouse – shipments accepted Monday, February 9, 2026 through Monday, March 9, 2026; Mon-Fri, 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Direct Shipments to show site accepted from Thursday, March 12, 2026, through Friday, March 13, 2026.
OC Fair & Event Center
c/o Overland Expo [Exhibitor Name/Booth #]
88 Fair Drive, Gate 5
Costa Mesa, CA. 92626
If you are planning on attending Overland Expo SoCal and have not secured a hotel reservation, search for hotel availability via our trusted partner HotelMap.com.
In-Booth Exhibitor Camping – Let us know you plan to camping in your outdoor booth space HERE!
- Outside Exhibitor space only, no camping in the buildings
- Must camp within exhibitor booth footprint.
- Primitive camping, no hook ups
- Camping is only allowed upon approved exhibitor check in – Monday until 11am
- No open flames, propane only, must have an on/off switch
- Vehicles are NOT allowed to move once placed in booth space. No exceptions allowed.
- Overland Centric vehicles only.
- No RVs, Toy Haulers etc…
- Must receive an Exhibitor In-Booth Camping hang tag for vehicle or trailer, if camping in exhibit vehicle. Please request at check-in.
- Must have Exhibitor Camping ID on EXHIBITOR BADGE. Or you may be asked to leave after hours.
- We highly recommend that if you are camping, please plan to stay within the show all weekend long.
- Quiet Hours: 10pm – 7am
- REMINDER – you will not be able to drive any form of vehicle to or from the exhibitor space
Lot G Exhibitor Camping
- Must register to camp via this LINK – $165 for Friday – Monday
- If you need to add Thursday camping additional fees will apply. Please contact [email protected]
- Camping Check In will be Friday from 8am – 6pm ONLY! No exceptions.
- Limited Space available will sell out. Must register in advance. No camping will be available on-site.
- Campsite is per vehicle/RV/Trailer not per person
- RVs are allowed in LOT G Exhibitor Camping
- No open flames, propane only, must have an on/off switch
- This camping area is asphalt
- Lot G Exhibitor Camping incudes:
- 20amp electrical hookups
- Water hookups
- Sewer
- You will NOT have access to the exhibitor area after the show closes
- Quiet Hours: 10pm – 7am
- Once a camping pass is purchased, there will be no refunds.
Deadline to submit COI: February 13, 2026
Overland Expo does not provide any type of insurance coverage for the property and/or personnel of exhibiting companies. Exhibitors must maintain insurance that meets the requirements below and provide proof to Overland Expo Show Management before the show.
An exhibitor shall, at their own expense, secure and maintain through the term of this contract, including move-in and move-out days, the insurance listed below. All such insurance shall be primary of any other valid and collectible insurance of the exhibitor and shall be written on an occurrence basis. Claims-made policies are not acceptable and do not constitute compliance with the exhibitor’s obligations under this paragraph.
The following three types of insurance are required:
- Workers’ Compensation insurance, unless you are the sole proprietor. A sole proprietor is a business entity that is owned and run by one individual. If you have even one other person in the booth working with you, you will need worker’s compensation coverage.
- Comprehensive General Liability insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000 each occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate, combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage, including coverage for personal injury, contractual, and operation of mobile equipment, products, and liquor liability (if applicable).
- Automobile Liability insurance with limits not less than $500,000 for each occurrence combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage, including coverage for owned, non-owned, and hired vehicles, including loading and unloading operators. Auto coverage is only required if there is a vehicle in your booth or if you are using a designated loading/unloading area i.e. POV area.
If you need to purchase General Liability Insurance, you can do that directly from Rainprotection. You can purchase that HERE
Comprehensive General Liability and Automobile Liability insurance policies shall name as additional insured, Emerald (Show Management), OC Fair & Event Center (Facility), and Eventhype (General Service Contractor). If requested, copies of additional insured endorsements, primary coverage endorsements, and complete copies of policies satisfactory to Emerald, shall be furnished to Emerald thirty (30) days before the first day of the event. Certified copies of the Certificates of Insurance or policies shall ensure that they may not be canceled without a 30-day advance written notice to Emerald.
The following MUST be included on the certificate: CLICK HERE FOR AN EXAMPLE.
- “Producer” – Name, Address, and Phone Number of the insurance carrier
- “Description of Special Items” – “Emerald – Overland Expo 2026, Event Hype, OC Fair & Event Center and each of its subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, employees, agents, and representatives” must be listed as additional insured for the dates March 12-16, 2026.
- “Insured” – Company Name, Address, Phone Number, and Booth Number
Certificate Holder Information should be listed as:
Overland Expo SoCal
31910 Del Obispo, Ste 200
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Copies of certificates of insurance, satisfactory to Emerald, shall be furnished to Emerald at least thirty (30) days before the Event. Event Partner may not be permitted to enter the Facility until these requirements have been met. Certified copies of the certificates of insurance shall provide that if any of the above-described policies are cancelled before the expiration date thereof, notice will be delivered to Emerald in accordance with policy provisions.
To order additional exhibitor badges, please do so through our portal below:
Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
Wifi will not be available at Overland Expo SoCal. Please come prepared to provide your own connectivity devices.
At OC Fair & Events Center, staking is NOT allowed; however, all booth tents must be secured.
Please make sure to bring supplies for securing tents and displays properly.
Water weights of any kind are NOT approved by OC Fair & Event Center.
If you are using an awning, tent, or truss structure 400 sq ft or larger, we would request that you let us know, so we can be aware and make sure all requirements are met before the Fire Marshall walkthrough. Your tent will be inspected by the Fire Marshall, and if all of the below requirements are not met then you may be asked to take it down.
- 700 lbs Ballast on each tent leg
- Proper way to secure tent to ballast
- Fire Extinguisher with current up to date permit
- Exit Sign (if the tent has walls)
- Fire Certification from tent manufacture
- No Smoking Sign
INSIDE EXHIBIT BOOTH SPACE
including Breezeways
NO POPUP OR EZ-UP TENTS INSIDE OF BUILDINGS
Overland-Centric ROOFTOP, AWNINGS attached to vehicles, GROUND TENTS must have the trio…anything in question, please reach out to your sales rep.
Only Overland Centric Trailers are approved to be inside the building, max length is 13ft.
Overland Centric Vans and Truck Campers are approved to be in the building but must have the Trio!
“THE TRIO” (All 3 required to be next to each other for quick inspection)
No Smoking Sign: Must be posted and visible
Fire Extinguisher: The best type of car fire Extinguisher uses a 5lb dry powder and has a rating of ABC. The Extinguisher should be certified and up to date. All Fire Extinguishers must be visible and easily accessible.
Smoke Detector: Standard residential working smoke detector placed in each tent
OUTSIDE EXHIBT BOOTH SPACE
At the OC Fair & Events Center, staking is NOT allowed; however, all booth tents must be secured. The weather is unpredictable, and the winds are often gusty.
Structural stability and anchorage are required. Tents must be adequately braced or anchored by manufacturer recommended product specs. We highly recommend nothing less than 50lbs per leg; this is a minimum for a 10×10. It is your responsibility to determine what is safe and secure for your own tent needs.
Bring supplies for securing tents and displays properly. NO water ballasts are allowed. Sandbags and concrete ballasts are available through Event-Hype’s ORDERING PORTAL.
Be prepared to take your tent down, as needed, depending on the severe weather conditions.
Displays using awnings on trailer, truss systems, or tents (equal or larger to 20×20 or 400 sq ft) must have a “No Smoking” sign and a fire extinguisher visible. Fire extinguishers must be Class ABC Fire Extinguisher – 5lb, 2A:10B:C.
All large structures and trussing units require engineering specs to be provided to Show Management prior to set up. It must have a California rated stamp on it, and it needs to be dated 2026.
DISPLAYING OF MOTOR VEHICLES
Liquid and gas fueled vehicles and equipment used for display under tents or membrane structure shall be in accordance with the fire code. This includes any vehicles that are partially displayed under a covering, and they must also abide by the following:
Batteries shall be disconnected
Vehicles or equipment shall not be fueled or defueled within tent or membrane structure
Fuel in the fuel tank shall not exceed one-quarter of the tank capacity or 5 gallons (19 L), whichever is less
Fuel tank opening shall be locked and sealed to prevent the escape of vapors
The location of vehicles or equipment shall not obstruct means of egress
Under no circumstance should your display vehicle be started within your booth space
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Windows must be down
Keys must be provided to floor manager by end of day, Friday, March 14th
All display vehicles will be verified by floor managers.
COOKING GUIDELINES
No cooking is allowed within / under any tents and buildings, no exceptions.
No cooking or open flame in or within 20 feet if open to the public.
No heating or cooking equipment within 10 ft. of exits.
Outdoor cooking that produces grease laden vapors or sparks located at least 20 ft. from tents.
REQUIREMENTS FROM INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE (IFC)
Permanently affixed label indicating size, type of fabric
A membrane structure or tent shall have a permanently affixed label bearing the following information:
The identification of size and fabric or material
The names and addresses of the manufacturers of the tent or air-supported structure.
A statement that the fabric or material meets the requirements of Flame propagation performance testing and certification.
If treated, the date the fabric or material was last treated with flame-retardant solution, the trade name or kind of chemical used in treatment, name of person or firm treating the fabric or material and name of the testing agency and test standard by which the fabric or material was tested.
If untreated, a statement that no treatment was applied when the fabric or material met the requirements of the section.
LP GAS CONTAINERS & COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
Secure compressed gas containers, cylinders, and tanks. Compressed gas containers, cylinders, and tanks shall be secured to prevent falling caused by contact, vibration, or seismic activity. Securing compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be by; 1. To a fixed object with one or more straps, 2. On a cart or other mobile device designed for movement of tanks, 3. To or within a rack or framework, cabinet or other assembly designed for such use.
LP gas containers must be located outside
Small (under 500 gal.) LP containers at least 10 ft. from tent
Large (over 500 gal.) LP containers at least 25 ft. from tent
LP gas containers secured and protected from damage
No flammable liquids or liquid fueled equipment shall be stored inside tents; storage of flammable and combustible liquids at least 50 ft. away
No refueling within 20 ft. of the tent
All rules and regulations for sampling at Overland Expo can be found on the Sample Request Form below. Anyone wishing to sample at Overland Expo SoCal must submit the form by Friday, February 13, 2026.
ON-SITE: BOOTH PLANNING
Arrival documents will be available approximately 30 days out from the event. We will send them out to the main contact email that is registered within the exhibitor portal.
If you need to change your main contact in the system, please contact your sales representative to take care of that for you.
INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE VEHICLES
- Fuel tank must be 1/4 tank or less full. We will mark the fuel tank with a sticker once this is confirmed.
- Battery must be disconnected.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
- Windows must be rolled down at all times.
- Keys must be turned in to Event Management by the end of check-in on Thursday.
Your booth display MUST fit into your purchased space, this includes any weights that secure your tent down. Depending upon what space you have registered for, ALL of your display, items, vehicles, trailer (if applicable) must fit within those dimensions.
DISPLAY: Your display must be a family-friendly exhibit. Absolutely no profanity, no sexual content (including innuendo), no scantily clad “spokespersons” either in person or in pictures, and no copyright infringement upon the Overland Expo logo / brand is allowed — we are serious about this.
NOISE: Quiet hours start at 10 pm and are strictly enforced.
OUTDOOR GENERATORS: Exhibitor generators are allowed as long as they are quiet. If your generator is loud, you will be asked to turn it off during show hours. If you are camping in your booth, your generator must be turned off by 10 p.m. If you are carrying extra fuel in your booth for the generator, you are also required to have a fire extinguisher.
INDOOR GENERATORS: Generators are NOT allowed inside the building.
MUSIC: Very low volume music is acceptable, but please do not disturb your neighboring exhibitor/s.
ALCOHOL: NO outside alcohol will be permitted.
SATURDAY 5 PM–7 PM: Happy Hour will take place at the Oasis Bar & Food Court tent. Simply show your badge and you will receive a complimentary drink at the bar (both alcoholic or non-alcoholic options).
Alcohol brought on the grounds by exhibitors, attendees or show personnel is strictly prohibited. The OCFEC Food service Provider shall only serve alcoholic beverages on the OCFEC property.
EXHIBITOR LOAD-IN EXHIBITORS:
Thursday, March 12, 2026: INVITE ONLY
Friday, March 13, 2026: 8 AM – 6 PM
If you will be bringing a semi for your booth space or product, then please contact your sales representative before the event so they may expect your arrival.
*SEMI RIGS *If you have a trailer that is part of your booth display, we highly encourage you to arrive and place the trailer in your booth space on Thursday. Please confirm a time with your sales rep!
Please note, moving in or setting up will not be allowed on Saturday before gates open. ALL exhibitors must be moved in and set up by Friday 6:00 p.m.
EVENT HOURS:
Saturday – 9am-5pm
Sunday – 9am-4pm
Exhibitors are to be in their booths and ready to go before Event opens. We suggest that you arrive no later than 30 mins before the event opening to be prepared for the crowd.
DISPLAY VEHICLES:
- There will be NO display vehicle movement for the event. Once your display vehicle has been placed within your booth on Friday, there is no movement until we receive the ALL CLEAR for move out on Sunday.
- All display vehicles must be in your booth by Friday 6pm and will not be allowed anytime later.
- This is a static floor plan approved by the Fire Marshall. No movement is allowed before, during or after show hours.
- Display vehicles are vehicles that are part of a booth display, that fit into the booth dimensions.
- If the vehicle does not go into your display space, then it does not come into the show area. All other exhibitor vehicles must be parked in the designated exhibitor parking lot.
- Display vehicles are not permitted to leave the show until all clear on Sunday.
All parking will be enforced by OC Fair & Event Center. Parking must be purchased upon arrival at the parking lot, $15 per vehicle, per day.
All trailers will be parked in Lot G. Please refer to the property map HERE.
(317) 518-3568: If you are in need of assistance from security after show hours (overnight), then call this number and our roaming security will immediately assist you on-site.
For Set Up Before the Show:
- Please break down all the cardboard and leave it at the end of your aisle. The clean-up crew will come by and grab it prior to opening the next day.
- Any additional trash that is not cardboard can be placed in dumpsters and trash cans surrounding the event.
- Trash cans will be located at the end of aisles, so that no exhibitor has a trash can in their booth.
For Tear Down at the End of the Show:
- Please break down all the cardboard and place it in your booth space.
- Please do NOT leave behind concrete blocks, sandbags, wood chips or gravel. If you do not want to take them with you, please place them in a dumpster.
Exhibitors who attempt to leave early damage the show, create a dangerous environment for attendees, and harm attendance prospects for future shows. There are attendees that purchase Sunday passes, expecting to see a full show, and we must provide them with the same event and exhibitor experience.
Early departures will mean you will forfeit your space for future shows. Keep in mind, we are a sold out event, plus waitlisted 200+ exhibitors. If you personally are not attending the show, then please make sure your staff is aware of this. We will have staff on hand to record any early departures.
Arrival documents will be available approximately 30 days out from the event. We will send them out to the main contact email that is registered within the exhibitor portal.
If you need to change your main contact in the system, please contact your sales representative to take care of that for you.
INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE VEHICLES
- Fuel tank must be 1/4 tank or less full. We will mark the fuel tank with a sticker once this is confirmed.
- Battery must be disconnected.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
- Windows must be rolled down at all times.
- Keys must be turned in to Event Management by the end of check-in on Thursday.
Your booth display MUST fit into your purchased space, this includes any weights that secure your tent down. Depending upon what space you have registered for, ALL of your display, items, vehicles, trailer (if applicable) must fit within those dimensions.
DISPLAY: Your display must be a family-friendly exhibit. Absolutely no profanity, no sexual content (including innuendo), no scantily clad “spokespersons” either in person or in pictures, and no copyright infringement upon the Overland Expo logo / brand is allowed — we are serious about this.
NOISE: Quiet hours start at 10 pm and are strictly enforced.
OUTDOOR GENERATORS: Exhibitor generators are allowed as long as they are quiet. If your generator is loud, you will be asked to turn it off during show hours. If you are camping in your booth, your generator must be turned off by 10 p.m. If you are carrying extra fuel in your booth for the generator, you are also required to have a fire extinguisher.
INDOOR GENERATORS: Generators are NOT allowed inside the building.
MUSIC: Very low volume music is acceptable, but please do not disturb your neighboring exhibitor/s.
ALCOHOL: NO outside alcohol will be permitted.
Overland Expo is a NO DRONE zone. We ask you not fly drones at the events. Many of our events are located very close to airports, and it is for the safety of all attendees.
SATURDAY 5 PM–7 PM: Happy Hour will take place at the Oasis Bar & Food Court tent. Simply show your badge and you will receive a complimentary drink at the bar (both alcoholic or non-alcoholic options).
Alcohol brought on the grounds by exhibitors, attendees or show personnel is strictly prohibited. The OCFEC Food service Provider shall only serve alcoholic beverages on the OCFEC property.
EXHIBITOR LOAD-IN EXHIBITORS:
Thursday, March 12, 2026: INVITE ONLY
Friday, March 13, 2026: 8 AM – 6 PM
If you will be bringing a semi for your booth space or product, then please contact your sales representative before the event so they may expect your arrival.
*SEMI RIGS *If you have a trailer that is part of your booth display, we highly encourage you to arrive and place the trailer in your booth space on Thursday. Please confirm a time with your sales rep!
Please note, moving in or setting up will not be allowed on Saturday before gates open. ALL exhibitors must be moved in and set up by Friday 6:00 p.m.
EVENT HOURS:
Saturday – 9am-5pm
Sunday – 9am-4pm
Exhibitors are to be in their booths and ready to go before Event opens. We suggest that you arrive no later than 30 mins before the event opening to be prepared for the crowd.
DISPLAY VEHICLES:
- There will be NO display vehicle movement for the event. Once your display vehicle has been placed within your booth on Friday, there is no movement until we receive the ALL CLEAR for move out on Sunday.
- All display vehicles must be in your booth by Friday 6pm and will not be allowed anytime later.
- This is a static floor plan approved by the Fire Marshall. No movement is allowed before, during or after show hours.
- Display vehicles are vehicles that are part of a booth display, that fit into the booth dimensions.
- If the vehicle does not go into your display space, then it does not come into the show area. All other exhibitor vehicles must be parked in the designated exhibitor parking lot.
- Display vehicles are not permitted to leave the show until all clear on Sunday.
All parking will be enforced by OC Fair & Event Center. Parking must be purchased upon arrival at the parking lot, $15 per vehicle, per day.
All trailers will be parked in Lot G. Please refer to the property map HERE.
(317) 518-3568: If you are in need of assistance from security after show hours (overnight), then call this number and our roaming security will immediately assist you on-site.
For Set Up Before the Show:
- Please break down all the cardboard and leave it at the end of your aisle. The clean-up crew will come by and grab it prior to opening the next day.
- Any additional trash that is not cardboard can be placed in dumpsters and trash cans surrounding the event.
- Trash cans will be located at the end of aisles, so that no exhibitor has a trash can in their booth.
For Tear Down at the End of the Show:
- Please break down all the cardboard and place it in your booth space.
- Please do NOT leave behind concrete blocks, sandbags, wood chips or gravel. If you do not want to take them with you, please place them in a dumpster.
Exhibitors who attempt to leave early damage the show, create a dangerous environment for attendees, and harm attendance prospects for future shows. There are attendees that purchase Sunday passes, expecting to see a full show, and we must provide them with the same event and exhibitor experience.
Early departures will mean you will forfeit your space for future shows. Keep in mind, we are a sold out event, plus waitlisted 200+ exhibitors. If you personally are not attending the show, then please make sure your staff is aware of this. We will have staff on hand to record any early departures.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
The Terms & Conditions and Exhibitor Space Agreement for Overland Expo SoCal can be seen below:
We do not sell our Attendee Lists. If you receive any email offering our attendee lists, it is a scam. Reach out to your sales rep with any questions.
- General Questions about Overland Expo® – FAQs
- Questions about the SoCal Venue – SoCal FAQs
- Still have questions? Email [email protected]
The Terms & Conditions and Exhibitor Space Agreement for Overland Expo SoCal can be seen below:
We do not sell our Attendee Lists. If you receive any email offering our attendee lists, it is a scam. Reach out to your sales rep with any questions.
- General Questions about Overland Expo® – FAQs
- Questions about the SoCal Venue – SoCal FAQs
- Still have questions? Email [email protected]
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Photo by Brett Willhelm, Willhelmn Visual Works