National Orange Show Event Center
A dynamic event center in San Bernardino, hosting massive music festivals, swap meets, and thrilling car races.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Score the best finds at swap meet
National Orange Show Event Center
Best Time
Score the best finds at swap meet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic event center in San Bernardino, hosting massive music festivals, swap meets, and thrilling car races.
"The NOS Event Center was transformed into a spooky wonderland, complete with eerie lighting and massive stage productions."
Check Event Schedules
NOS hosts diverse events; always check their calendar before visiting!
Book Festival Tickets Early
Major festivals sell out fast. Secure your spot for Escape or Beyond Wonderland well in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Massive Music Festivals
Main Event Grounds
Experience world-class EDM festivals like Escape Halloween and Beyond Wonderland with incredible stage production and top DJs.
Vibrant Swap Meets
Various Lots
Discover unique finds at the weekly Sunday swap meet, featuring street food, vintage clothing, and diverse vendors.
Short Track Car Racing
1/4 Mile Track
Catch thrilling short track car races on a banked 1/4 mile track, a local favorite for racing enthusiasts.
Historic Rave Scene
Event Halls
Step back in time to the 90s rave scene at venues like the Orange Show, known for legendary parties like Plantasia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Event Hub of San Bernardino
Navigating NOS Events Center
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
NOS hosts diverse events; always check their calendar before visiting!
Book Festival Tickets Early
Major festivals sell out fast. Secure your spot for Escape or Beyond Wonderland well in advance.
Sunday Swap Meet Treasures
Arrive early for the best selection of vintage clothes and street food at the Sunday swap meet.
Festival Safety First
For festivals, use secure phone clutches and stay aware of your surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
NOS hosts diverse events; always check their calendar before visiting!
Book Festival Tickets Early
Major festivals sell out fast. Secure your spot for Escape or Beyond Wonderland well in advance.
Sunday Swap Meet Treasures
Arrive early for the best selection of vintage clothes and street food at the Sunday swap meet.
Festival Safety First
For festivals, use secure phone clutches and stay aware of your surroundings.
Easy Freeway Access
The venue is well-connected to the 215, 10, and 210 freeways for convenient travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The National Orange Show Event Center is a versatile venue praised for its ability to host large-scale music festivals with impressive production and a strong sense of community. While parking and entry logistics can be challenging during major events, the overall experience, especially for festivals like Escape Halloween, is highly rated. It also serves as a popular spot for swap meets and short track car racing.
"We drive from the San Fernando Valley for the short track car races. Although short on time, we had a great time. We saw quality racing on a 1/4 mile banked track. Although the drive is long we will be back since there's no other track closer to us."
Philip
"I just returned from the most epic Halloween rave event of the year – Escape 2024, presented by Insomniac at the NOS Event Center in San Bernardino! This was my fourth year attending Escape, and I can confidently say it was the best one yet!
From the moment we arrived at the venue, it was clear that Insomniac had outdone themselves. The NOS Event Center was transformed into a spooky wonderland, complete with eerie lighting, fog machines, and massive stage productions. The atmosphere was electric, with ravers of all ages and styles gathered together to celebrate the Halloween season.
But the real magic happened when the music started. The lineup was stacked with the biggest names in EDM, including Adam Beyer, Alison Wonderland, and RL Grime. Each set was more incredible than the last, with the DJs expertly weaving together tracks to keep the crowd energized and dancing all night long.
One of the highlights of the event was the incredible stage production. The main stage, in particular, was a marvel of modern technology, with towering LED screens, pyrotechnics, and even a massive, fire-breathing spider that descended from the ceiling during one of the sets!
But what truly made Escape 2023 special was the sense of community that pervaded the entire event. Everyone was dressed in their most creative and outrageous Halloween costumes, from giant spiders and zombies to superheroes and video game characters. It was a truly immersive experience, with ravers of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate their shared love of music and self-expression.
Insomniac's attention to detail and commitment to safety were also impressive. The event was incredibly well-organized, with clear signage, ample parking, and a smooth entry process. The staff and security were friendly and helpful, ensuring that everyone had a safe and enjoyable experience.
In short, Escape 2023 was an unforgettable night of raving bliss. If you're a fan of EDM, Halloween, or just looking for an exciting and immersive experience, do not miss this event! Insomniac truly outdid themselves this year, and I'm already counting down the days until Escape 2024!
Highlights:
- Incredible stage production and lighting
- Unbeatable lineup of world-class DJs
- Creative and outrageous Halloween costumes
- Sense of community and camaraderie among attendees
- Excellent organization and attention to safety
Rating Breakdown:
- Music: 5/5
- Production: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Organization: 4/5 it can be better for vips
- Overall Experience: 4/5"
Miguel Sanchez (Mich)
"I worked the Escape event on Friday and had a great experience. The event center has ample parking and facilities. It was very well organized. I personally was able to exit fairly quick. There are plenty of gas stations and food options in the surrounding area. The 215 fwy, 10fwy and 210fwy are all easily accessible."
jessica poveda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Orange Show Event Center is easily accessible via the 215, 10, and 210 freeways in San Bernardino. Ample parking is available, though it can be busy during large events. Many attendees opt for ride-sharing services for major festivals.
While direct public transport options might be limited, you can check local bus routes in San Bernardino that may get you close to the venue. It's often easier to drive or use ride-sharing.
The venue offers extensive parking lots. For large festivals, parking can be a significant cost and may require a walk to the entrance. Arriving early or carpooling is recommended.
Yes, rideshare drop-off and pick-up points are usually designated for major events. This can be a convenient option to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the surrounding area of San Bernardino has numerous gas stations and food options, making it convenient for visitors before or after an event.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically purchased through the event promoter's official website (e.g., Insomniac for festivals) or authorized ticketing platforms. Check the specific event's page for details.
Operating hours vary greatly depending on the event. Music festivals often run late into the night, while swap meets have specific morning to afternoon hours. Always check the schedule for your specific event.
For some events, tickets may be available at the gate, but for popular festivals like Escape Halloween, it's highly recommended to purchase in advance as they often sell out.
Re-entry policies differ per event. Most large festivals do not allow re-entry once you've left the venue. Confirm with the event organizer before attending.
Many major festivals held at the NOS Event Center offer VIP packages, which can include expedited entry, premium viewing areas, and dedicated amenities.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The venue hosts a wide array of events, including major music festivals (EDM, hip-hop), raves, concerts, swap meets, car races, and community gatherings. +1
Comfortable shoes are a must for festivals! Dress according to the weather and the event's theme. For raves, creative costumes are popular.
Yes, most events, especially festivals and swap meets, feature a variety of food and drink vendors offering diverse cuisines.
The venue generally provides accessible pathways and facilities for attendees with disabilities. It's advisable to contact the event organizer directly for specific accessibility needs.
Festivals at NOS are known for their electric atmosphere, with incredible stage productions, diverse crowds, and a strong sense of community, especially during themed events like Halloween.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by event. For music festivals, personal cameras and phones are usually allowed, but professional equipment often requires media accreditation. Check the specific event's rules.
The main stages during performances, unique art installations, and the vibrant crowds in costume offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the energy of the event!
Drones are typically prohibited at large public events and festivals held at the NOS Event Center for safety and security reasons. Always check event rules.
Attendees often share photos of elaborate costumes, impressive stage designs, and the overall festival atmosphere. Capturing the community vibe is key.
Search social media platforms using hashtags like #NOSEventCenter, #NationalOrangeShow, or specific event names (e.g., #EscapeHalloween) to see attendee-generated photos and videos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families considering attending larger events, it's essential to check the specific event's age restrictions and policies beforehand. Some festivals may not be suitable for younger children due to loud music, late hours, or the general atmosphere. If attending a fair or community event, look for attractions like games, food stalls, and entertainment that are geared towards children. Always prioritize safety and comfort for your little ones.
🎶 Music Festival Enthusiasts
To make the most of your festival experience, book tickets early, as they sell out quickly. Plan your transportation and parking in advance, considering rideshares or carpooling. Comfortable footwear is non-negotiable, and embracing the festival's theme with creative attire is highly encouraged. Be prepared for late nights and an energetic environment.
🚗 Car Racing Fans
While the racing events might not draw the same massive crowds as the music festivals, they offer a unique and enjoyable experience for fans. Check the event schedule for specific race dates and times. It's a great opportunity to witness quality racing in a more intimate setting compared to larger speedways.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of NOS: From Oranges to Raves
This transformation is evident in the types of events now held at the venue. While it still hosts traditional events like fairs and swap meets, its identity is increasingly tied to massive festivals such as Insomniac's Escape Halloween and Beyond Wonderland. These events draw tens of thousands of attendees and feature elaborate stage productions, world-class DJs, and immersive themes. The venue's expansive grounds and infrastructure are well-suited to accommodate such large-scale productions, making it a go-to location for major promoters. The legacy of the 'Orange Show' now coexists with its modern role as a hub for vibrant, high-energy entertainment.
Beyond music festivals, the NOS Event Center also caters to other niche interests. It's a popular spot for short track car racing, offering a dedicated 1/4-mile banked track that attracts enthusiasts from across the region. Furthermore, the venue has a historical connection to the 90s rave scene, with past events like Plantasia NYE 1994 being remembered as iconic gatherings. This diverse range of events showcases the venue's adaptability and its enduring appeal to various communities seeking unique entertainment experiences.
Navigating the Festival Experience at NOS
Transportation and parking are significant considerations. While the venue is accessible via major freeways, parking can be costly and involve a considerable walk. Many visitors opt for ridesharing services to avoid parking hassles and potential traffic congestion. For those driving, carpooling is a practical way to share costs and reduce the number of vehicles. The surrounding area offers plenty of gas stations and food options, making it convenient to fuel up before or after the event.
The atmosphere at NOS festivals is consistently described as electric and immersive. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the themes, with creative costumes being a highlight for many, particularly during Halloween events. The stage production and lighting are often praised as top-notch, contributing to an unforgettable sensory experience. The sense of community and camaraderie among attendees is also a frequently mentioned positive aspect, making these events more than just concerts, but shared cultural experiences.
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