Expo bringing the sea to Costa Mesa

An annual expo is bringing a splash of the sea to Costa Mesa this weekend as exhibitors display their wares and marine aquarium enthusiasts share information about their hobby at the OC Fair & Event Center.

Billed by organizers as the largest event of its kind in North America, the ninth Marine Aquarium Expo, which opened Saturday and continues through Sunday, features dozens of exhibit booths, a vibrant array of aquariums and a touch tank where children can get hands-on experience with marine life.

Hours on Sunday are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in The Hangar at the fairgrounds.

General admission is $15. Guests 55 and older and military personnel with identification get in for $10. Children 12 and younger are admitted free.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Coral Restoration Foundation, a Florida-based nonprofit.

For more information, visit marineaquariumexpo.com.