Colorful benefit events highlight the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center’s calendar for the final quarter of 2003, along with a number of popular shows making return appearances.

The most exotic will be Mehregan 2003, a Persian celebration of nature and a festival of seasons that commemorates the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. It is an annual presentation of the Network of Iranian-American Professionals of Orange County (NIPOC), with the support of Iranian cultural and student organizations.

There will be live entertainment on two stages from 2 to 11 p.m. by popular Iranian performers, cultural exhibitions, Persian arts and crafts, music, a demonstration of ancient Persian sports, a kids center and a business exhibition center. A Persian food court will serve traditional foods, and a tea room area will be decorated according to Persian tradition with classic rugs. Persian-style pastries and tea will be available.

All proceeds from the Oct. 4-5 event will go to scholarships and future cultural celebrations. Admission is $20 for adults; childen under 10 are free. NIPOC is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization composed of business and community members.

The Junior League of Orange County will have its annual Christmas Company boutique Oct. 19-22 in Buildings 10, 12 and the Parade of Products, for the benefit of the Orangewood children’s home. Admission is $7 for adults.

The annual Cattle Baron’s Ball on Oct. 25 will benefit the American Cancer Society. The ball will be in Buildings 10 and 12, the Parade of Products and The Courtyard.

About 100 riders and their horses are expected for the final two Scooter Series events at the Equestrian Center.

The sixth in the yearlong series will be held on Oct. 4 and 5 and the season finale will be held Nov. 1 and 2. Competitors will show off skills in the hunter jumper contests. Competition is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Other events in October, November and December include Speedway, Oct. 11; Computer Fair, Oct. 18-19 and Nov. 22-23; the Costa Mesa Antique Show, Oct. 10-12; Maine Attraction Cat Show, Dec. 6-7; Crossroads of the West Gun Show, Nov. 29-30; and the annual Christmas Tree Sale, Dec. 3-19. For more event information, visit www.ocfair.com.