Looking for the best Ventura County events and festivals? From beachfront celebrations and food festivals to art shows, fairs, live music and family-friendly community events, Ventura County offers something to enjoy in every season.
Annual events throughout Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Fillmore and Port Hueneme showcase the region's coastal lifestyle, agricultural heritage, arts, culture and strong community spirit. Whether you're searching for things to do in Ventura County, planning a weekend outing or looking for a family-friendly festival, the local event calendar is filled with opportunities to explore.
This guide highlights some of the best-known annual Ventura County events and festivals. Event dates, locations, admission prices and schedules can change, so check the official event information before making plans.
Photo Courtesy Of Oxnard Salsa Festival
Ventura Events
Ventura County Fair
Typically held in summer
The Ventura County Fair is one of the area's signature annual events. Held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds along the Ventura waterfront, the fair combines carnival rides, live entertainment, food, agricultural exhibits, livestock, arts and crafts, competitions and family activities. The coastal setting adds another reason to make the fair part of a summer visit to Ventura.
Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival
Typically held in late summer or fall
The Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival brings artists, performers and visitors together for a colorful celebration of creativity. Street painting transforms pavement into temporary works of art, while vendors, entertainment and other activities create a lively downtown atmosphere.
Ventura Harbor & Waterfront Events
Ventura's harbor and waterfront host a variety of recurring festivals, markets, concerts and community celebrations throughout the year. These events are a great way to combine an afternoon of entertainment with restaurants, shopping, harbor views and a walk along the coast.
Oxnard Events
California Strawberry Festival
Typically held in spring
The California Strawberry Festival celebrates one of Ventura County's best-known agricultural products with strawberry treats, food vendors, live entertainment, arts and crafts and activities for all ages. The festival has long been associated with the Oxnard area, although event locations can change; check the current festival information before attending.
Oxnard Salsa Festival
Typically held in summer
The Oxnard Salsa Festival brings together food, music and dancing in Downtown Oxnard. Visitors can sample different salsa creations, enjoy live Latin music, watch performances and explore vendor booths. It is a lively celebration of Oxnard's cultural traditions and one of the city's recognizable annual festivals.
Oxnard Tamale Festival
Typically held in December
The Oxnard Tamale Festival is a popular holiday-season celebration at Plaza Park. Tamales and other foods take center stage alongside live music, arts and crafts vendors, family activities and seasonal entertainment. The festival is held in conjunction with Oxnard's Christmas Parade, making it a festive way to experience Downtown Oxnard.
Oxnard Insect Festival
Typically held in June
For something a little different, the Oxnard Insect Festival combines education and entertainment with hands-on activities, exhibits, crafts, food and family attractions. It offers a fun introduction to the fascinating world of insects and is particularly popular with families and children.
Thousand Oaks Events
Conejo Valley Days
Typically held in summer
Conejo Valley Days is a longtime Thousand Oaks community tradition featuring carnival rides, midway games, live entertainment, food and activities for families. The event brings the Conejo Valley community together for several days of summer fun at Conejo Creek Park South.
Thousand Oaks Arts & Cultural Events
Thousand Oaks offers a full calendar of arts, music, theater and cultural events throughout the year. In addition to larger festivals, visitors can find performances and community programs at local cultural venues, parks and public spaces.
If you're searching for Thousand Oaks events, check the current event calendar for upcoming concerts, festivals, performances and family activities.
Simi Valley Events
Simi Valley Community Festivals & Concerts
Simi Valley hosts a variety of annual community events, concerts, holiday celebrations and family activities throughout the year. The city's parks, community centers and local venues regularly provide opportunities to enjoy live entertainment and outdoor events.
For the latest Simi Valley events, check the current event calendar before planning your visit, as schedules and annual event lineups can change.
Family & Community Events in Simi Valley
From seasonal celebrations and outdoor entertainment to community festivals and special events, Simi Valley provides plenty of options for families looking for things to do close to home.
Camarillo Events
Camarillo Old Town Heritage Days Fiesta
Typically held in July
The Camarillo Old Town Heritage Days Fiesta is a multi-day community celebration featuring carnival rides, food vendors, live music, local crafts, a classic car show and family activities. Held in Old Town Camarillo, the festival celebrates the city's history while creating a lively summer gathering for residents and visitors.
Wings Over Camarillo Air Show
Typically held in August
Wings Over Camarillo is a major aviation event featuring aerobatic performances, vintage aircraft, military aircraft, classic cars, exhibits and activities related to aviation and STEM. The annual event at Camarillo Airport is a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts, families and visitors looking for something beyond the typical street festival.
A Taste of Camarillo
Typically held in summer
Food and drink enthusiasts can look forward to A Taste of Camarillo, an annual fundraiser featuring wine, craft beer, food, live entertainment and local vendors. The event offers an opportunity to sample regional flavors while supporting local charitable causes.
Moorpark Events
Moorpark Apricot Festival & Art Fair
Typically held in May
The Moorpark Apricot Festival & Art Fair celebrates the city's agricultural history and namesake fruit. The event features local art and crafts, live music, food, apricot-themed treats, family activities and community entertainment. It takes place on Historic High Street and offers a distinctive look at Moorpark's local character.
Moorpark Country Days
Typically held in October
Moorpark Country Days is a hometown celebration featuring a parade, street fair and community activities. It brings together residents, local organizations, vendors and visitors for a weekend-style celebration of Moorpark's community spirit.
Port Hueneme Events
Hueneme Beach Festival
Typically held in July
The Hueneme Beach Festival turns Port Hueneme Beach into a family-friendly summer celebration with live entertainment, food vendors, carnival rides, community booths, arts and crafts and activities for all ages. Free admission and parking make this beachside event an especially appealing option for families looking for affordable Ventura County events.
Fillmore Events
Fillmore May Festival
Typically held in spring
The Fillmore May Festival is a community tradition that celebrates the city's small-town character with family entertainment, food, vendors and community activities. Check the current Fillmore event calendar for the latest schedule and festival information.
Fillmore Community & Family Events
Fillmore's annual calendar also includes seasonal celebrations, local markets, holiday events and community gatherings. The city's historic setting and small-town atmosphere make these events a great way to experience a different side of Ventura County.
Ventura County Events by Season
Spring Events in Ventura County
Spring is a popular time for Ventura County festivals, with food celebrations, community festivals, arts events and outdoor activities beginning to fill local calendars. The California Strawberry Festival and Moorpark Apricot Festival & Art Fair are among the seasonal highlights.
Summer Events in Ventura County
Summer brings some of the county's biggest crowds. The Ventura County Fair, Conejo Valley Days, Oxnard Salsa Festival, Heritage Days Fiesta and Hueneme Beach Festival are examples of annual events that combine outdoor entertainment with food, music and family activities.
Fall Events in Ventura County
Fall brings art shows, harvest celebrations, community festivals, car events and seasonal activities to cities throughout the county. Cooler temperatures also make fall an excellent time to explore outdoor events and local downtown areas.
Winter Events in Ventura County
Winter events often focus on holiday celebrations, parades, tree lightings, markets, food festivals and community gatherings. Oxnard's Tamale Festival and other holiday events add plenty of seasonal activity to the local calendar.
Ventura County Events Summary
| City or Area | Annual Event | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ventura | Ventura County Fair | Summer |
| Ventura | Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival | Late Summer / Fall |
| Ventura County | California Strawberry Festival | Spring |
| Oxnard | Oxnard Salsa Festival | Summer |
| Oxnard | Oxnard Tamale Festival | December |
| Oxnard | Oxnard Insect Festival | June |
| Thousand Oaks | Conejo Valley Days | Summer |
| Camarillo | Heritage Days Fiesta | July |
| Camarillo | Wings Over Camarillo | August |
| Moorpark | Apricot Festival & Art Fair | May |
| Moorpark | Moorpark Country Days | October |
| Port Hueneme | Hueneme Beach Festival | July |
| Fillmore | Fillmore May Festival | Spring |
Frequently Asked Questions About Ventura County Events
What are the most popular annual events in Ventura County?
Popular annual events include the Ventura County Fair, California Strawberry Festival, Oxnard Salsa Festival, Conejo Valley Days, Camarillo's Heritage Days Fiesta, Wings Over Camarillo and Hueneme Beach Festival. Popularity and event schedules can vary from year to year.
What are the best family-friendly festivals in Ventura County?
Many Ventura County festivals are designed for families and include carnival rides, children's activities, live entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts and interactive attractions. The Ventura County Fair, Conejo Valley Days, Hueneme Beach Festival and Heritage Days Fiesta are examples of events with broad family appeal.
What time of year has the most festivals in Ventura County?
Late spring through summer generally brings a particularly busy schedule of outdoor festivals and community events. However, Ventura County has events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, winter festivals, art events and seasonal community gatherings.
Where can I find Ventura County events this weekend?
The easiest way to find current Ventura County events this weekend is to browse the In 805 events calendar. Event dates, times and availability change frequently, so checking the calendar before heading out is recommended.
Are there free events in Ventura County?
Yes. Ventura County has numerous free community festivals, concerts, markets and outdoor events throughout the year. Some larger festivals are free to enter but may charge separately for carnival rides, food, special activities or premium experiences.
What are the best cities for festivals in Ventura County?
Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Fillmore and Port Hueneme all host recurring community events. The best city to visit depends on the type of event you're looking for, from food and cultural festivals to aviation events, fairs, music and family activities.
Discover More Ventura County Events
Ventura County's event calendar changes throughout the year, making it easy to find something new to experience. Whether you're looking for a major festival, a family activity, live music, an arts event or a local community celebration, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the 805.
For current dates, ticket information, venues and additional events, browse the In 805 Events Calendar.
Related: Things to Do in Ventura County
Planning a day trip or weekend adventure? Check out our Things to Do in Ventura County guide for more attractions, activities and local experiences throughout the region.
Plan Your Next Ventura County Adventure
From beachfront festivals and county fairs to food celebrations, cultural events, live music and community traditions, Ventura County events offer countless ways to explore the 805. Save this guide and check back regularly for updated event information, new festivals and upcoming activities.
Updated & published September 23, 2026, In 805 Media (in805.com)