Dozens of dachshunds, corgis, and small dogs race along the waterfront at Ventura Harbor Village during the free Short Dawgs in Da House Dog Racing Festival in Ventura, CA.
Dog lovers and families searching for fun dog events in Ventura will want to mark their calendars for a brand-new waterfront festival. The Short Dawgs in Da House Dog Racing Festival to Ventura Harbor Village (Ventura, CA) will debut on April 18, 2026, bringing dozens of dachshunds, corgis, and small dogs together for an unforgettable day of racing, contests, and entertainment.
Hosted by viral skateboarding sensation Rowdy the Dachshund, the festival will take place at Ventura Harbor Village in Ventura, CA. The event is free to attend and open to the public, making it one of the most unique and family-friendly dog events happening along California’s Central Coast this spring.
A New Dog Festival at Ventura Harbor Village
The Short Dawgs in Da House Dog Racing Festival will transform the Ventura Harbor Village Main Lawn into a lively celebration of small dogs and pet-loving communities. Running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the festival promises a full day of waterfront fun for both people and their pups.
Rowdy Dachshund, a professional skateboarding dog and champion racer with more than 300,000 Instagram followers, will headline the event. Known for her skateboarding skills and playful personality, Rowdy has become a viral internet sensation and a beloved ambassador for pet-friendly destinations.
Visitors attending the festival can enjoy a wide range of activities throughout the day, including:
- Dachshund, corgi, and small dog races
- Best trick contest
- Best outfit contest
- A harbor-wide scavenger hunt
- Live music and photo opportunities
- A community vendor village featuring pet accessories and treats
- Dog-friendly boat rentals at Ventura Harbor
Often described as the “dog-chella” event of the year, this lively gathering is expected to draw dog lovers from across Ventura County and beyond.
Live Music, Vendors, and Local Food
The festival will feature live entertainment throughout the day with music by Blake Quake, while MC John Wick will host the day’s races and contests.
A Community Vendor Village will bring together more than 15 dog-friendly vendors offering pet treats, accessories, and unique products for furry companions.
Visitors can also enjoy food and drinks from the many restaurants and shops located throughout Ventura Harbor Village, making it easy to grab a meal while enjoying the races and waterfront views.
Official Race Sponsor: Pizzanista!
The official race sponsor for the festival is Pizzanista!, a Southern California pizza brand founded by Skateboarding Hall of Famer Salman Agah. Known for its New York-style pizza and deep roots in skate culture, Pizzanista! has collaborated with brands such as Vans, Patagonia, Nike, and Volcom, along with legendary skateboarders.
Festival attendees can visit the Pizzanista! booth to purchase Rowdy Pro Deck skateboards and exclusive merchandise during the event.
Ventura: A Pet-Friendly Coastal Destination
Event organizers say Ventura is the perfect place to launch the first-ever Short Dawgs in Da House Dog Racing Festival to Ventura Harbor Village in Ventura, CA.
“Ventura is an incredibly pet-friendly town, and we can’t wait for dog lovers to enjoy and experience Short Dawgs in Da House,” said event promoters Ivan Cano and Kim Estrada, owners of Rowdy Dachshund.
The harbor has become known as one of the most pet-friendly destinations on California’s Central Coast, offering dog-friendly boat rentals, waterfront dining, and scenic coastal views.
Make It a Weekend Getaway in Ventura
Visitors traveling to Ventura for the festival can easily turn the event into a weekend getaway. Nearby harborfront hotels include:
- Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ventura Harbor
Beyond the festival, Ventura offers plenty of pet-friendly activities including beach walks, harbor cruises, outdoor dining, and scenic coastal trails.
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Rowdy Dachshund’s Connection to Ventura
Rowdy Dachshund is already a familiar face in Ventura. The viral pup has promoted several local attractions, including a video highlighting the new Westpark Skatepark that gained more than 200,000 views.
Another social media video showcasing dog-friendly boat rentals at Ventura Harbor attracted more than 100,000 views, further highlighting Ventura as a welcoming destination for pet owners.
Event Details: Short Dawgs in Da House Dog Racing Festival
Event: Short Dawgs in Da House Dog Racing Festival
Date: April 18, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Ventura Harbor Village
City: Ventura, CA
Admission: Free
This exciting waterfront festival is expected to become one of the most talked-about dog events in Ventura, offering racing, entertainment, and a fun coastal atmosphere for dog lovers of all ages.
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* Press release and image provided by Bejeckian PR, Ventura Harbor Village, 4/2026