Ventura County, California, hosts a variety of large-scale events and festivals throughout the year, drawing thousands of visitors and locals alike. One of the most prominent is the Ventura County Fair, held annually at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. This beloved tradition features carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and competitive showcases, including arts, livestock, and homegrown produce. The fair, which typically takes place in early August, has been a staple of the county since 1874, offering a mix of family-friendly fun and deep-rooted community traditions.
Another major event is the California Strawberry Festival, which celebrates Ventura County’s status as one of the country’s leading strawberry producers. Typically held in May, this festival was historically hosted in Oxnard and recently moved to Ventura. It features an array of strawberry-themed treats, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and cooking demonstrations. The festival not only highlights the agricultural significance of strawberries but also supports local nonprofits.
For music lovers, the Ojai Music Festival is a world-class event that takes place each June in the scenic Ojai Valley. Since its inception in 1947, this festival has attracted top-tier classical and contemporary musicians, making it a must-attend event for those who appreciate innovative and boundary-pushing performances. Also, Boots & Brews Country Music Festival in Ventura and Tequila & Taco Music Festival in Ventura and Thousand Oaks bring a mix of country music, craft beer, tequila tastings, and delicious food to the region.
Other notable events include the Camarillo Air Show, featuring impressive aerobatic performances and vintage aircraft displays, and the Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival, where artists transform sidewalks into vibrant works of art. Additionally, Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village host seasonal festivals like the Conejo Valley Days, celebrating the area’s Western heritage with carnival rides, live entertainment, and rodeo events. Throughout the year, Ventura County’s diverse lineup of festivals showcases the region’s rich culture, music, food, and community spirit.
Ventura County’s Largest Events & Festivals
Ventura
- Ventura County Fair (August) – The biggest event in the county, this historic fair has been running for over a century at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. It features carnival rides, food vendors, concerts, agricultural exhibits, and rodeos.
- Seaside Marathon (February & October) – A Boston Marathon qualifier along the Ventura coastline, attracting runners from across the country.
- Surf Rodeo (July) – A lively beach festival combining surfing, music, and a rodeo-style competition, drawing thousands to Pierpont Beach.
- Wine Walk & Street Fair (December) – A holiday event featuring wine tastings and live entertainment in downtown Ventura.
- Winter Wine Walk & Holiday Street Fair (December) – A popular seasonal event with holiday shopping, music, and wine tastings.
Image courtesy of Ventura County Fairgrounds
Oxnard
- California Strawberry Festival (May) – One of the top strawberry festivals in the U.S., this event at College Park celebrates the region’s rich strawberry farming heritage with food, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Oxnard Salsa Festival (July) – A spicy celebration of salsa music and food, featuring live performances, salsa tastings, and dance contests in Plaza Park.
- Parade of Lights & Christmas Festival (December) – A festive holiday event at Channel Islands Harbor, with decorated boats, live entertainment, and fireworks.
Camarillo
- Camarillo Air Show (August or September) – Hosted at Camarillo Airport, this event showcases historic aircraft, aerial performances, and interactive exhibits.
- Camarillo Fiesta & Street Fair (July) – A multi-day event featuring carnival rides, food booths, and live entertainment in Old Town Camarillo.
- Camarillo Art & Jazz Festival (June) – A newer addition, celebrating jazz music, fine arts, and food trucks in a lively community setting.
Thousand Oaks & Conejo Valley (Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Oak Park)
- Conejo Valley Days (May) – A local tradition with a carnival, food vendors, live music, and a rodeo, celebrating the Western heritage of the region.
- Thousand Oaks Arts Festival (September) – A gathering of artists, musicians, and performers showcasing local talent.
- Reyes Adobe Days (October) – A cultural and historical festival in Agoura Hills, celebrating early California history with family-friendly activities.
Image courtesy of Conejo Valley Days
Ojai
- Ojai Music Festival (June) – A world-renowned classical music festival featuring innovative performances from acclaimed musicians.
- Ojai Film Festival (November) – Showcasing independent films with a focus on creativity and environmental themes.
- Ojai Day (October) – A vibrant community festival featuring arts and crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment in the heart of Ojai.
These events represent just a glimpse of Ventura County’s diverse festival scene, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond. To search more Ventura County’s largest events & festivals see the link below.
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