Get Ready for a Berry Sweet Celebration!
Get your taste buds ready! The California Strawberry Festival is returning to Ventura for its milestone 40th anniversary. This isn’t just a food event; it’s a vibrant celebration of one of the region’s most beloved fruits, blending culinary delights with family fun and local artistry.
Whether you are a local resident or a visitor looking for the perfect weekend getaway, the Strawberry Festival in Ventura offers something for everyone. From the mouth-watering aroma of fresh berries to the thrill of carnival rides, this event is a staple of the California spring season.
What to Expect at the Festival
The festival has grown significantly over the decades, moving to the spacious Ventura County Fairgrounds to accommodate more attractions and visitors. Here is a glimpse of what awaits you:
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- Culinary Delights: With over 50 food and beverage booths, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy strawberries. Don’t miss the fan-favorite $7 build-your-own Strawberry Shortcake Experience!
- Arts & Crafts: Explore miles of unique, handmade crafts and artwork. According to Dana Hale-Mounier, the event’s arts and craft coordinator, visitors can always discover something one-of-a-kind from talented artists.
- Family Entertainment: Enjoy live music and a variety of carnival rides that keep the energy high all weekend long.
Plan Your Visit: Essential Details
To make the most of your trip to the strawberry festival in Ventura, keep these logistical details in mind:
📅 Date and Time
The celebration takes place on May 16 and 17, with doors open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.
📍 Location
Ventura County Fairgrounds
10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA.
🎟️ Ticket Pricing
Tickets are available at the gate or can be purchased in advance online for convenience:
- General Admission: $15
- Seniors (62+) & Active Military (with ID): $10
- Youth (Ages 5 to 12): $8
- Children (4 and under): Free
How to Get There
Avoiding traffic is key to a stress-free experience. Organizers provide several convenient transport options:
- Free Shuttles: Highly recommended! Shuttles run every 15 minutes from various sites across Ventura and Oxnard.
- Eco-Friendly Options: A free bike valet is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Public Transit: You can take the Metrolink or Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner. The Ventura-Downtown/Beach Station is just a short walk from the entrance.
Pro Tip: Check out the Metrolink $10 SoCal Day Pass for unlimited rides, and remember that children under 17 often ride free on weekends with a paying adult!
Don’t miss out on this sweet tradition. Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend of flavor, art, and community at the 40th Annual California Strawberry Festival!
