California Strawberry Festival

Join us for summer fun!

The California Strawberry Festival is back at the Ventura County Fairgrounds on May 18-19, 2024! Located beachside with stunning views, Ventura's lively downtown is blocks away, offering dining, hotels, and nightlife. Conveniently situated off the 101 freeway, parking, free shuttles, and nearby Amtrak access make getting here a breeze. Join us for the ultimate summer kickoff while supporting the community in a BIG way.Indulge in your favorite strawberry treats like build-your-own shortcakes, chocolate-covered delights, and refreshing strawberry beer. With over 40 food vendors, a Ninja Nation Obstacle Course, live music, and a plethora of arts and crafts booths, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience in 2024!

Eats & Treats

Festival Food Courts

Direct from the field to the Festival, strawberries are the main ingredients for Festival fun. With more than 50 food booths to choose from, you're bound to discover your berry bliss.

A variety of lip-smacking favorites include: strawberry nachos, strawberry pizza, strawberry funnel cake, strawberry chimichangas, chocolate dipped strawberries, deep-fried strawberries, berry kabobs, strawberry tamales, strawberry shortcake, strawberry beer, margaritas, smoothies, and even strawberry popcorn.

Arts & Crafts
Approximately 200 artists and crafters from across the nation showcase their original works with a festive array of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, children's toys, accessories, photography, textiles, outdoor furniture, jewelry, specialty foods, and more.

Interactive Events
Discover the interactive experiences at the California Strawberry Festival! Dive into a world of fun with our selection of engaging activities for all ages. From games, rides, contests, and live entertainment, there's something for everyone at this berry-filled extravaganza. Join us for a berry good time and create unforgettable memories with family and friends!

Ninja Nation Obstacle Course
We're proud to present Ninja Nation's world-class traveling obstacle course experience. This larger-than-life attraction is an exciting activity for youth and adults alike and a wonderful opportunity to develop skills, strength, and confidence. Get fired up to climb, swing, and bounce your way to victory in the ultimate ninja course. Challenge yourself for only $10 per person.

Berry Baby Fashion Parade
Youngsters, with the help of their parents, parade across the stage to the “oohs and aahs” from the crowd. All participants receive recognition.

The Berry Baby Fashion Parade will be at 2:00 PM at the Family Fun Stage on both days of the Festival. The Fashion Parade is open to infants up to four years of age.

2024 Artwork Contest
Congratulations to Gio Basile, the 2024 California Strawberry Festival Artwork Contest winner! Thank you to everyone who submitted artwork for the 2024 California Strawberry Festival Artwork Contest!

Strawberryland Midway & Food Court
Indulge your taste buds with an array of treats at our Food Court, offering something sweet or savory for every craving. Then, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of our Midway, where thrilling rides and exciting games await. Get ready for endless excitement and joy as you create unforgettable memories with family and friends!

10-6:30pm: Festival Midway
Single-ride tickets are $1 each, and 24 tickets for $20. Rides require between 4 - 7 tickets depending upon the ride.

Raiders
Hammer
Swinger
Tilt A Whirl
Sizzler
Bumper Cars
Roller Coaster
Super Slide
Mardi Gras

Entertainment
Want to get your groove on? Hot jamz. Cool tunes. Or just plain rockin'. We've got them all in a spectacular music lineup from some fantastic groups, including bands back by your demand!

Kids can enjoy non-stop live performances throughout the day at the Family Fun Stage with puppet & magic shows. It's also the location for the popular Berry Baby Fashion Show!

It's all happening throughout our 38th Anniversary weekend!

Entertainment Schedule

Dr. Kato Stage

11:30 am - 1 pm - Drew Dolan (Pop, Soul, Blues)
1:25 pm - 2:25 pm - Smooth Sound of Santana (Santana Tribute)
2:50 pm - 4:20 pm - Surf City All-Stars (Beach Boys Tribute)
4:45 pm - 5:55 pm - Past Action Heroes (Rock & Pop)
6:20 pm - 7:20 pm - Los So Lows (Soul)

Festival Stage

11:00 am - 12:00 pm - Jeanne Tatum (Jazz, Blues)
12:25 pm - 1:55 pm - Juano and Friends (Latin, Funk, Soul)
2:20 pm - 3:50 pm - Illegal Fun (Steely Dan Tribute)
4:15 pm - 5:25 pm - Conner Cherland (Pop, Rock)
5:50 pm - 7:20 pm - Hot Southern Nights (Country)

Click here for Tickets