California Strawberry Festival

JOIN US FOR SUMMER FUN!The California Strawberry Festival is back at the Ventura County Fairgrounds on May 17-18, 2025! 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, live music, and a plethora of arts and crafts booths, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience in 2025! ARTS & CRAFTS Approximately 150 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. 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. Cash will not be accepted at booths serving alcohol. (ATMs located within the Festival for your convenience) 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! STRAWBERRY LAND FOR KIDS Kids reign supreme in this magical oasis with everything desired for the young at heart. From rides and attractions to face painting, special appearances, convenient baby assistance services, and more. FESTIVAL FOOD AND FUN ZONE 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! 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 39th Anniversary weekend! SATURDAY, MAY 17, 2025 DR. KATO STAGE Presented by Kona Big Wave 11:30am – 1:00pm – Jayden Secor – Country 1:45pm – 3:00pm – Tabu – Latin 3:30pm – 4:45pm – U2xPERIENCE – U2 tribute 5:15pm – 6:15pm – Bruno & The Hooligans – Bruno Mars Tribute FESTIVAL STAGE Presented by Fruli 11:00am – 12:30 – Jeanne Tatum – Jazz, Blues 1:15 – 2:30 – Upstream – Caribbean 3:00 – 4:15 – SMITH – Country 4:45 – 6:15 – Bad Habit – Rock & Pop FAMILY FUN STAGE Presented by Daiwa 10:45 am – Berry Best Baby Parade 11:30 am –  Magic by Godfrey 12:15 pm –  Puppets and Players Little Theatre 1:00 pm – Professor Smart Comedy Science Show 1:45 pm – Magic by Godfrey 2:30 pm – Puppets and Players Little Theatre 3:15 pm – Professor Smart Comedy Science Show 4:00 pm – Magic by Godfrey 4:45 pm – Puppets and Players Little Theatre 5:30 pm – Professor Smart Comedy Science Show TICKETS Adults $15 Active Military & Dependents with ID Can only be purchased at the Festival Gate $10 Seniors (62+) $10 Youth (ages 5-12) $8 Children (ages 4 and under) FREE Tickets may be purchased at Festival entrance gates. Cash and credit cards accepted. Food booths accept cash only. ATMs on site. BUY TICKETS [https://castrawberryfestival.org/buy-tickets/]