Featured Events

Each spring, the California Strawberry Festival converts Oxnard’s Strawberry Meadows at College Park into a lively celebration of Ventura County’s most renowned crop. Recognized as one of America’s premier food festivals, this two-day event draws more than 65,000 attendees who come to savor strawberry-themed delicacies, experience live performances, and participate in family-oriented activities, all set against the picturesque landscape of Oxnard’s agricultural land.

Festival Overview & Essential Information

Location & Dates

Location: Strawberry Meadows at College Park
3250 S. Rose Ave, Oxnard, CA 93033
Date: Annually in May (during Mother’s Day weekend)
2025 Schedule: May 17-18 (10 AM to 6:30 PM on both days)

Admission & Tickets

General Admission: $15 (in advance), $20 (at the gate)
Children (ages 5-12): $8
Children under 5: Free
VIP Experience: $75 (includes premium perks)

Parking & Transportation

On-site Parking: $10 (shuttles provided)
Complimentary Bike Valet
VCTC Bus Routes: 6, 7, 16

Top Attractions & Must-Experience Activities at the California Strawberry Festival

Strawberry Gastronomy Wonderland

The Renowned Strawberry Festival

Savory and dessert variations of Strawberry Pizza
Deep-Fried Strawberries
Strawberry Tamales
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries (more than 2 tons served each year)

Culinary Demonstrations

Showcases by celebrity chefs
Competitions for strawberry recipes
Mixology classes highlighting strawberry cocktails

Live Entertainment Stages

Main Stage Headliners

National recording artists (previous performers include WAR, Sugar Ray)
Mariachi bands honoring local traditions
Cover bands performing popular hits

Cultural Performances

Folklorico dance groups
Ventura County Symphony concerts
Community choir presentations

Family Fun Zone

Strawberry-Themed Activities

Strawberry shortcake eating competitions
Berry bobbing activities
“Create Your Own Dessert” stations

Carnival Rides & Games

A Ferris wheel offering views of the farm
Midway games themed around strawberries
A petting zoo featuring farm animals

Agricultural Exhibits

Strawberry Farming Demonstrations

Methods of harvesting
Sustainable agricultural displays
Engage with local producers

U-Pick Experience

Limited sessions for strawberry picking
Educational tours of the adjacent fields

Unique Festival Features

The Strawberry Promenade

More than 200 artisan vendors
Products infused with strawberry (including soaps, candles, and jams)
Local craft breweries showcasing strawberry ales

Strawberry Celebrity

Annual crowning of the Strawberry Queen
Costume competitions (best outfit themed around berries)
Photo opportunities suitable for Instagram (large strawberry sculptures)

Community Impact

$2.5 million has been raised for local charities since 1984
Scholarship initiatives for students in agriculture
Food contributions to local shelters

Pro Tips for Festival-Goers

Best Time to Visit

Saturday mornings are dedicated to enjoying fresh berry treats
Weekend afternoons are reserved for optimal entertainment

Navigating the Festival

Obtain the festival map prior to your arrival
Ensure you wear comfortable footwear (over 50 acres to explore)
Bring sun protection (such as hats and sunscreen)

Money-Saving Strategies

Buy tickets online to receive discounts
Share food items (the portions are ample)
Bring reusable water bottles (there are free filling stations)

Why This Festival Stands Out

Authenticity – Located in California’s strawberry capital (Oxnard accounts for one-third of the state’s production)
Variety – Over 50 strawberry-based dishes available for tasting
Community Spirit – A nonprofit event entirely managed by volunteers
Family-Friendly – Activities suitable for individuals of all ages

Nearby Attractions to Extend Your Visit

Strawberry Farms

McGrath Family Farm (U-pick options)
Oxnard Historic Farm Park

Coastal Activities

Channel Islands Harbor (a mere 10 minutes distant)
Silver Strand Beach

Festival History & Impact

Established in 1984 to honor local agriculture
Economic contribution: $12 million each year to the region
Environmental efforts: A zero-waste initiative that diverts 85% of waste generated by the festival

“Fun, Flavor, and Fields of Strawberries!”

The California Strawberry Festival provides more than merely delectable berries – it is a celebration of community, agriculture, and delightful summer enjoyment. Whether you attend for the food, music, or cherished family memories, this Oxnard tradition offers a genuinely Californian experience that ensures visitors come back year after year.

Cost: $15
Email: info@castrawberryfestival.org
Website: castrawberryfestival.org
Address: California Strawberry Festival, 3250 S. Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA
Location Map: