Berry Tastes and Treats at 37th Annual California Strawberry Festival

VENTURA, Calif. - April 20, 2023 - PRLog -- The 37^th Annual California Strawberry Festival makes its debut at the Ventura County Fairgrounds Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and 21 with strawberry-themed food, beverages and contests, live entertainment, rides and activities. This year marks the first time the festival is being held at the fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001). Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days.

For strawberry lovers, the California Strawberry Festival is two days of strawberry heaven. Over 50 food and beverage vendors will serve such treats as strawberry pies, strawberry-topped funnel cakes, strawberry nachos, deep-fried strawberries, berry kabobs, strawberry tacos, strawberry beer and smoothies. Festivalgoers can build their own strawberry shortcakes, piling on as many strawberries and whipped cream as possible.

On two stages, 24 bands offering reggae, Latin, rock, country, and R&B music will perform. In the festival's Strawberryland, kids can enjoy science and magic shows on the Jest in Time Family Fun Stage presented by Wonderfold (https://www.wonderfoldwagon.com/). The stage will also be the site of the Berry Baby Fashion Parade presented by SoCalFord (https://www.socalforddealers.com/) at 2:00 p.m. both days. There is also a Strawberry Tart Toss and a Ninja National obstacle course.

The California Strawberry Festival features more than 200 artisans from throughout the West who will showcase their goods. Many of the artists and crafters have been coming to the festival for years. "Festivals allow shoppers to get an up-close look at items before buying. They can talk with the artisans to learn more about their work. It's an experience that you don't have when shopping online," says Dana Hale-Mounier, director of Pacific Fine Arts Festivals and coordinator of the festival's arts and craft booths.

"We are looking forward to providing a comfortable festivalgoer experience--a rain or shine venue with three food courts, indoor space for our artists and crafters, indoor and outdoor dining areas, paved parking on site, an Amtrak Station across the street, close proximity to the 101 Freeway, and easy access to free shuttles," says Dean Kato, festival chair.

General admission is $15. For active military and their dependents with ID and seniors 62 years and older, admission is $10 and for ages 5 to 12, admission is $8. Children 4 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.CAStrawberryFestival.org or upon entry to the festival.

A limited amount of parking is available onsite for $20 per vehicle. Free shuttles will run every 15 minutes from locations in Oxnard and Ventura. The Ventura Amtrak Station is onsite for out-of-area visitors. For parking options, go to https://castrawberryfestival.org/getting-here/free-shuttle-service.