This weekend in Oxnard, CA

Parents and children can share a free Playful Parent Class focused on growth and connection. Sessions encourage sensory exploration and motor coordination, create time for parents and kids to bond, and offer social interaction for everyone. The setting is safe, clean, and supportive, and there is a playful introduction to gymnastics. Multiple sessions are offered, and participants may take part in one or all three.

The largest arts festival in the area fills Ventura with creativity, showcasing work by more than 200 artists across dozens of locations alongside local performers, poets, and filmmakers. This free, family-friendly celebration features art in galleries, businesses, restaurants, and on the grounds of Mission Park. The route begins on Main Street Downtown and continues up Ventura Avenue, highlighting stops such as the Museum of Ventura County, the new Vita Arts campus at Garden and Main, Working Artists Ventura, and the Bell Arts Factory, with many additional venues in between featuring local artists and musicians. Maps and signage will help visitors navigate it all. Entertainment spans two stages, one at the Albinger Archeological Museum across from Mission Park and another at California and Main, with popular local bands, theater groups, and dancers. A cinema festival takes place at the Downtown Century 10 theaters, while poets gather at the Museum of Ventura County Pavilion. Expect street painting, a dedicated children’s area, large-scale installations, and live demonstrations in painting and pottery. This two-day gathering brings together neighborhoods, businesses, and the arts community, powered by an enthusiastic all-volunteer team.

A member-focused showcase highlights contributions in a collective, color-themed presentation. The spotlight stays on members and what they put forward as part of this theme.

The 5th Annual Seaside Oddities Expo transforms Ventura County Fairgrounds into a sprawling showcase of the weird and wonderful, with 150 spooky vendors filling San Miguel Hall and spilling onto the lawn. This all-ages experience features dark art and photography, vintage Halloween treasures, taxidermy, antiques and curiosities, occult items, rare sideshow artifacts, and natural specimens. Expect hourly sideshow performances in the Main Hall, themed photo opportunities that include a retired casket, special guests roaming the halls, live spooky tattoos, and a free arts and crafts booth for kids hosted by local artist Casie Art. A costume contest welcomes adults, teens, and children in separate categories, and no weapons are permitted. Timed entry is in place to reduce lines and create more space to explore. Tickets are tied to a specific arrival window selected at purchase and cannot be changed, though guests may stay and shop as long as they like once inside. Presale tickets are $10 online, and prices increase to $20 during the event. Children 10 and under receive free admission with a paid adult and do not need a timed ticket. Food options and a full bar are available throughout the event. The venue is accessible, and those needing specific accommodations can contact the Fairgrounds. Pets are not allowed except for service animals, and some areas may be crowded with low lighting. All ticket sales are final, and tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.

Unwind with a calming open-air painting class at Port Hueneme Beach, guided by California-based abstract figurative painter Ane Howard. Adults of all experience levels, including complete beginners, will explore expressive techniques outside while learning how to transform emotions and the surrounding scenery into vibrant artwork using confident strokes and striking color contrasts. All essentials are provided, including painting surfaces, brushes, and paints, along with step-by-step instruction in a welcoming, community-minded setting. For this session, plan to meet at the Port Hueneme Pier entrance. A recommended contribution of $35 covers materials and instruction, and advance registration and a contribution are required so supplies can be prepared. Comfortable clothes that can handle a bit of paint, sunglasses, and a bottle of water are suggested. Space is limited to allow for individualized attention. Ane Howard paints full time, with work in private collections across the United States, Canada, and Germany, and her background includes exhibitions with the de Young Museum in San Francisco, the International Art Museum of America in San Francisco, and the Oceanside Museum of Art Artist Alliance in San Diego. She is a member of American Women Artists and is active with regional groups including the Buenaventura Art Association, Studio Channel Islands, and the Ojai Ivy Gallery. These outdoor classes take place at thoughtfully chosen locations around Ventura County, and the series runs weekly with changing spots. Beginners are always welcome.

Try improv in a friendly class at The Bunker Theater in Ventura. You choose how much to participate, whether stepping into scenes or taking it slower from the audience. Masks and distancing are welcome while you watch. If you perform a scene, please plan to remove your mask. Class begins with quick introductions where people can share names, optional pronouns, and a recent positive update. If pronouns are not part of how you identify or you cannot think of something to share, offering anything you feel comfortable with is fine. The atmosphere centers on respect and positivity, and participants are asked to honor others’ pronouns and beliefs. This Jest Improv session is intended for adults, since scenes may include mature themes. A minimum of four participants is required for the class to take place.

Doc & Pete bring live acoustic music to Fisherman's Catch alongside fresh fish.

World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars make their debut at Ventura Raceway in California, bringing a thrilling first appearance to the track. The event spotlights the series at this venue for the very first time.

Brian Posehn appears live at Ventura Music Hall for a show presented by the venue. Tickets are available.

Cousins Maine Lobster rolls into the Oxnard Car Show with fresh-to-order favorites like lobster rolls, tots, tacos, and more. Enjoy flavorful seafood alongside a showcase of classic rides. Order at the truck or place an advance order through the Cousins Maine Lobster app, which begins accepting orders one hour before start time, to help reduce your wait. Each app purchase earns rewards points, and if mobile ordering is limited at any point, walk-up service is still available. This stop is cashless and accepts debit, credit, and Apple Pay. Arrive hungry and leave satisfied.

Back in a beautiful Camarillo location, this gathering brings together bikes, a smoky atmosphere, and beer. Appreciation goes to the Schoenewald family for welcoming the event back. A simple formula that keeps the focus on the essentials in a lovely setting.

Celebrate the art of quilting at Earl Warren Show Grounds in Santa Barbara. This colorful show features an array of quilts to explore, with displays that highlight craftsmanship, pattern, and creative design.

Ventura Music Hall presents a live concert featuring The Green, with Johnny Suites also performing. Both artists share the stage for an evening of live music at the venue. Tickets are available.