Strawberry pizza, strawberry beer and strawberry nachos are just a few strawberry creations that are going to be at this year’s California Strawberry Festival in Oxnard.
The 28th annual festival is going to be held this year on Saturday, May 21 and Sunday, May 22.
With strawberries being in its peak season, this event is a great way to experiment in new ways to enjoy strawberries. Food, rides, music and shows are all going to be in amusement for guests.
Lisa Carey, public relations person for the festival, believes that the community’s involvement helps to make this festival a hit every year.
“Our hope is that people will join us for a memorable day,” said Carey. “We pride ourselves in offering something special for every member of the group that attends.”
The non-profit food booths generate funds for a variety of causes. High schools, sporting groups, and others clubs in the community benefit from the annual event. This non-profit organization is run an all-volunteer board. The festival raises funds and brings pride to the community as it brings in many tourists.
Naomi Conti, a 21-year-old physics major, plans on attending this year’s festival. She looks forward to the array of strawberry themed concoctions.
“I can’t wait to pair my strawberry wine with my strawberry nachos,” said Conti. “It’s my first time going to the festival so I’m very excited.”
Samantha Hucker, a 20-year-old kinesiology major remembers listening to the music at the event with her family. She said it was a great way to enjoy her free time during a family outing.
“I saw a great oldies band,” said Hucker. “I thought it was pretty cool, I would definitely go again.”
A wide variety of music including Swing, Reggae, and Pop will be performed throughout the weekend on two stages. Several tribute bands are scheduled to feature music by Stevie Nicks, Neil Diamond and Michael Jackson.
The arts and crafts section of the festival is featuring more than 200 booths. The booths include original artwork, glasswork, woodwork, jewelry and much more.Musicians, artists, vendors and volunteers are encouraged to participate.
The festival is split up into various sections. The Strawberry Promenade which offers cooking demonstrations and presentations.
Strawberry Land offers amusement for children. Arts and crafts booths will offer souvenirs for purchase. The music stages offer amusement for everyone attending. Last but not least, the selection of food will offer something for everyone as well.
The festival is located at 3250 South Rose Avenue in Oxnard at the Strawberry Meadows of College Park.
Onsite parking is $10. A free strawberry express shuttle will also be located in five different locations. One shuttle stop will be in Camarillo and the other four will be located in Oxnard.
Tickets for adults are $12, children ages 5 through 12 are $5, children under the age of 5 are free, and seniors 62 and up are $8. Those active in the military with an ID can buy a ticket for $8.
For more information visit www.strawberry-fest.org or call (888)-288-9242.
