Things to Do in Ventura During the Fourth of July

Whether you’re imagining a field day or a beach day for your Fourth of July celebrations, there’s nothing short of a ton of things to do in Ventura during the Fourth of July. From our annual Fourth of July parades to other fun ways to explore our beach community, Ventura has something for everyone. 

Here’s a list of things to do in Ventura for the Fourth of July so you can make the most of your holiday while you’re in town! 

1. Go to the 4th of July Street Fair & Pushem-Pullem Parade

Probably the number one thing to do in Ventura during the Fourth of July is to start your day at Ventura’s 4th of July Street Fair & Pushem-Pullem Parade. The 47th annual street fair and pushem-pullem parade is the perfect way to kick off the celebrations with your family. Right in Downtown Ventura, you can line up as early as 9:00 am along the street for a view of the action and then head to the artisan street fair, car exhibit, live entertainment, kids activity area, corn hole zone, and more! 

And don’t forget about the 4th of July Fireworks presented by the Rotary Club of Ventura Foundation at Ventura College. Learn more here. 

2. Walk Along the Ventura Pier

Newly reopened, talk a stroll along the historic Ventura Pier. Built in 1872, the pier is one of Ventura’s most iconic landmarks and the heart of the community. Historically, it was the hub of the region’s rich history and natural resources. Today, it’s a staple for visitors and locals alike to spend some time enjoying the views and eating a fish taco on its boardwalk. 

Three businesses are located on the Ventura Pier: grab a delicious fish taco at Beach House Tacos, sit down and feast on a full seafood spread at Eric Ericsson’s, or cheers with your friends at MadeWest Brewery. 

3. Grab Ice Cream and Hang Out by the Water at the Ventura Harbor Village

If you’re craving some waterside fun, the Ventura Harbor Village is calling your name. Enjoy live music, outdoor dining, and fun activities for kids. Grab an ice cream cone from Coastal Cone to beat the summer heat. Jump on a fun character pedal boat with your family and cruise around the marina (you never know what sea life you’ll spot). Feast on fish and chips at Andria’s or chow down on clam chowder at Brophy Bros. Sip on a glass of wine as the sun sets at Deep Sea Tasting Room. 

Ventura Harbor Village also has charming boutiques and galleries where you can browse local art and souvenirs. Bring home your loved ones (and yourself) a memory of Ventura.  

Things to Do

Family Fun

Music & Nightlife

Arts, Culture & History

Pet Friendly

Parking

Outdoors

Beaches & Surfing

Biking & Hiking Trails

Food & Drink

Restaurants

Outdoor Dining

Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries

Happy Hours

Cemetery Memorial Park Poli and Main Streets, Ventura, CA 93001

Ventura Pier Beachfront Promenade, Ventura, CA 93001

805-652-4550

Ventura Harbor 1583 Spinnaker Drive , Ventura, CA 93003

Coastal Cone Co. Ice Cream & Yogurt 1583 Spinnaker Dr. #104, Ventura, CA 93001

805-658-2837

Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market 1449 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 654-8228

Deep Sea Tasting Room 1591 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001

Island Packers 1691 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura, CA 93001

805-642-1393

Harmon Canyon Ventura, CA 93003

La Parrilla Yucatan Mexican Food 100 N Ashwood Ave, Ventura, CA 93003

(805) 650-1736

Surfers Point at Seaside Park Shoreline Dr, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 658-4726

Beach House Tacos 668 E Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 648-3177

MadeWest Brewing Company 1744 Donlon St, Ventura, CA 93003

(805) 947-5002

Eric Ericssons Fish Co. 668 E Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 643-4783

4. Look for Blue Whales on an Island Packers Summer Whale Watching Cruise

Put your adventure cap on (and maybe bring some binoculars) and book a whale watching cruise with Island Packers. You really never know what you’ll see but summer is known to be a prime time for spotting blue whales off the coast of Ventura. Seeing them in the wild is truly an unforgettable experience! 

Fun for the entire family, Island Packer’s knowledgeable guides provide insights into the marine life and ecosystems of the Channel Islands. If you have some extra time and want to learn more about Venutra’s beautiful waters, going on an Island Packers summer whale watching cruise is the perfect thing to do in Ventura during the Fourth of July.

5. Go Hiking at Harmon Canyon

A morning hike in Harmon Canyon is a must while you’re in Ventura. This 2,100-acre preserve offers miles of trails through oak woodlands, grasslands, and coastal sage scrub. The trails range from easy to moderate, making them accessible to hikers of all levels. Your furry four-legged friends are welcome to hike (leashed) alongside you as well.

It’s a serene escape from the bustle of the holiday, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic beauty of Ventura. When you’re done hiking the trails, grab lunch at La Parrilla, a local’s spot for delicious Mexican food. 

Bonus: Stay for the Weekend for Surf Rodeo

Once the holiday festivities die down, you have to stay for the weekend and go to Ventura’s original music and surfing festival, Surf Rodeo. Expect to see surfers wearing cowboy hats and cowboys holding a surfboard under their arms. Surf competitions, live music, food trucks, skateboard demos, and a party on the beach — Surf Rodeo has it all. Held at Surfers Point this year, you’ll be able to sip on a beer right on the beach. 

Watch surfers tackle the waves, join in beach games, and dance to live bands. It’s the perfect way to cap off your Fourth of July weekend.

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