Five Fun Things to Do in Ventura Memorial Day Weekend

By Visit Ventura

Why just five fun things in Ventura, a town that swims in fun? It’s called a teaser. And really, it’s more fun to keep coming back for more. And we’ll offer you more. Later. On a serious note, when you opt to do any — or all — of these things, you are kindly Supporting Local, and, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for continuing to help our Ventura businesses — our friends and neighbors — rise from this pandemic and see their way to the coming light. So here’s a taste of Ventura fun for this Memorial Day weekend. Drive here and stay, so you can get it all in; from cool, wide-open beaches, to cold craft beer, to a walkable small town downtown with unique shops and restaurants, most of them locally owned. Have at it. For life is short, and there can never be enough fun. And let us not forget why Monday is holiday. Choose to do what you wish to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Concerts in Your Car Presents War

Miss the wild joy of live music? Sweeping lights, thundering drums, strutting singers, screaming guitars? Well you don’t have to — and it doesn’t get more innovative, or outright fun, than Concerts in Your Car; basically drive in concerts right beside the sea at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. This Saturday, May 29th, War (8 pm). And, coming in June, Adelaide’s Selena tribute (live; June 11th, 8 pm), Florida Georgia Line (recorded; June 12th, 3:30 pm) Nelly & Baby Bash (live; June 12th, 8 pm), the Gin Blossoms (live; June 19th, 8 pm), and Vanilla Ice and Tag Team (live; June 26th, 8:30 pm). And no doubt more. CBF Productions, Car Concert host, specializes in surprise.

See a Movie Beside the Sea

Yep Concerts in Your Car does drive in movies too; again, right beside the sea at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Fun film nights on Saturday, May 29th (Angels in the Outfield), Saturday, June 5th (Grease), and Friday, June 18th (Jurassic Park). All the movies start at 7:30 pm.

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Try The Newly Opened Green Olive

Neighborhood favorite, and somewhat tucked away secret, the Santa Cruz Market has revamped their food offerings, opening The Green Olive — offering fresh Mediterranean fare. And not to worry, they didn’t do away with their Shawarmas; chicken, lamb and tri tip cooked perfectly, cut thin, and served in a saucy wrap.

Live Music is Coming Back

Start at Winchester’s Grill & Saloon (632 East Main Street). On Friday (7 pm to 10 pm) enjoy the music of singer/songwriter Karyn 805. On Sunday afternoon (3 pm to 6 pm), Milo Sledge plays blues-rock. Both performances are outdoors. Enjoy the music and stroll Ventura’s car-free downtown.

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Enjoy an Open Air Seaside Market

Held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds this Sunday, May 30th, the free Seaside Market, from 11 am to 5 pm, features craft vendors of all kinds, live music and sea breezes. There’s onsite parking ($10).