Upcoming Events in Downtown Ventura: August-September 2018

by Kacie Goff

Savor the summer and make the most of August and September in Downtown Ventura.

Whether you’re a Ventura local or looking for the perfect getaway to our coastal community, make the most of these final weeks of summer. We’ve got double good news. Not only are there fun happenings in Downtown in August, we’ve got you covered for festivities all the way through September. Here’s a quick look at just a few of our events so you can pack in as much summer fun as possible.

Summer Movie Series (August 31, September 28)

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We bring cinema to the street! If you haven’t joined us for a movie Downtown yet, don’t miss the remaining two flicks in our Summer Movie Series. We close down South California Street at Main so you can stroll around with your family, friends, and pets. Bring chairs or a blanket (we recommend chairs!) and set up in front of our giant LED screen to enjoy a free movie with your community. All movies start at 7 pm with free popcorn. On Friday, Aug. 31, we’ll be screening the cult classic, The Goonies. Whether it’s your first time seeing this movie or your hundredth, you won’t want to miss the chance to watch this beloved film with friends and family under the starry Ventura sky. The fun doesn’t end in August, either. The Summer Movie Series wraps up on Friday, Sept. 28 with Raiders of the Lost Ark. Join us as we watch Indiana Jones whip up some fun.

Aloha Beach Festival (September 1-2)

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We would be remiss if we didn’t bring you something fun to do during Labor Day weekend – and put it right on the beach. Celebrate one of the best things about Ventura – its incredible surf – at the 13th annual Aloha Beach Festival. Head down to Promenade Park near Surfers’ Point to catch this unique blend of surf contest, celebration of Aloha spirit, and music festival. All proceeds from this year’s event will go to benefit local families who lost their homes in the Thomas Fire. Show up and show your support! There will be food, crafts, a beer garden, and entertainment including hula and outrigger canoeing. And perhaps the best part? Entrance is completely free!

Arts & Eats (September 15)

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You didn’t think the fun or the culture ended after Labor Day weekend, did you? Arts & Eats returns to Downtown on Sept 15. Cruise several Downtown art galleries between 6 and 8 pm for new works and entertainment. As you feast your eyes, you can feast in the more literal sense, too. A number of Downtown restaurants will be passing out bite-sized samples. Arts & Eats is a great way to check out fresh spots in Downtown Ventura and try food from new – or just new-to-you – restaurants.

Boots & Brews Country Music Festival (September 15)

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Plaza Park has no shortage of festivals, but none of them promise to bring the hoedown quite like Boots & Brews. Alexandria Corn, Arnie Newman Band, Sundance Head (the winner Of NBC’s The Voice), Deana Carter, and Montgomery Gentry will all take the stage over the course of the festival, so be sure to bring your dancing boots. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Boots & Brews is presented by the producers of the California Beer Festival. You can get tickets to both events here.

California Beer Festival (September 16)

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Speaking of the California Beer Festival, it’s back! This Ventura-loved festival is celebrating its 10th Anniversary. And they’re doing it in style; the event’s headliners are Sir Mix-A-Lot and Tone Loc. If you want to throw it back to the 90s, sample over 100 craft beers, and grab bites from some of our best local food trucks, mark your calendar for this afternoon event in Plaza Park. Don’t forget to get your tickets here.

See you there!

What are your favorite summer/fall events in Ventura? Whether you prefer the family-friendly feel of the Summer Movie Series or are ready to party with your favorite old school artists, the event lineup in Downtown Ventura has you covered. We hope to see you there!