Free Concerts and Live Music All Summer Long Around Ventura County

We’re looking forward to another outstanding summer of free live music throughout Ventura County and surrounding areas here in 2026! The compilation below has links to more detailed information.

Concerts subject to change. List will be updated regularly as new events are added.

Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village/Newbury Park

• Free Concerts in the Park in Thousand Oaks starting at 5pm

  • Memorial Day Monday, May 25: Garth Guy - The Premier Garth Brooks Experience

  • Saturday, July 4: The New West Symphony

  • Sunday, July 19: Twisted Gypsy - Fleetwood Mac Tribute

  • Sunday, August 9: Wild Night - Van Morrison Tribute

  • Labor Day Monday, September 7: 90’s Rock Show - Iconic Sounds of the 1990s

• Saturday Night Concerts at Berniece Bennett Park in Westlake Village at 7pm

  • Saturday, June 6: Stone Soul, Motown Dance Party

  • Saturday, July 25: Tom Petty/Stevie Nicks Tribute

  • Saturday, August 15: 90s Rockshow

  • Saturday, August 22: Surf City All Stars

• City of Westlake Village TGIF Series of free events (time/locations below)

  • May 29: Agoura High School and Lindero Canyon Middle School Jazz Bands at Berniece Bennett Park at 7pm (food trucks at 6pm)

  • June 12: Thousand Oaks DJ, World Cup Watch Party of the USA vs Paraguay match at Berniece Bennett Park at 6pm (activities start at 5pm)

  • August 7: 5-Star Theatricals at 31200 Oak Crest Drive at 7pm (food trucks at 6pm)

• The Promenade at Westlake hosts live entertainment on Saturdays from 6:30-9:30PM from Memorial Day weekend (May 23) through Labor Day weekend (September 5) near the fountain.

• City of Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Festival every Friday/Saturday from June 5 to June 27 at 7PM. Eight free concerts at eight locations. (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS)

Agoura/Oak Park/Calabasas/Woodland Hills

• City of Agoura Hills Free Summer Concerts in the Park at Chumash Park. Concerts start at 6pm on the following Sunday nights:

  • June 14: Skynyrd Reloaded (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute)

  • July 5: Disco Inferno (followed by patriotic drone show)

  • August 2: Fortunate Son (CCR Tribute)

  • August 16: Turn the Page (Bob Seger Tribute)

• Valley Cultural Foundation’s Free Concerts at Warner Park in Woodland Hills on Sunday nights from June 14 to August 23 (except the July 4th Saturday event) at 5:30PM (emerging artist) followed by headline acts.

  • June 14: Dog n Butterfly - The Heart Experience

  • June 21: The Purple Generation - Tribute to Prince

  • June 28: Cali Country All-Stars

  • July 4: July 4th Extravaganza with Doctor Wu - The Music of Steely Dan

  • July 12: Flashback Heart Attach - 80s Tribute

  • July 19: Ridin’ The Storm Out - REO Speedwagon Tribute

  • July 26: Abbey Road - Beatles Tribute

  • August 2: New Romantics - Taylor Swift Tribute

  • August 9: Start Me Up - Rolling Stones Tribute

  • August 16: Super Soul Groove - Disco/Funk/Soul/R&B

  • August 23: Led Zepagain - Led Zeppelin Tribute

• Sun Sets Summer Concert Series at Calabasas Lake on Sunday nights at 6pm.

  • June 14: Billy Nation - Billy Joel Tribute

  • July 19: Jumping Jack Flash - Rolling Stones Tribute

  • August 2: Gold Rush Country

  • August 23: Fantastic Diamond - Neil Diamond Tribute

• Music in the Park at Oak Canyon Community Park in Oak Park at 6:30pm

  • Saturday, July 11 - Fantastic Diamond - Nel Diamond Tribute

• The Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge is hosting a free summer concert series starting May 24th. More info at THIS LINK.

Moorpark/Simi Valley

• Summer Music in the Park Free Concerts at Rancho Simi Community Park on Saturday nights at 6:30pm.

  • Saturday, June 20: Wallen Outlaws (Morgan Wallen Tribute)

  • Saturday, July 18: TLR (Eagles Tribute)

  • Saturday, August 15: Buffett Beach (Jimmy Buffett Tribute)

• City of Moorpark Concerts in the Park at Arroyo Vista Park at 6pm

  • June 27: Fast Times (80s Music)

  • July 25: The 805 Social Club (Pop)

  • August 22: Blue Breeze Band (Soul/R&B)

  • September 26: Country Nation

• Concerts at the Plaza at the Simi Valley Civic Center Plaza takes place from 6-9pm on the following Saturday nights:

  • 7/11: Soul Jukebox & The Funky Divas (Dance Soul)

  • 7/18: Sonic Kiss (Duran Duran Tribute)

  • 7/25: The Way (80s/90s Hits)

  • 8/1: Pre-Existing Condition (Classic Rock) and Pretty Boy Floyd (Hollywood glam band - not a tribute band!

  • 8/15: America Made (Toby Keith Tribute)

  • 8/22: JACK’D (Dance Band)

  • 9/5: Ticket to Ride (Beatles Tribute)

Camarillo/Oxnard/Port Hueneme/Ventura/Santa Paula

• Summer Concert Series at Constitution Park at 7pm on designated Saturday nights.

  • Saturday, June 27: 90s Rock Show

  • Saturday, July 11: Savor

  • Saturday, July 25: Blue Breeze Band

  • Saturday, August 8: Yellow Brick Band

• Camarillo Community Band Free Concerts in the Park at 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings, July 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Constitution Park

• Free Concerts by the Sea at Harbor View Park at Channel Islands Harbor is on Saturdays from 4-6PM for 8 weeks - July 11 to September 5.

• Heritage Square Summer Concert Series from 6-8pm on Friday nights from June 12 to August 21 - reserved tables and seats available for a free. Free lawn seating available (donations appreciated) for this concert series that offers a wide variety of musical genres.

• Free Seaside Live Music at Ventura Harbor Village includes a variety of performers beginning Memorial Day weekend through August

• Rock the Collection Free Concert Series at The Collection at RiverPark

  • July 29: The K-Tel All Stars (70s Tribute)

  • August 12: DSB (Journey Tribute)

  • August 26: Twisted Gypsy (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

  • September 9: That’s What I Like (Bruno Mars Tribute)

• Santa Paula Parks & Rec Concerts in the Park 2026 planned for Friday evening, June 19, July 17 and August 21 at Santa Paula Creek Sports Park, 301 Harvest Loop. Details at www.instagram.com/spparksandrec

Santa Barbara

Free Thursday Night Concerts at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara on Thursday nights, July 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 6-7:30pm.

Have something to add to this list? CONTACT US!!

Check the Events Calendar for things going on around town as well as the Local Events and Community Forum sections of Conejo Valley Guide.

Mexican Restaurants In the Conejo Valley

According to Pew Research Center analysis published in 2024, approximately 11% of restaurants in the United States serve Mexican food. Though Mexican restaurants are present in 85% of U.S. counties overall, nearly 40% of all Mexican restaurants in the country are in California (22%) and Texas (17%). Based on data from March 2023, Los Angeles County had 5,484 Mexican eateries; imagine, it would take you over 15 years to try one of these eateries every day.

So, here we have compiled a list of Mexican eateries in the Conejo Valley, which stretches over portions of both Ventura and Los Angeles counties and includes Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Oak Park and Calabasas, west of the Calabasas Grade. Eateries are categorized by full service (sit down and be served), order at the counter (and be served, or pick up your food), and fast serve.

Full Service (Sit Down and Be Served) Mexican Eateries

Adobe Cantina first opened in 1997 in a rustic setting at 29100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills. Plenty of outdoor and indoor seating available. Feels “off the beaten path” yet really isn’t. www.adobecantina.com (818) 991-3474

Cisco’s Mexican Restaurant at 1712 E. Avenida De Los Arboles in Thousand Oaks opened in 1999, serving authentic Mexican food indoors and outdoors. The first Cisco’s opened on Westlake Boulevard in 1974, making Cisco’s the longest-operating Mexican eatery in the Conejo Valley. ciscosthousandoaks.com (805) 493-0533

Habanero Mexican Grill operates at 520 N. Ventu Park Road in Newbury Park (Walmart/Walgreens Center), where it opened in February 2017, offering a full selection of Mexican specialties. habaneromexicangrills.com (805) 375-0755

Hacienda Tapatio Mexican Restaurant and Bar opened on November 3, 2025 in the former La Paz location at 4505 Las Virgenes Road in Calabasas. (818) 880-8076 www.haciendatapatio.com

Los Dos Amigos operates at 1421 Thousand Oaks Blvd in Thousand Oaks, where it offers Mexican specialties for lunch and dinner in a sit down and be served environment. www.los2amigos.com (805) 373-0087

Norita’s Bar & Grill Cocina Mexicana opened at 702 Lindero Canyon Road (at Kanan) in the former Margarita’s Mexican Grill in April 2025.. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.noritasbarandgrill.com (805) 206-3500.

Patron Mexican Bar & Grill offers traditional sit-down service at its locations at 1620 Newbury Road, Newbury Park (805) 498-3188 and 3709 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Westlake Village (805) 418-7717. Taco Tuesday 4pm to close and happy hour from 3-6:30pm daily. patronmex.com

Plata Taqueria & Cantina is located in the Whizin Market Square, 28914 Roadside Drive #110, Agoura Hills. This family owned eatery opened in January 2015 and over the years became so popular that it expanded to a second location at The Oaks mall in August 2024. This is a sit down and be served eatery. www.eatplata.com (818) 735-9982

Plata Cocina Mexicana opened at The Oaks mall, across from the AMC theatres, in August 2024. This former Red Robin location was completely remodeled, with nearly 300 seats, large patio area, and a large, beautiful bar. This is a sit down and be served style eatery. www.eatplata.com (805) 750-5957

Red O Taste of Mexico opened in August 2025 at The Promenade at Westlake in the former The Grill on The Alley location. RED O serves Baja-inspired seafood, unique Mexican plates, and craft cocktails. www.redorestaurant.com/westlake-village (805) 600-0902

Salsa & Beer Mexican Grill is coming to 4895 Las Virgenes Road in Calabasas. at the former Coco’s location visible from the 101 south. Timing TBA.

The Alamo Mexican Grill and Cantina at 2311 Borchard Road in Newbury Park was established in 1976. In addition to the traditional sit down and be served eatery, The Alamo has a popular take out window out front. www.alamo-rest.com (805) 498-3115

The Cliffdiver Restaurant serves primarily Mexican cuisine at 720 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, where it opened in June 2022. Burritos, fajitas, taco platters, and more. www.thecliffdiver.com (805) 370-1585

The Latigo Kid at 5617 Kanan Road in Agoura Hills has served authentic Mexican food in a sit-down setting since 1987. www.facebook.com/TheLatigoKidMexicanRestaurant (818) 889-1195

The Latigo Kid in Agoura Hills (with the “old” sign)

Order at the Counter Mexican Eateries

Bad Ass Street Tacos operates at 2951 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, serving up its street tacos and other specialties. Small indoor area and decent sized outdoor patio area. www.badassstreettacos.com (805) 370-TACO (8226)

Blue Agave Tacos and Beer opened in March 2025 in the Agoura Hills City Mall at 5879 Kanan Road offers Mexican breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties. Plenty of indoor seating. Limited outdoor seating. blueagavetacosandbeer.com (818) 575-7038

Cafe Rio opened in the spring of 2020 at 595 N. Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks, serving made-to-order Mexican favorites. www.caferio.com (805) 329-4111

Casa de Sancho (originally El Sancho Loco Taqueria) opened at 2271 Michael Drive in Newbury Park in the summer of 2010 in what was previously Taco Bell, offering authentic Mexican fare in a casual atmosphere. Order at the counter and they will call your name - there are plenty of tables inside and outside. www.elsancholocotaqueria.com (805) 376-8226

El Taco Chico opened at 640 Lindero Canyon Road in Oak Park in early 2020, offering a full range of Mexican specialties…burritos, tacos, chimichangas, tortas, etc. eltacochicoca.com (818) 532-7363

Establos Meat Market & Taqueria at 140 Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks offers a full range of Mexican food specialties, such as tacos, burritos, tostadas, tortas and more. www.instagram.com/establosmeatmarket (805) 370-0124

Frankie’s Breakfast Burritos opened October 12, 2025 at the Roadside Plaza, 28708 Roadside Drive in Agoura Hills. They serve breakfast burritos, lunch burritos, tacos, nachos, and more. frankiesburritos.com

La Esquina Mexican Grill is located at 2397 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, next to Slice Pizza. Order at the counter for takeout, or eat at tables under the covered patio outside. www.thecornermexicangrill.com (805) 371-5333

La Katrina Tacos & Beer is opening on Monday, October 6, 2025 at 2751 E. Hillcrest Drive in Newbury Park, in the PetSmart/Boot Barn/Ross plaza. Their menu includes breakfast, lunch and dinner Mexican specialties. www.instagram.com/lakatrinatacosandbeer

La Poblana Mexican Grill opened at 540 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks in August 2024. Owned by the same folks who operate the La Poblanita Taco Truck at 420 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. www.lapoblanamexicangrillca.com (805) 261-4389

Latino Market & Grill has offered authentic Mexican specialties since 1991 in the Oaks Plaza strip mall at 711 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. www.latinomeatmarket.com (805) 244-6498

Los Agaves de Luna Restaurant is located at The Shoppes at Westlake, 20750 Russell Ranch Road, Westlake Village, where it opened in July 2015. It is a family-owned and operated restaurant that originated in Santa Barbara in 2008. You order at the counter and are served your delicious, authentic Mexican food indoors and outdoors. https://los-agaves.com (818) 874-0779

Manny’s Mexican Grill is a quick-serve eatery located at 1038 Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, serving traditional Mexican food. (805) 492-4709

Reynalda Cucina & Amor opened in January 2023 at 2865 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, serving Mexican specialties and offering hand-made tortillas. Order at the counter and take your food to go or eat one one of tables inside. www.instagram.com/reynalda_cucina_amor (805) 852-8116

Ruperto’s Kitchen Mexican Food opened at 3321-B Kimber Drive in Newbury Park in July 2019, serving Mexican specialties. www.rupertoskitchenca.com (805) 668-7999

Sharky’s, a popular, Mexican fast-serve eatery, has locations at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks, 111 S. Westlake Blvd in Westlake Village, and 1930 Newbury Road in Newbury Park. A long-time local favorite. www.sharkys.com

Snapper Jack’s Taco House is a fast-serve “Cal-Mex” eatery located at 604 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks. www.snapperjackstacoshack.com (805) 494-9777

The Sea Casa is a fast-serve Mexican eatery that has served the Conejo Valley at the Westlake Plaza, 1014 S. Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village for as long as I can remember. www.theseacasa.com (805) 374-1921

3 Amigos Fresh Mexican Grill is a quick-serve Mexican favorite, located at 365 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805) 493-1033 and 139 N. Reino Road, Newbury Park (805) 499-7200.

Chain Mexican Eateries

Baja Fresh, which originated in Newbury Park in 1990, has one remaining location in the Conejo Valley, at 30861 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Westlake Village. www.bajafresh.com (818) 889-1347

Chipotle Mexican Grill has locations in Newbury Park (935 Broadbeck Drive), Thousand Oaks (Oaks Mall near the AMC Theaters) and Westlake Village (5754 Lindero Canyon Road), offering popular Mexican fare. www.chipotle.com

Del Taco operated one location in the Conejo Valley, at 591 North Ventu Park Rd., Newbury Park (805.499.4439). www.deltaco.com The first Del Taco opened in Yermo, CA on September 16, 1964, under the name “Casa Del Taco.” Publicly-traded company Jack in the Box (Nasdaq: JACK) acquired Del Taco in March 2022.

El Pollo Loco (Spanish for “The Crazy Chicken”) operates locations at 591 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, 2750 Camino Dos Rios, Newbury Park, and 5050 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills. El Pollo Loco U.S. is traded publicly under stock symbol LOCO, serving Mexican-style grilled chicken, tacos, burritos, and more. www.elpolloloco.com

Taco Bell locations in the Conejo Valley include 1928 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, 25 Rancho Road, Thousand Oaks, 5589 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills, and 791 N. Wendy Drive, Newbury Park. A little Taco Bell history. Glen Bell opened his first Taco Bell restaurant in Downey, CA in 1962, serving what his customers called “Tay-Kohs.” Before creating Taco Bell, Bell started Bell’s Drive-In and Taco Tia in the San Bernardino area. Bell passed away in 2010. www.tacobell.com Taco Bell is owned by Yum! Brands (NYSE: YUM), which also operated KFC, Pizza Hut, and The Habit Burger.

Source: “About 1 in 10 restaurants in the U.S. serve Mexican Food,” Pew Research Center (https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/11/about-1-in-10-restaurants-in-the-us-serve-mexican-food)

Adios Burritos (Mexican Eateries That Have Closed Over the Years

The historic Lupe’s Mexican Restaurant in Thousand Oaks closed its doors on August 29, 2016, after serving the Conejo Valley for 69 years.

Two historic Mexican eateries operated at 159 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd (now The Tipsy Goat), including Casita Valdez from 1961 to 1979 and Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant from 1979 to 2009.

Letty’s Mexican Food at 2454 Hillcrest Drive in Newbury Park was a local favorite for over 20 years, until it closed in April 2015.

Mejico Grill & Tequila Lounge opened at 29008 Agoura Road in Agoura Hills in September 2018 but closed in February 2021 after a fire. Still closed as of June 2025.

Loteria Grill at The Promenade at Westlake opened in April 2012 and closed in February 2017.

Cisco’s Mexican Restaurant Westlake Village closed its doors in February 2018.

Sabor Cocina Mexicana operated at The Lakes at Thousand Oaks from August 2010 to March 2020.

Casa Escobar closed its doors at 2809 Agoura Road, Westlake Village on September 10, 2016 after six years at that location.

Julio’s Agave Grill operated at 2809 Agoura Road, Westlake Village, in the former Casa Escobar location, from November 19, 2018 to July 1, 2023.

Rubio’s Newbury Park served its last fish taco in January 2019, after over eight years in operation. It also had a location at Janss Marketplace at one point.

Casita Valdez operated 159 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks from 1961 to 1979, when it changed ownership and became Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant until 2009.

El Torito closed its Thousand Oaks location on Moorpark Road on January 24, 2012, a sad day in history.

Freebirds World Burrito operated in Agoura Hills from 2011 to 2016.

Chuy’s previously operated in Thousand Oaks on Moorpark Road (Whole Foods Plaza) but closed in 2011. It also had a location in Agoura Hills at Kanan and Agoura Road.

Margaritas Mexican Grill in Oak Park opened in April 2015 and closed in late summer 2024 for a nine year run.

The Taco Bell at 4955 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas closed in January 2025.

Tiki Taco opened in the Best Buy Plaza Thousand Oaks in April 2023, closed in 2025 and is now called Breakers Sports Bar & Grill.

La Paz Mexican Seafood operated in Calabasas at 4505 Las Virgenes Road from 1989 to early 2025, serving Yucatan style Mexican food. www.lapazmexicanfood.com

El Sanchito was located behind El Sancho Loco Cantina at 3845 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard. It closed in early 2025.

El Sancho Loco Cantina in the North Ranch Shopping Center at 3845 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Unit B, Thousand Oaks announced it has closed its doors on 2/7/26.

4th of July Fireworks, Parades and Other Events Around Ventura County

America's 250th birthday is Saturday, July 4, 2026! Here is a compilation of local holiday events and activities in celebration of Independence Day.

Fireworks Display Summary for 2026:

• Friday 7/3: Moorpark, Ventura, Fillmore

• Saturday 7/4: Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Simi Valley, Ojai, Camarillo, Channel Islands Harbor, Santa Paula, Santa Barbara, Woodland Hills

• Sunday 7/5: Agoura Hills (Drone Show)

4th of July celebration parades to take place in Westlake Village, Ventura, Ojai, Channel Islands Harbor and Carpinteria (June 27).

Thousand Oaks/Newbury Park

The annual Conejo Recreation and Park District and City of Thousand Oaks 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is launched from the hill behind the Hillcrest Center for the Arts in Thousand Oaks. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Patriotic music simulcast by KHAY 100.7.

Other CRPD 4th of July events around town include a $5 family Pancake Breakfast and Home Run Derby in the morning at Borchard Park in Newbury Park, Concert in the Park at 5pm at Conejo Community Park and free swimming from noon to 4pm at CLU and NPHS pools.

CRPD also to host afternoon family games and activities at Conejo Community Center at 1175 Hendrix Ave. in Thousand Oaks. Festivities include a Youth Home Run Derby (1:00-3:00pm), Diaper Derby Baby Races (1:00-1:20pm), Potato Sack Races (1:25-1:45pm), Three-Legged Races (1:50-2:10pm), a Water Balloon Toss (2:15-2:35pm), Tug-of-War (2:40-3:00pm), and a Hula Hoop Contest (3:05-3:25pm). Also enjoy interactive musical experiences with the New West Symphony Music Van (1:00-3:30pm).

Independence Day Festivities at the Stagecoach Inn Museum in Newbury Park will take place on July 4th from 1-4PM.

4th of July Essentials

Westlake Village

The Westlake Village 4th of July Parade and Party in the Park starts at 9:30am at the corner of Lakeview Canyon and Agoura Roads, culminating at Berniece Bennett Park.

The City of Westlake Village presents its 11th Annual Fireworks Spectacular Show from the Westlake Village Golf Course, with additional viewing locations available. Activities begin at 6pm, including family-friendly activities, music and food trucks. The show will start at 9:10pm.

Westlake Yacht Club at 32119 Lindero Canyon Road opens its clubhouse to the public on the 4th of July for a Pancake Breakfast from 8:30am to 10:30am ($12; $6 under 10 yrs), Decorated Boat Contest and Boat Parade (11am judging, 11:30am parade), Sailboat Race at 1pm, live music 4:30-7pm, along with a mini bar, BBQ, jumbo hot dogs, and more. Flyer at THIS LINK.

Moorpark (3rd of July)

The City of Moorpark presents its 3rd of July Fireworks Extravaganza at Arroyo Vista Park, 4550 Tierra Rejada Road once again. A fun family event with festivities (games, food, entertainment) starting at 4pm. Tickets are $8 in advance; $10 at the gate. Onsite parking $5 (advance purchase only.)

Simi Valley

The Reagan Presidential Library 4th of July Celebration is back this year from 10am to 3pm on July 4th, featuring patriotic music, family entertainment, games, crafts and more.

The Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley presents the Star-Spangled Rock & Country Jam and Fireworks Celebration on July 4th at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 E. Los Angeles Avenue. Gates open at 3pm. There will be music, food and craft vendors, beer and wine, shopping and a free kids’ fun zone. And of course, fireworks! Event is free of charge but VIP passes are available.

Calabasas

The City of Calabasas is hosting the Lakeside Fun Run 4 and 2 mile runs in the morning and Summer Splash Party at the Tennis & Swim Center from noon to 5pm.

Camarillo

The City of Camarillo is hosting a July 4th Fireworks Show at the Camarillo Premium Outlets again this year at 9pm. Park and enjoy the fireworks. Last entry is 8:45 pm.

The Commemorative Air Force Museum in Camarillo is hosting a 4th of July Celebration from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy hot dogs, ice cream, apple pie, WWII aircraft and exhibits, cockpit tours, a selfie booth, and more. $5 admission; kids under 12 free.

Oxnard/Channel Islands Harbor

The Channel Islands Harbor 4th of July Family Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. at Albacore Way, travels north up Harbor Blvd. and ends at Cabezone Circle, home to Marine Emporium Landing. Then from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. there will be farmers’ market, over 40 local artisans, live music, and other activities at Harbor View Park.

The Channel Islands Harbor will be offering activities and entertainment all day, followed by Fireworks by the Sea at 9pm on the 4th of July.

The Oxnard Downtowners is hosting a Stars, Stripes & Sounds America 250 Celebration at Plaza Park (500 S. C St) on Friday, July 3rd, from 3-9:30pm. Event to feature live music, classic cars, food vendors and food trucks, beer garden, entertainment, and more.

Ventura

The annual Ventura Rotary fireworks event at Ventura College will not be held in 2026, but will be back on July 4, 2027. INSTEAD, the City of Ventura is hosting a free community fireworks show on Friday, July 3, 2026 in Downtown Ventura. The fireworks will be launched from the top of the parking garage on Santa Clara Street, with viewing throughout downtown, including Plaza Park. There will be live music from 7-9PM, with fireworks starting at 9PM.

Additionally on July 3rd, Ventura Harbor Village presents 250 minutes of live music to celebrate America’s 250th, from 1-4PM.

The City of Ventura 4th of July Street Festival and Annual Pushem-Pullem Parade are back this year, with the parade starting at 10am, street fest on Main Street and side streets with artisans, food booths, vendor displays and live music.

Ojai

The annual Ojai Independence Day Parade will take place at 10am on July 4th.

Live music and fireworks show will take place on July 4th at Nordhoff High School Stadium, starting at 6 pm (gates open at 5:30pm). Fireworks will begin at 9:15 pm. Presale tickets for the nighttime event are available at www.4thofjulyinojai.com. $14.64 (includes fees) adults, $8.24 for kids, $33.85 for family of 4 pass. (pre-sale)

Free concert on Thursday, July 3rd at Libbey Bowl at 6pm featuring the Ojai Band.

Pancake breakfast at Chaparral Auditorium, 414 East Ojai Ave from 7am to 10am on July 4th hosted by the Ojai Lions Club. Cost is $7 for adults and $5 for kids.

Fillmore

The Sespe Creek 4th of July Car Show, Chili Cook-Off & Cornhole Tournament will take place in downtown Fillmore on July 4th from 9 am to 4 pm.

The City of Fillmore is hosting its annual fireworks show on Friday, July 3rd at 9pm at the Fillmore Middle School athletic field, 532 A Street. Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy the show from their homes and city parks.

Santa Paula

The City of Santa Paula invites the community to a day of celebration capped by a spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular at the Santa Paula Creek Regional Sports Park at Harvest at Limoneira (301 Harvest Loop). Festivities kick off in the afternoon from 4-8:30PM and include live music at the amphitheater, food trucks, face painting, lawn games, inflatable jumpers, and the City Corps Wagon Train. The fireworks show begins at 9:00 PM. Admission and parking are free.

Agoura Hills

There will be a fun Patriotic Drone Show after the free concert at Chumash Park on Sunday, July 5th (featuring Disco Inferno).

Woodland Hills

Valley Cultural Foundation presents a July 4th Extravaganza at 6pm, featuring live music, then fireworks at 9pm.

Carpinteria

The 29th Annual Rods and Roses Classic Car Show will take place from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, June 27th in Downtown Carpinteria, followed by an Independence Parade at 3:30pm.

Santa Barbara

The City of Santa Barbara is planning fireworks at West Beach at 9 p.m. this year and there will be other festivities during the day.

Malibu

The City of Malibu does not host a public fireworks display but the LA County Fire Dept approves permits for private fireworks displays off of barges in the ocean.

Free and Nearly Free Movies All Summer Long Around Ventura County 2026

Stay cool this summer of 2026 with several hundred free and nearly free ($1 to $6) movies in and around Ventura County and surrounding areas!

Rancho Simi Rec & Park District Movies in the Park at Rancho Madera Community Park, 556 Lake Park Drive. Pre-movie activities start at 6:30 p.m.

• June 12: A Minecraft Movie

• August 7: The LEGO Batman Movie

Also, Dive-In Movie “Rango” at the Rancho Pool at 1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley, on Sat, July 11th. $7 admission.

Oak Park Movie at Oak Canyon Community Park on Friday, June 19th featuring The Greatest Showman.

City of Moorpark Movies in the Park on Saturday nights at Arroyo Vista Community Park.

• June 13: The Goonies

• July 11: Cars

• August 8: The Princess and the Frog

• September 12: Super 8

• October 10: ParaNorman

City of Agoura Hills Summer Movies in the Park on Saturday nights at Reyes Adobe Park.

• June 20: Surf’s Up

  July 11: Guardians of the Galaxy

  August 15: How to Train Your Dragon

Free Movies at the Park at Thousand Oaks Community Park on Friday evenings.

• August 14: Zootopia 2

• September 12: Wicked: For Good

Studio Movie Grill at the Simi Valley Town Center is offering $6 Children's Summer Movies (includes small popcorn and small drink) 10am Mondays through Thursdays from June 23 to August 7.

• June 8-11: The Wild Robot (PG)

• June 15-18: The Secret Life of Pets (PG)

• June 22-25: The Land Before Time (G)

• June 29 - July 2: How to Train Your Dragon (PG)

• July 6-9: The Bad Guys 2 (PG)

• July 13-16: Shrek 2 (PG)

• July 20-23: Kung Fun Panda (PG)

• July 27-30: Dog Man (PG)

• August 3-6: Trolls (PG)

CineMalibu Summer Movies at Malibu Bluffs Park on Saturday evenings:

• Sat, July 11: Kicking & Screaming

  Sat, Aug 22: The Sandlot

AMC Dine-In Thousand Oaks 14 hosts Summer Movie Camp - $3 family movies for 8 weeks - Mondays and Wednesdays at 11am and 2pm, from June 23 to August 13.

• June 22 and 24: Paddington in Peru

• June 29 and July 1: David

• July 6 and 8: How to Train Your Dragon

• July 13 and 15: The LEGO Movie

• July 20 and 22: Sonic the Hedgehog 3

• July 27 and 29: The Bad Guys 2

• August 3 and 5: The Spongebob Movie: Search for Squarepants

• August 10 and 12: Muppet Treasure Island

Regal Theaters in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, and Simi Valley present the Regal Summer Movie Express - $1 family movies Mondays through Thursdays from June 1 to August 13. Times vary by theater. www.regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express

• June 1-4: Sing and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

• June 8-11: David and Kung Fu Panda 4

• June 15-18: KPop Demon Hunters and The Wild Robot

• June 22-25: The Bad Guys 2 and The Garfield Movie

• June 29-July 2: A Minecraft Movie and Sonic the Hedgehog 2

• July 6-9: How to Train Your Dragon and Sonic the Hedgehog 3

• July 13-16: Scoob! and Goat

• July 20-23: Animal Farm and The Spongebob Movie: Search for Squarepants

• July 27-30: Dog Man and Paddington in Peru

• August 3-6: Charlie the Wonderdog and Despicable Me 4

• August 10-13: The Sandlot and Muppets: Treasure Island

The Ojai Film Society presents a series of free summer films at Libbey Bowl on designated nights in July and the 2nd half of August.

• Thu, July 2: Hunt for the Wilderpeople

• Fri, July 10: Selena Y Los Dinos

• Fri, July 17: Cookie Queens

• Fri, July 24: Best in Show

• Thu, August 20: Arrival

• Thu, August 27: Jurassic Park

Cinemark Theatres Summer Movie Clubhouse at Century Riverpark and Cinemark Century Ventura Downtown 10 on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and some Tuesday mornings from June 1 to August 6.

• June 1-4: Paddington

• June 8-11: Sonic the Hedgehog

• June 15-18: KPOP Demon Hunters Sing-Along

• June 22, 24, 25: Shrek Forever After

• June 29, July 1, 2: The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants

• July 6, 8, 9: A Minecraft Movie

• July 13, 15, 16: Dog Man

• July 20, 21, 22, 23: How to Train Your Dragon

• July 27, 29, 30: The Bad Guys 2

• August 3, 4, 5, 6: Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie

Kids Summer Movie Series at Plaza Stadium 14 in Oxnard and Roxy 11 in Camarillo feature $3 family movies at 10am (Camarillo) and noon (Oxnard) on Wednesdays, from June 24 to July 29.

Roxy Stadium 11 in Camarillo:

• June 24: The Iron Giant

• July 1: Beethoven at Roxy Stadium

• July 8: Babe

• July 15: Free Willy

• July 22: The Great Muppet Caper

Plaza Stadium 14 in Oxnard

• June 24: Migration

• July 1: How to Train Your Dragon

• July 8: The Bad Guys 2

• July 15: Dog Man

• July 22: Kung Fu Panda 4

• July 29: The Wild Robot

Simi Valley Town Center Summer Movie Nights

• Fri, June 12: Finding Nemo (starts at 8pm)

City of Port Hueneme Free Movies in the Park

• Sat, June 27 at 8:15PM: Lilo & Stitch (Hueneme Beach Park)

• Sat, July 25 at 8:15PM: Mulan (Hueneme Beach Park)

• Sat, August 15 at 8PM: Zootopia 2 (Bolker Park)

• Sat, September 12 at 7:15PM: Pirates of the Caribbean (Hueneme Beach Park)

Movies/dates subject to change. Contact organizers to confirm.

AND HOW ABOUT FREE CONCERTS IN AND AROUND VENTURA COUNTY

Building Pacific Coast Highway Around Point Mugu in 1923-1924

Point Mugu before and after creation of a narrow road around it in 1924.

According to the California Highway Commission in the October 1924 issue of “California Highways,” perhaps the most dangerous and difficult piece of construction work on the California state highway system at that time was the 3800 feet of grading AROUND Point Mugu.

The work to complete this section of the Oxnard to San Juan Capistrano PCH route was authorized by a bond issue in 1919.

The project averaged 60 workers who moved 108,000 cubic yards or rock at a total cost of $108,500 (heck, that would be the cost of a pool addition and new kitchen remodel today). The cut around Point Mugu ranged from 40 feet on the ocean side to 115 feet on the high side in creating the narrow, short-lived roadway.

The California Highway Commission ended its article by stating “…along this piece of rugged coast line the Old Pacific is recognized as an arch enemy to whom we must trust as little as possible of our costly highway.”

For those driving Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura County past Mugu Rock, there are clear signs of this old route that took automobiles on a precarious route around Point Mugu.

Peaking through the fence towards the old road around Mugu Rock.

The new and still existing route was created by blasting a massive hole through Point Mugu to create Mugu Rock in 1937 to 1940.

Stay Cool in the Pool! Community Swimming Throughout Ventura County

Stay cool this summer and year-round at some of these community swimming pools, water parks and splash pads in Ventura County and surrounding areas. For updates and additions, contact us!

Conejo Valley (Conejo Recreation & Park District)

Community Pool at Cal Lutheran University Samuelson Aquatics Center is a year-round facility, offering recreational and lap swimming 7 days a week during the summer months. Call 805.241.0894 or visit www.crpd.org. General admission is $4. Water is heated 80 to 84 degrees year round.  www.crpd.org/aquatics.

Newbury Park High School Community Swimming Pool is at 456 Reino Road. Open during the summer only. Entry fee $4 per person. Call 805.750.7296 or visit www.crpd.org/recreational-swim for more information. Summer hours 6/15-8/14 (Saturdays end 8/1) are noon-3pm M-Sat and also 6-8pm on Wed. Closed on Sundays.

Thousand Oaks High School Community Swimming Pool is at 2323 N. Moorpark Road is open during the summer only. Call 805.496.8564 or visit www.crpd.org/recreational-swim for more information. Summer hours 6/15-8/13 Mon—Thurs noon to 3pm. (Closed Fri-Sun.)

Conejo Valley/Agoura - Other

• Daland Swim School in Thousand Oaks offers group and individual lessons.

• Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village heated indoor swimming pool is open 7 days/week.

• Water Wings Swim School in Agoura Hills offers group and individual lessons

Children’s Splash Pad/Water Area at Oak Canyon Community Park, 5600 Hollytree Drive, Oak Park. Hours of operation are 10am to 7pm. Splash Pad season is Memorial Day to Labor Day. Free of charge. 818.865.9304

Kids love the Interactive Fountain at Janss Marketplace.

Moorpark/Simi Valley

Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District offers a large community swimming pool at Rancho Simi Community Park, 1765 Royal Avenue. Pool hours at www.rsrpd.org/recreation/aquatics.php. 2026 open recreation hours are 1-3pm M-F 6/19 to 8/13 and 1-4pm Sat/Sun 6/6 to 9/13. Admission $5 for ages 3 to 49 and $3 ages 50+.

Rancho Tapo Splash Pad

Childrens' Splash Pad Area at Rancho Tapo Community Park, 3700 Avenida Simi. Free. Opens Saturday, May 23, 2026 and runs through Labor Day, September 7, 2026. Hours are 11am to 2pm and 3-7pm daily (closed for maintenance 2-3pm). www.rsrpd.org/business_detail_T9_R45.php

Simi Valley Aquatics is available for swim lessons and birthday parties only.

Simi Valley Family YMCA heated indoor swimming pool open 7 days/week.

Camarillo/Oxnard

Pleasant Valley Aquatic Center offers an indoor swimming pool with eight swimming lanes, a one meter diving board, 65 foot spiral water slide and more. (A swim test is required to use the slide (ages 7+) and diving board.) Pool heated between 81 and 83 degrees. Open Tues/Thurs/Fri/Sat for recreational swim from 1:30-4pm 6/15/26 to 8/22/26. $4 for ages 4+, free to ages 3 and under and $3 ages 60+. Visit www.pvrpd.org/aquatic-center or call 805.987.8198. 

Camarillo Family YMCA swimming pool open Mon-Sat. Call 805.484.0423 or visit www.ciymca.org/locations/camarillo-family-ymca

There's a "Pop Jet Fountain" at The Collection at Riverpark in Oxnard, on Town Center Drive in front of the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar and adjacent to Larsen's Grill.

Ventura and Up the Coast

Ventura Aquatic Center has a 25 meter recreational pool, 50 meter competition pool, playground pool, two slides, and more! Open swim free for ages 2 and under, $11 for ages 3 and up. Visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/612/Aquatics or call 805.654.7511 for details. BEST TO RESERVE A SPOT IN ADVANCE AS CAPACITY IS LIMITED.

Casitas Water Adventure features a Lazy River, Mega Play Unit Structure with 2 water buckets and 5 slides (2 for children; 3 for teens/adults), Splash Pad and Lagoon. The 2026 season runs from May 23 to August 7 (weekdays); Labor Day (for weekends). Weekend morning sessions 10:30 am to 2 pm and afternoon sessions 3 to 6:30 pm. Weekday hours are 11am to 6pm.

Call 805.649.2233 or visit www.casitaswater.org/casitas-water-adventure to learn more and reservations.casitaswater.org/passes to reserve a spot. Cost is $23 per person on weekdays and $28 for weekends. Free entry for under two years of age.

Ventura Family YMCA has 2 indoor heated swimming pools and is open 7 days/week. www.ciymca.org/swim

Carpinteria Community Pool is located at 5305 Carpinteria Avenue. Day passes are $5 for 12 and under, $7.00 for ages 13-64, $5 for seniors 65+. Recreational swimming on weekdays varies; Saturdays from 11am to 3pm. Visit carpinteriaca.gov/parks-and-recreation/carpinteria-community-pool for more information.

The Leo Robbins Community Sailing Center at Marina Park in Ventura is a U.S. Sailing Association certified facility for lessons in sailing, kayaking and navigation for all ages.

Other Places Around Town

The Calabasas Tennis & Swim Center located at 23400 Park Sorrento is open 7 days/week. Pool hours vary. Visit www.cityofcalabasas.com/government/community-services-parks-recreation/tennis-swim-center or call 818.222.2782. Pools heated to 82 degrees year-round.

Malibu Community Pool at Malibu High School, 30215 Morning View Drive. Outdoor pool heated to 82 degrees. $3 per person. Visit www.malibucity.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Malibu-Community-Pool-7 or call 310.589.1933 for details.

The Fillmore Aquatics Center at 575 1st Street opens Memorial Day through Labor Day each year for recreational swimming Monday through Saturday. Recreational swim $3. More information and time frames at www.fillmoreca.com/176/Parks-Recreation or 805.524.4902. 

And let's not forget the incredible BEACHES close by! CLICK HERE for links to over 40 public beaches throughout Ventura County, stretching north to Carpinteria and south to Malibu.

Water Parks Outside of Ventura County

Knott's Soak City in Buena Park (about 70 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Legoland California Water Park in Carlsbad (135 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Raging Waters Water Park in San Dimas (75 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Valencia (50 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Hansen Dam Aquatic Center in Lakeview Terrace with a large pool, cabanas and two water slides. 

Upcoming 5K, 10K and Other Ventura County Area Running and Fitness Events

Start training for upcoming 5K, 10K, half marathon and other Ventura County running and fitness events! We've made it easy for you to find a local race by tracking local events right here. So go on, get moving, lace up those shoes and start training!

Training for a marathon? Check out 26.2 Training Tips for Your First Marathon!

Upcoming events:

5/20-7/22: Boogie Nights Summer 5K Run Series in Ventura

5/21-8/26: Nite Moves Run, Swim Duathlon Series in Santa Barbara

Sat, Aug 1: Stronger Families Safer Kids 5K Run/Walk in Oxnard

Sun, Aug 2: Camarillo Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K/10K

Sat/Sun, Aug 15-16: Operation Mud Run 5K in Moorpark

Sat, Aug 15: Bulldog 50K/25K Trail Runs at Malibu Creek State Park

Sat, Sep 12: She.Is.Beautiful 5K and 10K in Santa Barbara

Sun, Sep 6: Surfer’s Point Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K/10k in Ventura

Sat, Dec 19: Jingle Bell Jog 5K/10K in Newbury Park

Running Clubs in the Local Area

Ventura Running Club www.venturarunningclub.com Sunday beach runs at the Ventura Pier, Wednesday track workouts and social event.

Inside Track Running Club has been training in Ventura since 1976. Saturday long runs, Tuesday intervals, Thursday hills and Sunday easy runs. runsignup.com/Club/CA/Ventura/InsideTrackRunningClub

Thousand Oaks Pacers www.runpacers.org/thousandoaks/about Running club founded in 2014.

Future Track Running Pack futuretrackrunningpack.org Founded in 1988 in Agoura Hills. Tuesday night track workouts at Oak Park High School and more.

The Pacific Coast Track Club hosts training sessions on Sunday mornings at the Camarillo High School track and Ojai community track. Individual training sessions also available. Email mgenebyme@gmail.com for more information or visit www.facebook.com/genebyrne101.

Conejo Valley Run Club was established in 2024 for all levels of runners, meeting for local are runs every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. www.instagram.com/conejovalleyrunclub

Newbury Park Elite Endurance offers personalized coaching an training plans. Visit www.newburyparkendurance.com to learn more.

Previous Events - Want to see what ya missed!?  CLICK HERE

26.2 Miles or Bust: Marathons Within a One Hour Drive of Ventura County

For great running shoes from local businesses that know a lot about them, try the following:

• Fleet Feet Sports, 30125 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills www.fleetfeet.com/s/agourahills (818) 991-4786

• Mile 26 Running Co., 2222 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura www.mile26runningco.com (805) 628-9501

• Road Runner Sports, 1714 Newbury Road, Newbury Park www.roadrunnersports.com (805) 375-1415

• Foot Pursuit Run Shop, 4324 Cochran Street, Simi Valley www.footpursuit.com (805) 578-8786

• On Track Running, 4590 Ish Drive, Suite 100, Simi Valley www.ontrackandfield.com/on-track-running (800) 697-2999

• Road Runner Sports opened a 2nd Ventura County location at The Collection at RiverPark, 640 Town Center Drive, Oxnard, in November 2024. (805) 222-0440 stores.roadrunnersports.com/ca/oxnard/running-shoe-store-128.html