Easter Egg Hunts and Other Fun Easter Activities Around Ventura County

Here at Conejo Valley Guide we have a special place in our heart for Easter fun! The bunnies of the Conejo Valley and surrounding Ventura County areas are planning ahead to make this Easter memorable.

We have the Germans to thank for the Easter Bunny concept, which came about in the 1500s. Hares and bunnies are signs of fertility and eggs signify rebirth. The Germans brought Easter traditions to America and it wasn't until after the Civil War that Easter became widely celebrated.

Easter Sunday 2025 is April 20th! Easter Sunday is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the northern hemisphere's vernal equinox. As a result, Easter Sunday ranges from March 22nd to April 25th

Upcoming Easter season events and activities in and around Ventura County (list will be updated regularly; dates/time subject to change, so check with event organizers to be sure):

March 22-23, 29-30 Spring Spectacular at America's Teaching Zoo in Moorpark

Sat, April 5: Springtime at the Adobe at Leonis Adobe Calabasas (1-4pm)

Sat, April 5: The Hunt Holiday Egg Hunt in Ventura (10am-3pm: RSVP required)

Sat, April 5: Easter Bunny Arrival and Family Fun at the Simi Valley Town Center (11am-5pm)

Fri, April 11: Flashlight Egg Hunt at 5 Locations in Thousand Oaks (6-9pm)

Sat, April 12: The Bunny Trail Junior Egg Hunt in Calabasas (SOLD OUT)

Sat, April 12: Breakfast with the Bunny at Reyes Adobe Park in Agoura (SOLD OUT)

Sat, April 12: Selfies with the Bunny at The Collection at Riverpark (1-3PM)

Thu, April 17: Spring Egg Hunt at Century Academy/Shine Homeschool Thousand Oaks (RSVP)

Sat, April 19: Egg Scramble Event at Rancho Santa Susana Park in Simi Valley (9-10am)

Sat, April 19 Easter Eggstravaganza Event in Camarillo (10am-1pm)

Sat, April 19: City of Moorpark Easter Egg Hunt (10am-1pm; Purchase wristbands in advance beginning March 3rd)

Sat, April 19: Egg Scramble Event Mae Boyar Park in Oak Park (9:30-11:30am)

Sat, April 19: Selfies with the Bunny at The Collection at Riverpark (1-3pm)

Sat, April 19: Spring Conejo & Easter Hunt at Stagecoach Inn Museum (1-4pm)

Sun, April 20: Easter Egg Hunt at Christ the King Newbury Park (11am)

Sun, April 20: Easter Sunrise Service at Pierce Brothers Westlake Village (6am)

Sun, April 20: Easter Egg Hunt at the Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge (noon)

Sun, April 20: Meet & Greet with the Seaside Bunny at Ventura Harbor Village (1-4pm)

ONGOING ACTIVITIES

Mar 22 to Apr 21; Springtime Easter Festival at Underwood Family Farms

Mar 24 to Mar 28: Visit the Bunny at Strathearn Historical Park in Simi Valley

Mar 28 to Apr 19: Photos with the Bunny at the Pacific View Mall in Ventura

Mar 21 to Apr 19: Bunny Photos at The Oaks Mall

April 1-30: Spring Scavenger Hunt at The Collection at Riverpark

April 5-6, 12-19: Bunny Photos at the Simi Valley Town Center

Twelve of My Favorite Things To Do in the City of Simi Valley

The City of Simi Valley was incorporated on October 10, 1969, less than 3 months after Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to land on the Moon. The City covers 42 square miles and as of 2013 was home to just over 126,000 people. Simi Valley is neighbors with Moorpark, Thousand Oaks and the San Fernando Valley.

According to the City's website, the name of the Chumash Indian Village “Shimiji” is believed to be the origin of the City’s name and Ta’apu is the origin of the names of Tapo Street and Tapo Canyon.

But enough of that. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Simi Valley.

I love hiking the Long Canyon Trail, with its views of Wood Ranch, Bard Lake and the rest of Simi Valley (not to mention you can hike to Lang Ranch in Thousand Oaks from here).

The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center is a 220 seat theater at 3050 Los Angeles Avenue that hosts musicals, concerts, exhibits, children's theater and other events year-round.  The theater is a landmark Gothic structure built in the 1920s that was named Ventura County Historical Landmark #67 in July 1981. Visit www.simi-arts.org to learn more.

Views from the Long Canyon Trail

The magnificent Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is a major draw to Simi Valley. This 243,000 sq ft museum at the top of 100 acres of land is a must see for its interactive displays, history, Air Force One and outstanding rotating exhibits. And the views, particularly on clear days, are quite memorable.

Lazertag Extreme opened in the Wood Ranch section of Simi Valley in 2013 and at over 5,000 sq ft is a great indoor, multi-level laser tag facility and arcade.

Grandma Prisbrey's Bottle Village is a historical and cultural landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is located on a residential lot that contains shrines, walkways, sculptures and buildings from recycled items and discards, built over a 25 year old period by Tressa "Grandma" Prisbrey. An eyesore to some, a one-of-a-kind treasure to others. Open periodically to the public as the site is restored.

Grandma Prisbrey's Bottle Village

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10049 and Simi Valley Town Center host an impressive display at the Museum of Military History Posters and Memorabilia. There are hundreds of military posters and historical artifacts on display that have been graciously provided by local veterans and collectors.

Museum of Military History Posters and Memorabilia in Simi Valley

There are no bowling alleys in the Conejo Valley, which means we have to drive elsewhere for our bowling fix! The closest bowling alley to the center of Thousand Oaks is Harley's Simi Bowl, about 10 miles away off of Highway 23 and Madera Road. This is a 24 lane alley that gets the job done.

The other bowling alley in Simi Valley is on the east end, about 20 miles from Thousand Oaks. Harley's Valley Bowl (formerly Brunswick Zone) has 40 lanes and a large arcade/game room area. Another great choice for fun in Simi Valley. Now why is it that Simi has 64 bowling lanes yet we still have none in the Conejo Valley? Sheesh.

The Mt. McCoy Trail is located on the west side of Simi Valley, just a short hop, skip and jump around the corner from the Reagan Library. You can't miss the hill because there's a large, white cross at the top. A bit over a mile of well-maintained switchbacks takes you to the top.

Views galore from Mt. McCoy Trail peak.

Simi Valley Days takes place in mid-September each year over a four day period. The event has a long history, going back to 1934. It is a community celebration with carnival rides, games, live music, vendors, food, a parade and much more. 

Visit a fully restored Southern Pacific Railroad depot circa 1903 with both freight and passenger trains rushing by day and night at the Santa Susana Depot Museum and Model Railroad. Open on weekends from 1-4 pm, the depot is also home to the Santa Susana Model Railroad Club’s large operating HO scale model railroad, in a layout that portrays Simi Valley during the mid 1950’s. This is a lot of fun to see. And outside, you and the kids will be treated to up close views of Amtrak and Metrolink passenger trains rolling by. Wave and they'll honk at you.

The pristine Studio Movie Grill opened at the Simi Valley Town Center in October 2015. This 41,000 sq ft theater features 9 screens and over 950 seats. 

There is plenty more to see and do in Simi Valley that is not on this particular list. Check out:

• Upcoming events in Simi Valley

• Things to do in Simi Valley (all ages)

• Things to do in Simi Valley (geared towards kids)

• Fitness and sports activities in Simi Valley

Ventura County Area Car Shows, Car Clubs and Car Museums

Looking for automotive fun around Ventura County?  Here are some options.

Monthly and Annual Car Shows:

County Line Cars and Coffee meets the 2nd Saturday of the month from 8-10AM at The Promenade at Westlake. www.facebook.com/countylinecarsandcoffee

Conejo Valley Cars and Coffee meets the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 7-10AM at Firestone Tire at The Oaks mall, 598 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks. www.cvcarsandcoffee.com

Firebill Tim Wheels & Waves monthly car show is currently at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum at the 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard the first Sunday of the month from 8-10AM. Free to the public, featuring classic cars, coffee, art, donuts, and more. www.cimmvc.org/events-activities

Ventura Raceway offers racing events for dwarf cars, hobby stocks, motorcycles and more. Pricing varies. Visit venturaraceway.com for more information.

The Annual Touch-a-Truck Event in Thousand Oaks for kids and their families takes place on Father’s Day weekend each year.

The Thousand Oaks Rotary Annual Street Fair in October always has a fantastic vintage and eclectic auto show worth stopping by for. www.tostreetfair.com

Father’s Day Car Show at Channel Islands Harbor every June www.channelislandsfathersdaycarshow.com

The annual Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show and Craft Brew Fest takes place usually the first Sunday of May each year at Conejo Creek Park North.

Sespe Creek Car Show in Fillmore every 4th of July sespecreekevents.org

Simi Valley Knights of Columbus Chili Cook-Off & Car Show every June chilikc.com

Tri-County Mustang Club Ponies by the Sea Car Show at Channel Islands Harbor is every October www.tricountymustangclub.com/car-show

Central Coast British Car Club Car Show is in the Sept/Oct time frame each year at the Channel Islands Harbor centralcoastbritishcarclub.com/car-show

Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Car Cruise takes place every 4th Friday in April through October. www.camarillooldtown.org/car-cruise

Ventura Nationals every Labor Day weekend in Ventura venturanationals.com

Annual shows usually pop up in the CVG Events Calendar.

---

The Nethercutt Museum in Sylmar (free admission; open Tuesday to Saturday).

Looking for local car clubs? Check the Social/Hobby Clubs section of CVG. Or here's a list of car and motorcycle clubs.

And also check the Events Calendar and Event Listings for additional events that you will enjoy!

Have something to add to this list? CONTACT US

CLOSED OR STATUS ON HIATUS OR UNCLEAR

Malibu Cars and Coffee on hiatus (still on hiatus as of December 2023).. www.malibucarsandcoffee.com

Muscles & Mojo Cars and Coffee took place every 3rd Sunday at the Murphy Auto Museum in Oxnard, but it’s finale was June 16, 2024 as the museum is closing on July 7th.

The Mullin Auto Museum in Oxnard closed its doors on Feb 10, 2024.

The Murphy Auto Museum in Oxnard closes its doors on July 7, 2024.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Options for Thousand Oaks Residents

The City of Thousand Oaks Public Works Department's "GoGreen" website has hundreds of conservation tips relating to composting, energy conservation, hazardous waste disposal, recycling and trash, reuse programs, water conservation, living green advice, and much more. Check it out at www.toaks.org/GoGreen.

Like me, you may have a lot of junk lying around the house that you'd like to get rid of but are not allowed to place in the trash. 

Since May 2014, the City has run a permanent Household Hazardous Waste Facility located next to the Service Center at 2010 Conejo Center Drive, Newbury Park.

Residents of Thousand Oaks and unincorporated areas of Ventura County may sign up to drop off items at this facility on Fridays/Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, except certain holiday weekends, at toaks.gov/hhw. Advance registration is required.

Items accepted at these monthly collection events include acids, motor oil, antifreeze, asbestos, nail polish/remover, automatic switches, oil filters, batteries, paints, cement, paint thinners, chlorine, fertilizers, pool chemicals, fluorescent lights, propane cylinders, fire extinguishers, rodent poison, garden chemicals, smoke detectors, gasoline, solvents, used frying oil, household cleaners, weed killers and more. They do not accept tires, medications. business waste and other items.

One person's hazardous waste is another's gold! The City's Hazardous Waste Material Reuse Program allows residents to take away certain items previously disposed of, such as cleaners, paint, pool chemicals, motor oils, adhesives, etc. Selection obviously will vary. No appointment needed. Just stop by the Reuse Store (same location as waste collection facility) on Friday/Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information at toaks.gov/hhw.

The ReUse store will be closed weekends associated with the following holidays: President's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day

There are also convenient hazardous waste disposal for other items:

Batteries: Community Centers at Borchard Park, Dos Vientos and Thousand Oaks (next to TOHS), Goebel Senior Center, Thousand Oaks/Newbury Park Libraries, City Hall and Thousand Oaks Transportation Center.

Motor Oil/Filters: See toaks.gov/hhw

Electronic Waste: Best Buy, Goodwill Industries, PC Recycle, Waste Management and Gold Coast Recycling Center. More info at THIS LINK.

Fluorescent Lights/CFL's: You may bring any size or type of fluorescent and LED bulbs to the City's Hazardous Waste Facility.

(See www.homedepot.com/c/ab/how-to-dispose-of-lightbulbs/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901b263d806 for more information on what to do with light bulbs of various types.)

Unwanted and/or expired medications can be dropped off throughout Ventura County at designated police stations, such as the East Valley Police Station Lobby at 2101 E. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks. Open Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm.

Visit toaks.org/GoGreen for updates.

Christmas and Other Holiday Season Events Around Ventura County

Here is a compilation of local area Thanksgiving, Christmas and other winter holiday events in and around Ventura County for the 2024 holiday season…parades, Santa visits, carnivals, nativity displays, entertainment and more!

This list will be updated regularly as we move our way through the winter holiday season! Submit additions here.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Thu 12/26: Chanukah Festival at Ventura Harbor Village (3-4PM)

Thu 12/26: Chanukah Celebration and Chocolate Gelt Drop in Camarillo (4-6PM)

Thu 12/26: Chanukah Celebration at The Village at Dos Vientos in Newbury Park (5-6:30PM)

Thu 12/26: Chanukah Family Festival at Janss Marketplace (5-7PM)

Sun 12/29: Light Up Downtown Ventura Chanukah Celebration (3-5PM)

Sun 12/29: Menorah Lighting Celebration at the Reagan Library (3:30-5PM)

Sun 12/29: Chanukah Festival in Moorpark (4:30-6PM)

Sun 12/29: Community Menorah Lighting at the Simi Valley Town Center (5-7PM)

Mon 12/30: Chanukah Celebration at the Camarillo Premium Outlets (6PM)

Mon 12/30: Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration in Calabasas (6:30PM)

ONGOING ACTIVITIES

11/22-12/23: Wild Lights Holiday Display at The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College

11/9-1/5: Christmas Around the World Tree Exhibit at the Reagan Library

11/20-12/16: Photos with Santa at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard

11/17-12/16: Letters to Santa Mailbox at The Collection at RiverPark

11/26-12/24: Santa Paws Pet Photo Nights on Tuesdays at The Collection at RiverPark

11/8-12/24: Photos with Santa at The Oaks Mall

11/29-12/24: Christmas on the Farm at Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark

11/14 -12/24: Santa Photos at the Pacific View Mall Center Court

11/29-12/28: Holiday Road Holiday Experience at King Gillette Ranch

11/16-12/24: Santa Claus Photos at the Simi Valley Town Center

11/23-12/24: Santa Photos at The Promenade at Westlake

11/1-12/22 Holiday Experience at the Simi Valley Town Center (Thu-Sun)

11/17-11/30: November Snow Show Schedule at the Simi Valley Town Center

12/1-12/24: December Snow Show Schedule at the Simi Valley Town Center

12/6-12/20: Drop Off Letters To Santa at the Agoura Hills Rec Center

12/7, 14, 21, 22: Meet Mr. & Mrs. Claus at Los Posas Plaza in Camarillo (11AM-4PM)

12/5-1/5: Circus Caballero at the Simi Valley Town Center

11/25, 12/2, 12/9: Pet Photos with Santa at the Simi Valley Town Center

11/23-12/7: Festival of the Trees - Hospice of the Conejo at The Oaks Mall

---

CHRISTMAS TREE LOTS

Seasonal Adventures Christmas Trees in Thousand Oaks (450 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd) and Simi Valley (Simi Valley Town Center - east end)

Bennett’s Best Christmas Tree Lots in Agoura Hills

Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark

Big Wave Dave’s Christmas Tree Lots in Ventura, Camarillo, Moorpark and Santa Barbara

Hagle Tree Farm in Somis (“Cut Your Own”)

Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge Christmas Tree Lot at Carlson Building Materials on Thousand Oaks Blvd

Prancer’s Farm in Santa Paula carries Christmas trees

Newbury Park High School Baseball Boosters Christmas Tree Lot in the Newbury Park Library Parking Lot

---

Residential and Other Light Displays

Here are some local area displays that we found to be of particular note - entertaining, beautiful and bright. Keep in mind that residential displays usually don’t have set hours and are often impacted by the elements (e.g. rain and wind). List will be updated as we confirm displays are in place. CONTACT US FOR ADDITIONS

CONEJO VALLEY DISPLAYS

Entertaining residential display at 2768 Baywater Place in Thousand Oaks is simulcast to music on 87.9 FM. Learn more and vote for your favorite songs at www.baywaterlights.com. Bring canned goods to drop off if you can for the Manna Food Bank. And check out Chuck’s laser engraving offerings at www.BuiltByCharles.com

A visually appealing holiday light display at a residence on Flaming Star Avenue and Shenandoah Street in Thousand Oaks (take Lynn Road to Avenida de las Flores and head west) is back again this year for the holiday season. Light, bright and fun!

Bright, colorful display is back yet again this year at a home at the corner of Holloway Street and Wendy Drive in Newbury Park.

Another display full of colorful lights and decorations at a home on Camino Dos Rios, west of Lynn Road, on the right (north) side

A fun residential display is back again this year with music and brightly lit cast of cartoon characters at a home on Donald Avenue, just east of Wendy Drive, in Newbury Park.

Lots of lights, lighted figures and lighted palm trees at a home at the corner of Bernadine St and Wauneta St in Newbury Park.

Fun animated residential display simulcast to music at a home on Mapleleaf Ave (cross street Madrid) in Newbury Park. Music simulcast on 97.7 FM.

Fun cast of characters, including The Grinch and others, at a bright display at a home on Orangewood Avenue, north of Felton, in Newbury Park.

Residential 50,000 light and music display on Via Patricia (cross street Via Ricardo) in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park is back up and running this year. Simulcast to music on 89.7 FM. Perennially one of the most entertaining displays around town. Worth going out of your way for!

Outstanding high-tech light show set to music is back again this year at a home on Doone Street (cross street Warwick) in Thousand Oaks. Several nearby homes are nicely decorated with holiday cheer too.

Gigantic Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer and other fun decor at a home on Via Coronado, west of Borchard, in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park.

Home with giant snowmen and brightly lit front lawn at a home on Golden Crest Avenue, between Antelope and Deer Valley Ave in Newbury Park. (Note: The neighboring home, well known for its massive annual holiday display, is taking a breather in 2024 but will be back in 2025.)

Fun, festive, colorful, synchronized light display at 538 Brisbaine Avenue, Newbury Park 5PM-10PM nightly through 12/31. Simulcast to music on 100.5 FM.

Residential light show is back at 1062 Sheffield Place in Thousand Oaks. Open 5:30-10PM nightly through January 1st. Music simulcast on FM 87.9. Vote for your favorite songs at www.sheffieldlights.com.

Beautiful Christmas light display at a home on Kingham Court in Agoura Hills (north of T. O. Blvd, off of Grey Rock Road).

Gorgeous display is back again this year at a home on Middle Crest Drive, south of Thousand Oaks Boulevard, in Agoura Hills.

There is a pretty and bright display that populates the entire front yard of 1170 Earlham Court in Oak Park, south of Pathfinder Ave. Dozens of lighted snowmen and other cartoon characters.

Once again this year, there's a particularly festive, brightly lit residence on Shetland Place in the North Ranch section of Thousand Oaks. While you’re there, drive Upper Ranch Road and Golf Course Drive for some festive lighting on some beautiful trees.

Christmas spirit on display at two homes on Verde Vista Drive (across from Cambria St) in Thousand Oaks (near CLU, north of Olsen).

Neat display at a home on Montgomery Road, just south of Janss Road in Thousand Oaks that has been up consistently for the holiday season for many years.

Festive, colorful and bright displays at several homes on Yew Drive in Newbury Park. Take Borchard, turn south on Carob, then an immediate left on Yew.

See a festive display at 3337 Lang Ranch Parkway in Thousand Oaks. Visit @langranchholidays for more info.

Dozens of cartoon characters at a home on Via Grande (cross street Via Vista) in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park. Music simulcast on 90.5 FM.

Bright display with a tremendous cast of characters at 3337 Frankie Drive in Newbury Park. Lights on 5-10PM. The Grinch will be live and on hand from 6-8PM this Saturday night.

Fun holiday display at a home at the end of the cul de sac on Summerfield Street off of Mountclef across from CLU in Thousand Oaks.

NEARBY CITY DISPLAYS

Huge and awesome neighborhood display in the area of Timberdale and Pinedale Roads in Moorpark (just west of Moorpark High School, off of Countrywood Drive). Dozens of homes decorated in bright lights and decorations.

Fantastic multi-family residential holiday light display on Gemini and Waverly Ave and Saturn Street in Camarillo is back again. Great one to bring the kids to….lots of cartoon character decorations and a great area to park the car, stroll and enjoy. You won’t be disappointed. Take Arneill to Dunnigan St, east to Gemini Avenue.

Auburn Lane Community at Summerwood Avenue (at Cochran) in Simi Valley has thousands of Christmas lights strung from house to house over the streets of the entire neighborhood and most every home is decorated. Santa will make an appearance from 6-9PM on Sat 12/14. (Overflow parking at Phoenix Ranch School, just west of the neighborhood, at 4974 Cochran St. See www.facebook.com/auburnlane.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Display at 469 Highland Road in Simi Valley has well over 100, maybe 200 figurines and happy characters throughout the yard. Cross street Sinaloa, south of Royal.

Candy Cane Lane is a group of homes located in the vicinity of Lubao Avenue at Oxnard Street in Woodland Hills that has been fun to drive through for over 60 years.

12/8-12/26: Oxnard Christmas Tree Lane along F & G Streets between 5th and Palm in the Downtown Oxnard Historic District is a perennially great display you need to experience. Nightly 6PM-10PM.

---

PREVIOUS EVENTS

Sat 11/16: Tree Lighting Event at the Simi Valley Town Center (4-9PM)

Wed 11/20: Tree Lighting Celebration at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard (7PM)

Fri 11/22: Tree Lighting Event at The Promenade at Westlake (4-8PM)

11/21-11/23: Festival of the Trees, Ventura County in Simi Valley

Thu 11/28: Five07 Turkey Day Dash 5K and Zack Zernik Mile in Thousand Oaks

Thu 11/28: Ventura Turkey Trot 5K

Thu 11/28: Thanksgiving Day 5K in Simi Valley

Fri 11/29: Jingle Bell Jump (Santa Arrives Via Parachute) at Janss Marketplace (Noon)

11/29-12/1: Dudley House Holiday Boutique in Ventura (11AM-5PM)

Sat 11/30: 73rd Annual Santa Paula Christmas Parade (6:30PM)

Sun 12/1: Holiday Market, Santa Claus at Santa Paula Aviation Museum

Sun 12/1: Holiday Open House at Strathearn Historical Park Simi Valley (11AM-3PM)

Sun 12/1: City of Fillmore Annual Tree Lighting and Night Market (5-8PM)

12/3-12/4: Christmas at the Ranch at the Camarillo Ranch House (5-8PM)

Thu 12/5: Santa Coming to Malibu Country Mart (4-7PM)

Thu 12/5: Oxnard Christmas Tree Lighting and Makers’ Market (5-9PM)

Fri 12/6: Winter Wonderland Drop-In Crafts at the Camarillo Library (All Day)

Fri 12/6: City of Agoura Hills Holidays on the Hill (4-8PM)

Fri 12/6: Camarillo Old Town Glow and Holiday Village (5-9PM)

12/6: Holidays at the Inn at the Stagecoach Inn Museum (6:30-8:30PM)

Fri 12/6: Holiday Tree Lighting Event in Downtown Ventura (5-8PM)

Sat 12/7: Breakfast with Santa at the Simi Valley Family YMCA (8:30-11:30AM)

Sat 12/7: Breakfast with Santa at Janss Marketplace (9-11AM $32.27/person RSVP)

12/6-12/7: Village Voices Choral “Spirit of the Season” Concerts

Sat 12/7: City of Agoura Hills Holidays on the Hill (10AM-3PM)

Sat 12/7: Elf Movie Screening and Holiday Crafts at Camarillo Library (10AM-1PM)

Sat 12/7: Santa Paws Portraits With Santa at Camarillo Animal Shelter (10AM-Noon)

Sat 12/7: Winter Wonderland with Santa at The Learning Experience (9:30AM)

Sat 12/7: Camarillo YMCA Run for Holiday Fun 5K/10K

Sat 12/7: Oxnard Christmas Parade (10AM)

Sat 12/7: Holidays in the Village in Thousand Oaks (11AM-8PM)

Sat 12/7: Winter Walk at Whizin Market Square in Agoura Hills (11AM-6PM)

Sat 12/7: Humane Society Happy Pawlidays Market in Oxnard (11AM-2PM)

Sat 12/7: Ventura Winter Wine Walk & Holiday Street Fair (12-8PM)

Sat 12/7: Christmas Caroling at the Gardens of the World (12:15-2:30PM)

Sat 12/7: Holiday Roundup at the Leonis Adobe in Calabasas (1-4PM)

12/7: Holidays at the Inn at Stagecoach Inn Museum (1-4, 6:30-8:30PM)

Sat 12/7: Holiday Kick-Off Event at the Camarillo Premium Outlets (1-4PM)

Sat 12/7: Holiday Experience at the Simi Valley Town Center (5-7PM)

Sat 12/7: Holiday on High Street in Moorpark

Sat 12/7: New West Symphony Winter Spectacular Concert in Thousand Oaks (7PM)

12/6-12/8: Holiday Art Market at Studio Channel Islands in Camarillo

12/6-12/8: Christmas Concerts at Cal Lutheran

Sun 12/8: Santa to the Sea Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon and 5K in Oxnard

Sun 12/8: Holiday Sing-A-Long at The Shoppes at Westlake Village (3-6PM)

Sun 12/8: New West Symphony Winter Spectacular Concert in Camarillo (3PM)

12/6-12/8: Simi Community Christmas Creche Exhibit and Music

12/6-12/8: Christmas Concerts at Cal Lutheran Thousand Oaks (RSVP)

12/7-12/8: Dudley House Holiday Boutique in Ventura (11AM-5PM)

Sun 12/8: Camarillo Community Band Christmas Concert (4PM)

12/8: Holidays at the Inn at the Stagecoach Inn Museum in Newbury Park (6:30-8:30PM)

Mon 12/9: Oxnard PD Santa at the Station Event (for Oxnard residents) (4:30-6:30PM)

Thu 12/12: Santa Lucia Celebration of Lights at Cal Lutheran (6:30PM)

11/18-12/9: Letters to Santa in Camarillo

Sat 12/14: Camarillo Christmas Parade (10AM)

Sat 12/14: Santa’s Village at Camarillo Community Center (9AM-2PM)

12/13-12/14: 47th Annual Ventura Harbor Holiday Parade of Lights (6:30-8:30PM)

Sat 12/14: 57th Annual Parade of Lights at Channel Islands Harbor (7PM)

Sat 12/14: A Very Merry Moorpark Holiday Concert (7PM)

12/13-12/15: Night in Bethlehem Event in Thousand Oaks (5:45-8PM)

12/14-12/15: Dudley House Holiday Boutique in Ventura (11AM-5PM)

12/14-12/15: Breakfast with Santa in Moorpark (must RSVP by 12/11)

Sun 12/15: Holiday Dinner and Tour at the Reagan Library (5:30-8:30PM RSVP)

Sun 12/15: Holly Jolly Half Marathon, 5K and 10K in Camarillo

Fri 12/20: Winter Wonderland Drop-In Crafts at the Camarillo Library (All Day)

Sat 12/21: Holiday Movie Marathon at the High Street Arts Center in Moorpark

Sat 12/21: Winter Wonderland and Holiday Marketplace at Ventura Harbor Village (12-4PM)

Sat 12/21: Holiday Festivities at Malibu Country Mart (12-4PM)

Sat 12/21: Jingle Bell Jog 5K/10K Run/Walk in Dos Vientos (Newbury Park)

Wed 12/25: Community Holiday Dinner at Temple Adat Elohim Thousand Oaks (11:30-1:30)

Veterans Day Services in Ventura County

Veterans Day is celebrated as a Federal holiday on the 11th day of November in honor of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Veterans Day coincides with other holidays such as Armistice Day and Remembrance Day, which are celebrated in other parts of the world and also mark the anniversary of the end of World War I, which formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when Armistice with Germany took effect.

Here are some local Veterans Day 2024 service options to honor those who have served our country:

• Mon, Nov 11: Veterans Day Parade in Oxnard (9am)

• Mon, Nov 11: Veterans Day Event at Reagan Library (11am)

• Mon, Nov 11: Veterans Day Services in Simi Valley (11am)

• Mon, Nov 11: Veterans Day Ceremony at Conejo Creek Park North (10:30am)

• Mon, Nov 11: GCVF Veterans Day Ceremony in Ventura (11am)

• Mon, Nov 11: Veterans Day Ceremony in Oxnard (11am)

• Mon, Nov 11: Veterans Day Celebration in Malibu (11am-1:30pm)

A sampling of free Veterans Day offers for Active Military and Veterans with ID:

• Chili’s: Free meal on 11/11/24 for all veterans and active military. Dine-in only for select items. Must present military ID.

• CPK: Free entree and non-alcoholic beverage on Nov 11th.

• Starbucks: Free tall brewed coffee (hot or ice) for veterans, active military and military spouses on 11/11/24.

• BJ’s: Receive free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie on 11/11/24.

• Applebee’s: Free meal to veterans and active military on 11/11/24.

• Golden Corral: Free thank you meal from 4pm to close on 11/11/24.

• Red Robin: Free Red’s Big Tavern Burger and fries on 11/11/24.

• Farmer Boys: Free Big Cheese with proof of service on 11/11/24.

• Wienerschnitzel: Free Chili Dog, Small Fries and Small Soda for Veterans and active military on 11/11/23. Must present military ID.

Vietnam veteran David Stull stands guard while supporting a flagpole carrying the American flag at the Garden of Valor at Valley Oaks Memorial Park in Westlake Village. This was one of three 30 minute shifts he stood guard. November 1984 photo by Scott Harrison/The News Chronicle

Back in the 1980s, Conejo Valley residents would observe a 24-hour vigil during the Veterans Day holiday. I took photos several times, but this 1984 photo at dusk remains my favorite. The current full name of Valley Oaks is Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park. The flame is still burning at the Garden of Valor.

Prior Events

• Sat, Nov 2: Trucks for Troops - A Veterans Day Experience at Camarillo Library (10am-2pm)

• Sat, Nov 9: Veteran’s Day Event at Stagecoach Inn Museum (1-4pm)

Pumpkin Patches in Ventura County and Adjacent Areas

The star of the Halloween show is the pumpkin. According to my favorite resource Wikipedia, the name pumpkin originated from the ancient Greek word pepon ("large melon"). The French called it pompom. The British changed it to pumpion. Then American colonists changed it to pumpkin.

Pumpkins are gourd-like squashes and technically are a fruit. They can range in size from 1 lb to 1,000 lbs.

But who cares about all that...what we REALLY want to know is, where are the pumpkin patches in Ventura County and surrounding areas for the 2024 fall season!? Well, here are some choices...but make sure to call before you go for hours, etc.

OTHER HALLOWEEN EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AROUND VENTURA COUNTY

Big Wave Dave's Pumpkin Patch will be operating one pumpkin patch this year at the Pacific View Mall in the Trader Joe's/Target parking lot from October 1st through October 31st, 2024. Free admission to the pumpkin patch, with kids’ activities, photo opps and more. Visit bigwavedaveschristmastrees.com/pumpkin-patch.html

Boccali Ranch Pumpkin Patch at 3277 E. Ojai Avenue in Ojai will be open 7 days a week from 10am to 7pm starting October 5 to October 31, 2024, They offer tiny to extra-large “Big Mac” pumpkins, squash, gourds, Indian corn and seasonal produce. More details at boccalis.com/pumpkinpatch.html.

Prancer's Pumpkin Patch Santa Paula is located at 18540 East Telegraph Road and their Fall Fest will take place September 28 to October 31, 2024. Pumpkin patch events on weekends from 9am to 6pm with the following themes:

• 9/28-9/29: Heroes of the Farm

• 10/5-10/6: The Wild West

• 10/12-10/13: Animals of the Farm

• 10/19-10/20: Fiesta at the Farm

• 10/26-10/27: Harvest Fest

Fall fest includes 10 acres of pumpkin patch, wagon hay ride, corn field maze, farm games, live entertainment and more. Movie nights on Saturdays: 10/5 - Hocus Pocus, 10/12 - Hocus Pocus 2, 10/19 - Coco, 10/26 - Haunted Mansion. Admission $20 to $26 on weekends, $13 on weekdays. Ages 2 and under free. Check for details at prancersfarm.com.

Stu Miller's Pumpkin Patch just east of the Simi Valley Town Center.

The 2024 Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival in Moorpark is back from September 28 to October 31 at 3370 Sunset Valley Road. Admission includes huge pumpkin patch, tractor-drawn wagon rides, corn maze, giant tractor display, hay pyramids, animal center, and many other family-friendly activities. Themed weekend events include animal shows, pig races, live performers, roaming entertainment and more. Weekday admission is $14 at the gate only. Weekend admission varies from $22 to $28 per person purchased online. Children 2 and under and parking are free. More details at www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com/fall-harvest.

The Underwood Farm Center in Somis at 5696 Los Angeles Avenue also has a pumpkin patch along with its year-round animal center. Open 9am to 6pm.

Mizel Family Foundation is hosting a “Pick Your Own” Pumpkin Patch in Hidden Valley on October 21 and 24 from 4-6pm. Learn more at THIS LINK.

The 2024 Calabasas Pumpkin Festival is planned for Sunday, October 20th from 10am to 5pm at De Anza Park. Event will feature pumpkin patch and plenty of other fun activities. $10 per person in advance online. $15 at the gate. Kids under 2 are free. www.calabasaspumpkinfestival.com

The Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch will be back this year at 450 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd (at Hodencamp) in Thousand Oaks from October 1-31, 2024. Hours are 3-9pm Mon-Thu, 3-10pm Fri, 11am-10pm Sat and 11am-9pm Sun. Closes at 7pm on 10/31. Free admission. Rides and attractions priced separately. www.seasonaladventures.com/thousandoakspumpkins

The Simi Valley Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch is also back this year at 1898 Simi Town Center Way from October 1-31, 2024. Hours are 3-9pm Mon-Thu, 3-10pm Fri, 11am-10pm Sat and 11am-9pm Sun. Closes at 7pm on 10/31. Free admission. Rides and attractions priced separately. www.seasonaladventures.com/simivalleypumpkins

McGrath Brothers Great Pacific Pumpkins is located at 5100 Olivas Park Drive in Ventura. Call 805.644.1235. They are open the entire month of October from 9am to 6pm. Admission is $2. Tractor ride is $2. Hay Maze is $2. Check their Instagram page at www.instagram.com/mcgrathgreatpacificpumpkins for updates.

Pumpkin Patch at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 3947 W. Kimber Drive, Newbury Park. October 21 through 31, 2024, Mon-Fri 2-7pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun noon-7pm and Oct 31 9am-4pm. They will also be hosting a free Pumpkin Fest event from 2-6pm on the 26th. ctknp.com/pumpkin-patch

Bennett's Best Pumpkin Patch has locations next to the Whizin Market Square at 28900 Roadside Drive and at the corner of Kanan and Agoura Roads. They are both now open.