Ready-set-go! Summer is over, but it’s a festive weekend at both our local Harbors.  And why not. This time of the year brings some of our best outdoor weather, and though we do need to consider safety precautions with the rebounding pandemic, it is great to feel the energy that we missed last year. 

805 Night Market:  Channel Islands Harbor

The first (hopefully not the last) 805 Night Market is coming to Channel Islands Harbor on Saturday, September 11.  Running from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. and inspired by many other open-air night markets, this party will feature local food and merchandise vendors, live entertainment, a children’s play area, and a local artists’ craft show.  There is an extensive lineup of food trucks and vendors that should please all ages and families. 

805 Night Market is the concept of Javier, Raquel, and Roy Lara, who are already well known for Trendi Eats, a social media-based foodie experience.  The Laras travel throughout Southern California to visit food spots and then post them on their social media platforms.  They reach over 20 million users each month, and their primary goal is to highlight local businesses and help them to be successful. 

The Laras hope that this 805 Night Market will be a hit and bring local vendors and families together for a great outdoor community experience.  Please check this event out and let us know what you think.  Anything that brings positive energy to our local communities can only be a good thing. 

Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival:

Not a new event, but returning after a 1-year absence is the 12^th annual Ventura Art and Street Painting Festival.  This two-day event will run Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Ventura Harbor Village.   Festival-goers will have the opportunity to stroll and view over 26 chalk paintings from talented street artists while enjoying a diverse shopping experience that includes hand-crafted pottery, jewelry, handbags, and more.  This festival does not explicitly include food vendors. Still, festival-goers will have a wealth of food and treat options at many Ventura Harbor Village restaurants, ice cream, and chocolate shops. 

And this is a very family-friendly event as well.  Parents and their children are invited to enjoy an interactive opportunity at the Children’s Chalk Area, organized by the Boys and Girls Club of Ventura County. 

If you haven’t been to this festival in the past, it is worth a visit. 

These types of festivals and events are assets to our communities.  This is undoubtedly a save the date(s) weekend at our local harbors, and given their scheduling. It is easy enough to carve out some time for both.