Sizzling Fun at the Oxnard Salsa Festival: A Fiesta for Food, Music, and Dance
The Oxnard Salsa Festival is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in Ventura County. Held at the historic Plaza Park in downtown Oxnard, this festival is a celebration of salsa in all its forms, from the delectable food to the energetic music and dance. This year's festival promises to bring back all your favorites, including the Salsa Tasting Tent, a Kid Zone for families, and a lineup of live music and entertainment that will keep you dancing all weekend long.
Getting to the Oxnard Salsa Festival
Where to Park
Parking is free, but given the popularity of the festival, it’s wise to arrive early to secure a spot. One convenient option is the free shuttle service from The Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center, running from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM on both Saturday and Sunday. Additionally, the Downtown Parking Garage on 4th and B Streets, along with more than 20 public parking lots throughout Downtown Oxnard, are available for festival-goers. The usual 2-hour parking limits are lifted during the festival weekend, so you can relish your day without worrying about time restrictions.
Public Transportation Options
For those preferring public transportation, the local Gold Coast transit bus serves the Oxnard Transit Center, with connections from Oxnard, Ventura, and Ojai. If you’re traveling from outside Ventura County, the Amtrak train station is conveniently located just three blocks from the festival site, making it an excellent option for visitors from farther afield.
Tickets and Seating
The Oxnard Salsa Festival is a free event, making it accessible for everyone. However, if you want to relish the concert venue's open seating, a $5 ticket grants you access. Kids 10 and under can join the fun for free. With your wristband, you'll have all-day access to seating if you bring your own chair or blanket or use the chairs provided at the venue. Just remember, no lawn umbrellas, coolers, pets, or outside alcohol are allowed to ensure a safe and memorable one for everyone.
Concert Venue Guidelines
- Beer and Margaritas: are available for purchase to keep you refreshed.
- Open Seating: Sit on the lawn or in the provided chairs, first-come, first-served.
- Dance Floor: Located within the concert venue for all your salsa moves.
- Restrictions: No lawn umbrellas, coolers, pets, or outside alcohol.
The Salsa Tasting Tent
The heart of the Oxnard Salsa Festival is undoubtedly the Salsa Tasting Tent. This vibrant hub is where salsa lovers can savor a myriad of flavors. For just $5, you gain entry to this tent, which includes a bag of fresh Mission tortilla chips and ten tasting tickets. Sample dozens of salsa varieties, ranging from fresh and fruity to smoky and scorching hot. If you prefer your salsa mild or with a kick, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds.
Culinary Delights at the Festival
Foodies will find themselves in heaven at the Oxnard Salsa Festival. The two food courts offer a diverse range of menu items, from savory carne asada tacos and gourmet tamales to empanadas, roasted corn, and sweet strawberry desserts. Quench your thirst with ice-cold Pepsi drinks, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and smoothies. Adults can savor Bud on tap or a frosty frozen margarita, perfect for cooling down after a day of dancing and tasting. Chic Beach Vacations offers a curated selection of luxury beachfront properties in some of the most sought-after destinations around the world. From exclusive villas overlooking pristine Caribbean shores to stylish condos located along the California coast, we specialize in providing travelers with unforgettable beach getaways.
Live Entertainment
The Oxnard Salsa Festival is not just about food; it's a celebration of music and dance too. This year, six bands will perform, providing the perfect soundtrack for your salsa adventures. If you’re a seasoned dancer or just love to watch, the festival’s main stage will be a focal point of lively entertainment throughout the weekend. Be sure to check the main stage schedule to catch your favorite acts.
Family Fun in the Kid Zone
Families are invited to the Oxnard Salsa Festival, with plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained. The Kid Zone features games, rides, and bounce houses, along with free arts and crafts activities suitable for kids of all ages. It’s a perfect place for children to play while parents relish the festival’s other offerings. Have questions about booking your dream beach vacation? Ready to start planning your next getaway? Contact us today to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable travel experts. We're here to assist you every step of the way and ensure your beach vacation is nothing short of extraordinary.
Giving Back to the Community
One of the most admirable aspects of the Oxnard Salsa Festival is its commitment to giving back. Over the past ten years, the festival has raised more than $750,000 for local charities through the "Dancing with Our Community Stars" event. This dance competition, held on the main stage on Sunday, features local stars who train and perform to raise money for their chosen charities. Each vote is a $1 donation, and 100% of the proceeds go directly to the charities.
How You Can Help
- Vote for Your Favorite Star: Each vote is a $1 donation.
- Attend the dance competition: cheer on the stars, and support local causes.
- Spread the Word: Encourage friends and family to join the fun and support the community.
Plan Your Visit to the Oxnard Salsa Festival at Chic Beach Vacations:
With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and lively entertainment, the Oxnard Salsa Festival is a must-visit event for anyone in Ventura County and beyond. If you’re a salsa aficionado, a foodie, a music lover, or a family looking for a fun day out, this festival has something for everyone. Mark your calendar, gather your friends and family, and get ready to savor the spice and spirit of the Oxnard Salsa Festival!
By following this guide, you’ll ensure a fantastic adventure at the Oxnard Salsa Festival, relishing all the flavors, sounds, and fun that this unique event has to offer. See you there! At Chic Beach Vacations, we're passionate about creating memorable adventures for our guests. With years of expertise in the hospitality industry, the Chic Beach team is dedicated to providing personalized service and helping you find the perfect beach vacation rental for your needs.
FAQ’s:
1: When and where is the Oxnard Salsa Festival held?
A: The Oxnard Salsa Festival takes place at the historic Plaza Park, located at Fifth and "C" Streets in downtown Oxnard. The festival is usually held over a weekend in the summer, so be sure to check the official website for this year's dates and schedule.
2: Is there an entry fee for the Oxnard Salsa Festival?
A: The Oxnard Salsa Festival is a free event, making it accessible to everyone. However, if you wish to partake in the concert venue's open seating, you can purchase a $5 ticket. Kids 10 and under can enter the concert area for free.
3: What parking options are available for festival-goers?
A: Parking is free in various locations around downtown Oxnard. There are over 20 public parking lots and a downtown parking garage on 4th and B Streets. Additionally, a free shuttle service operates from The Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center, running from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM on both days of the festival. For those using public transport, the local Gold Coast transit bus and Amtrak train station are convenient options.
4: What activities are available for kids at the Oxnard Salsa Festival?
A: The festival offers a Kid Zone packed with fun activities for children, including games, rides, bounce houses, and free arts and crafts. It’s a great place for families to spend time and for kids to relax themselves while parents find the rest of the festival.
5: How does the Oxnard Salsa Festival support local charities?
A: The festival hosts a "Dancing with Our Community Stars" event, where local stars compete in a dance competition to raise funds for their chosen charities. Attendees can vote for their favorite dancers by donating $1 per vote. All proceeds from the voting go directly to the participating charities, contributing significantly to local causes. Over the past decade, this event has raised more than $750,000 for various local organizations.