For the real deal in handmade handiworks, don’t miss the Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show at the Ventura County Fairgrounds October 4-6, featuring more than 24,000 original creations from hundreds of trend-setting artisans and crafters.
Festivities will be in high gear for the 30th anniversary celebration of the Ventura showcase, a treasured tradition recognized as the west coast’s largest and most prestigious indoor showcase, with live entertainment, strolling performers, mouth-watering foods, a Kidzone and pumpkin patch, contests, crafter demonstrations, and more.
Patrons who bring canned goods for donation to Project Understanding will receive $2 off admission. Kids 12 and under are free, and tickets are good for the entire weekend.
“As a family-run business we take pride in creating the ultimate shopping experience that brings people together and gives back,” says Nancy Glenn, owner of the Harvest Festival. “Our showcase is engaging and participatory for all ages. And with our special discount incentive, we’re hoping to surpass last year’s food donation of 4,000 pounds.”
The Harvest Festival is a juried showcase to ensure quality and diversity. Emerging artists whose passions spark new trends provide a limitless array of perfect somethings. Stunning jewelry, clothing, photography, hand-turned wood, ceramics, eclectic art pieces, seasonal décor, Halloween accessories, ornaments, and blown glass, are among the masterpieces on display. Artists can also personalize many items. 
Festival foodies can sample oodles of tasty homemade sauces, spices, nuts, oils, candies, and baked goods. Local artists showcasing include Ventura residents Katie Adams with Lemon & Lei bath & body collection skin care; Connie Gunderson with Heavenly Accents vintage fabric handbags; Kevin Brown with VB Candles; Linda Fusaro of Santa Barbara: with beautifully crafted jewelry of Fusaro Design, and Hannah Hogan of Westlake Village with Shop Dog Studios handcrafted leashes, collars and festive pet attire.
Live entertainment adds to the festivities with entertainer Captain Jack Spareribs and the Hyjinx Band, joined by the Jack Kalvan Jugglers and other strolling performers.
The Festival collaborates with local non-profits to pay it forward. Anyone who brings non-perishables for donation to Project Understanding receives $2 off admission. The Ventura Boys & Girls Club hosts the parcel check, Macaroni Kid and MyGym Ventura team up for the Kidzone. Rancho Ventura Conservation Trust hosts a nature interactive in conjunction with the pumpkin patch, co-sponsored by Green Thumb Nursery. The Ventura County Star is the official newspaper. The annual Grand Prize Giveaway is a $200 Amazon gift card (register to win on site at the event).
General admission tickets are $9, Seniors (62+) and military are $7, Youths ages 13-17 are $4, and kids 12 and under are FREE. Tickets are good for the entire weekend. Hours are Friday 10am to 5pm; Saturday 10am to 6pm; and Sunday 10am to 5pm.
*Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 West Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001)
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