Channel Islands Harbor is gearing up for a year of unforgettable events in 2024. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a music lover, or someone who enjoys the magic of fireworks and holiday festivities, the Harbor has something special in store for you. Mark your calendars, plan your road trip or staycation in advance, and get ready to make lasting memories at the Harbor’s amazing lineup of events.

25^th Annual Celebration of the Whales Festival – April 7, 2024

The Harbor’s first signature event kicks off on Sunday, April 7, 2024, with the 25^th Annual Celebration of the Whales Festival. This milestone event celebrates the migration of the whales through the Santa Barbara Channel, which recently received a world class designation as a Whale Heritage Area.

You, family, and friends will enjoy educational exhibits, a “paint a whale” mural project, chalk art, live performances, shopping at our award-winning Farmers Market, a children’s fun zone, and more.

The event is being held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and activities will span the west side of the Harbor at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, Channel Islands Boating Center, Channel Islands Farmers Market, and a “Gray Whale Migration Trail” that runs through Harbor View Park.

Father’s Day Car Shows – June 16, 2024

There’s no better place to take your dad than the Channel Islands Harbor on Father’s Day. The Harbor hosts not one, but two thrilling car shows that will make a car-lover’s heart race.

Bring your dad on Father’s Day to enjoy a car show at Harbor View Park or at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. What’s great about these two car shows is they are virtually right next to each other but offer different types of vehicles to check out.

The car show at Harbor View Park features an eclectic mix of custom cars, hot rods, low riders, motorcycles, and classics. At the Maritime Museum, this car show caters specifically to classic car enthusiasts. The bottom line – there’s something for everyone!

Fireworks by the Sea – July 4, 2024

As summer warms up and the patriotic spirit fills the air, Channel Islands Harbor is the place to be for a joyous July 4th celebration! From dazzling fireworks to a daytime electric boat parade, a fun family parade, and a vibrant farmers market, the Harbor has something for everyone. So, gather your loved ones, put on your red, white, and blue, and take advantage of the family-friendly festivities!

Channel Islands Harbor Fine Arts Festival – July 13-14, 2024

Welcome art enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and those with an eye for creativity! Get ready to attend a weekend filled with sheer artistic brilliance at the highly anticipated Channel Islands Harbor Fine Arts Festival, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 13-14, 2024 at Harbor Landing, 2810 Harbor Blvd. in Oxnard.

With more than 45 talented artists showcasing their original masterpieces across various mediums, this extraordinary free event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of fine art and fine crafts.

Concerts by the Sea – From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., every Saturday from July 6 to August 31

If you love live music, there’s no better venue in Ventura County to catch a free concert than at the Channel Islands Harbor.

Set against a summer sky in a beautiful Harbor park, visitors can enjoy a variety of musical selections at the Concerts by the Sea Summer Concert Series. The series is held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. each Saturday from July 6 to August 31 at Harbor View Park, located off Harbor Boulevard just south of Marine Emporium Landing (3600 Harbor Blvd. Oxnard, CA 93035). Visitors are encouraged to bring picnics, blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy this fun family event. From Rock and Reggae to Blues and Dance music, there’s something for everyone.

Car Shows in September and October!

If you are a fan of classic British cars or Ford Mustangs from all eras, we are the place for you.

On September 22, 2024, come on down and enjoy the 33^rd Annual Central Coast British Car Club Show. This show is open to all British cars and is free for spectators. In years past, more than 125 British cars to view!

Mustangs from all eras will be on display at the Ponies by the Sea Car Show, scheduled for October 13, 2024. In addition to a collection of awesome Ford Mustangs, there will be food trucks, music, games and much more!

3^rd Annual Parade of Frights – October 26, 2024

If you’re looking for a family-friendly event that’ll light up your night and put a sparkle in your eye – you’re in for a treat – or should we say, a ‘trick-or-treat’?

The event, scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024, will include a 7 p.m. boat parade and numerous family-friendly landside activities beforehand. This event is all about celebrating the spooky season in style, and it’s the perfect opportunity to bring the whole family together for a day of laughter, thrills, and, of course, free candy!

58^th Annual Parade of Lights – December 14, 2024

There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than by attending the 58^th Annual Parade of Lights, scheduled for December 14, 2024. The day includes many landside activities prior to the boat parade. Activities include a Farmers Market, free pictures with Santa, and snow play at Harbor View Park.

Editor’s Note: this story was published on January 25, 2024.