10 Family Fun Things to do in Oxnard During Thanksgiving Break

Schools out, the kids are home, and it's time to give thanks. Keep the kids entertained this Thanksgiving break with plenty of fun-filled family activities in Oxnard. Whether you prefer to spend time outdoors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season or want to dive right in and start decorating, here's a list of activities the whole family will enjoy.

1. Visit Channel Islands Harbor.

Bring the family to Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard to enjoy a fun-filled day on the water. The good news, it won't cost you a fortune to rent a kayak, stand up paddleboard, or an electric boat. Take a Venetian-style gondola cruise launching from Seabridge Marina with Gondola Paradiso. Or, set out on a natural history tour with Channel Islands Kayak Center.

Related: Kayaking in Oxnard: Best Places to Paddle

2. Visit the Channel islands maritime museum

Make the most of your Thanksgiving holiday with a visit to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum —a true hidden gem! This world-class museum offers an impressive collection of maritime art, ship models, and artifacts that span centuries of seafaring history. Explore breathtaking artwork, intricate ship models, and fascinating bone models crafted by French prisoners during the Napoleonic Wars. With ever-changing exhibits, engaging events, and stunning harbor views, the museum promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.

3. Plan a self-guided art tour.

Explore local art, murals, sculptures, and installations by local artists in Oxnard. Bring your camera and snap a selfie in front of the murals and artwork. Don't miss the new 3-story tall "Growth" mural at Oxnard City Hall by Mauricio Ramirez, featuring Oxnard-born rapper Anderson .Paak.

4. Enjoy a Day at the Beach IN OXNARD.

While California's temperatures cool down during this time of year, it's never too cold to enjoy a day at the beach. Rent a surrey for an afternoon cruise with the family, followed by a picnic with your kid's favorite treats.

Best Beaches in Oxnard to Visit:

• Silver Strand Beach
• Oxnard Beach Park / Mandalay State Beach
• Hollywood Beach

5. Take a trip to the Farmer's Market.

Stock up on fresh, local ingredients every Sunday at the Channel Islands Farmers Market. The market is open from 10 am to 2 pm, and features live music, entertainment, and dozens of local vendors. When you get home, teach the kids how to make your favorite meal or snack with the ingredients you just bought.

6. Plan an adventure at Channel Islands National Park.

Escape the annual Black Friday shopping routine and take the kids on a journey to Channel Islands National Park. Thanksgiving break is a great time to visit. Activities include hiking, kayaking, or a guided wildlife tour. Bring your own snacks, and don't forget to pack out what you packed in.

How to Plan Your Trip: Reach any of the five islands by hopping aboard a boat with Island Packers from the Channel Islands Harbor.

7. Rent a bike with wheel fun rentals.

This Thanksgiving break, take in Oxnard’s scenic beauty with a fun and memorable bike ride from Wheel Fun Rentals! With convenient locations at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach and Marine Emporium Landing at Channel Islands Harbor—you’ll find the perfect set of wheels to explore. From family-friendly Double Surrey cycles that fit six adults and two small children to beach cruisers and adventurous recumbent Choppers, there’s something for everyone! For a special experience, try a self-guided tour around Channel Islands Harbor and nearby beaches.

8. take a cookie making class IN OXNARD.

Local business Mermaid Cottage Cookies creates DIY cookie kits which include baked cookies, icing and sprinkles all packaged together that are great for kids, families and friends. In-person classes are typically held at Strey Cellars and with a “Fall” themed cookies perfect for your thanksgiving holiday.

9. Enjoy a Thanksgiving Feast IN OXNARD.

Dine out, or order a Thanksgiving feast to-go from these incredible restaurants in 2024:

• Ox & Ocean at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is seating guests on Thanksgiving Day from 12:30 pm-7 pm for $125 per person. ⁠⁠The Thanksgiving buffet will include butternut squash soup, roasted turkey with giblet gravy, cure smoked pork lion and other tasty options.
• Tierra Sur at Herzog is offering a Thanksgiving Day feast for $95 per person. The menu includes tasty options to choose from but not limited to Roast Turkey Roulade, Cedar Plank Maple Salmon, Prime Rib with Au Jus & Horseradish, Apple Tarte Tatin and more! Reservations are available between 12 pm and 6 pm.
• The Waterside Restaurant is serving a Thanksgiving meal with a lot of options to choose from. Enjoy their Honey Pineapple ham with maple-glazed roasted yams or grilled salmon with mashed potatoes and house gravy as well as other delicious main entrée options. Don't forget the dessert choices such as pumpkin mousse cannoli and more! Hours of operations on Thanksgiving are 11:30 pm to 6:30 pm.

10. Get in the Holiday Spirit IN OXNARD.

If you love the holidays, start decorating during Thanksgiving break. The kids can write their letters to Santa while you decide your shopping game plan. Check out our Oxnard Shopping Guide for the best places to shop this holiday season.

Don't miss these top holiday events in Oxnard:

• Shop holiday goods at Channel Islands Harbor Holiday Farmers Markets in December.
• See the city's most cheerful neighborhood at Christmas Tree Lane along F & G Streets in Henry T. Oxnard Historic District.
• Enjoy beautifully decorated Victorian-era architecture up-close on a Heritage Square Holiday Tour.
• Sample award-winning tamales made by Oxnard's incredible Mexican restaurants at the Oxnard Tamale Festival.
• Holiday Tree Lighting Extravaganza at The Collection at RiverPark. Kick off the season with an awe-inspiring Tree Lighting Celebration on November 20, 2024 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Collection Park. This festive evening will showcase holiday entertainment provided by Music Freqs including special performances, an extravagant tree lighting and a spectacular firework show.
• Annual Downtown Oxnard Tree Lighting Ceremony. Mark your calendars for the oldest tree lighting ceremony in town on December 5, 2024. Every year, families flock to Plaza Park to watch the 110-ft Christmas Tree light up. Enjoy holiday music, a holiday market, local food trucks, and a visit from Santa.
• Hop on board the Holly Trolley Tours. Get ready to hop on December 10, 11 & 12, 2024 to experience historic Oxnard on a tour that starts at Heritage Square to view Gingerbread houses followed by a visit to Christmas Tree Lane in the Henry T. Oxnard Historic District.
• Check out the 15th Annual Gingerbread House Exhibit and Tours at Heritage Square Hall to see creative displays of gingerbread creations Dec. 8, 2024 through January 11, 2024. 11am-2pm (evening and weekday group tours/ viewing by appointment are available). While visiting, take the guided tour experience of the former houses' exteriors w/select interiors. Check here for details.

Conclusion: Family Activities During the Thanksgiving Break

Whether you decide to spend the holiday break enjoying outdoor or indoor activities, use these ideas to keep the kids entertained while they're out of school. Download our Oxnard Visitors Guide for top tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and fun local events.

There is so much to be thankful for in Oxnard. Here are the top 10 things we are grateful for:

1. Beautiful weather year round to enjoy a day on the water in Yachtsnard.

2. Always good vibes when enjoying a fun, safe night out.

3. A delicious culinary experience; from taco trails to fresh seafood.

4. World class boxing; Oxnard has the true "Boxnard" experience.

5. Amazing surf & multiple beaches to choose from.

6. A boat ride away to the Channel Islands National Park.

7. Picturesque places to get married.

8. Home to top festivals in the nation, like the Tamale Festival.