As temperatures start to cool and the summer crowds recede, locals and visitors alike will find the perfect serene retreat in the seaside city of Oxnard, Calif. Autumn in Oxnard is synonymous with clear, sunny days followed by cool evenings, spectacular sunsets, and an array of vibrant cultural activities and fall events. Keep reading to learn more about how the destination comes alive this autumn season!
Dia de los Muertos and Halloween Events
From Dia de los Muertos celebrations to spooky Halloween fun for the family, Oxnard offers a diverse selection of seasonal events:
Panteón Fest – October 12 from 12:00-9:00pm
This vibrant and culturally enriching event celebrates Dia de los Muertos in a memorable way, as Heritage Square transforms into a colorful and immersive celebration at the second annual Panteón Fest, hosted by Pipiripau. Attendees will experience Aztec Danzantes, a day of the dead theatrical performance, live music, decorated community altars, traditional face painting, handmade goods and food trucks y mucho mas! Dress up in your best Dia de los Muertos attire and join in this celebration of life and death.
Fall Festival – October 9 from 11:00am-5:00pm
Oxnard’s Annual Fall Festival will take place at Plaza Park with an array of fall-themed activities. Attendees will enjoy a Halloween carnival area, youth and pet costume contest, fun contests, food vendors, a haunted maze and even an area dedicated to Día de los Muertos.
Trick-Or-Treat at The Collection at RiverPark – October 23 at 5:00pm
The Collection at RiverPark will host its annual Halloween event, providing enchanting and spooky fun for the whole family. Participants can travel through The Collection with passport maps and visit participating merchants for either a trick or a treat– fill out your entire passport and be entered in a raffle for a chance to win a fang-tastic prize. Don your most creative costume, bring your sweet tooth, and prepare to be immersed in a world of Halloween magic. Reservations are required.
Parade of Frights – October 26 at 3:00pm and 7:00pm
The third annual Parade of Frights in the Channel Islands Harbor is sure to be a night to remember. The festivities will kick off at 3:00pm with a Parade of Frights Party at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, offering plenty of family-friendly activities and candy. Then at 7:00pm the main event – a Halloween-themed boat parade – will commence. 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!
Dia de los Muertos Altar
Oxnard's Dia de los Muertos altar returns to the steps of Carnegie Art Museum. Decorated with a six-foot-tall Catrina, marigolds, candles and mementos, the altar will remain intact for three days and two nights. People are invited to bring a framed picture of their dearly departed loved ones to place on the altar.
Dia de los Muertos Celebration – November 2 from 4:00-9:00pm
The Oxnard Performing Arts Center (OPAC) will host its enchanting Dia de los Muertos celebration bringing people together to honor and remember their loved ones. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mexican and Filipino culture with Day of the Dead activities including soulful music, local art exhibitions, inspiring performances by local dancers, poets and singers, guest speakers, artisan vendors, traditional food, children's activities and community altars. Pay homage to your loved ones by bringing their cherished photos and memorabilia to OPAC's community altar.
More Seasonal Events in Oxnard
Oxnard Multicultural Festival – October 5 from 10:00am-4:00pm
Established to promote understanding and respect among all racial, religious and nationality groups in the City and to discourage and prevent discriminatory practices, the 27th Annual Oxnard Multicultural Festival will showcase an abundance of exciting activities and offerings for all ages, including raffles, food trucks and local vendors, held at Plaza Park in Downtown Oxnard. Spend time with family and friends while also learning about the numerous cultures being celebrated, such as Beliza, Africa, Guatemala and many more! Attendees can even fill out a “Multicultural Passport” by going to each booth and receiving a stamp– get a stamp from each booth and receive a prize and an entry into the raffle!
Ponies by the Sea Car Show – October 13 from 10:00am-3:00pm
Mustangs from all eras will be on display at this free seaside event hosted by the Tri-County Mustang Club at Harbor View Park. There will be food trucks, music, games, and more. Proceeds from registration fees will benefit Guide Dogs of America.
Ventura County Farm Day – November 2 from 10:00am-3:00pm
This event invites participants to learn more about the farm origins of their food, the food supply chain, and meet the people responsible for producing the food we eat at the 12th Annual Farm Day. More than 15 Ventura County farms, ranches, and agricultural organizations will open their doors to invite the public to experience a self-guided day of agricultural activities and tours during Ventura County Farm Day. The Trail Map provides more details on each farm's tour times.
For more information about fall 2024 events and attractions in Oxnard, visit https://visitoxnard.com/fall/.