Summer fun wouldn’t be complete without good eats. When you need a break from the picnics and barbecues, consider one of Ventura County’s celebrations designed around fine wine, craft beer and gourmet food. Here are the tastiest spreads being laid out this season.
Casa Pacifica Angels Wine, Food and Brew Festival
Sunday, June 7, 1-5 p.m.
California State University, Channel Islands
1 University Drive, Camarillo
$150+
winefoodandbrewfestival.com
(Joey Carman)
This is THE foodie event of the summer…possibly the year…in Ventura County. The cause is an important one: Providing comprehensive services for abused or neglected children in the foster care system. But the event itself is lively and celebratory, with delicious indulgence all day long. Stroll the grounds of California State University, Channel Islands, to sample hundreds of scrumptious bites and sips — everything from top-tier wine and craft spirits to inventive appetizers, freshly baked goods and the most delectable of desserts. All this gourmet goodness comes to the table courtesy of Southern California’s and the Central Coast’s most talented chefs, wineries, brewmasters, bakeries and distillers. The live entertainment is always on point, keeping guests on the dance floor all afternoon. Stick around to see the top three winners (sweet and savory categories) in the Yummie Culinary Competition, as well as the top beers selected for Best in Fest. This one is for grown-ups only — attendees MUST be 21 or older.
Ojai Wine Festival
Saturday, June 20, 12-4 p.m.
Wadleigh Arm of the Lake Casitas Recreation Area
11093 Santa Ana Road, Ventura
$98+; $12 parking
ojaiwinefestival.com
Imagine dancing lakeside while sipping exceptional wines, from some of the top makers in California. Lake Casitas is beautiful this time of year, and with the Topatopa Mountains in the distance, it’s easy to see why the Ojai Wine Festival is considered one of the most scenic wine events in Southern California. Wine is just one part of the experience, however: There’s plenty of craft beer and cider being poured as well. Local food vendors and food trucks keep the crowd well fed, although guests are allowed to bring their own picnic fare. Something you simply can’t find at other wine festivals: free boat rides on the lake. The dock is right there, and boats go back and forth throughout the event, making this outing extra special. A silent auction and curated artisan marketplace only add to the fun. Organized by the Rotary Club of Ojai West Foundation, 100% of the proceeds support good causes throughout the local area, including local scholarships and environmental projects.
Conejo Food and Wine Festival
Sunday, June 28, 1:30-5:30 p.m.
St. Paschal Babylon School Grounds
155 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks
$60+
www.conejofoodandwine.com
This one goes big. Big on flavor — area chefs let their creative imaginations run wild here. Big portions — Conejo Food and Wine is famous for its “samples” that go way beyond tapas size. Big energy — top local bands keep spirits, and feet, hopping all afternoon. No surprise that this is a big fundraiser for Food Share and Many Mansions, the two main charities that the festival supports. Don’t forget the entertainment! Local favorite Ignition Band is back by popular demand, Ventucky Stompers will lead the crowd in line dancing and there will also be cornhole, Jenga and other games. Some of the many participating food and beverage vendors include Opolo Vineyards, Tarantula Hill Brewing Company, Old Oaks Steakhouse, Wild Fork and Honey Cup. The silent auction always has fantastic items and experiences to bid on.
A Taste of Camarillo
Sunday, July 26, 12-4:30 p.m.
Camarillo Ranch
201 Camarillo Ranch Road, Camarillo
$135-165
tasteofcamarillo.com
Camarillo Ranch, with more than four acres of pristinely manicured grounds, a big red barn and the Queen Anne Victorian mansion dating from 1892, makes an elegant backdrop for a truly fabulous garden party. The culinary delights suit the setting: boutique wines, award-winning beers, premium spirits and gourmet tastings from Ventura County’s top restaurants and caterers. “Bohemian Rhapsody” is this year’s theme, so expect high-energy hits performed by local band DC-5. For country music fans, there will also be line dancing all afternoon. Take time to shop the curated marketplace, and bid in the silent auction. Hosted by the Meadowlark Service League, this fundraiser supports over 35 local charities and provides scholarships for Ventura County students.
Dining and Cooking