10 Must-Try Things at the 2025 Ventura County Fair

The Ventura County Fair is a summer staple for locals and visitors alike. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean at the Ventura Fairgrounds, the 2025 edition brings all the classics – with a few new surprises.

From the moment you enter through the iconic gates, the smells of sizzling funnel cake, popcorn, and BBQ hit you. There’s a sense of nostalgia and community in the air. Families with strollers, teens with wristbands, and long-time attendees gather for one reason: fun.

Here are our top 10 must-try experiences:

1. Deep-Fried Oreos – A guilty pleasure, but absolutely worth it. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
   
   
2. Alaskan Racing Pigs – Don’t underestimate the excitement. These pigs are surprisingly fast and hilarious to watch.
   
   
3. Ferris Wheel at Sunset – Arguably the best view in Ventura. Watch the sun dip behind the coastline from the top.
   
   
4. Giant Turkey Legs – Juicy, smoky, and massive. One of the most shared bites on the fairgrounds.
   
   
5. Local Art Pavilion – From oil paintings to photography, it's a celebration of local creativity.
   
   
6. 4-H Animal Barn – Get up close with goats, pigs, rabbits, and more. A favorite for kids.
   
   
7. Live Music at the Grandstand Arena – This year includes everything from classic rock cover bands to Latin pop acts.
   
   
8. Demolition Derby – Loud, chaotic, and strangely cathartic. A fair tradition.
   
   
9. Craft Beer Tent – Try small pours from local breweries like Topa Topa and Poseidon Brewing.
   
   
10. Instagram-Friendly Photo Spots – Look out for the giant ice cream cone mural and light tunnel.

Pro Tips:

• Arrive before 5 PM to snag better parking.
• Buy ride wristbands online to skip the ticket lines.
• Bring cash for vendors that don’t take cards.
  

Whether you’re 5 or 50, the Ventura County Fair never loses its magic.