5 Things to Do in Ventura County This Weekend, November 7–8, 2026

1. What Can You Discover at the Bowl of Thanks and Ventura Pottery Market?

When: Saturday and Sunday, November 7–8, 11 AM–4 PM

Where: Ventura Harbor Village, Ventura

Cost: Free to browse. A $30 donation includes a handmade bowl and food-tasting passport.

Event information: https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/calendar/list/

If you enjoy handmade art, local food, and waterfront shopping, the Bowl of Thanks and Ventura Pottery Market is a weekend highlight.

Visitors can browse pottery created by local artists, discover handmade gifts, and enjoy food tastings from participating restaurants with the tasting passport. The event also supports Food Share Ventura County, making it a chance to enjoy the community while contributing to a local cause.

Only 300 tasting passports are available each day, so arriving early is a good idea if you want to participate.

Why go? This event combines local creativity, food, shopping, and community giving in one waterfront setting. Even if you simply want to browse the pottery and enjoy the harbor atmosphere, it’s a lovely way to spend part of your weekend.

2. Is the CFA Cat Show a Good Weekend Activity for Families?

When: Saturday, November 7, 9 AM–5 PM

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura

Event information: https://venturacountyfair.org/events/

Cost: Adults $12, seniors and children $6, family admission $20. Parking is $10.

Animal lovers may enjoy spending Saturday at the CFA Cat Show at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

The event offers an opportunity to see different cat breeds, watch judging, and meet fellow cat enthusiasts. It’s also an indoor activity, which may be especially appealing if strong winds make outdoor plans less comfortable.

Whether you’re a devoted cat lover or simply looking for something different to do with the family, the show offers an entertaining way to spend a few hours.

Why go? It’s a fun indoor option for families and animal enthusiasts, with an opportunity to learn about different breeds and see the cats up close.

3. What Can Visitors Experience at the Ventura Pet & Reptile Expo?

When: Saturday, November 7, 10 AM–5 PM, and Sunday, November 8, 10 AM–4 PM

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Boulevard, Ventura

Cost: Adults $15, children ages 4–12 $10, children 3 and under free. Parking is $10.

Tickets and event information: https://cvrexpo.com/

If you’re interested in animals beyond traditional household pets, the Ventura Pet & Reptile Expo offers something a little different.

Visitors can explore reptiles and exotic animals, browse pet supplies, learn about adoption opportunities, and attend live presentations. The event also includes hands-on terrarium workshops, giving visitors an opportunity to explore the creative side of animal care.

With activities scheduled across both Saturday and Sunday, this could be a good option if you’re looking for an indoor weekend outing.

Why go? It’s an entertaining opportunity to learn about different animals, discover specialty vendors, and enjoy an activity that may be especially interesting for curious kids and animal enthusiasts.

4. Where Can You Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Ventura County?

When: Saturday, November 7, 4–8 PM

Where: Borchard Community Center, 190 N. Reino Road, Newbury Park

Cost: Free admission

Event information: https://www.crpd.org/2026-11-07-festival-de-los-muertos-10503ff

The Festival de los Muertos in Newbury Park offers an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture and traditions through a community gathering.

The free event is scheduled to include live music, cultural activities, crafts, local food vendors, and entertainment. It’s a welcoming way to spend Saturday evening while experiencing traditions associated with Día de los Muertos.

The celebration also provides an opportunity for families and neighbors to come together and enjoy local cultural programming.

Why go? If you’re looking for a free community event with music, food, and cultural activities, this is a great option to consider.

5. What Can You Learn at the Chumash History Lecture in Ventura?

When: Sunday, November 8, 1–3 PM

Where: Museum of Ventura County, 100 E. Main Street, Ventura

Cost: Admission price not confirmed. Check directly with the museum.

Museum information: https://venturamuseum.org/

For a more educational Sunday outing, consider the History of Chumash Emancipation lecture at the Museum of Ventura County.

Part of the museum’s Parallel Histories Lecture Series, this presentation explores Chumash history and emancipation. It offers an opportunity to learn more about Indigenous community stories and the history of the region.

If you’re interested in California history or want to add a meaningful cultural experience to your weekend, this lecture may be worth considering.

Why go? Local history helps us better understand the communities and stories that have shaped the places we call home. It’s a thoughtful way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

What Is the Weather Forecast for Ventura County This Weekend?

The supplied National Weather Service forecast calls for sunny, warm conditions across the weekend, with temperatures reaching the mid-80s°F.

However, there are some important weather and safety considerations to keep in mind.

Saturday, November 7

  • Sunny, warm, and dry.
  • Northeast winds may gust between 30 and 45 mph in wind-prone parts of the county.
  • A Red Flag Warning applies to specific mountain and inland areas, not all of Ventura County.

Sunday, November 8

  • Sunny and warm.
  • Temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-80s°F.
  • Winds are expected to ease somewhat.

Coastal safety reminder: A Beach Hazards Statement is in effect through Tuesday, with dangerous rip currents and elevated surf. Beachgoers should use caution and follow posted safety guidance.

If you’re planning an outdoor activity, avoid exposed trails and activities that could create sparks in areas affected by fire-weather conditions. Check the latest alerts before leaving home.

Where Can You Eat or Grab Coffee at Ventura Harbor Village?

If you’re planning to visit the pottery market, you can make the most of your trip by enjoying breakfast, lunch, seafood, or coffee along the harbor.

Here are three convenient stops included in this weekend’s guide:

Le Petit Cafe & Bakery

1591 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 112, Ventura

Enjoy French pastries, breakfast, and café-style meals. Published hours are Saturday 8:30 AM–3 PM and 5–8 PM, and Sunday 8:30 AM–6 PM.

Andria’s Seafood

1449 Spinnaker Drive, Suite A, Ventura

A casual option for seafood, fish and chips, and harbor views. Published weekend hours are 11 AM–8 PM.

Freedom Coffee

1691 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 105A, Ventura

A convenient stop for coffee and quick refreshments near Island Packers. Published weekend hours are 7 AM–2 PM.

Business hours are based on published listings and are not live confirmations. Check directly with each business before visiting.

How Can You Plan a Full Weekend Around These Ventura County Events?

If you want to fit several activities into your weekend, here’s one possible schedule using the events and hours provided.

Day and timeSuggested activityEstimated cost
Saturday morningCFA Cat Show$6–$12, plus parking
Saturday lunchLunch at Ventura Harbor Village$15–$30+
Saturday afternoonBowl of Thanks and Ventura Pottery MarketFree to browse, $30 optional passport
Saturday eveningFestival de los Muertos in Newbury ParkFree
Sunday morningVentura Pet & Reptile Expo$10–$15, plus parking
Sunday afternoonChumash history lectureConfirm admission

You don’t have to do everything. Choose the activities that fit your interests, schedule, and budget.

My top recommendation: Make Ventura Harbor Village your main destination on Saturday. The pottery market, food tastings, waterfront setting, cafés, and local shopping make it easy to enjoy several experiences without traveling between multiple cities.

If you prefer indoor activities, the cat show and Pet & Reptile Expo at the Ventura County Fairgrounds offer additional options.

Why Exploring Local Events Is Part of Loving Where You Live

One of the best things about living in Ventura County is having access to a variety of local experiences. From waterfront markets and community celebrations to museums, animal exhibits, and neighborhood gatherings, there’s always something new to discover.

These events are also a reminder that choosing a home is about more than the property itself. It’s about the community, activities, local businesses, and everyday experiences that make an area feel like home.

At The RoylinSells Group, I believe knowing the community is an important part of helping people make informed real estate decisions. I’ve been serving Ventura County, Los Angeles County, and Santa Barbara County since 1990, helping buyers and sellers navigate their next move.

As an AI-Certified Agent, I also use modern AI tools to support my real estate work, improve marketing workflows, and help clients access useful information more efficiently. Technology complements the local knowledge and personal guidance that remain central to my service.

Whether you’re already living in Ventura or considering making this area your home, I hope you find something enjoyable to do this weekend.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ventura County Events, November 7–8, 2026

1. What are some free things to do in Ventura County this weekend?

The Bowl of Thanks and Ventura Pottery Market is free to browse, although the food-tasting passport requires a $30 donation. The Festival de los Muertos in Newbury Park also offers free admission and includes music, cultural activities, crafts, and food vendors.

2. What family-friendly events are happening in Ventura this weekend?

Families can consider the CFA Cat Show and Ventura Pet & Reptile Expo at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Both offer indoor activities involving animals and educational experiences. Check the official event websites for ticket details and any schedule changes.

3. Where can I celebrate Día de los Muertos near Ventura?

The Festival de los Muertos takes place Saturday, November 7, from 4–8 PM at Borchard Community Center in Newbury Park. Admission is free, and the event is scheduled to include live music, cultural activities, crafts, and food vendors.

4. What can I do at Ventura Harbor Village this weekend?

You can visit the Bowl of Thanks and Ventura Pottery Market, browse handmade ceramics, enjoy restaurant tastings with a passport, shop locally, and visit nearby cafés and seafood restaurants. The event runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM–4 PM.

5. Is it safe to visit Ventura County beaches this weekend?

A Beach Hazards Statement is in effect through Tuesday, with dangerous rip currents and elevated surf. Check current National Weather Service alerts, follow posted beach warnings, and avoid entering the water when conditions are hazardous.

Sources

1. Ventura Harbor Village, event calendar: https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/calendar/list/

2. Ventura County Fairgrounds, event calendar: https://venturacountyfair.org/events/

3. Ventura Pet & Reptile Expo, official event and ticket information: https://cvrexpo.com/

4. Conejo Recreation and Park District, Festival de los Muertos: https://www.crpd.org/2026-11-07-festival-de-los-muertos-10503ff

5. Museum of Ventura County: https://venturamuseum.org/

6. National Weather Service, Ventura County forecast and alerts: https://beta.weather.gov/forecast/county/06111/

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