5 Things to Do in Ventura County This Weekend | Sept. 10-13

Looking for something fun to do in Ventura County this weekend?

From live jazz and waterfront art to independent films, handmade crafts and a movie under the stars, there’s plenty happening around the county.

Here are five events worth checking out in this week’s What’s Happening in the 805.

▶ Watch this week’s What’s Happening in the 805

Oxnard Jazz Festival

The Oxnard Jazz Festival returns to College Park for its festival weekend September 10-13.

The main live-music concerts take place Saturday and Sunday, September 12-13, with jazz, Latin, soul, blues and R&B along with food, vendors and the outdoor festival atmosphere.

Ventura Art & Chalk Festival

Ventura Harbor Village becomes an outdoor art gallery September 12 and 13 for the Ventura Art & Chalk Festival.

Visitors can watch talented chalk artists create incredible work, browse art and handmade creations and enjoy the waterfront setting.

The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and is presented by the Rotary Club of Ventura.

SIMI Film Fest

Film fans can head to Simi Valley for SIMI Film Fest, running September 12-20.

The 2026 festival features 102 films, 57 music videos and nine days of programming, screenings and special events.

Ventura Harvest Festival

The Ventura Harvest Festival returns to the Ventura County Fairgrounds September 11-13.

Expect original art, handcrafted goods, specialty foods, unique finds and entertainment from a variety of artists and makers.

Moorpark Movies in the Park

For something relaxed and family-friendly, Moorpark Movies in the Park presents Super 8 Saturday, September 12 at Arroyo Vista Community Park.

Admission is free, gates open one hour before showtime and the movie begins at dusk. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and settle in on the grass.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're looking for live music, art, movies, shopping or an easy night outdoors, this weekend gives you plenty of reasons to explore Ventura County.

Which one would you choose?

Save this guide, send it to somebody looking for weekend plans and check back each week for another What’s Happening in the 805.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is happening in Ventura County this weekend?

Events include the Oxnard Jazz Festival, Ventura Art & Chalk Festival, SIMI Film Fest, Ventura Harvest Festival and Moorpark Movies in the Park.

Are there free things to do in Ventura County this weekend?

Moorpark Movies in the Park is free. Super 8 is showing Saturday evening at Arroyo Vista Community Park.

When is the Ventura Art & Chalk Festival?

The 2026 Ventura Art & Chalk Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 12-13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ventura Harbor Village.