Summer is in full swing at the Channel Islands Harbor and there’s plenty to look forward to in July. We have an exciting mix of activities planned that promise to be fun and entertaining for everyone.

Fourth of July Festivities

First, we kick off the month with our highly anticipated 4^th of July celebration. The activities will start at 10:30 a.m. with the 4^th of July Family Parade. Dress up in your most patriotic attire and bring your family and friends along. It’s always a great sight to see everyone who attends, and you can’t help but to get excited for the day.

While the family parade is fun, the best part might be where it ends – at Harbor View Park, home to a 4^th of July farmers market that includes activities for children, delicious food, local crafts, and more. This market will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Be sure to stop by and check it out.

Another highly anticipated activity at the Harbor on the 4^th of July is the Electric Boat Parade, hosted by Central Coast Electric Boats and the Channel Islands Yacht Club. The parade starts at 2 p.m. and travels throughout the Harbor. This parade has grown over the years to 75 plus patriotically decorated boats. Cheer them on the landslide or join in the fun on an electric boat.

To wrap up the day, Fireworks by the Sea, a mesmerizing firework show, will start promptly at 9 p.m. The fireworks are launched from the Navy Base, just east of Victoria Ave. Be sure to find your perfect spot on the Harbor’s waterfront, layout some blankets and chairs, and enjoy the 30-minute show!

Channel Islands Fine Arts Festival

For those who appreciate the arts, don’t miss out on the Channel Islands Fine Arts Festival, a showcase of talent from artists from throughout Southern California. The arts festival is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 13-14 at Harbor Landing.

Concerts by the Sea

Last but certainly not least, I’m thrilled to announce the start of our Concerts by the Sea series, co-sponsored by Vintage Marina Partners. Come and enjoy live music performances from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday from July 6 to August 31 at Harbor View Park.

The first performer will be Nautical Thrust, a local yacht rock band that will be playing your favorite smooth hits of the 1970s and early 1980s. Check out the summer lineup here.

Parking Lot Projects

I’m happy to share with you that the Harbor Department met its goal of rehabilitating the Kiddie Beach Parking lot area, replacing the Channel View Park parking lot, and adding a slurry seal to the parking lot at Silver Strand Beach before the summer. These enhancements were much needed, and the Harbor Department hopes they enhance the overall experience for visitors and residents.  We are currently in the planning stages for the rehabilitation of the parking lots along Harbor Blvd and will complete them during the off season.

Thank you for staying engaged and being an integral part of our Harbor community.

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department