As we welcome October, I’m excited to share some of the fantastic events happening at the Channel Islands Harbor. This month is packed with festive activities, and we hope you’ll join us in celebrating the season!

October Activities

First up is Wheels & Waves at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, a cozy coffee and cars event taking place from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Sunday, October 6^th. This event is a perfect opportunity for car enthusiasts to connect over coffee, pastries, and an interesting assortment of vehicles. I’d like to thank the Channel Islands Maritime Museum for always looking to introduce new events at the Harbor. This one will surely be a can’t miss!

Next, for those who love a vibrant atmosphere, the Ponies by the Sea Car Show at Harbor View Park on Sunday, October 13^th promises to be an exciting event. Enjoy classic Ford Mustangs from all eras and the camaraderie of fellow automotive fans while taking in the scenic views of the Harbor. In addition to the assortment of Mustangs, there will be live music, vendors, games, and more!

Last, but certainly not least, is the 3^rd Annual Parade of Frights, our Halloween-themed boat parade! Join us on Saturday, October 26th for a fun evening filled with creative costumes and hauntingly decorated vessels. The fun kicks off at 3 p.m. with landside activities at Harbor View Park, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, and aboard the tall ship Mystic Whaler. From children to adults, there will be something for everyone.

Harbor Maintenance

I’d also like to take a moment to recognize our dedicated maintenance staff. While their ongoing hard work and commitment to keeping our public areas clean and inviting are truly commendable, there have been several projects in September worth noting.

• To accommodate the repair of the walkway connecting Silverstrand and Kiddie beaches, the maintenance team quickly developed a temporary path which included a wooden staircase for pedestrians to use.
• At the north end of Harbor View Park, they are transforming an unusable space – full of old brush and weeds– into a usable one with new grass, a picnic bench, and fresh landscape.
• When more than 100 sea lions began to populate Kiddie Beach, the maintenance team quickly erected temporary fencing to prevent sea lions from entering the parking lot and street.
• In partnership with the Audubon Society and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the maintenance team helped clean up the dunes at Hollywood Beach near the Harbor entrance. This is no small feat, considering the area is protected due to the presence of the Snowy Plover.

Thanks to their efforts, the Harbor remains a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.

We look forward to seeing you at these events and hope you have a fantastic October filled with fun and community spirit!

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department

Editor’s Note: this message was published on Sept. 30, 2024.