Crafts & Creations at Strawberry Festival
Ventura Breeze
May 5, 2026
You know spring has truly arrived on the Central Coast when the Strawberry Festival is right around the corner. According to the *Ventura Breeze*, the 40th annual celebration is set for May 16 and 17 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, and this year’s lineup of artisans sounds like a real treat. We’re talking nearly 150 craftspeople from all over California bringing ceramics, hand-painted wearables, jewelry, candles, and even specialty foods — perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind gift or something special for your own home.
What I love most is that this event has always felt like a true community showcase. Beyond the shortcake and the berry-filled fun, the festival gives local makers a huge stage to share their passion. Whether you’re browsing hand-poured soy candles or chatting with a jeweler about their inspiration, it’s a reminder of the incredible talent right here in the 805. So grab your sun hat, bring the family, and support our local creators — it’s a sweet way to kick off the season.
This summary was written by AI based on the original article from Ventura Breeze.
City
VenturaSource
Ventura BreezePublished
May 5, 2026
AI-curated summary from local news sources
Explore VenturaAll Ventura NewsMore News from Ventura
VenturaVPD to Host Coffee with a Cop
There’s nothing quite like starting your morning with a good cup of coffee and a real conversation, and next week the Ventura Police Department is making that easy for all of us. According to the *Ventura Breeze*, Chief David Dickey and local officers will be at Daylight and Moon Cafe on Tuesday, May 12, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. for Coffee with a Cop. It’s part of National Police Week, but honestly, this kind of meet-and-greet feels perfectly at home here in Ventura—where the beach and the pier are our living room, and our downtown cafes are the kitchen table. Whether you’ve got a question about neighborhood safety, a story to share, or you just want to thank an officer for their service, this is your chance. No agenda, no formal speeches—just coffee, pastries, and the kind of face-to-face connection that builds trust. So grab your mug, bring a friend, and let’s show our Ventura spirit. After all, the best communities are built one conversation at a time.
VenturaCelebrate Bike Month
There’s something special about cruising through Ventura on two wheels, especially this time of year. According to the *Ventura Breeze*, May is National Bike Month, and our city is rolling out the red carpet (or maybe the green bike lane) for everyone—from daily commuters to folks dusting off their cruiser for the first time in years. Whether you’re pedaling along the beach path, exploring downtown’s hidden alleys, or mapping a new route through the neighborhoods, this month is all about rediscovering our community at a slower, sunnier pace. What I love about this effort is how it’s not just about exercise—it’s about connection. Ventura’s bike-friendly streets and growing network of paths make it easier to run errands, grab coffee on Main Street, or wave hello to a neighbor without ever starting the car. The *Breeze* points out that the goal is to help residents tap into the cycling resources already around them, like local repair shops, group rides, or even just a safe place to park your bike. So grab a helmet, pump up those tires, and join the fun. Your town is waiting to be seen from a whole new seat.
VenturaPaws Off Xylitol – It’s Dangerous for Dogs
We all know that look—the one our dog gives us when we’re slicing up a peanut butter sandwich or reaching for a stick of gum. But according to a recent piece in the *Ventura Breeze*, that innocent treat could hide a serious danger. The article reminds us that xylitol, a common sugar substitute found in everything from sugar-free candies to toothpaste, is highly toxic to dogs. And here in Ventura, where we love taking our pups to the beach or on a hike in the Ojai foothills, it’s worth keeping a closer eye on what’s in our picnic bags and bathroom cabinets. What really hits home is that many of us don’t think twice about sharing a little “human” snack with our four-legged friends. But xylitol can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and even liver failure in dogs, even in small amounts. So next time you’re grabbing a protein bar for the trail or stocking up on sugar-free gum at the grocery store, take a second to check the label. A little awareness can save us all a stressful trip to the vet—and keep our furry companions safe for many more beach days to come.