By Ventura Breeze Staff –
The highly anticipated Ventura Earth Day Festival returns to downtown Ventura on Saturday, April 19 from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm at Plaza Park on East Thompson Street. Hosted by the MERITO Foundation in partnership with the City of Ventura Sustainability Division and in collaboration with Downtown Ventura Partners, this year’s event promises to be a vibrant celebration of our planet, our health, and our future.
With over 30 environmentally-focused exhibitors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, utility companies, sustainable businesses, and outdoor recreation groups, the Ventura Earth Day Festival is the place to be for anyone passionate about sustainability, clean energy, and eco-friendly living. This year’s theme, “Healthy Planet, Healthy People!”, emphasizes the deep connection between environmental health and human well-being. Festival Highlights:
• Opening Blessing: The event will begin with a powerful blessing from Chumash elder Julie Tumamait-Stenslie, honoring the rich cultural history of the land.
• Keynote Speaker: Hear from Ventura’s Mayor, Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios, who will deliver a speech on the city’s sustainability efforts and vision for a greener future.
• Live Performances: Enjoy a full day of music and dance from local artists, including Mariachi & Ballet Folklórico by Inlakech Cultural Arts Center, smooth Jazz from the Cabrillo Middle School Jazz Band and Jazz Trio, and a lively Blue Grass performance by the Van Allen Twins. The festival will close with an exciting Mexica Danza ceremony honoring Tonatzin, performed by Kalpulli Huitzilin Ihuan Xochitl.
• Electric Vehicle Showcase: Get up close with over 25 cutting-edge Electric Vehicles (EVs), showcasing the latest in sustainable transportation, including EVs used in business and by municipal organizations, as well as privately owned electric cars. Learn from EV Advocates of Ventura County and discover how to drive into the future with clean energy.
• Kids’ Zone: Little ones will love the hands-on activities led by Bell Arts, providing a fun, interactive way to learn about sustainability.
• Free Bike Valet Parking: Biking to the event? We’ve got you covered with free bike valet parking to keep your wheels safe while you enjoy the festival!
The Ventura Earth Day Festival 2025 is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, including The Port of Hueneme, Postmates, the Outdoor Equity Grant through AB 209 and California State Parks, and in-kind contributions from eco-conscious businesses like Open Water, Patagonia, The Refill Shoppe, Spiro Printing, Blue Ocean Productions, and Farm Fresh to You.
• How to Get There: Organizers encourage attendees to carpool, bike, or use public transportation to get to Plaza Park. There’s also a public parking lot just half a block away on Santa Clara St.
For more information about this free event visit https://meritostaff.wixsite.com/meritoearthday
