Ever feel like getting out of the big city, taking a trip to the country while enjoying the ocean breeze? Look no further than your very own backyard (so to speak), Ventura County Fair. A little bit of country, looking over the ocean and one and a half hours from the Inland Empire.

Every year the Ventura County Fair is a highly anticipated event. Beginning August 5 and running until the 16^th. Music headliners include David Cook (American Idol winner), Gretchen Wilson, Good Charlotte, Clay Walker, Lee Ann Womack, Huey Lewis & The News, El Chapo and Josh Turner. Entertainment also includes motorsports on August 5 & 6 and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Rodeo on August 15 & 16.

For all the horse fiends, the Friesian Horse Show will be held all day August 5^th. The Draft, Carriage and Mule Show will be held August 7^th-9^th and the English Show will be held August 12^th & 13^th. Every farm animal the imagination can conjure will be there competing for the best in show and interactions with these wonderful creatures are guaranteed.

Friesian horse and rider -- Drassage Style

Talent abounds with specialties such as train models, ship models, photography, artwork and even plants. Several youth activities will be held including Farmer for a Day and pedal tractor racing. Take a ride on the ferris wheel and have the best ocean view in Ventura County, while enjoying the balmy temperatures of the ocean front fairgrounds. Then when you’re finished at the fair, take a walk on the white sands of Ventura Beach and enjoy the sunset.

Parking in the fairgrounds costs $10 but is limited. There are also free shuttles for parking outside the fairgrounds. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for children and seniors and children under five are free. Dollar days are Wednesday August 5^th and Wednesday August 12^th, where admission is $1 for everyone until 3 pm.

Why suffer in the hot valley when you can take a day trip the Ventura County Fair.