Ventura Fair traffic changes begin Wednesday; California Street closes daily

Traffic controls around the Ventura County Fairgrounds and Downtown Ventura are scheduled to begin Wednesday, July 29, as the 2026 Ventura County Fair opens.

The Ventura Police Department says drivers should expect delays, increased pedestrian activity and temporary road closures during the fair, which runs through Sunday, August 9. The department issued its traffic-safety notice on July 24.

Scheduled street closures

Southbound Figueroa Street between Thompson Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard is scheduled to remain closed for the duration of the fair.

Southbound California Street between Thompson Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard is scheduled to close each day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The fair is open daily from noon to 11 p.m., with an earlier 11 a.m. opening on Tuesday, August 4.

Drivers who normally use either southbound route should plan an alternate path before reaching the fairgrounds. These are scheduled event traffic controls, not permanent changes to Ventura’s street network.

Expect delays and more pedestrians

Ventura Police are warning of heavier traffic and increased pedestrian activity around the fairgrounds and throughout Downtown Ventura. Drivers should allow extra time, use caution near crossings and watch for people walking between the fair, nearby businesses and transportation stops.

The department says it will maintain a visible and proactive public-safety presence inside the fairgrounds, including increased foot patrols, the Mounted Patrol Unit and an on-site command post.

Fairgrounds parking is extremely limited

The Ventura County Fair says parking at the fairgrounds is extremely limited and available only in the Main Lot. Organizers strongly encourage visitors to use off-site shuttle locations to avoid congestion and improve their chances of finding parking.

Shuttles begin running one hour before the fair opens and operate continuously until 11:30 p.m. Parking is free at the shuttle locations except San Buenaventura State Beach, where parking is listed at $10. Ventura pickup locations include Pacific View Mall, Ventura High School, De Anza Middle School, the Government Center and Ventura Community Park.

Visitors should review the fair’s posted shuttle locations and travel times before leaving home. Shuttle availability is separate from the limited parking at the fairgrounds.

Pacific Surfliner discount is available for qualifying trips

The Pacific Surfliner is offering a 20% discount for travel to the Ventura County Fairgrounds. The offer is valid for bookings made July 15 through August 9, 2026, for travel dates from July 29 through August 9, 2026.

Travelers can use the Pacific Surfliner’s booking button and select “Adult” as the passenger type, or book through the Amtrak website or app and enter promotion code V510. The Ventura station is located near the fairgrounds, providing an alternative to driving and searching for parking.

Plan ahead through August 9

Commuters using southbound Figueroa Street or California Street near Thompson Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard should choose alternate routes and expect slower travel near the fairgrounds during the fair’s 12-day run.

Visitors can reduce driving pressure in the area by reviewing shuttle-lot information or checking whether the Pacific Surfliner promotion fits their trip. For residents, workers and businesses, the key timing issue is the daily 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. California Street closure and the expected increase in traffic and pedestrian activity through Sunday, August 9.

Sources

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