Artisans and crafters from throughout California will display their creations at the 40th Annual California Strawberry Festival, May 16-17 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd.

Items on display include ceramics, wearables, paintings, jewelry, candles, accessories, and specialty foods.

In keeping with spirit of the festival, many of the almost 150 artisans and crafters have created original, strawberry-themed items.

“Festivalgoers can always find something unique and new with our artists,” said Dana Hale-Mounier, director of Pacific Fine Arts Festivals and coordinator of the festival’s arts and craft booths. “For many festivalgoers, browsing the artisan booths is a highlight of their festival visit.”

Susan Wang-Selfridge is the artist behind Infinite Light Creations, a Ventura-based handmade brand that offers messages of kindness, positivity, and environmental awareness through her designs.

Some of her items on display will include strawberry-themed t-shirts, keychains, bags, stickers, and her newl Infinite Light Riders, featuring her signature strawberry characters.

“The California Strawberry Festival is a truly joyful and inspiring community event. It brings together creativity, culture, and connection, and I feel honored to share my artwork in a space that celebrates both artistry and giving,” said Wang-Selfridge.

Coralie’s Creations offers hand-knit hats (including strawberry designs) and hand-painted canvas bags. “Last year was our first time at the California Strawberry Festival and we loved it,” said owner Coralie Rebello. “Our unique items were a hit with the shoppers, and we sold out all our strawberry hats and bags.”

The California Strawberry Festival also features some 50 food and beverage booths, many with a strawberry dish or drink made from locally grown strawberries. Other attractions are live entertainment on multiple stages, Strawberryland for Kids, carnival rides, and a $7 build-your-own Strawberry Shortcake Experience.

Festival general admission is $15, active military with ID and family and seniors ages 62-plus, $10, youth ages 5-12, $8, and children 4 and under are free.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.CAStrawberryFestival.org or upon entry to the festival.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to use the free shuttles that will run every 15 minutes from nearby locations in Oxnard and Ventura. Metrolink and Amtrak’s Surfliner make regular stops throughout the festival weekend with discounted fares. The train station is located steps from the fairgrounds.

For more, visit www.castrawberryfestival.org.