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Wine lovers, mark your calendars! The 37th Ojai Wine Festival is coming to beautiful Lake Casitas on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Running from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this beloved event promises to be the perfect way to kick off your summer.

You'll enjoy an incredible selection of wines, breweries, and spirits while soaking in the stunning lakeside views that make this festival so special. The experience goes beyond just sipping great drinks – you can look forward to live music, dancing, and plenty of fun activities throughout the day.

While browsing the festival, don't miss the artisan market, silent auctions, and other entertainment that rounds out this premier wine event. Tickets for the 2025 Ojai Wine Festival are now available.

Ojai Wine Festival 2025: Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Weekend

The Spirit of Ojai

Ojai's distinctive charm and character set it apart as a haven for wine enthusiasts and visitors seeking authentic California experiences. The local culture infuses the wine festival with a unique ambiance you won't find anywhere else.

Why Ojai Is Unique

Nestled in a picturesque valley just 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Ojai offers a refreshing escape from city life with its small-town atmosphere. You'll immediately notice the famous “pink moment” when the setting sun casts a rosy glow on the Topatopa Mountains – a natural phenomenon that symbolizes the magic of this special place.

The area's unique microclimate creates perfect conditions for growing distinctive grapes, giving Ojai wines their characteristic flavor profiles. Local vineyards benefit from warm days and cool nights, thanks to the valley's east-west orientation (rare in California).

When you visit during the Ojai Wine Festival, you'll experience this charming town of just 7,500 residents that somehow manages to punch above its weight in arts, culture, and culinary excellence.

Cultural Richness

Ojai's vibrant arts scene complements its wine culture beautifully. The town has long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and writers seeking inspiration in its tranquil setting.

You'll find numerous galleries showcasing local talent throughout Ventura County, with many artists participating in the festival's artisan market. The Ojai Wine Festival incorporates live music that reflects the area's diverse cultural influences.

The community embraces a wellness philosophy that extends to their approach to food and wine – focusing on quality, sustainability, and mindful enjoyment. This philosophy is evident in the festival's emphasis on small-batch, artisanal producers.

During your visit, be sure to explore downtown Ojai's Spanish-style arcade, filled with boutiques selling locally-made goods that reflect the region's creative spirit.

Local Traditions

The tradition of winemaking in Ojai dates back generations, with some family vineyards passing down techniques through multiple generations. You'll find many vintners eager to share stories of their heritage during tastings.

The annual festival itself has become a beloved tradition, celebrating its 37th year in 2025. It's scheduled for Saturday, June 21, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at beautiful Lake Casitas.

During the holiday season, Ojai transforms with twinkling lights and festive markets where local wines make perfect gifts. Though the wine festival occurs in summer, the community's commitment to celebrating local bounty continues year-round.

What makes the event particularly special is how it serves as a vital fundraiser for local causes, combining wine appreciation with community support – a perfect reflection of Ojai's generous spirit.

Festival Overview

The Ojai Wine Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable day of premium wines, delicious food, and entertainment at the beautiful Lake Casitas. This beloved community tradition combines scenic views with exceptional tasting opportunities.

Key Highlights

The 37th Ojai Wine Festival will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, offering you a chance to sample from an impressive variety of wines, breweries, and spirits. You'll enjoy live music throughout the event, creating the perfect backdrop as you sip and socialize.

Don't miss the silent auctions where you can bid on unique items while supporting local causes. The festival also features an artisan market where you can browse handcrafted goods from local vendors.

One of the most popular activities is the free boat rides on Lake Casitas—a perfect break between tastings! The festival atmosphere balances relaxation with celebration, making it ideal for both serious wine enthusiasts and casual visitors.

Ticketing and Schedule

The festival runs from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, giving you four full hours to explore all the offerings at Lake Casitas Recreation Area. Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this popular annual event.

Your ticket includes wine and beer tasting privileges plus a commemorative wine glass. For the best deal, purchase your tickets in advance through the official festival website.

The event follows a walk-around format, allowing you to taste at your own pace from over 25 participating wineries. Regional producers are prominently featured, giving you a true taste of California's diverse wine scene.

Food options will be plentiful with more than twenty chefs showcasing their culinary creations. You can pair these delicious bites with your favorite wine discoveries.

Wine Tasting Galore

The Ojai Wine Festival offers an incredible selection of award-winning wines for you to discover. You'll have the opportunity to sample diverse varieties from California's finest wine regions while enjoying the beautiful Lake Casitas setting.

Featured Wineries

Expect to see an impressive lineup of wineries at the 37th Ojai Wine Festival happening on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The festival traditionally showcases boutique wineries from renowned regions like Paso Robles, offering you tastes you might not find elsewhere.

Many participating wineries bring their signature vintages, from bold reds to crisp whites. You'll have the chance to chat directly with winemakers and representatives who are passionate about their craft.

Look for special festival-only offerings and limited releases that make this event unique. Previous years have featured over 60 wineries, giving you plenty of options to discover new favorites.

Tasting Tips and Tricks

Start with lighter wines before moving to bolder varieties to keep your palate fresh. White wines, rosés, then reds is a good progression to follow.

Don't forget to:

• Drink plenty of water between tastings
• Use the provided dump buckets if needed
• Take notes on your favorites
• Eat throughout the day to pace yourself

The festival runs from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, so plan your tasting strategy accordingly. Consider sharing tastings with friends to try more varieties without overwhelming your senses.

Remember that the Monterey Wine Festival style of tasting applies here too – small sips let you appreciate the flavors better than large gulps. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential as you'll be on your feet moving between tasting stations.

Culinary Experience

The Ojai Wine Festival 2025 pairs exceptional wines with magnificent food offerings created by talented culinary artists. Festival-goers can expect a delightful fusion of flavors that highlight both local ingredients and global cuisine techniques.

Gourmet Food Pairings

You'll discover a wealth of gourmet delights perfectly matched with the festival's wine selections at the 37th Ojai Wine Festival on June 21, 2025. Local artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and farm-fresh vegetables take center stage, enhancing your tasting experience.

Food stations are strategically placed throughout the Lake Casitas venue, allowing you to sample different cuisines as you explore the festival grounds. Don't miss the seafood bar featuring fresh oysters and shrimp that pair beautifully with crisp white wines.

Several local restaurants will showcase their signature dishes in bite-sized portions. These small plates are designed specifically to complement the wine varieties being poured.

Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful too, with creative plant-based dishes that prove fine dining isn't just for meat eaters.

Meet the Chefs

The festival brings together an impressive lineup of culinary talent, drawing inspiration from the broader Ojai Food + Wine community. You'll have opportunities to interact directly with chefs as they prepare dishes and explain their pairing philosophies.

Look for cooking demonstrations scheduled throughout the day where chefs will reveal their techniques and share tips you can use at home. These sessions are casual and interactive – perfect for foodies of all experience levels.

Several chefs from renowned Ojai Valley restaurants will be present, alongside visiting talent from across California's vibrant culinary world. Many emphasize farm-to-table practices, showcasing the region's agricultural bounty.

Don't be shy about asking questions! The chefs love discussing their craft and are happy to suggest wine pairings or explain their ingredient choices.

Live Entertainment

The Ojai Wine Festival 2025 brings you not just amazing wines and food, but also fantastic entertainment to elevate your experience. Get ready to dance, enjoy great tunes, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere by the beautiful Lake Casitas.

Music Lineup

Santa Barbara's #1 Dance Music Band, Area 51, will be performing at the festival from 12-4pm on Saturday, June 21, 2025. You'll want to bring your dancing shoes because this popular group knows how to get the crowd moving!

The lakeside dance floor becomes a hotspot as the day progresses, with many festival-goers enjoying the perfect combination of wine and rhythm. Much like the beloved Ojai Blues Fest, this wine festival puts significant emphasis on quality live music to complement your tasting experience.

Several local artists will rotate throughout the day, ensuring that whatever time you arrive, you'll be treated to excellent music that matches the laid-back yet festive Ojai vibe.

Performances to Watch

Beyond the main band, you'll find various performance areas scattered throughout the festival grounds. The entertainment options include more than just music – expect some surprise performances that add to the festival atmosphere.

Look out for acoustic sets in the artisan market area, where you can shop while enjoying mellower tunes. Some vendors even coordinate mini wine-pairing demonstrations with musical accompaniment.

Don't miss the impromptu dance lessons that often happen near the main stage! Even if you've got two left feet, the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to join in.

The boat rides on the lake offer another unique entertainment experience where you can take a break from the main festival while still enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Lake Casitas.

Lake Casitas Adventures

The stunning backdrop of Lake Casitas enhances your wine festival experience with gorgeous views and numerous activities to enjoy before or after sampling wines. You'll find plenty to do at this beautiful Ventura County recreation area when you attend the Ojai Wine Festival on June 21, 2025.

Festival Grounds

The festival grounds at Lake Casitas Recreation Area provide a picturesque setting for the 37th Ojai Wine Festival. You'll be able to relax on grassy areas that slope gently toward the lake, creating natural amphitheater-style seating with incredible views.

Large oak trees dot the landscape, offering welcome shade during the warm June afternoon. The main tasting area stretches across the waterfront, allowing you to sip while enjoying the breeze off the water.

Food vendors and artisan booths line the pathways, creating a festive marketplace atmosphere. You'll find plenty of seating areas to relax with friends, plus a central stage where live music plays throughout the event.

Parking is convenient and plentiful, with shuttle service available from overflow lots during this popular event.

Water Activities

Before or after the wine festivities, you can make a full day of your visit by enjoying Lake Casitas' recreational offerings. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the lake's reputation for excellent bass fishing—rent gear at the marina if you didn't bring your own.

Kayak and paddleboard rentals let you explore the peaceful coves of this no-body-contact reservoir. The morning hours before the 12:00 PM festival start time are perfect for a quiet paddle.

Hiking trails surrounding the lake offer varying difficulty levels with stunning vistas of the Ventura countryside. The paved Lake Casitas Recreation Path is perfect for a casual stroll to work up your wine-tasting appetite.

Birdwatching opportunities abound, with over 275 species recorded in the area. Bring binoculars to spot eagles, herons, and osprey along the shoreline.

Brews and Spirits Corner

While wine takes center stage at the Ojai Wine Festival, you'll find an impressive selection of craft beers and artisanal spirits to sample throughout the event grounds.

Craft Beer Atlas

This year's Ojai Wine Festival has expanded its craft beer offerings to include more local breweries than ever before. You'll discover a dedicated pavilion where North America's pioneering non-alcoholic craft brewery, Bravus Brewing Company, will be serving their innovative zero-alcohol options.

Several Ventura County breweries are bringing their A-game with limited-edition festival brews made specifically for this event. Don't miss the beer and food pairing demonstrations happening hourly at the Beer Education Tent.

The festival organizers, En Fuego Events, have curated a diverse selection that includes everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers. With over 30 breweries participating, you'll want to pace yourself!

Masters of Mixology

The spirits section has been completely revamped for 2025, featuring an impressive array of local and regional distilleries. You'll find mixologists creating custom cocktails using fresh ingredients from Ojai Valley's farms.

The interactive mixology stations let you learn hands-on techniques from professionals while creating your own signature festival drink. Popular options include the “Ojai Sunset” featuring local citrus and herbs.

Keep an eye out for the specialty tasting flights where you can sample award-winning spirits in small portions. The distillery representatives are super friendly and love sharing the stories behind their craft.

Demonstration schedules are posted at the entrance, so you won't miss the chance to learn from the best in the business. Many mixologists will be using fresh produce from The Berry Man for truly farm-to-glass cocktails.

Arts and Crafts Showcase

The Ojai Wine Festival isn't just about amazing wines and craft beers – it's also a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. You'll find an impressive array of local artists and artisans displaying their unique works throughout the festival grounds.

Artisan Market

At the 2025 Ojai Wine Festival, you'll discover a diverse collection of craft vendors showcasing their handmade treasures. The Artisan Market features talented vendors like Anacapa Cherry Co., Cali Bracelet, and Jessie and Sky displaying their distinctive creations.

While browsing with glass in hand, you can explore the beautiful handcrafted jewelry, unique clothing, and decorative items that make perfect souvenirs.

Don't miss Matilja Vintage Trailer's charming offerings or the wine education booth by Crush It Wine Education where you can deepen your appreciation for what you're tasting.

The market creates the perfect opportunity to support local artisans while enjoying the festival atmosphere at Lake Casitas on June 21, 2025.

Art Installations

Beyond the vendor booths, the festival grounds transform into an open-air gallery with captivating art installations that complement the natural beauty of Lake Casitas.

You'll encounter eye-catching sculptures, interactive displays, and creative exhibits strategically placed throughout the venue, creating perfect photo opportunities between wine tastings.

Local artists use various mediums to reflect the Ojai Valley's distinctive culture and natural environment, adding another dimension to your festival experience.

Many installations incorporate wine-related themes – from repurposed barrel art to light installations that cast colorful reflections on the lake as evening approaches.

These artistic elements help create the unique ambiance that makes the Ojai Wine Festival more than just a tasting event – it's a complete sensory experience celebrating the region's creative spirit.

Charity and Community

The Ojai Wine Festival isn't just about enjoying great wine and food by the beautiful Lake Casitas. Your ticket purchase directly benefits important local causes, with the majority of funds supporting youth activities, education, and women's and children's health programs.

Silent Auction Details

The festival features an exciting silent auction where you can bid on unique items while supporting community projects. You'll find an impressive array of local goods, services, and experiences up for grabs during the June 21, 2025 event.

Items typically include:

• Wine packages from participating vineyards
• Restaurant gift certificates
• Local artwork and crafts
• Vacation getaways
• Spa treatments

Bidding stations are conveniently located throughout the festival grounds. You can check on your bids throughout the day, with winners announced before the festival closes at 4:00 PM.

Supporting Local Causes

When you purchase a ticket to the Ojai Wine Festival, you're making a direct impact on the community. As highlighted in a recent Instagram post, “Your ticket supports youth programs, community projects, and local charities.”

The Rotary Club of Ojai West organizes this annual event as their primary fundraiser. Over the 37-year history of the festival, they've raised substantial funds for:

• Educational scholarships for local students
• After-school programs and youth activities
• Women's and children's health initiatives
• Community improvement projects

Your day of wine tasting and lakeside enjoyment translates into real benefits for Ojai residents. The festival has become an important tradition not just for wine enthusiasts but for anyone who values giving back to their community.

Exploring the Vicinity

While visiting the Ojai Wine Festival in June 2025, you'll find plenty to explore in the surrounding areas. Ventura County offers beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and diverse activities just a short drive from Lake Casitas.

Day Trips

Ventura makes for a perfect day excursion with its gorgeous beaches and historic downtown. You can stroll along the pier, browse local shops, or enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views. It's just a 20-minute drive from Ojai.

Camarillo offers excellent shopping at the Premium Outlets if you're looking to score some deals between wine tastings. The pleasant Mediterranean climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.

Conejo Valley presents a more suburban experience with hiking trails at Wildwood Regional Park and the California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks. You'll appreciate the mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Simi Valley houses the impressive Ronald Reagan Presidential Library if you're interested in history. The library features exhibits, gardens, and even Air Force One. This valley provides a different perspective of Southern California away from the coast.

Local Attractions

Lake Casitas Recreation Area extends beyond the wine festival grounds. You can rent boats, fish, or hike numerous trails around the lake. The Wildlife Area provides opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with nature.

Downtown Ojai captivates visitors with its Spanish-style arcade filled with art galleries, boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants. Don't miss the famous “pink moment” sunset that bathes the Topatopa Mountains in rosy hues.

The Ojai Food & Wine scene extends beyond the festival with local olive oil producers and citrus orchards offering tours and tastings. Many farms welcome visitors for pick-your-own experiences and demonstrations.

Meditation Mount provides spectacular panoramic views of the valley. You can walk the peaceful gardens or participate in guided meditation sessions for a moment of tranquility after a day of wine tasting.

Planning Your Visit

Attending the Ojai Wine Festival requires some preparation to ensure you make the most of this delightful event. Here's what you need to know to plan a smooth, enjoyable visit to Lake Casitas on June 21, 2025.

Accommodations

Looking for a place to stay after enjoying unlimited wine tastings at the festival? You'll want to book accommodations well in advance, as Ojai gets busy during festival weekends.

Ojai offers various lodging options ranging from boutique hotels to charming B&Bs and vacation rentals. Consider staying in downtown Ojai for access to restaurants and shops when you're not at the festival.

If you're on a budget, nearby Ventura also offers more affordable hotel options just a short drive away from Lake Casitas.

Pro tip: Many festival-goers book their accommodations 3-6 months in advance, so don't wait until the last minute!

Travel Tips

Getting to the Ojai Wine Festival is easy with several transportation options. A free shuttle runs from Ojai to Lake Casitas every half hour, making it simple to attend without driving.

If you're driving, the festival site is located at Lake Casitas Recreation Area's Wadleigh Arm Event Area (11093 Santa Ana Road, Ventura, CA 93001). Carpooling is recommended since parking can get crowded.

For those flying in, the nearest airports are in Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. From there, you can rent a car or use rideshare services to reach Ojai.

Remember the festival runs from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (11:00 AM entry for VIP ticket holders). Arrive early to make the most of your day and avoid the rush!