Bands and Boards Keep Crowds Busy at Beach Festival

Thousands of people filled Ventura’s beachfront Saturday for a day of entertainment and sports at the weekend California Beach Festival.

The event started at 6 a.m. with a surfing competition, which continued into the evening along with a volleyball tournament.

As temperatures reached 75 degrees, those who just came to relax soaked up the sun and listened to Chuck Rio and the Champs and Elmo and the Cosmos.

“We had great weather, a great crowd and we’re sending the summer off in style,” said spokeswoman Andrea Anderson.

Youngsters filled the kids’ area, riding ponies and playing miniature golf.

Some shook hands with Daffy Duck, who visited from Six Flags Magic Mountain.

The festival continues today with bands including the Pink Cadillacs, Red Elvises, Swing Kings and Blowin’ Smoke. Famed surf guitarist Dick Dale headlines the festival at 3 p.m.

Metrolink is offering a free train ride to and from the event. It originates in Chatsworth at 9:10 a.m., with stops in Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo and Oxnard. A return train will leave the beach at 3:30 p.m.

“Plan for a warm, fun, lots-of-entertainment-filled day,” Anderson said. “Definitely bring sunscreen and maybe a hat.”

Admission is $6 general and $4 for seniors. Children 12 and under are admitted free.

For more information, call 654-7830.