thumb arial,sans-serif;”>At CHOWDERFEST 2015, local restaurants will compete for “Best Chowder” bragging rights at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum on Saturday, Aug 8 from 4:00 pm until 8:30pm. Guests will taste a variety of chowders and vote on their favorite. Ventura County Wine Trail wineries and Firestone Walker Brewery will offer wine and beer tastings, with live music from local bands Kelly’s Lot, Theresa Russell, and Ukulele Larry. Fun activities for the whole family include navigation games, face painting, pirate boat sails, free admission to the Maritime Museum, and 9pm outdoor showing of “Kon Tiki” – bring your own blanket and/or beach chairs for the movie. Some chairs will be available, but you might be more comfortable with your own and the Museum provides the popcorn.

Pre-paid cost is $25 for adults (includes samples of chowders, sides, wine, beer, dessert, and popcorn with the movie) and $5 for children under 12. Admission at the door is $30 for adults and $10 for children. Full servings of wine, beer and chowder are available for $5. Space is limited and pre-sale ticket purchases are encouraged. CHOWDERFEST is a collaboration between the International Order of Blue Gavel (an association of former yacht club commodores), local IOBG Yacht Clubs, Channel Islands Harbor (celebrating its 50th Anniversary), the Ventura County Wine Trail wineries, participating restaurants, and the Maritime Museum, celebrating its 25th anniversary.

The Maritime Museum is open daily 11-5 pm. Located at Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor, 3900 South Harbor Boulevard, on Bluefin Circle, permanent exhibits include a seascape gallery of rare and beautiful maritime paintings dating back to the 1600’s, more than sixty world-class models of historic ships, and interactive contemporary exhibits. Museum entry is $5 Adults, $4 Seniors, $2 Children. Info: CIMMVC.org or 805.984.6260.