OXNARD’S DEEP ROOTS Learn about Oxnard’s history as an agricultural powerhouse and shop citywide farmers markets.

Oxnard’s Deep Roots

Don’t skip a beet at Oxnard’s spectacular farmers markets. by Alejandra Cerball

Take a drive to Oxnard, and it’s easy to see why this coastal town is the ideal place for strawberries, lemons and avocados to grow. With perfect year-round weather, Oxnard ships produce worldwide and is California’s largest strawberry producer, with the California Strawberry Festival held at Oxnard’s College Park each spring.

How Oxnard Became an Agricultural Powerhouse

Oxnard was built on agriculture. In 1897, Albert Maulhardt and Johannes Borchard planted sugar beets in town. Soon after, Henry T. Oxnard built the Sugar Beet Factory and a railroad line to transport the products. Although the Sugar Beet Factory was demolished in 1959, Oxnard is still the place to visit for top fresh produce.

Oxnard’s Best Farmers Markets

For the best fruit and veggies in town, visit Oxnard’s farmers markets. The Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market is the place to be for locally grown produce, nuts and honey. The market is open every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Grab a cup of coffee or a smoothie and head to the beach for a morning stroll before they open.

Busy on the weekends? Bring your reusable shopping bags and introduce yourself to fresh local produce at the Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Hidden Gems Worth Exploring

On our list of the top hidden gems in Oxnard, you’ll find the Oxnard Historic Farm Park. The structures on this one-acre farm date back to 1870. Step back in time and explore the vintage tractors and bean threshers, and check out the barley, corn, sugar beets and lima beans grown on-site. The park is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. or by appointment.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, family getaway or weekend adventure, Oxnard is a must-visit destination to add to your list. Visit our beaches, kayak in the Channel Islands Harbor, and stock up on your favorite veggies and fresh fruit before you head home. We can’t wait to see you here! O

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1: Reap the rewards of an Oxnard harvest; 2: Take in the sights of Oxnard’s vast farmlands; 3: Find fresh produce at Oxnard’s farmers markets.