QUICK LINKS:
Find our curated recs for those looking for more between concerts! Check out a few of our friends and partners, as well as our staff members’ favorite places.
Friends and Partners
Beato Chocolates Tasting/Talk Experience
Gather friends for a delightful and delectable journey
Beato Chocolates is a tribute to the audacious spirit and historic relevance of Beatrice “Beato” Wood, the “Mama of Dada.” Inspired by her avant-garde legacy, our woman-owned, artist-focused brand handcrafts Fair Trade Certified chocolate bars using the finest ingredients. Each bar is a fusion of art and flavor, featuring Wood’s original artwork and witty expressions.
Using Beato chocolates (including six different Beato Bars and one sculptural chocolate) as touchpoints, we will take participants on a journey of the Dada art movement and Wood’s life story while they sample each bar. (Minimum of 4 people, $30/person)
Ojai Studio Artists Open Tour
Enter into the spaces of local visual creatives
The June Second Saturday (June 13 from 10am to 5pm) will open 10 studios across the East End and Upper Ojai, among the wide vistas, citrus orchards, and stunning mountain views of these neighborhoods.
The June 13 event, like all Second Saturdays, is entirely free – and you can find participating artists and samples of each artist’s work below, to help plan your “choose-your-own adventure” tour.
GARA Skincare Fragrance Experience
Make your own natural fragrance
GARA invites you to embark on an aromatic journey where the wisdom of the garden converges with the art of perfume-making. Immerse yourself in the enticing world of essential oils and discover their impact on the body, mind, and spirit. As we explore the basics of aromatherapy and the art of crafting a personalized scent, you’ll get to create your own bespoke fragrance with our curated selection of high-quality natural extracts and essential oils.
Staff Picks
Maddy’s Thursday Afternoon/Evening
Patron Services and Development Coordinator, Intern Alum 2021
“My ideal Thursday at the Festival would start with attending the Ojai Talks, then heading downtown to find a good parking spot between Fox and Signal Streets. I’d wander around the Ojai Community Farmer’s Market, probably buying some fresh-cut flowers and Bonito Coffee beans for the week.
I’d then meet friends for dinner at Izakaya Full Moon, an intimate spot serving Japanese favorites and an ever-rotating list of specials. The Corn Kagi-age, Agedashi Tofu, and the Chef’s Choice Nigiri are my favorite menu items. Dinner would be followed by a walk to Libbey Park, setting up a spot on the Lawn with cozy blankets and a glass of wine, and enjoying the first concert of the Ojai Music Festival.”
Anna’s Saturday Morning
Director of Philanthropy
“My perfect Saturday starts with Morning Meditation at the Ojai Meadows Preserve—there’s something peaceful and grounding about beginning the day surrounded by nature and music. Afterward, I’d head into town, find parking, and grab a coffee from Pinhole’s coffee van in Libbey Park. After the morning concert, I’d take a scenic drive to Upper Ojai for lunch at The Summit Drive-In. My go-to is the Western BBQ bacon burger, and you have to try one of their famous milkshakes. I’d take lunch to go and drive up to Avatar Point at Meher Mount for one of the most breathtaking views in Ojai. Then, it’s time to head back into downtown Ojai for more Festival events!”
Liz’s Saturday Afternoon/Evening
Patron Services Manager, Intern Alum 2019
“For me, the best way to experience the Ojai Music Festival is by embracing the town’s natural beauty, eclectic shops, and local flavors—preferably by bike.
My day begins by browsing my favorite vintage and thrift shops on foot. Stops include Gratitude Vintage and Help of Ojai, where I dig for treasures, especially vinyl records. Just in time for the 3:30 PM Beyond the Bowl concert, I pedal over to Ojai Valley School, taking in the fresh air and rolling hills along the way.
For dinner, my go-to is Zadiee’s at Soule Park Golf Course, located at the eastern end of the bike path. If the weather’s warm, I always request a patio seat for the stunning views. My usual order? An iced tea and either the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich or the Baja Tacos. As the sun sets, I meander back along the bike path toward Libbey Park, where I unwind in the Green Room in the Park, hoping to catch a surprise musical pop-up before the 8PM Libbey Bowl concert.
It’s a perfect Ojai day—one filled with music, nature, and the town’s unique charm.”
Fiona’s Sunday Afternoon
Producer and Artistic Administrator.
“I’d start my day by attending the Morning Meditation. From there, I’d head up to Shelf Road for an easy hike with a great view of Ojai that isn’t too far out of town.
Then it’s back into downtown to spend some time shopping at the upstairs portion of Bungalow, a local shop featuring handmade goods and gifts. The upstairs room has amazingly high-quality clothing items.
Then, I’d end the morning with a 30-minute chair massage at the Relaxing Station before the Festival’s final concert.”