Downtown Oxnard’s monthly art walk
I’ve been curious to see what’s happening in Downtown Oxnard. I keep hearing about all the new restaurants, clubs, and art venues, so I decided to use Downtown Oxnard’s monthly art walk, Art Beat 2nd Saturdays, as an opportunity to see what all the hype is about.
Art Beat is a great way to take in everything Downtown Oxnard has to offer. This monthly event happens on the 2nd Saturday, starts in the early afternoon and goes into the night. It is just over six months old and still in its infancy; however, with a little nurturing and support, Oxnard’s Art Beat has the potential to become a choice destination for those looking to experience art and culture.
If you haven’t been to Downtown Oxnard recently, when you go, you will find a comforting blend of classic nostalgic charm and modern entertainment. With museums, galleries, live theater, community gardens, wine tasting, dancing, dining, and a movie theater all within walking distance of each other, there is no wonder why Oxnard decided to make this the home of its monthly art walk.
Downtown Oxnard is home to the charming Heritage Square, a square block of turn of the century, late 1800’s homes that have been restored and are now occupied by businesses. Here you can see a play at the Elite Theater, go wine tasting at Rancho Ventavo Cellars, or eat a four-star rated Mediterranean and Italian fusion cuisine at La Dolce Vita Ristorante & Lounge.
The classic landmark of the 1950’s Woolworth’s building has kept its vintage feel and is now home of the Fresh & Fabulous cafe. This award winning café is open for breakfast and lunch, so arrive early if you wish to see the local art hanging on the wall.
Just down the street is the historic Carnegie Museum where you can attend regular poetry readings, artist talks, workshops, and art openings. This building was built in 1906 and was Oxnard Library’s original home.
If you’re in the mood for modern entertainment, Centennial Plaza is the place for you. With its state of the art Plaza Cinemas, coffee shop, restaurants and dance clubs you can take this artwalk into the twilight.
This is only a small snip-pit of what Downtown Oxnard has to offer. If you include the the beautifully maintained Craftsman, Spanish Colonial and Bunglalo homes of the adjacent Henry T. Oxnard National Historic District, there is over 150 historic landmarks, and over 40 international dining options within a few square miles.
Overall, my experience at Downtown Oxnard’s Art Beat was enjoyable. The quality and breath of businesses in Downtown Oxnard, along with the care and pride the business and community members have for this area, makes it a pleasant place to visit. Although I didn’t get to see as much art as I wanted, I can see this turning into a cherished event once the artist and the public are aware of the opportunities and fun that can be had in this historic downtown.
For more information visit www.oxnardartbeat.com
Photos by Mark Whitaker and downtownoxnard.org
