The California Avocado Festival in Carpinteria, CA is a renowned event that celebrates the beloved avocado and its rich history in the region. Established in 1986, this annual festival was created to benefit local non-profit groups and promote Carpinteria as a Southern California getaway destination. California's avocado production is significant, with Carpinteria being a major contributor as it is located in Santa Barbara County, the third-largest avocado producer in North America.

The festival takes place in October, the sunniest month with the least rainfall, making it the perfect time to enjoy the festivities. Over the years, the California Avocado Festival has grown into one of the largest in the state, attracting over 100,000 avocado enthusiasts. The three-day event offers a wide variety of delicious food, fantastic music, and enjoyable family activities.

This festival stands out as it is one of the few community festivals still held in downtown Carpinteria. The festival is organized by a committee of volunteers, with the support of over forty non-profit groups. It generates its own operating revenue, making it a non-profit organization.

Visitors can join in the celebration of the famous green fruit and take pride in supporting the local community. Every year, the festival displays the rich history of avocados, tracing back to their origins in south-central Mexico thousands of years ago. The most popular variety, the Hass avocado, has its roots in California, starting with a tree born in a backyard in La Habra Heights.

Today, California remains the leading producer of domestic avocados, with San Diego County being the avocado capital of the nation. The festival not only showcases the delicious fruit but also educates visitors about the industry and the hard work of the approximately 6,800 avocado growers in the region. The California Avocado Festival is managed by a dedicated team of board members, including Gary Dobbins, Co-President, who has been involved for 35 years.

Andrea Lionello, the Secretary, is part of a family of small-batch avocado growers, while Melissa Brown, the Vice President, continues her family's legacy in avocado farming. Jeff Thiemer, a Santa Barbara native, and Emily Miles, the Treasurer, complete the board, working together to make each year's festival a memorable and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Join the California Avocado Festival in Carpinteria, CA, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, taste incredible avocado-inspired dishes, enjoy live music, and support the local community