OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will officially launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant public celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic kickoff event on Wednesday, April 1 at the Oxnard Transit Center.
Hosted by the City of Oxnard, Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will transform the Transit Center into a lively hub of creativity. Attendees will experience interactive art activations, live performances, and a special lowrider on exhibit—alongside refreshments and opportunities to connect with the artists and organizations shaping the district.
The program will feature remarks from key regional and statewide leaders, including:
- Rebecca Ratzkin, California Arts Council
- Tracy Hudak, California for the Arts
- Supervisor Vianey Lopez, Ventura County
- Christine Morla, Visual Arts Chair, Oxnard College
- Mayor Luis McArthur, City of Oxnard
Guests will also enjoy a range of immersive arts experiences from Teatro de las Américas, The CreArtive Freedom Family Dance Studio, Open Door Studio, and musician Alex Arriaga, highlighting the breadth of talent and cultural expression rooted in Downtown Oxnard. Dolce Vita Coffee, one of downtown’s award-winning coffee shops located in the Transit Center, will offer a special menu selection.
“Downtown Oxnard’s Cultural District is a reflection of the creativity, resilience, and cultural richness that already exists here,” said Abel Magaña, Executive Director of the Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association. “This designation helps us amplify that work—supporting local artists and businesses while inviting the broader community to experience everything downtown has to offer.”
Arts, Culture & Creativity Month is a statewide initiative led by California for the Arts, raising awareness of the vital role arts and culture play in strengthening communities, driving economic growth, and fostering belonging across California.
“This kickoff is really about celebrating what makes Oxnard unique—an artist-led, community-rooted cultural ecosystem that is both deeply authentic and forward-looking,” said Carolyn Merino Mullin, Executive Director of the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit. “The Cultural District designation is not the starting point—it’s a recognition of the incredible work already happening here, and a catalyst for what’s next.”
Representatives from local arts organizations echoed the significance of the moment. “For groups like Teatro, this is about visibility and sustainability,” said Ana Van Hoven from Teatro de las Américas. “Being part of a recognized Cultural District strengthens our ability to share stories, connect with audiences, and ensure that our cultural traditions continue to thrive.”
In addition to performances and presentations, attendees will be invited to participate in an interactive activity to help shape the future of the Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—offering community members a chance to share their vision for what comes next.
The event is free and open to the public, inviting the community to engage directly with artists and help launch a month-long celebration of arts and culture throughout Oxnard and across the state.