Simi Valley Days
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| Simi Valley Days | |
|---|---|
| Name | Simi Valley Days |
| Genre | Community festival |
| Dates | Early October |
| Location | Simi Valley, California, United States |
| Years active | 1969–present |
| Founder | Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce |
Simi Valley Days. It is an annual community festival held in Simi Valley, California, traditionally taking place over several days in early October. Established in 1969, the event celebrates the city's heritage and serves as a major civic gathering, featuring a parade, carnival, live entertainment, and various competitions. Organized by a dedicated committee with support from local service clubs, businesses, and city agencies, it embodies the community spirit of the Ventura County city.
History
The inaugural event was organized in 1969 by the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce to foster community pride following the city's incorporation the previous year. Early celebrations were closely tied to the region's ranching and aerospace history, reflecting the area's growth during the post-World War II boom. The festival has been held nearly continuously, with its parade route traditionally proceeding along Los Angeles Avenue and Tapo Street, showcasing the city's development from a railroad stop to a major suburban community. Key figures in its history have included longtime mayors like Bob Huber and community groups such as the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs.
Events and attractions
The centerpiece is the Grand Parade, which features marching bands from local schools like Simi Valley High School, equestrian units, and floats from organizations including the Boy Scouts of America. A carnival with rides and games is provided by contractors like Butler Amusements. The festival grounds typically host live music performances spanning genres, a classic car show presented by the Simi Valley Cruisers, and a barbecue cook-off. Other longstanding attractions include a carnival, a carnival, and competitions such as a Miss Simi Valley pageant and a chili cook-off judged by local celebrities and officials from the Simi Valley City Council.
Organization and community involvement
The event is produced by the Simi Valley Days Foundation, a nonprofit board that works in coordination with the Simi Valley Police Department and the Simi Valley Public Works department for logistics and safety. Major sponsors have historically included Bank of America, Simi Valley Hospital, and The Walt Disney Company, whose Disneyland Resort is located nearby. Volunteer support is mobilized from organizations like the Simi Valley High School Key Club, the American Red Cross, and the California Highway Patrol's Explorer Post. The Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District often provides the venue at Rancho Tapo Community Park or Simi Valley Town Center.
Economic and cultural impact
The festival generates significant local economic activity for area businesses such as Ronald Reagan Presidential Library tours, Corriganville Movie Ranch, and restaurants along the 118 Freeway corridor. It reinforces regional identity within Ventura County and honors local history, including the heritage of the Chumash people and the Santa Susana Field Laboratory. The event's scholarship programs and fundraising auctions directly benefit educational institutions like Moorpark College and California State University, Northridge. Its cultural footprint is evident in its support for local arts through partnerships with the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center and promotion of California cuisine from vendors like Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant.