Sherman Oaks’s family-friendly festivals and proximity to a variety of attractions and outdoor activities make it the perfect place to begin a California excursion. Topanga State Park and Westridge Canyonback Wilderness Park offer stunning views of the natural landscape and feature ample opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, taking photos, and biking. The city is also home to a variety of unique art galleries such as Van Eaton Galleries and MRG Fine Art.
Beginning as a medium-sized arts and crafts show in 1991, the Sherman Oaks Street Fair has become one of the largest fall events in the region and will take place October 15. This year's event features more than 200 different vendors selling everything from handmade clothing to one-of-a-kind artwork. Attendees can see a spectrum of vintage and rare automobiles at the car show, and awards will go the top cars in a variety of categories. The carnival area features rides, games, and entertainment for all ages. Talented kids from more than 12 local schools will perform on the community stage, and an awards ceremony for the area's top teacher will conclude the community stage entertainment. Chord Overstreet will headline the main stage music performances, and local acts such as Groove Martini and Gold Rush will also perform. ResortsandLodges.com interviewed Vicki Nussbaum, Chief Executive Officer of the Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce, to learn more about this unique community celebration.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
VN: This is the 27th year of the Sherman Oaks Street Fair.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
VN: We see over 100,000 people attend each year.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
VN: This event attracts a spectrum of people. We have a carnival for families with kids. There will be an outside bar where adults can have a cocktail or beer while listening to live music. Our event has a little bit of something for everyone.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
VN: The overall size of the event and the variety of activities.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
VN: We host a car show, pet adoptions, two stages with live music, a carnival with a 45-foot ferris wheel, food trucks, 200 vendors, and a bar with craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
VN: We have Chord Overstreet, from Glee, as our main stage headliner.
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
VN: There will be twelve food trucks plus another 20 food vendors. Attendees can eat everything from grilled cheese sandwiches to Mexican food!
RAL: Tell us about the overall atmosphere.
VN: It's fun under the Southern California sun!
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
VN: The Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce has a detailed list of local lodging providers; follow the link to see more.
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
VN: Sherman Oaks is proud to host the largest single-day event in the San Fernando Valley. The community comes together to showcase all we have to offer! This year we are celebrating the community’s 90th birthday on our main stage!
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
VN: Yes, we bring tons of new people to Sherman Oaks, and they spend money in our stores, restaurants, and other businesses.
For more information about the Sherman Oaks Street Fair, please visit the event website.