Village Venture: One of the Best Days to Be a Claremont Resident

There are plenty of reasons I love living in Claremont, but every October I’m reminded of one that rises to the top of the list: Village Venture.

For one weekend each year, our charming downtown transforms into something truly special. The streets fill with hundreds of artisan and craft vendors, local organizations, live entertainment, delicious food trucks, and thousands of neighbors enjoying one another’s company. If you’ve never experienced it, you’re in for a treat. If you’ve been before, you already know exactly what I mean.

I still remember the first time I attended Village Venture. I couldn’t believe how many vendor booths stretched throughout the Village. Everywhere I turned there was something unique—a handmade gift, a beautiful piece of artwork, specialty foods, or something I never knew I needed until I saw it. Even today, I make a point of walking every street because I never know what treasures I’ll discover.

Some of my favorite memories, though, are the ones made with my family. When my children were young, they proudly marched through the Village in their Halloween costumes during the annual parade. In my mind, I can still picture my five-year-old daughter proudly marching in the parade dressed as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, while her toddler brother rode behind her in a little wagon, dressed as a pumpkin.

One of the things I enjoy most about Village Venture is seeing so many familiar faces. Everywhere I look, I run into friends who are volunteering their time to help make the weekend a success. It seems like everyone has found a way to pitch in, whether they’re working a booth, supporting a local cause, or simply helping create the welcoming atmosphere that makes Village Venture so uniquely Claremont.

This year, you’ll find me wearing another hat as President of the Claremont Kiwanis Club. Stop by our booth and try your luck at our spinning prize wheel! For just $1 a spin, you’ll have a chance to win See’s Candies or gift cards, all while supporting Kiwanis’ service projects that benefit children and families in our community. We’d love to see you, so come by, say hello, and give the wheel a spin!

Village Venture has been bringing our community together for generations, and every year it reminds me why Claremont feels so much like home. Whether you’re shopping with local artisans, grabbing a bite from one of the many food trucks, cheering on the parade, visiting community booths, or simply strolling through the Village with family and friends, you’ll be surrounded by the spirit that makes this city so special.

Every year, I leave Village Venture with a few purchases, lots of smiles, and a grateful heart. It’s a beautiful reminder that Claremont isn’t just a city—it’s a community. Watching neighbors, families, volunteers, and visitors come together to celebrate what makes this place so special is one of the many reasons I love calling Claremont home.