The 89th Annual Walnut Festival: A Must-Visit Event for Walnut Creek Families in 2025

If you live in Walnut Creek or the surrounding Contra Costa County area, you already know that the city is full of charm, community spirit, and family-friendly events. One of the most iconic celebrations in Walnut Creek is the Walnut Festival, now celebrating its 89th year with the theme “89 Years – We're Going Through Changes.” From October 16th to October 19th, 2025, this annual festival promises fun, entertainment, and community spirit like no other.

A Brief History of the Walnut Festival in Walnut Creek

For nearly nine decades, the Walnut Festival has been a cornerstone of the Walnut Creek community. Organized by the Walnut Festival Association, a dedicated 501c non-profit, the festival’s purpose has always been to bring the community together while raising funds for educational, recreational, artistic, civic, and charitable causes. Over the years, the festival has grown along with Walnut Creek, evolving from small gatherings in the town center to major events at Civic Park and Heather Farm Park.

Even as suburban developments replaced the walnut groves that originally gave Walnut Creek its name, the festival has maintained its commitment to giving back to the community. Today, it’s one of the most anticipated family-friendly events in Walnut Creek, drawing residents and visitors from across Contra Costa County.

2025 Walnut Festival Moves to Antioch

While the Walnut Festival has long been hosted in Walnut Creek, this year the event is temporarily relocating to the Antioch Fairgrounds, also known as the Contra Costa County Event Park at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch. The reason for the move is a major remodel at Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek, which is expected to enhance future festivals. Despite the temporary move, the spirit and tradition of the Walnut Creek festival will remain intact.

The festival still promises all the entertainment that Walnut Creek residents have come to love, including live music, carnival rides, food vendors, craft beer gardens, and a showcase of local artists, craftsmen, jewelers, and designers. Families visiting from Walnut Creek will also enjoy a dedicated Kid Zone and unlimited ride options with a wristband, ensuring endless fun for children of all ages.

Event Details for Walnut Creek Families Attending the Festival

• Dates: October 16–19, 2025

• Location: Antioch Fairgrounds, 1201 W. 10th Street, Antioch (temporary location during Heather Farm Park remodel in Walnut Creek)

• Admission: $15/person (free for children 6 and under, seniors 65+, and military with ID)

• Parking: $10/car

• Unlimited Ride Wristbands: $40/person (required for all rides)

For Walnut Creek families, the festival is a chance to enjoy a weekend of fun, support charitable causes, and experience community togetherness that has defined the Walnut Festival for nearly 90 years.

Why the Walnut Festival Matters to Walnut Creek

The Walnut Festival Association works year-round to support Walnut Creek and surrounding areas. Money raised from the festival is donated back into the community to fund recreational programs, educational initiatives, and charitable organizations. Service groups also use the festival as a platform to raise funds for their specific missions. In short, attending the Walnut Festival allows Walnut Creek residents to have fun while giving back.

This commitment to community service is what sets the Walnut Festival apart from other local events. Whether you live in central Walnut Creek, along the surrounding neighborhoods, or in nearby cities, the festival has something for everyone: music, food, rides, arts, and a sense of belonging.

Fun for the Whole Family

No matter your age, the Walnut Festival has activities tailored to you. Children can enjoy a variety of rides, games, and a Kid Zone, while adults from Walnut Creek can sample local craft beers, explore vendor booths, or simply enjoy the live music performances. The festival brings together multiple generations of Walnut Creek residents, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Support Local Vendors and Artists

The festival is also a celebration of creativity and entrepreneurship. Vendors and artisans from Walnut Creek and the surrounding Contra Costa County region will showcase handmade crafts, specialty foods, and unique products. For residents of Walnut Creek, this is a perfect opportunity to support local businesses and find one-of-a-kind items.

Tips for Walnut Creek Residents Visiting the Festival

1. Arrive Early: Parking can fill up fast, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

2. Bring Cash & Cards: Some vendors may not accept cards, so it’s wise to have cash on hand.

3. Plan for the Kids: Purchase wristbands for unlimited rides in advance to avoid long lines.

4. Check the Weather: October in Walnut Creek is usually mild, but layering is recommended for cooler evenings.

Join the Walnut Creek Community in Celebration

The Walnut Festival is more than just a fair; it’s a celebration of the Walnut Creek community, its history, and its people. By attending, you’re participating in a tradition that has brought generations of Walnut Creek families together, all while supporting local causes and making a difference.

For more information, visit the official festival website at www.thewalnutfestival.org. Here, Walnut Creek residents can find vendor applications, wristband details, and the full schedule of events.