Sylvie Belmond 
The Round-Up Country Music Festival takes the stage April 18. Here’s where Simi Valley gets it moving.
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Country music energy builds early in Simi Valley this March as the Round-Up season gets underway.
Weeks before the 2026 Round-Up Country Music Festival opens April 18, the Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley is bringing the community together with two events designed to warm up the dance floor and spotlight local talent ahead of the main celebration.
Sip, Step & Stomp runs from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 8 on the patio at St. Francis Church, 280 Royal Ave. For $15, guests can spend the afternoon learning line dances, practicing the two-step and getting comfortable before festival day. The patio setting offers room to move and an easygoing place to gather with friends.
DJ Rick and the Ventucky Stompers will provide the soundtrack while instructors guide dancers at every level. Admission includes a first drink, with beer, wine and margaritas available for guests 21 and over. Sodas will be available for ages 18 to 20. The event is open to guests 18 and older, and organizers say space is limited.
The following weekend brings live competition to the stage.
At 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15, Rock & Roll Pizza at Harley’s Valley Bowl, 5255 Cochran St., will host the Battle of the Country Bands. Local country groups will perform in front of a live audience, each competing for the chance to open the Round-Up Country Music Festival.
For residents, it is a chance to hear emerging local bands before they step onto a larger stage. For the winning group, it means kicking off one of Simi Valley’s signature country events.
When festival day arrives, guests can expect current and classic country music throughout the day. The Ventucky Stompers will return with dance lessons, and organizers promise the largest dance floor yet. Food vendors, merchant vendors and a silent auction are part of the lineup, along with a free fun-zone for kids.
Sassy’s Saloon will serve mixed drinks for purchase, alongside beer and wine. The VIP experience includes a catered meal, snacks throughout the day, reserved seating near the stage and two drink tickets for beer or wine.
Taken together, the March events are a way for neighbors to gather, support local performers and build excitement before April 18. By the time the festival gates open, many in Simi Valley will already know the steps.
