WEEKEND FESTIVALS WATCHING THE WHALES IN OXNARD.

Byline: Barbara De Witt  Staff Writer

Ever seen a whale frolic?

As the Pacific Gray whales make their annual migration, they play, dive and dance in the sea, spouting water and gently rocking boats. They really know how to party - and so does the city of Oxnard, which hosts the annual Celebration of the Whales Festival in honor of their arrival.

The seventh annual event at the Channel Islands Harbor offers ocean excursions by Island Packers and Cisco's Sportfishing, during which passengers can see the whales up close as they head to Alaska after vacationing in the warm waters of Mexico. Visitors will also learn that the gray whale is about 36 to 40 feet long and the pregnant females will lead the parade with juvenile whales at the rear.

But you don't need to board a boat to enjoy the festivities. On Fisherman's Wharf and the Marine Emporium Landing you'll find whale exhibits, a tide pool touch tank, arts and crafts, children's activities and live entertainment for the whole family.

Depending on the weather report, you'll want sunscreen or an umbrella. Either way, wear rubber-soled shoes for walking on the deck and wharf and bring along a windbreaker or warm jacket.

SEVENTH ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF THE WHALES FESTIVAL: Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free admission; food, souvenirs and whale watch cruises priced separately. Handicapped access at wharf activities; no pets or alcohol. To book cruises, call Island Packers at [phone] or Cisco's Sportfishing at [phone]. For general information, call [phone] or see www.oxnardtourism.com.

Also happening this weekend:

SIXTH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF ISIS: Celebrate spring and its universal goddess Isis while launching your own ship of dreams on the ``sacred lake'' at the Japanese Gardens, a six-acre oasis filled with fountains, waterfalls and a tea house. The event is inspired by the ancient Greco-Roman festival of Isis that included blessing ships and sailors as they went to sea. The local version is a blend of ancient practices and modern sensibilities with dancing, music and a parade. Japanese Garden, 6100 Woodley Ave., Van Nuys. 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday. $10 donation includes light refreshments. Participants are asked to wear white or gold and bring floor pillows and musical instruments if possible. Not accessible to the handicapped; no small children, pets or alcohol. Call [phone].

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