How Bruce Barrios Gets the Party Started

You know when a good event becomes great? It’s the music, the energy, the way everyone seems a little more connected and a little more alive. At the Casa Pacifica Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival, that electrifying vibe has a name: Bruce Barrios.

For longtime Festival-goers, Bruce needs no introduction. He’s not just the DJ and emcee—he’s the soul of the celebration. With his turntables, mic and million-dollar smile, Bruce transforms the Festival into more than an event; he makes it a moment—a memory that lingers long after the last song ends.

But Bruce’s connection to the Festival runs far deeper than the playlist.

A proud Ventura County native, Bruce has been a part of the Festival family since 1998.

“Growing up in Ventura, I remember neighbors Barbara and Larry Meister being founding members of Casa Pacifica,” Bruce shares. “As I learned more about the mission, I knew I wanted to help. At-risk kids deserve every chance to thrive.”

That desire to make a difference has fueled Bruce’s longtime commitment to Casa Pacifica and its signature fundraising event. He’s been with the Festival as it evolved from a small gathering into a massive community celebration with thousands of attendees. When Cal State University Channel Islands became the Festival’s home, Bruce was there—setting the tone, lifting the energy and helping the crowd find its rhythm.

So what’s the Bruce Barrios effect? It’s the way he senses the crowd and knows exactly when to turn up the tempo or drop a nostalgic favorite. It’s how he weaves connection through music, making strangers feel like friends and longtime supporters feel like family.

“Watching Ventura County’s culinary and beverage scene come together for Casa Pacifica is always inspiring,” Bruce says. “This community lifts each other up. That’s who we are.”

Bruce will be back at this year’s Festival, curating the soundtrack for the crowd’s tastings, toasts and spontaneous dance breaks along with the event’s traditional send-off track, “Don’t Stop Believing” from Journey.

Whether you’re grooving between bites, discovering a new favorite brew, or soaking in the sunny joy of it all—Bruce will be there, setting the stage for magic.

As he puts it, “I’m grateful for everyone who contributes—through food, drinks, auction items, sponsorships, or just showing up with a smile. May kindness overflow.”

Get ready to experience the Bruce Barrios effect. Join us June 1st at CSU Channel Islands!