The 22nd annual Simi Valley Days is scheduled for Sept. 13 through 17 at the corner of Madera Road and L.A. Avenue and will include a special kids area, live entertainment by local bands and the Merchants and Crafters Pavilion.

This year's event will promote youth sports and the theme is Simi Valley Days Games, "Let the Games Begin." Area youth will have an opportunity to participate in an array of sports exhibitions, such as football, hoops and soccer.

"We really wanted to add a sports element to this year's carnival because Simi Valley is such a big youth sports city," said Jason Conrad, chair of Simi Valley Days.

The festival will kick off with the traditional 12th annual Lobster Festival on Sat., Aug. 26 at Rancho Tapo Park. Last year's Lobster Fest was sold out. Tickets are available for purchase now by calling (805) 675-8668.

Planned events for Simi Valley Days will include Battle of the Bands on Sept. 14, Simi Valley Days Parade on Sept. 16, Kowchip Bingo on Sept. 17, Old-Fashioned Picnic on Sept. 17, and Youth Sports Exhibition, Sept. 17.

Local bands wanting to compete in the Battle of the Bands must submit a demo reel to Infusion at 2815 Cochran St., Simi Valley by Tues., Aug. 1. The top eight bands selected will be notified by Aug. 10.

Categories for this year's parade are automobiles, military, floats, bands, and equestrian and community marching groups.

Parade applications and information packets are available on the Simi Valley Days website at www.simivalleydays.org.

"We need at least 30 to 40 volunteers to help with this year's event," said Robert Noorigian, parade chairman. "Ideal candidates are high school and college students needing to fulfill volunteer requirements, retirees, business professionals, or anyone wanting to give back to the community."

Proceeds from the event will benefit more than 40 local charities.

To volunteer or sponsor for Simi Valley Days, please call (805) 581-4280, visit the website, or email Wayne Schultz at simivalleydayso4@aol.com.