A Year of Events in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s vibrant coastal culture comes alive all year long. From colorful parades to world-renowned festivals, there’s always something worth celebrating. Here’s a month-by-month guide to the can’t-miss events — and how to get involved.

January

Santa Barbara Restaurant Week When: Mid-to-late January Website: sbrestaurantweeks.com Overview: Santa Barbara’s top chefs and restaurants roll out special prix-fixe menus during Restaurant Week, inviting diners to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene. It’s the perfect time to try new spots, enjoy three-course meals at a value, and savor local flavors. Get Involved: Browse participating restaurants and make reservations through the official site. Many menus sell out, so plan ahead!

February

Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) When: Late January through early February Website: sbiff.org Overview: An internationally acclaimed 10-day event that brings together filmmakers, celebrities, and movie lovers. Guests can attend screenings, filmmaker Q&As, industry panels, and even star-studded tributes downtown. Get Involved: Purchase festival passes or single event tickets. Volunteer opportunities are also available through the website.

March

Santa Barbara International Orchid Show When: Second weekend of March Website: sborchidshow.com Overview: Celebrating its roots as one of the oldest orchid shows in the country, this event fills the Earl Warren Showgrounds with rare, exotic, and award-winning orchids from around the world. Get Involved: Tickets are available online or at the door. Enthusiasts can apply to volunteer or even showcase orchid displays.

April

Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival When: Third or fourth weekend of April Website: sbearthday.org Overview: Held at Alameda Park, this lively, family-friendly event features eco-vendors, live music, sustainability talks, and hands-on activities for all ages — all with a focus on climate solutions. Get Involved: Attend for free, volunteer for green team initiatives, or apply as an eco-friendly vendor through the site.

May

I Madonnari Street Painting Festival When: Memorial Day Weekend (last weekend of May) Website: ccp.sbceo.org/i-madonnari/welcome Overview: Over three days, the historic Santa Barbara Mission’s pavement becomes a living art gallery as artists create stunning chalk masterpieces. Food booths, live performances, and Italian ambiance add to the experience. Get Involved: Attend for free, sponsor a chalk square, or volunteer at the festival.

June

Summer Solstice Parade & Festival When: Weekend closest to June 21st Website: solsticeparade.com Overview: State Street bursts into color and music during this iconic parade. Creative floats, whimsical costumes, and live bands lead into a full weekend festival at Alameda Park with food, art, and performances. Get Involved: Join a float, volunteer behind the scenes, or simply line the streets to cheer it all on.

July

California Wine Festival – Santa Barbara When: Mid-July Website: californiawinefestival.com/santa-barbara Overview: Set against the ocean, this two-day event showcases over 70 premier wineries, gourmet food booths, and live bands in a relaxed yet upscale coastal setting. Get Involved: Purchase general admission or VIP tickets online. Early access passes often sell out quickly.

August

Old Spanish Days Fiesta When: First week of August Website: sbfiesta.org Overview: This beloved celebration honors Santa Barbara’s Spanish, Mexican, and Indigenous heritage with parades, historic reenactments, flamenco dancing, open-air mercados, and family-friendly festivities across town. Get Involved: Volunteer, attend public events, or purchase tickets for special Fiesta performances like La Fiesta Pequeña.

September

Santa Barbara Sea Glass & Ocean Arts Festival When: Mid-September Website: santabarbaraseaglassandoceanartsfestival.com Overview: A unique coastal art event featuring sea glass artisans, ocean-inspired fine art, and sustainable handcrafted jewelry. Held at the Santa Barbara Elks Lodge. Get Involved: Purchase tickets at the door or online. Artists can apply to exhibit via the website.

October

Harbor & Seafood Festival When: Second or third Saturday of October Website: harborfestival.org Overview: Santa Barbara Harbor’s annual celebration of the local seafood industry features fresh catches like lobster and crab, maritime exhibits, live music, and harbor tours. Get Involved: Admission is free. Enjoy the festivities, or apply to be a food or arts vendor through the event site.

November

Santa Barbara Veterans Day Parade When: November 11th Website: pcvf.org/veterans-day-ceremony Overview: A heartfelt event honoring local veterans with a parade down State Street featuring military vehicles, marching bands, and community organizations. Get Involved: Show your support by attending. Veterans and community groups can apply to march in the parade via the event organizer.

December

Santa Barbara Holiday Parade When: First Friday of December Website: santabarbaraca.gov/things-do/waterfront/waterfront-news-and-events/santa-barbara-parade-lights Overview: A festive kickoff to the holiday season, with illuminated floats, seasonal music, performers, and Santa Claus making a grand arrival on State Street. Get Involved: Attend for free, enter a float, or volunteer to help behind the scenes through the city’s holiday parade page.