Events in Santa Barbara

What’s Happening

From the sport of kings to fiery flamenco dancing, and from wine and food to film and live music, the Riviera Beach House is your home base to enjoy some of the best events in Santa Barbara.

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Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival

Experience the best of California's culinary delights at the Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival! Enjoy exquisite tastings from top local wineries and gourmet food artisans in the stunning natural setting of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Don't miss this unforgettable celebration of flavor and craftsmanship.

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Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival

Spooky Tours with Santa Barbara Ghost Tours

Join Professor Julie Ann Brown for ghostly walking tours filled with local legends, myths, and paranormal tales. Options include wine and spirits tours, late-night adventures, and a VIP Historical Dinner Tour with private club access.

Location: Downtown Santa Barbara

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Spooky Tours with Santa Barbara Ghost Tours

Santo Mezcal Happy Hour

Stop by Santo Mezcal every Monday through Friday, from 2pm to 5pm for special-price Margaritas (tequila or mezcal), as well as creative cocktails, select wines and beers, and a tasty appetizer menu to share…or not.

Date: Every monday, tuesday, wednesday, thursday, friday
Time: 2PM - 5PM

Take Me to Happy Hour!

Santo Mezcal Happy Hour

Fourth of July Celebration

Get ready for a fragrant day at the Santa Barbara Lavender Festival on Saturday, June 28, 2025! From 12 PM to 7 PM at the Great Meadow, SBCC West Campus, enjoy over 75 lavender-themed vendors, live music by DJ Darla Bea, delicious food, and refreshing lavender lemonade. Admission and parking are free.

Dates: July 4th

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Fourth of July Celebration

Riviera Beach House Art Gallery

Stop by RBH for drinks and browse our latest gallery exhibition.

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Old Town Santa Barbara Farmers’ Market

Join us at the Old Town Santa Barbara Farmers' Market, where every week the freshest, most nutritious local produce is on display! Hosted by the SBCFMA, this vibrant community event strengthens ties with local farmers while celebrating the beauty of Santa Barbara’s great outdoors.

Date: Every Tuesday from 09/10
Time: 3PM - 7PM

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Old Town Santa Barbara Farmers’ Market

Downtown Santa Barbara Farmers’ Market

Stroll through colorful stalls, savor the seasonal harvest, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that makes this market a cherished part of our local traditions. Don't miss your chance to support local agriculture and take home the best of Santa Barbara's bounty!

Date: Every Saturday from 09/07
Time: 8AM - 1PM

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Downtown Santa Barbara Farmers’ Market

Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show

Experience the creativity of local artisans at the Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show! Held every Sunday year-round along Cabrillo Boulevard, this historic event features unique handmade creations from talented locals. Enjoy a scenic stroll by the beach and discover artistic treasures from 10:00 a.m. until dusk. Don’t miss this Santa Barbara tradition!

Date: Every Sunday from 09/08
Time: 10AM - 6PM

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Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show

Seaside Sock Skating

Get ready to kick off your shoes and glide across a specialty tile floor that feels just like ice—without the cold! Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, this frictionless experience offers endless fun for all ages.

Sock skating is included with your museum admission. (Just don't forget your socks!)

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Seaside Sock Skating

First Thursday Art Walk

First Thursday is an evening of art and culture in downtown Santa Barbara. On the first Thursday of each month, participating galleries and venues offer free access to visual and performing arts in a fun and social environment. Venues feature attractions such as art openings, live music, artists' receptions, lectures, wine tastings, and hands-on activities. We hope you will join us to enjoy our beautiful downtown and all that it has to offer!

Location: State Street, Downtown Santa Barbara

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First Thursday Art Walk

Butterflies Alive!

Meander through a beautiful garden inside the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History as 1,000 butterflies flutter freely around you.

Dates: JUNE 1-30 | DAILY

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Butterflies Alive!

Summer Solstice Celebration

Usher in the summer season at this annual festival featuring live music, local cuisine, a beer and wine garden, and a parade on June 21st. 

Dates: JUNE 20-22 | DAILY

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Summer Solstice Celebration

SB Lavender Festival

Let your senses bloom at this unique arts and crafts festival celebrating the artistic expression of lavender and featuring works from more than 75 artisans, farmers and small business owners.

Date: JUNE 28 
Time: 10AM-5PM

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SB Lavender Festival

ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo

Celebrate the season with dazzling lights and festive fun at ZooLights! Enjoy holiday displays, animal encounters, and family-friendly activities at the Santa Barbara Zoo after dark.

Date: November 13, 2025 - January 12, 2026

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ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo