Santa Barbara events

The list below is only a selection of some of the many events taking place in Santa Barbara every year.

January-February
Santa Barbara International Film Festival
Every year the SBIFF brings together hundreds of films executives, directors, actors and fans. The event offers screening on more than twelve local theatres, seven of which are situated on State Street, special classes, children’s programs and seminars.

March
Santa Barbara Whale Festival
A full day of fun including, arts, crafts, whale-watching tours, children carnival and rubber duck race.

April
The Jewish Festival in Oak Park is a celebration of Jewish traditions. The event offers dancing, food, art, crafts and children entertainment.

May
Harbor Festival

June-July
Summer Solstice Parade
A very colourful festival taking place the Saturday closest to the 21st of June

Summer dance
Dance festival during June and July including live representations, rehearsals and dance lessons by some of the world’s most successful dancers and choreographers.

French Festival
The most important French Festival of the West Coast offering music, dance, jugglers and French food. The event takes place the weekend closest to the 14th of July at Oak Park.

Semana Nautica
This large competition with more than 40 events for every age and skill level takes place in venues in Santa Barbara, Goleta and Carpinteria over the course of 4 weekends in late June and early July. Among the options of sports are water polo, kayaking, volleyball, softball and swimming.

August
Old Spanish Days
Five days of total madness at the beginning of August with celebrations including old buggies parades, rodeos, mariachis and dancing. The event recalls the area’s ranching period at the beginning of the 19th century, the time of transition from Mexican to American rule.

September
Santa Barbara Jazz Festival

October-November
Lemon Festival
This festival is one of the most important events in the Goleta Valley. Celebrations include lemon based food, family fun, dance, music and exhibitions.

California Avocado Festival

December
Christmas Parade on State Street

Parade of Lights on the waterfront off Stearns Wharf