Waves crashing in the background, vibrant summer festivals, wonderful energy filling the air, and the California sun — this is summer in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara is more than beaches and scenic coastlines; it’s a city with music, food, cultural celebrations, and loads of water activities. Whatever your interests, Santa Barbara’s summer festivals have something to offer. Here’s your guide to the best events happening this season!
Juneteenth Santa Barbara Block Party
Dates: June 14
Location: Plaza del Mar Park
Join the vibrant celebration of Juneteenth, Black Independence Day, with live music, dance performances, and a Black Artisan Market featuring local artists and community nonprofits. This free event honors Black culture, resilience, and achievements in Santa Barbara’s historically Black neighborhood.
Summer Solstice Celebration
Dates: June 20-22
Location: Alameda Park
The Summer Solstice Celebration begins at Santa Barbara St and Ortega. Santa Barbara’s largest festival attracts over 100,000 visitors each year! Don’t miss the extravagant parade, which features imaginative floats, beautiful costumes, and live entertainment that transforms the city into a spectacle of creativity and joy.
Santa Barbara Lavender Festival
Date: June 28
Location: Great Meadow at Santa Barbara City College
Surround yourself with the calming scent of lavender at this arts and crafts festival, which features lavender-themed products from local artists, small farms, and business owners. It’s a unique experience perfect for those who love handmade goods and floral aromas.
Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival
Date: June 28
Location: Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Sip and savor the finest regional wines and gourmet bites at this beloved festival, set in the stunning gardens of the Museum of Natural History. Meet local winemakers, sample delicious pairings, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon among the vineyards’ best flavors.
Santa Barbara 4th of July
Date: July 4
Location: Stearn’s Wharf
Celebrate Independence Day Santa Barbara-style! Enjoy a festive parade, live music, food vendors, and arts & crafts along the waterfront. The highlight of the day? A breathtaking fireworks display over the ocean.
Free Summer Cinema
Dates: Friday nights July – August
Location: County Courthouse
Friday Nights Under the Stars are free movies at the County Courthouse during July and August. Bring blankets and low-backed chairs and enjoy family-friendly movies starting at 8:30 pm.
California Wine Festival
Dates: July 18-19
Location: Hilton Santa Barbara Beachside and Chase Palm Park Oceanside
Set against the stunning Pacific coastline, the California Wine Festival is a paradise for wine lovers. Enjoy a rare wine tasting, mingle with fellow enthusiasts, and indulge in live music, gourmet food, craft brews, and top-tier regional wines.
Old Spanish Days Fiesta
Dates: July 30 – August 3
Location: Multiple locations, primarily across from City Hall
Step back in time and celebrate Santa Barbara’s rich Spanish, Mexican, and native Chumash heritage at this unforgettable festival. Enjoy flamenco dancing, a vibrant marketplace, historic tours, and the famous rodeo.
Pacific Pride Festival:
Date: August 23
Location: Chase Palm Park Field
Celebrate diversity and inclusion at the Pacific Pride Festival! This free event features live entertainment, food trucks, a beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Start Planning Your Summer Festival Getaway
Santa Barbara’s summer festivals attract thousands of visitors — don’t wait to book your perfect stay! At The Eagle Inn, you’ll enjoy a cozy retreat within distance of all the fun, the Funk Zone, and top festival locations. Wake up to a gourmet hot breakfast before heading out to explore the best summer events in Santa Barbara.
Start planning your trip today!
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