Information about Santa Barbara Festivals
The city offers plentiful festivals and events throughout the year, ensuring that visitors never need suffer a dull moment.Among the highlights are:
- The Santa Barbara Whale Festival is held every year in March. Residents and tourists gather at vantage points along the coast to view these spectacular creatures. Rubber duck races, diving shows and a carnival for children mark the occasion.
- There is an impressive festival that will have you looking to the skies at Elings Park in early January. The New Year's Day Hang Gliding and Paragliding Festival is celebrated with demonstrations from gliders and hang gliders, music and picnics.
- By far the biggest event held every year in Santa Barbara is the Summer Solstice Parade. This is a large street festival held in June and featuring dancing, music, street performers and a costumed parade.
- For a taste of the excellent wine that is produced in the region, why not visit the Touring and Wine Festival. Located on the beach at Santa Barbara during July, samples from more than 70 of California's finest merchants are presented to the crowds.
- The cultures of the Spanish, Mexican and American Indian people are celebrated at the Old Spanish Days Fiesta. This colourful event takes place in early August and features parades, live music and food.
Useful Santa Barbara Festivals and Events Links
Santa Barbara Festivals - information about festivals and events in Santa Barbara, California (CA), USA