Fall in love with November in Santa Barbara with activities for every traveler — the outdoorsy and active bunch, self-proclaimed foodies, live music- and entertainment-lovers — and everyone in between. Immerse yourself in the outdoors, browse antiques and vintage wares at the Santa Barbara Antique Decorative Arts & Vintage Show or spend the afternoon exploring (and sipping) at world-renowned vineyards within Santa Barbara wine country.
With so many ways to sip and savor your way through fall in The American Riviera®, these events and activities are sure to make for an unforgettable trip.
EVENTS
There’s no shortage of local events happening, and November starts off strong with the Santa Barbara Jewish Film Festival (Nov. 1-8) at The New Vic, which celebrates Jewish culture, history and identity through the art of film. Grab a post-movie bite at Santa Barbara Public Market from variety of different vendors featuring an array of cuisines from around the world, or sit down and unwind with a signature cocktail at The Good Lion.
Runners from near and far travel to Santa Barbara to partake in the Santa Barbara Half Marathon (Nov. 8), featuring the 13.1-mile run and a 5K course — both of which start at the iconic Cabrillo Boulevard and end on State Street. Post-race, the event will host a Funk Zone Finish Line Festival complete with beer and live music at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.
The Wild and Free Film Festival returns Nov. 6-8 at Camino Real Cinemas, spotlighting adventurous, diverse and eco-conscious stories from around the world. With films that challenge convention and ignite conversation, the festival is fast becoming a cultural destination.
Experience automotive elegance on The American Riviera® at the inaugural Santa Barbara Invitational Concours (Nov. 7-8) at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. The two-day celebration brings together an exceptional collection of classic and collector automobiles, beginning with a scenic driving tour and Sunset Soirée on Saturday, followed by the main Concours on Sunday. Stroll the show field, explore featured marques and manufacturer showcases, enjoy elevated hospitality and watch as standout vehicles compete for top honors, including Best of Show.
Savor the season at the inaugural Santa Barbara Fall Tasting Festival (Nov. 7) at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. This 21-and-up outdoor culinary celebration brings together regional producers for an afternoon of seasonal bites, wine, craft beer and non-alcoholic beverages, with opportunities to meet the makers and learn more about the traditions and stories behind each taste.
IllumaNature is also making its debut to the Santa Barbara Zoo starting Nov. 11, where you’re invited to admire how art and light installations can merge to create a spectacular walkthrough experience in one of California’s most delightful zoos.
Explore vintage furniture and home décor from decades past at the Santa Barbara Antique Decorative Arts & Vintage Show and Sale at Earl Warren Showgrounds (Nov. 20-22), featuring pieces dating back to the 17th century in addition to rare mid-century gems.
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
November brings a packed lineup of live music and entertainment to Santa Barbara. Kick off the month with Lyle Lovett and his Small Large Band at UCSB’s Campbell Hall (Nov. 1). At Lobero Theatre, catch Opera Santa Barbara’s Rigoletto (Nov. 6, 8 and 10), The Wallflowers celebrating the 30th anniversary of Bringing Down the Horse (Nov. 14) and Choir! Choir! Choir! with its interactive Un-Silent Night holiday sing-along (Nov. 28).
At The Granada Theatre, experience Psychedelic Symphony: Take Another Trip (Nov. 7), pairing live orchestral music with immersive visuals. Over at The Arlington Theatre, hear the soft-rock classics of Toast: The Best of Bread (Nov. 16), followed by comedian René Vaca and rapper That Mexican OT (Nov. 17).
More entertainment rounds out the month with Candlelight: Tribute to Queen at The New Vic (Nov. 13), Comedy Night at Carrillo Recreation Center (Nov. 14) and SBCC Theatre Arts’ production of It’s a Wonderful Life (Nov. 11-21).
FALLING FOR LOCAL FOOD & WINE
Keep your glass full all month long and let the professionals be your guide when you during a wine tour, where guests can taste Santa Barbara wine country’s best in vine (the region is best known for its chardonnay and pinot noir). Discover more unique ways to wine in Santa Barbara.
Every Tuesday afternoon, Bouchon Santa Barbara the executive chef hosts a Farmers Market Foodie Stroll and Gourmet Dinner, where guests are guided in selecting farm-fresh ingredients for a three-course meal prepared by the chef himself at the restaurant. (Bonus: The meal is paired with local wines, as well.) Tour Santa Barbara’s famed Funk Zone during a tour with Eat This, Shoot That! Food and Drink Tours, which includes stops at eight different tasting locations (think: artisan bites, seafood, local wine, authentic Mexican food, etc.) with a knowledgeable tour guide. Or, join Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours for its new Wine & Food Walking Tour, a relaxed stroll through the Funk Zone featuring curated tastings at two boutique wine tasting rooms, small bites highlighting local flavors and neighborhood insights from a knowledgeable guide.
Want more inspiration for your next trip? Check out these epic outdoor fall activities in Santa Barbara.
