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. 1-6) 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. 9), featuring the 13.1-mile run and a 5K course (and a pre-run festival Nov. 7-8 at Carousel House!) — 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.
ZooLights is also making an anticipated return to the Santa Barbara Zoo starting Nov. 12, 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.
The Wild and Free Film Festival returns Nov. 14-16 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.
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. 21-23), featuring pieces dating back to the 17th century in addition to rare mid-century gems.
This fall, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art showcases The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse and Encore: 19th-Century French Art. Together, the exhibitions highlight masterpieces from Monet to Matisse and more than 40 works from the Museum’s collection.
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
Close out the Santa Barbara Bowl concert season with the iconic ZZ Top (Nov. 4). Over at the Arlington Theatre, see Ezra Klein (Nov. 4), David Sedaris (Nov. 7), Queens of the Stone Age (Nov. 8), Aly & AJ (Nov. 9) and a Live-to-Film rendition of Moana (Nov. 16). At Lobero Theatre, see Louis Lortie (Nov. 11), Judy Collins & Tom Rush (Nov. 16), Samantha Fish (Nov. 18), Django Festival Allstars (Nov. 21), A Tribute to Pink Floyd (Nov. 22) and the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony (Nov. 23). At Granada Theatre, enjoy Psychedelic Symphony (Nov. 8) and Great Gatsby Ballet (Nov. 23).
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.
Embark on the three-and-a-half hour foodie adventure, Taste of Santa Barbara Food Walking Tour with Santa Barbara Tasting Tours, which makes stops at six different quintessential Santa Barbara restaurants, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the rich history of Santa Barbara and its culinary past.
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.
Want more inspiration for your next trip? Check out these epic outdoor fall activities in Santa Barbara.
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