Santa Barbara is where signature local events, delectable cuisine and an irresistible Mediterranean climate come together to create the ultimate seaside escape. Get ready for an exciting week ahead as you explore all corners of this inviting city. With sun-kissed beaches perfect for relaxation, hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and a charming downtown adorned with historic Spanish architecture, award-winning wine tasting and unique, this upcoming week in Santa Barbara promises a vacation like no other.
Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway to this slice of California coast, or you’re already here and looking for the city’s top events and new happenings, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to The American Riviera®.
Watch the 40th Annual I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival transform the plaza at Old Mission Santa Barbara into a vibrant open-air gallery, where artists of all ages create large-scale pastel works over Memorial Day weekend.
Part of the 12-Goal series, the Farmers & Merchants Bank Lisle Nixon Cup brings three Sundays of spirited polo to the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. Gates open at 12 p.m. with pre-match festivities before the 3:30 p.m. match, where guests can enjoy the Polo Grill, explore the grounds and take part in the traditional divot stomp between chukkers.
A staple of the Santa Barbara music scene, Audio Pool brings deep grooves and melodic rhythms to a sunset set above the coastline at Hotel Californian. Opening the evening, Traveler sets the tone with warm, atmospheric selections in an intimate setting made for laid-back summer nights.
Step into a lush garden alive with movement at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History as nearly 1,000 butterflies flutter freely around you at the Sprague Butterfly Pavilion. Home to dozens of vibrant Costa Rican species each summer, the pavilion offers a rare, up-close look at the butterfly life cycle — including the chance to watch adults emerge from their chrysalis in the on-site emergence chamber. Recently ranked among the top three butterfly gardens in the nation in the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the pavilion is aiming for the top spot in 2026 (cast your vote daily through May 11). Proceeds from Butterflies Alive! also support small-scale farmers in Costa Rica who practice sustainable butterfly farming, making each visit as meaningful as it is memorable.
Kick off the weekend with Friday polo happy hour at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, where complimentary admission, happy hour specials and a lively sidelines scene create a more laid-back way to experience the sport. The 4 p.m. match pairs ocean views and open skies with the excitement of tournament play in a relaxed, social setting.
other things to do
Spring in Santa Barbara brings floral hillsides, coastal air and a slower, more inviting pace for outdoor exploration (like whale watching!), seasonal dining and the start of festival season. From budget-friendly activities or must-try eats, Santa Barbara has you covered when it comes to providing an unforgettable getaway.
STAY TWO NIGHTS, GET THE THIRD FREE
Planning a spur-of-the-moment visit just got sweeter with this incredible third night free deal. When you book two nights at select Santa Barbara properties, the third’s on us. And who wouldn’t want to linger a little longer in The American Riviera®?
