As one of the country’s longest-running Earth Day celebrations, the festival’s mission is to educate, inspire and take action. In recent years, the festival has given specific focus to reducing carbon emissions and getting involved to combat climate change. Thanks to many civic and media sponsors, the festival is community favorite and free to attend.
Held on April 27 – 28, 2024, this year marks the 54th anniversary of the Community Environmental Council (CEC) hosting the Earth Day Festival, which has grown significantly over the years. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy live music and entertainment, participate in family activities and connect with more than 200 eco-conscious businesses and organizations.
Live Music and Entertainment
Performers and speakers will take the stage throughout the weekend, with festivities kicking off Friday evening with a concert in Alameda Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable cups to fill with libations from local breweries and wineries. Check the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival website for this year’s complete schedule of events.
Multiple zones within the festival space are dedicated to specific offerings and activities. Try a fitness class or the archery arcade in the Great Outdoors zone, or shop your heart out—sustainably of course—in the Eco Marketplace zone. Families love the Kids Corner, which offers arts and crafts, musical performances, storytelling, face painting and more for the little ones’ eco-friendly enjoyment.
Green Car Show
Touted as the largest green car show on the Central Coast, Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival attendees have the opportunity to test drive numerous clean vehicles and explore new mobility solutions. Community ambassadors are also available to answer questions and talk one-on-one about their experience. Interested attendees can also get information on state credits, tax rebates and other incentives for owners of clean vehicles.
Tips for the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival
Instead of driving, ride a bike or take city transportation. Located two blocks off of State Street, Alameda Park is accessible by bike, bus, shuttle or train. Learn about festival transportation, including a free bike valet, here.
Bring an appetite and visit the Food Court and Local Beer & Wine Garden. And don’t miss the Homegrown Roots zone, where local farmers, food and beverage artisans and sustainable food organizations share ways you can buy environmentally friendly local products.
One fun and unique way to participate in the festival is to volunteer. There are multiple volunteer shifts and roles and in exchange for your efforts, you’ll receive a T-shirt and free snacks during your shift. Find out more about volunteering for the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival here.
Visiting from out of town? Check out these great hotels on State Street that are all a quick walk, bike ride or shuttle ride from Alameda Park.
