One of the best ways to support local communities when traveling is to shop small and buy local. You can take that thoughtful act a step further when you buy directly from the local artists, craftspeople and makers. In Santa Barbara, there are several enticing creative marketplaces, arts and craft shows and cooperative boutiques where you can discover a broad variety of objects and artworks made locally. Read on to learn where and when you can browse for delightful keepsakes and mementos that have been intentionally sourced and made with love right here in The American Riviera®.
Artisan Marketplaces in Santa Barbara
Mujeres Makers Market
A group of five local female business owners started Mujeres Makers Market to elevate creative women of color in the Santa Barbara South Coast. Daniela Aguirre, Maritza Flores, Elysia Guillén, Lilli Muñoz and Leah Ortega came together to create this platform that allows female makers to share their wares with the public at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Giftable items found at these markets include delights such as succulent arrangements, colorful macrame earrings, desserts that double as eye-candy, Mexican hot chocolate kits, handmade soaps, vintage clothing and much more. Check out its Instagram page for the latest event announcements and #MujereMonday artisan spotlights.
Photo credit: dontposeforme via Instagram
Farmer and the Flea
Founded by Megan Husbands in 2018, Farmer and the Flea started as a love note to the eclectic city of Summerland, fostering community pride, neighborly support, and endless good vibes. Each month, over 64 vendors gather together to highlight artisan goods for humans, homes and hounds. Attendees can expect to find exquisite jewelry, fashionable clothing, tasty treats, unique décor, and so much more. Visit Farmer and the Flea at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, where markets will be held monthly.
Photo credit: Peter Burke
State Street Promenade Market
The State Street Promenade Market is a weekly outdoor event, staged by the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization in collaboration with the City of Santa Barbara and is held every first Thursday of the month. Local businesses, artists, nonprofit organizations, restaurants and performers take over a different location on State Street each month to create a lively locals’ night for the enjoyment of the community and visitors alike. This market takes full advantage of the utterly delightful State Street Promenade, which is closed to car traffic. Vendors change every week and include a variety of artisans such as jewelers, glass blowers, imported goods and artisan chocolates.
Photo credit: @downtownsantabarbara via Instagram
Jules By the Sea
Jules By the Sea is a Funk Zone lifestyle boutique showcasing Jules Kramer’s hand-crafted jewelry—much of it made with sea glass found on our very shores. Her shop also features other locally inspired products, such as Original Señor Lopez blankets made with recycled t-shirts, as well as beachy gifts, homewares and accessories.
Photo credit: @julesbytheseasb via Instagram
Seaside Makers
Santa Barbara’s own The Grapeseed Company is behind Seaside Makers, a hub of artisan gifts and goods, including their very own line. The Grapeseed Company debuted in 2004 as one of the world’s first vinotherapy skin and beauty lines made with byproducts of the local wine industry. Stop by Seaside Makers to explore their vast product range and visit the custom scent bar. You’ll also find cool Santa Barbara souvenirs like totes and tees, hand-painted upcycled leather earrings, Relief Apothecary CBD goods, and clean made-in-California sunscreens. The shop is open daily.
Photo credit: @downtownsantabarbara via Instagram
Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show
Santa Barbara’s original makers marketplace, the weekly Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show has been held along the waterfront Cabrillo Boulevard every Sunday for more than 50 years running. The year-round alfresco show adds bonus Saturday hours during major holiday weekends such as Martin Luther King, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the last weekend before Christmas. Established by local artists in 1965 and now managed by the City of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation department, one of its claims to fame is its impressive status as the only continuous, non-juried arts festival of original drawings, paintings, graphics, sculpture, crafts and photography in the world. More than 200 local artists are present to showcase their creations themselves and every single artist must be a Santa Barbara County resident to participate—so this is as local and buy-direct as you can get.
Photo credit: @inerhansen via Instagram
Youth Makers Market
Young artists ages 17 and under are the stars of the show at the Youth Makers Market pop-up events. Created by sisters Aaliyah and Bella Rubio, the market offers an opportunity for young artisans and budding entrepreneurs to practice their craft and sell their wares, be it jewelry, art, apparel, baked goods or locally harvested honey.
Photo credit: @youthmakermarket via Instagram
The Yes Store
A popular Santa Barbara tradition, The Yes Store, has been running for more than 50 years as a holiday pop-up. The Yes Store is located on the corner of State and Figueroa Street, inside La Arcada Shopping Center, and is open daily. The one-stop shop artists’ cooperative features fine jewelry, photography, graphics, ceramics, woodwork, glass, sculpture, clothing, leather, textiles and other creative goods, which can also be purchased through its online store year-round.
Photo credit: @santabarbarayesstore via Instagram
Taste Makers Market
The Taste Makers Market is a vibrant monthly event in Summerland, celebrating local artisans and culinary talents at Home Crush Shop. Enjoy gourmet foods, handcrafted goods and live music with a view. Indulge in fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked treats and explore booths with jewelry, home decor and fashion items. It’s a must-visit for experiencing the area’s best.
Photo credit: Christina Rinaldi