While June is officially National Pride Month, the Santa Barbara South Coast is proud to show our LGBTQ+ pride all year round. From special events and offerings to limited edition wares, The American Riviera® sure knows how to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. No matter how you participate in this year’s festivities, there’s an event for you on this list.
Pride Events and Activities
Though many Pride events are celebrated during June in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara’s official Pride Week takes place every August and features a variety of events, including comedy, dancing, an annual festival and more. This year’s pride week will be held Aug. 19-25, with the signature Pride Festival on Aug. 24.
Sunset at the Kimpton Canary Hotel, Monthly Mixer, May 9-Sept. 18 from 6-8 p.m.
In collaboration with the Pacific Pride Foundation, Sunset at the Canary is back for another summer of music, dancing and drinks at dusk. Boogie up to the Kimpton Canary Hotel rooftop for this free event. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride Week.
Celebrate Pride Month with Taco Tour Santa Barbara, June 1-30
Join Taco Tour Santa Barbara for a vibrant celebration of Pride Month! Indulge in a taco tour drink or margarita and receive complimentary gifts. Guests wearing rainbow colors will be treated to a free dessert.
Cost: $115 per adult, $99 per child.
Trivia Night at Baja Sharkeez, June 18 from 7-9 p.m.
Join Baja Sharkeez for a special trivia night in celebration of Pride Month! Part of the proceeds will go to the Pacific Pride Foundation, aiding in LGBTQ+ advocacy and inclusion efforts.
Cost: Admission is free.
Burn Bright for Pride, June 21 from 5-5:50 p.m.
Join Sol Seek Yoga Studio for a unique glow-in-the-dark fitness experience celebrating Pride Month. “Burn Bright for Pride” combines great music, strength training, cardio bursts and barre-style movements to elevate your mood and get your blood pumping. Arrive dressed in neon or white attire to maximize your glow under the blacklights and even enhance your glow with body paint!
Cost: $29 per person.
Santa Ynez Valley Pride Parade & Festival, June 22 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
The third annual Santa Ynez Valley Pride Parade begins at Alisal Road and Oak Street, parading through downtown Solvang with floats and music. It concludes with a family-friendly Pride Festival at noon in Solvang Park. Open to all ages, the festival features live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, bounce houses, face painting, vendors and more.
Cost: Free to attend.
R&B Brunch at Test Pilot, June 23 from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Join Melanin Culture Co. for its inaugural R&B brunch at Test Pilot featuring the beats of DJ Nagai. Embrace the denim-on-denim theme and wear your best jean outfit. In celebration of Pride Month, 20% of the event proceeds will benefit the Pacific Pride Foundation.
Cost: $20 per person.
Karaoke Night at Baja Sharkeez, June 25 from 7-9 p.m.
Join Baja Sharkeez for a special karaoke night in celebration of Pride Month! Part of the proceeds will go to the Pacific Pride Foundation, aiding in LGBTQ+ advocacy and inclusion efforts.
Cost: Admission is free.
Pacific Pride Festival, Aug. 24 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Join the community for an unforgettable celebration of love, diversity, and inclusivity at Pacific Pride Festival in Santa Barbara! This free, all-day event will feature a variety of local vendors, entertainment, food and libations benefiting Pacific Pride Foundation. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or an ally, Pride at the Beach in Santa Barbara is an opportunity to stand together and celebrate the community’s shared commitment to love, respect and celebration. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride Week.
Cost: Free to attend.
Glitter Brunch at Wildcat Lounge, Every Sunday at 11 a.m.
Offered year-round, what better way to kick off a Sunday in Santa Barbara with a drag, glitter brunch at Wildcat Lounge? The weekly event is hosted by Vivian Storm and Angel D’mon at 11 a.m. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride week.
Cost: $10 at the door, plus the cost of dining. Reservations are recommended.
LGBTQ-Owned Businesses in Santa Barbara
The Crafter’s Library
A dedicated co-working space for all types of crafts, The Crafter’s Library opened in 2021 with the motto, “anyone can craft,” in mind. The space is dedicated to the idea that no matter who you are or your perceived skill level, you can create something extraordinary by purchasing a day or annual pass. Owner Andrew Rawls, says the goal was to create a bright and cheery community space, citing the need for a safe, BIPOC and LGBTQ-friendly creative location, offering both daytime and evening activities. The Crafter’s Library also serves as a retail destination, selling everything from crafting supplies to uniquely Santa Barbara souvenirs.
Bossie’s Kitchen
Bossie’s Kitchen, a beloved eatery in Santa Barbara, is helmed by talented chef and wife duo Lauren Herman and Christina Olufson. Both Lauren, a Culinary Institute of America graduate with experience at Spago and Blue Hill, brings her farm-to-table expertise to the menu, and Santa Barbara native Christina, with a background in culinary arts and business, combine their expertise to create a warm, inviting dining experience. Located on the eastside of Santa Barbara, Bossie’s Kitchen offers a diverse array of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, all in an eco-friendly and community-focused setting.
Jill’s Place
Jill’s Place, a cherished Santa Barbara restaurant, is owned by third-generation Santa Barbaran Jill Shalhoob, a long-time chef who continues her family’s legacy of quality and service that began with Shalhoob Meat Company in 1973. Known for its hearty American fare, the menu features cuts like the signature prime rib and the famous Shalhoob Burger, sourced, of course, from the family business. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Jill’s Place is a beloved community hub that embodies the spirit of Santa Barbara, reflecting Jill’s dedication to her heritage. Jill Shalhoob has previously served on the board of the Pacific Pride Foundation and is an active member of the LGBTQ+ community in Santa Barbara.
Sol Seek Yoga Studio
Sol Seek Yoga Studio, owned by partners Justin Randolph and Greg Cicchino, offers a serene and inclusive space for yoga enthusiasts of all levels. With a focus on holistic wellness, this studio provides a variety of classes, workshops, and retreats designed to nurture both body and mind. Justin and Greg’s dedication to creating a supportive community is evident in their welcoming atmosphere and personalized approach. Sol Seek Yoga stands out as a cherished sanctuary in Santa Barbara, promoting health, mindfulness and connection.
Art Spot on Wheels
Art Spot on Wheels, owned by wives Christi and Maria Belle, is a mobile art studio bringing creative experiences to the community. This innovative venture offers art classes, workshops and parties for all ages, fostering creativity and connection. With a vibrant, mobile setup, the Belles have created a unique, accessible way for people to engage with art, making them a beloved fixture in Santa Barbara’s arts and culture scene.