While June is officially National Pride Month, the Santa Barbara South Coast is proud to observe it all year long. From special events and offerings to limited edition wares, The American Riviera® sure knows how to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. No matter how you participate in this year’s festivities, there’s an event for you on this list.
Pride Events and Activities
Santa Barbara’s official Pride Week takes place from Aug. 21 to 28, 2022 and features a variety of events, including comedy, dancing, the annual festival and more.
Sunset at the Kimpton Canary Hotel
In collaboration with the Pacific Pride Foundation, Sunset at the Canary is back for another summer of music, dancing and drinks at dusk. Offered on Aug. 24, 2022, boogie on up to the rooftop of the Kimpton Canary Hotel for this free event. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride week.
Comedy is a Drag
What do happens when a comic and a drag queen are in the same room? Comedy is a Drag: The Santa Barbara Pride Show, happening on Aug, 26 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Comics from across the country will be performing at Wildcat Lounge, hosted by Bear Cave Comedy, followed by a pride kick off party at Backstage Dueling Piano Bar at 11:30 p.m. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride week.
Cost: $30-$40 per ticket.
Pacific Pride Festival
Saturday, Aug. 27, attend the annual Pacific Pride Festival, where a variety of local vendors, entertainment, food and libations will benefit the Pacific Pride Foundation. This is the first year the festival will take place since the COVID-19 pandemic started. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride week.
Crush Bar & Tap
Crush Bar & Tap prides itself in its weekly events to celebrate Pride all year long. On Sundays, enjoy Sunday Sessions: An afternoon of live music and cocktails. Thursday evenings, sing your heart out at Karaoke Night starting at 7 p.m. and on Fridays, Crush Bar & Tap hosts a RuPaul All Stars Viewing Party at 8 p.m.
Glitter Brunch at Wildcat Lounge
Offered year-round, what better way to kick off a Sunday in Santa Barbara with a drag, glitter brunch at Wildcat Lounge? This weekly event is hosted by Vivan Storm and Angel D’mon from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event is a part of Santa Barbara Pride week.
Cost: $5 at the door, plus the cost of dining. Reservations are recommended.
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, who identifies as a gay man, says the goal was to create a bright and cheery community space, citing the need for a safe, BIPOC and LGBTQIA-friendly creative location, with both daytime and evening activities.
Pura Luna Apothecary
Owned by wife duo Ashe and Christin, this boutique has everything from hair care, teas, jewelry and perfumes. It’s the ultimate one-stop-shop for all things related to self-care and wellness and a wonderful business to support outside of just Pride Month. Be sure not to miss the colorful rainbow flower display framing their Chapala Street shop!
