Fall in love with November in Santa Barbara with activities for every traveler—the outdoorsy and active bunch, self-proclaimed foodies, live music- and entertainment-lovers—and everyone in between. Immerse yourself in the outdoors with a yoga and breathwork workshop on Stearns Wharf, browse antiques and vintage wares at the Santa Barbara Antique Decorative Arts & Vintage Show or spend the afternoon exploring (and sipping) at world-renowned vineyards within Santa Barbara wine country.
With so many ways to sip and savor your way through fall in The American Riviera®, these events and activities are sure to make for an unforgettable trip.
EVENTS
There’s no shortage of local events happening, and November starts off strong with the Santa Barbara Jewish Film Festival (Nov. 6-10) at The New Vic, which celebrates Jewish culture, history and identity through the art of film. Grab a post-movie bite at Santa Barbara Public Market from variety of different vendors featuring an array of cuisines from around the world, or sit down and unwind with a signature cocktail at Benchmark Eatery.
Runners from near and far travel to Santa Barbara to partake in the Santa Barbara Half Marathon (Nov. 3), featuring the 13.1-mile run and a 5K course—both of which start at the iconic Cabrillo Boulevard and end on State Street. Post-race, the event will host a Funk Zone Finish Line Festival complete with beer and live music at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.
ZooLights is also making an anticipated return to the Santa Barbara Zoo starting Nov. 13, where you’re invited to admire how art and light installations can merge to create a spectacular walkthrough experience in one of California’s most delightful zoos.
Explore vintage furniture and home décor from decades past at the Santa Barbara Antique Decorative Arts & Vintage Show and Sale at Earl Warren Showgrounds (Nov. 22-24), featuring pieces dating back to the 17th century in addition to rare mid-century gems. The monthly Farmer and the Flea Market is slated for Nov. 23, highlighting locally curated vintage clothing items, noteworthy handmade wares and unique flea market finds at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
Close out the Santa Barbara Bowl concert season with show Grammy-nominated duo Sofi Tukker on Nov. 7. Over at at the Granada Theatre, here are the performances and film showings you don’t want to miss: French Connections (Nov. 17), The Fugitive (Nov. 23) and Clue (Nov. 26-27). At Lobero Theatre, enjoy a weekend of Pagliacci (Nov. 8-10), John Hiatt (Nov. 12), John Craigie (Nov. 15), Blind Pilot (Nov. 16), Mat Kearny (Nov. 18), Wildflowers (Nov. 21) and more.
FALLING FOR LOCAL FOOD & WINE
Nov. 16, enjoy a winemaker dinner on at Blackbird in the iconic Hotel Californian. The evening begins with a meet-and-greet with the winemakers on the patio, followed by an innovative four-course meal made with fresh, local ingredients, each paired perfectly with a variety of acclaimed wines.
Keep your glass full all month long and let the professionals be your guide when you during a wine tour, where guests can taste Santa Barbara wine country’s best in vine (the region is best known for its chardonnay and pinot noir). Discover more unique ways to wine in Santa Barbara.
Embark on the three-and-a-half hour foodie adventure, Taste of Santa Barbara Food Walking Tour with Santa Barbara Tasting Tours, which makes stops at six different quintessential Santa Barbara restaurants, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the rich history of Santa Barbara and its culinary past.
Every Tuesday afternoon, Bouchon Santa Barbara the executive chef hosts a Farmers Market Foodie Stroll and Gourmet Dinner, where guests are guided in selecting farm-fresh ingredients for a three-course meal prepared by the chef himself at the restaurant. (Bonus: The meal is paired with local wines, as well.) Tour Santa Barbara’s famed Funk Zone during a tour with Eat This, Shoot That! Food and Drink Tours, which includes stops at eight different tasting locations (think: artisan bites, seafood, local wine, authentic Mexican food, etc.) with a knowledgeable tour guide.
Want more inspiration for your next trip? Check out these epic outdoor fall activities in Santa Barbara.
