Santa Barbara is where signature local events, delectable cuisine and an irresistible Mediterranean climate come together to create the ultimate seaside escape. Get ready for an exciting week ahead as you explore all corners of this inviting city. With sun-kissed beaches perfect for relaxation, hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and a charming downtown adorned with historic Spanish architecture, award-winning wine tasting and unique, this upcoming week in Santa Barbara promises a vacation like no other.
Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway to this slice of California coast, or you’re already here and looking for the city’s top events and new happenings, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to The American Riviera®.
Back by popular demand, Disclosure returns for a two-night April takeover at the Santa Barbara Bowl, blending house, garage and high-energy live sets. JADALAREIGN opens night one with genre-blurring, high-voltage mixes, while house pioneer Todd Edwards brings his signature chopped-vocal sound to night two. Two nights, two distinct vibes and plenty of room to dance under the Santa Barbara sky.
Ralph Barbosa brings his laid-back, observational comedy to the historic Arlington Theatre on his Red 40 Tour. Named one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch,” he pairs a disarming stage presence with sharp, relatable humor. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with plenty of time to settle in before an evening of stand-up and festival-week energy.
La Piazza, a new Italian music and food festival, brings the spirit of Italy to the Faulkner Gallery, Towbes Plaza at the Santa Barbara Public Library and locations throughout Santa Barbara. This free, three-day celebration highlights Italian music, cuisine and community, opening Friday with Amore Italiano: Rome, Cinema, and the Music of the Heart at the Faulkner Gallery, followed by a lively weekend at Towbes Plaza featuring bread and olive oil tastings, pasta workshops, kids’ activities, cooking demos, seminars from the UCSB Italian Culture Department and a marketplace of authentic Italian goods.
On view at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, “Aquean” is a compelling multimedia exhibition that brings contemporary art into dialogue with Santa Barbara’s coastal beauty and deep-rooted maritime heritage. Featuring internationally recognized artists David Ellis and Larry Vigon, the exhibit explores the sea as both subject and source of inspiration, offering a thoughtful lens into the landscapes and ocean that shape the Santa Barbara lifestyle. Set in the heart of the harbor, it’s an easy addition to a waterfront day — with nearby beaches, dining and on-the-water activities — while also giving visitors access to the museum’s interactive galleries for a well-rounded cultural experience.
The Gift: New Additions to Our Story at Santa Barbara Historical Museum showcases recent acquisitions to the museum’s permanent collection, offering fresh perspectives on the region’s evolving history. On view through May 31, the exhibition highlights meaningful community contributions that continue to shape Santa Barbara’s story.
other things to do
Winter in Santa Barbara brings green hillsides, crisp coastal air and a slower, more inviting pace for outdoor exploration (like whale watching!), seasonal dining and plenty of cultural experiences. From budget-friendly activities or must-try eats, Santa Barbara has you covered when it comes to providing an unforgettable getaway.
STAY TWO NIGHTS, GET THE THIRD FREE
Planning a spur-of-the-moment visit just got sweeter with this incredible third night free deal. When you book two nights at select Santa Barbara properties, the third’s on us. And who wouldn’t want to linger a little longer in The American Riviera®?
