Summer might be over, but the parties continue! Festival season, as we like to call it, means you’ve got plenty of options to eat, mingle, drink and be merry in Santa Barbara.
September and October our two of our best months in Santa Barbara. It’s when the crowds mellow out but the temperature is still warm. Plan ahead and check out our calendar of events. We’ve also outlined three of our favorite fun festivals in Santa Barbara below.
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Beer, BBQ & the beach
Say cheers to beer and join us for the 3rd Annual California Brew & BBQ Festival in Santa Barbara on the last weekend of September. Beer is king at this relatively new but popular event. Sample beers, ciders and wine from more than 50 vendors.
With a focus on beer and culinary offerings of California, this is a truly local experience and a chance to savor tasty samples from nearby restaurants and BBQ masters. You’ll be the judge when it comes to tri-tip, as the top SB restaurants compete for the title of “Best BBQ.”
This full day of fun wouldn’t be complete without music and the festival welcomes One2Tree and Neighborhood Thieves to keep you in good entertainment. Book your tickets for this beachfront event that both locals and visitors look forward to. Tickets include unlimited drink and food stamps and your own souvenir glass.
SB Sea Glass & Ocean Arts Festival
On the second week of September is the Santa Barbara Sea Glass & Ocean Arts Festival, an event of true beauty that beckons artists to our coastline from all over the country. This amazing fall event is one of only three festivals of its kind on the West Coast.
What better location to have a sea glass festival than in the coastal jewel of Santa Barbara? Handmade, authentic sea glass of all shades fill this festival where talented artists display their wares. Witness jewelry with such natural beauty that it’s obvious Mother Nature had a hand in crafting it.
Whether you’re an artist, ocean lover, environmentalist or just shopping for unique and inspiring gifts, there’s something for everyone to behold.
Santa Barbara Harbor and Seafood Festival – for seafood lovers only
If you can’t make it in September, don’t worry. Santa Barbara has an event for October visitors that is truly special. The Santa Barbara Harbor and Seafood Festival is a seafood lover’s dream come to life. On the second week of October the Harbor will be brimming with fresh catch.
Get a taste of the local fare at nearby restaurants and don’t miss the chowder. But that’s not all – savor fish tacos, oysters, barbequed albacore, mussels and seafood paella. Watch as freshly caught lobster and sea urchin are prepared for you to order.
But what’s truly awesome about this event is the chance to speak to the local fishermen. Who doesn’t love hearing sailors’ tales?
This event is right on the Santa Barbara Harbor and is free, so make sure to book your accommodation now. Check out our short-term vacation rental properties to find a vacation home within walking or bike riding distance.
Where to stay during fall festivals in Santa Barbara
After a full day of festivities, you’ll need a comfy place to come back and relax. Check out our coastal properties to find a vacation rental home that will make you feel like a local in luxury. With all the amenities you need and plenty of shops, restaurants – and festivals – nearby, you’ll want for nothing.
