A family living in Santa Barbara has a number of options for fun outings and interesting things to do. But on top of the many and beaches, there are festivals and community events year round.
When it’s time to find fun and interesting things for the family to do, Santa Barbara residents have a wide range of choices. There are outdoor spots like the beach, parks, and any one of the many trails winding through the city and hills. Established venues like theaters and museums are also an enjoyable part of life for SB households. But when it comes to having a great time, few things bring more joy than the many festivals that dot the calendar each year.
With everything from parades to huge outdoor parties, Santa Barbara festivals range from historical to holiday based. While the celebrations are usually centered in a particular part of town, streets are closed, businesses stock up, and restaurants offer specials that match the style of the event. SB hotels and resorts fill with visitors and the whole city takes part in the festivities.
One of the best things about being a family in Santa Barbara is celebrating Old Spanish Days Fiesta. For over 75 years, residents have been gathering in early August to remember the historical roots of the town. With an open air marketplace, parades for both adults and children, a star studded performance under the balmy California sky, and an abundance of parties and ceremonies Fiesta makes the first part of August sparkle.
September doesn’t just mean heading back to school for Santa Barbara families. It means it’s time for the West Beach Music & Arts Festival, a beach festival with rock, reggae and jam bands that fills the waterfront area. The all-ages festival has music, arts and crafts vendors, and kid friendly activities.
One of the most unique and charming celebrations in Santa Barbara is the Summer Solstice Parade. Held on the closest Saturday to the summer solstice each year, the parade has as its primary participants the residents of Santa Barbara. While groups come from all over the world to be a part of the fun, the parade is mostly filled with wildly costumed locals, home made floats, and choreographed dance groups that make viewing the parade a truly wonderful experience. Few events in the city match this one for family friendly fun.
Santa Barbara residents have the advantage of beautiful beaches, wonderful museums and lovely parks. Add to that the festivals that occur all year round and this city is an even more amazing place for families to live.