Whether you're planning a perfect mid-week happy hour, looking for live entertainment, or staying informed on local civic updates, we've got you covered. Here is what's happening around Downtown Santa Barbara this week.
Solstice Theme Party and Fashion Show
Join the Solstice community for a fun-filled evening of creativity, costumes, and inspiration on Saturday, September 19, at 5:00 PM at Son Y Sabor. Come dressed as your favorite idea for the 2027 theme and take the runway for a chance to win cash prizes for Best Solstice Theme Costume and the evening’s most outrageous look. Enjoy the fashion show, connect with fellow Solstice supporters, and cast your vote for the 2027 Parade Theme!
Santa Barbara Beautiful's (SBB) vibrant new flags will fly along State Street during the last week of September, showcasing the organization's fresh Red Hibiscus logo — a tribute to the City's official flower.
SBB is best known for its Annual Beautification Awards, but its impact runs deeper. Join them for their 61st Annual Awards Celebration at the Cabrillo Pavilion on Sunday, September 27 at 3:00 PM.
Salsa & Bachata Dance Nights are back in September!
Join us every Wednesday in September for free salsa and bachata lessons in front of M. Special and Downtown Eats (634 State Street), led by the amazing Brenda Ruiz from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by open dancing from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
This event is open to the public and free of charge. M. Special and new business Downtown Eats will offer food and drink specials throughout the evening.
This fall, State Street once again transforms into an open-air gallery and stage as Pianos on State celebrates its 17th year. From September 29 through October 19, 2026, the community is invited to experience this beloved interactive public art and music installation, where painted pianos become canvases for both visual art and spontaneous performance.
Paloma (702 Anacapa St.) | Wednesdays-Sundays, 4:00 PM |Learn More
Kids Eat Free
Paloma (702 Anacapa St.) | Sundays, 10:30 AM |Learn More
Live Each Hour Like It's Happy Hour
The Cruisery (501 State St.) | Sundays-Fridays, 3:00 PM |Learn More
Sparkling Wine Tasting Flight
SB Bubbly Lounge (23 E. De La Guerra St. Suite 100) | September 1-30, 12:00 PM |Learn More
Red Wine Tasting Flight
Jamie Slone Wines (23 E. De La Guerra St.) | September 1-30, 12:00 PM |Learn More
Flag Program
This Week's Flag
Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) flags are flying downtown for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. TBCF advocates for families living in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties that have a child with cancer by providing financial, educational, and emotional support.
Our Clean & Safe Program continues to make a visible impact downtown. Our team is out daily, keeping the streets clean, welcoming, and well-maintained, to help create clearly defined, comfortable, and safe spaces for the community. These efforts not only improve the appearance of our public spaces but also enhance overall safety and the experience for everyone who visits, works, or lives downtown.