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.
District News & City Council Updates
Save the Date: DSBIA's 2026 Annual Meeting
Join us Thursday, October 22, from 3:30 to 5:30 PM for DSBIA's 2026 Annual Meeting! We'll celebrate our first year of district operations, share highlights and accomplishments, look ahead to 2027, and connect with fellow downtown community members. We hope you'll join us!
Santa Barbara Beautiful 61th Annual Awards Celebration
Each year, Santa Barbara Beautiful recognizes and celebrates outstanding individuals, organizations, and businesses that complete community projects throughout the city through its Annual Awards celebration. From small single-family residence do-it-yourself projects to estate gardens, civic buildings, theatres, placing art in public places, and everything in between, these awards single out exemplary properties—and the individuals involved—that expand the beauty of Santa Barbara. The 2026 Annual Awards will be this and more. Taking place at the Cabrillo Pavilion on Sunday, September 27th, at 3:00 PM, the event will offer places, art, and people you won't want to miss!
Jess Conti Leather Goods Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
Join us in welcoming Jess Conti Leather Goods to Downtown Santa Barbara! Celebrate their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Thursday, October 1 at 4:30 PM at 29 El Paseo. Stop by to meet Jess, explore her handcrafted leather goods, and enjoy light snacks and refreshments as we celebrate this exciting new addition to downtown.
Pianos on State celebrates its 17th year
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.
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.
Paloma (702 Anacapa St.) | Wednesday-Sunday, 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.) | Sunday-Friday, 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
The purpose of Santa Barbara Beautiful is to stimulate community interest and action toward the enhancement of Santa Barbara's beauty as a complement to current and future government and private activity.
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.