May 7, 2026

2026 Stars of the South Coast Honoree Spotlight

Hospitality Business of the Year & Media Milestone Award

The Stars of the South Coast Constellation Awards Gala will take place on May 28, at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort.

This week we highlight these honorees:

Hospitality Business of the Year – Hotel Santa Barbara

A historic icon since 1876, Hotel Santa Barbara celebrates 100 years and continues to shape downtown with a newly renovated space that blends timeless charm and modern amenities. With the addition of the 1926 Lobby Bar and a growing workforce, the hotel exemplifies exceptional hospitality while investing in the community and local economy.

Media Milestone Award – Santa Barbara Independent

For 40 years, the Santa Barbara Independent has been a trusted voice for local news, arts, and culture. With award-winning journalism, community-driven initiatives, and a lasting impact on civic life, the Independent continues to inform, connect, and celebrate the South Coast.

Read the full press release.

Tickets are now on sale, and sponsorships are available.

Light Up Green for Mental Health Month

In recognition of Mental Health Month, the Chamber has joined the “Lighting Up Green” campaign to spark conversation and support community well-being.

Throughout May, buildings across Santa Barbara County, including the State Street Visitor Center, will shine in lime green, the national color for mental health awareness.

Explore local resources through the County of Santa Barbara Behavioral Wellness Department.

2026 Goleta Lemon Festival Volunteer Opportunities

Be part of the Goleta Lemon Festival this year, September 26–27. Enjoy a weekend of live entertainment, local vendors, family fun, and lemon-inspired treats.

Volunteer opportunities are open to students, businesses, and community members. Earn service hours, support a beloved local event, and be part of the experience. Sign up today.

So Much To Love: Celebrating Santa Barbara

There’s so much to love about Santa Barbara, from its rich history and vibrant culture to its unforgettable events and welcoming community spirit. The “So Much to Love in Santa Barbara” campaign is all about capturing that magic and sharing it with the world. Through inspiring visuals and local stories, the campaign showcases what makes our region so special - iconic landmarks, community traditions, and the people who bring it all to life.

This is a celebration of all things Santa Barbara. Download the free toolkit today and help spread the love for our local businesses and community.

Q1 Data Dashboard Now Available

The Chamber just released the Q1 2026 Data Dashboard, offering key insights into the region’s economic landscape.

This quarter’s report includes data related to residential real estate, building permits, commercial real estate, local workforce, sales tax, tourism, taxable cannabis sales, homelessness, and poverty throughout Santa Barbara County and the South Coast.

Chamber Support for Early Care and Education in the State Budget 

The Chamber and 50 other business organizations recently signed a letter of support for the prioritization of strategic investments in Early Care and Education (ECE) in California’s FY 2026-2027 budget. We believe ECE is a vital component of the State’s economic infrastructure and necessary for working families. Investing in ECE will increase childcare reimbursement rates and add thousands of childcare slots. Access to affordable, high-quality childcare continues to be a major workforce, quality of life, and economic equity issue in the South Coast of Santa Barbara County. Throughout May, the budget will undergo revisions based on the latest economic forecasts. The Budget will be officially passed by the Legislature and signed by Governor Newson on June 15.  Click here to learn more.

This National Small Business Week, we celebrate our local businesses from Goleta to Carpinteria. Let’s continue to show support, shop local, dine local, grab local gifts for Mother’s Day or everyday, and stop by the State Street Visitors Center for unique artisan finds and discover something new.

Core Sport
Celebrate Mother's Day with a gift for a limited time only, purchase a 7 day trial & get free kids club visits!

NAWBO
This intimate, free meetup is the perfect way to connect with women entrepreneurs on May 9.

SB Trust for Historic Preservation

1st Thursday! Be the first to view the new exhibition, “Fine Print, Hard Lines,” on May 7, 5-8 PM.

Community Environmental Council
Join us for the next Repair Cafe on May 9 at CEC’s

Environmental Hub.

Mighty Pilates SB
is hosting an exclusive 75-minute Strength + Stretch Reformer class this Saturday, May 9th.

Sunstone Winery

Visit Sunstone Estate Mother’s Day Weekend for specially curated experiences, May 8-10.

The Painted Cabernet
Join us for a special painting class where you’ll create, laugh, and take home your own finished artwork for Mother's Day on May 10.

Fazzino 3D Studio Gallery
See World Renown 3D Pop Artist Charles Fazzino at his privately owned 3D Studio Gallery in Santa Barbara on May 16. 

Rotary Club of Goleta

Calling all golfers!! join us Monday on May 18 at Glen Annie Golf Club.

Fees includes dinner, awards, fun and community engagement!

Vote by Mail ballots will be mailed in early May for the June 2, 2026 Statewide Direct Primary Election. Voter Information Guides were sent in April. Voters are encouraged to return ballots early using the postage paid envelope and must sign the return envelope. Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, June 2. Learn more

The City celebrates a Carpinteria High School senior named one of only 30 nationwide 2026 Edison Scholars, awarded $50,000.

Learn more

Attend FIFA World Cup 2026 Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 14 from noon to 2 P.M. at Captain Fatty’s. Learn how you can get involved!

Learn more

Community Input Needed: Armory CTE & Multi-Use Facility Project Forum on May 12, and Survey input available in English and Spanish.

Learn more