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Vacant Window Beautification Program
The Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA), in partnership with the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture (SBCOAC), the Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative (SBAC), and Santa Barbara Signs is proud to announce the launch of the Vacant Window Beautification Program, a new program designed to transform vacant storefronts along State Street into vibrant, eye-catching displays of local creativity.
The DSBIA invites Santa Barbara County–based artists—those who live, work, or create art within the county—to submit existing original artwork in digital format for consideration in our new vacant window beautification program. All artwork must be provided digitally, as selected pieces will be enlarged, formatted to fit unique storefront dimensions, and printed on window film. Artists whose work is installed will receive a $250 honorarium.
For more information and to apply, visit: Vacant Window Beautification Program
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Presidio Neighborhood Survey: Share Your Input
A refresh is coming for the Presidio Neighborhood brand! We want to hear from you about why this nine-square-block district in and around El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park matters to you and how it contributes to our downtown. You can find the survey here, and it includes a chance to win a $10 gift card from Rudy's Mexican Restaurant! It takes just a few minutes to complete, and survey responses will help inform a new look for the district. For more on the Presidio Neighborhood visit here.
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Knitty Gritty Series: Unknitting with Brook Rademacher
Wednesday, August 27, 5:30 PM
The Knit Shop, 1221 State St, Ste. 7
You will do a full 90 minutes on unknitting, so when you leave, you will feel confident that you can unknit mistakes with comfort and ease. This will also cover the purl stitch as well.
Bring two swatches: one on stockinette stitch, and one in garter stitch.
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Sip & Swirl on the Kimpton Canary Rooftop
Wednesday, August 27, 5:30 PM
Finch & Fork, 31 W. Carrillo St.
Join Finch & Fork on the Kimpton Canary Hotel rooftop for an unforgettable Sip & Swirl on Wednesday, August 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM! Set in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, this relaxed and flavorful evening overlooks stunning mountain and ocean views. For $30 per person, the evening features local wines to sip and swirl, paired with bountiful cheese and charcuterie boards to enjoy while admiring views of the beautiful skyline. Bring your friends along or come make new ones in a laid-back atmosphere under the stars.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to savor delicious local wines and bites!
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ZenDoodles: The Art of Meditative Doodling
Wednesday, August 27, 5:30 PM
The Crafter's Library, 9 E. Figueroa St.
The Art of Meditative Doodling is a relaxing and creative drawing class where participants learn how to create intricate, structured patterns called "doodles." This mindful practice encourages relaxation, focus, and artistic expression, making it accessible for all skill levels. By breaking down complex designs into simple steps, ZenDoodles allows participants to experience the calming benefits of meditative drawing. Join this class to unwind, tap into your creativity, and leave with beautiful, unique art!
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East Valley Road with Plastic Harpoons, Pocketfox, Jacob Cole & the Contenders, and Val-Mar Records
Thursday, August 28, 6:30 PM
SOhO, 1221 State St.
Enjoy a night of live music at SOhO on Thursday, August 28, with performances by East Valley Road, Plastic Harpoons, Pocketfox, Jacob Cole & the Contenders, and Val-Mar Records. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and music begins at 6:30 PM. Dinner will be served in the back bar.
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Zen and the Art of Costume Drawing - Workshop
Thursday, August 28, 6:00 PM
Gallery 707, Paseo Nuevo
Enjoy this drawing workshop with Rich Wilkie, who will share the tips, tricks, and lessons he learned working for 25 years in animation, beginning as an assistant animator at Walt Disney Feature Animation. He returned to portrait painting after working as a supervising director at Netflix. He will also cover goals, state of mind, breaking old habits, quick sketch, line, rhythm, form, and draped fabric. Rich will lecture, demonstrate, and work with you one-on-one!
Reserve your seat by contacting Rich: Rich@richwilkie.com.
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Sunset Ska Party at the Kimpton Canary Rooftop
Friday, August 29, 6:00 PM
Kimpton Canary Hotel, 31 W. Carrillo St.
Soak in the summer sunset at the Kimpton Canary Hotel rooftop on Friday, August 29, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM, and enjoy an unforgettable evening under the open sky with live music from local reggae/ska favorite, Koalishon. Dance, sip, and sway as the sun sets and the good vibes rise in this 21+ summer celebration. Tickets are $20, with drinks available for purchase at the bar. You won't want to miss it!
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(((folkYEAH!))) Presents: Twin Shadow
Friday, August 29, 9:00 PM
SOhO, 1221 State St.
Twin Shadow's new album, Georgie, is a bold, genre-defying statement born not from tragedy, but from deep self-reflection and artistic reckoning. The son of a white Jewish New Yorker and a Black Dominican, Twin Shadow (a.k.a. George Lewis Jr.) has long resisted being boxed in by musical labels—Georgie fully embraces that hybridity with a unique blend of fretless bass, pedal steel, and the conscious omission of drums. Written largely in collaboration with songwriter Sophie Hintz, the album balances personal catharsis with stories told on behalf of others, capturing an emotional spectrum both intimate and expansive. Anchored by the focus track "Headless Hero," a raw tribute to his late father, the album pulses with a sense of urgency and presence. It's a collection shaped as much by vulnerability and family as it is by artistic risk and creative freedom. Even its title and cover—his father's handwritten signature—invite listeners into a space where boundaries dissolve and only the most personal truths remain.
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Sip & Shop with JuaJua at Anna Janelle Jewelry
Saturday, August 30, 10:00 AM
Anna Janelle Jewelry, 1103A State St.
Join Anna Janelle Jewelry for a special Sip & Shop featuring JuaJua, a vibrant line of artisan-made dresses and accessories created in collaboration with Colombian women. Hosted at Anna Janelle Jewelry’s State Street boutique, this one-day event brings together two women-owned brands dedicated to artistry, empowerment, and everyday luxury. Enjoy complimentary sips while you explore JuaJua's bold, handcrafted fashion and shop AJJ's signature jewelry—modern, gold-filled designs made to layer and shine.
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Gallery 113 Art Walk in La Arcada Plaza
Saturday, August 30, 10:00 AM
Gallery 113, 1114 State St.
Discover local artists in the charming La Arcada courtyard. A day of art, conversation, and community. A variety of art will be displayed on portable walls in front of Gallery 113. The gallery will be open as well to peruse original artwork, prints, cards, and small objects.
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Sewing 101
Saturday, August 30, 10:30 AM
The Crafter's Library, 9 E. Figueroa St.
In this class you'll learn the basics of sewing, from how to choose and prepare your fabric to how to wind a bobbin and thread our machines to how to sew a perfect hem! You'll leave with an awesome drawstring pouch!
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Rhythms of Pachamama
Saturday, August 30, 7:00 PM
The Dance Hub, 22 E. Victoria St.
Join The Dance Hub for an evening of heart-opening movement, soulful beats, and community connection—guided by DJ Turtle.
They're honored to welcome Simone, a dynamic vocalist with roots in the '90s festival and drum circle scene. She currently performs with The Rhythm Industrial Complex and fronts the Zydeco Zippers, weaving ethereal, funky, and blues-infused sounds. Together, you'll dance in celebration of Pachamama, honoring the rhythms of nature and the vibrant energy of summer. Move, feel, and celebrate life through dance!
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Mykal Rose with Rastan
Saturday, August 30, 9:00 PM
SOhO, 1221 State St.
Reggae icon Mykal Rose takes the stage at SOhO Music Club on August 30 for a rare and powerful performance. Best known as the original voice of Black Uhuru during their groundbreaking rise in the late '70s and '80s, Rose is the force behind timeless anthems like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "Shine Eye Gal," and "General Penitentiary." His distinctive vocal style helped shape the globally influential "Waterhouse" sound, and in 1984, Rose and Black Uhuru became the first-ever recipients of the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album with Anthem. Now returning to the spotlight as a solo artist, Rose continues to electrify audiences with his militant, roots-drenched sound.
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24th Annual Open Studios Tour
August 30-September 1
Community Arts Workshop, 631 Garden St.
The Santa Barbara Studio Artists (SBSA) are delighted to announce the 24th annual Open Studios Tour, returning Labor Day weekend 2025. A beloved Santa Barbara tradition, the event offers art lovers the rare opportunity to explore the private workspaces of some of the area’s most talented and accomplished professional artists.
Festive opening reception and preview exhibition on Friday, Aug. 29, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Community Arts Workshop, 631 Garden Street, downtown Santa Barbara.
This year’s tour will feature 28 local artists, whose studios will be open to the public and marked with distinctive yellow flags.
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Labor Day Weekend Southern Brunch at the Kimpton Canary Hotel
Sunday, August 31, 11:00 AM
Finch & Fork, 31 W. Carrillo St.
Join Finch & Fork for a Southern Brunch Pop-Up this Labor Day weekend on Sunday, August 31, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, serving up comfort classics and bold Southern flavors! Sip on bottomless mimosas, indulge in a Bloody Mary bar, cool off with a Michelada, and sway to swanky tunes from DJ Darla Bea. The special à la carte menu features Chicken & Waffles (Nashville Hot or regular), Low Country Shrimp & Grits, Gumbo, Hushpuppies, and Biscuits & Gravy. Guests can enjoy bold flavors, refreshing drinks, and lively music while soaking in the rooftop atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for sweet, savory, or a bit of both, this one-day-only event is the perfect way to kick off your holiday weekend. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot.
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Poetry Grows Here: Presidio Neighborhood
Sunday, August 31, 12:00 PM
Pico Adobe at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, 920 Anacapa St.
Join this free poetry workshop and tasting event in the Presidio Neighborhood!
Santa Barbara Poet Laureate George Yatchisin and Gunpowder Press invite the community to find inspiration and create poetry about Santa Barbara County food, drinks, restaurants, and agriculture for a new collection to be published by Gunpowder Press. After a poetry workshop led by Yatchisin, participants will visit Rudy’s Mexican Restaurant for a tasty bite, Loubud Wines to sip a local sparkling wine, and The Space—Su’nan Protection, Art & Cultural Education for a Chumash sweet treat.
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Dance Conditioning Workshop with Aimee Lopez
Sunday, August 31, 1:00 PM
The Dance Hub, 22 E. Victoria St.
Strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and refine your technique! Join Aimee Lopez for three Sundays of focused dance conditioning at The Dance Hub.
Visit Dancehubsb.org to register.
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Pulse & Presence: A Somatic Journey to Freedom
Sunday, August 31, 3:00 PM
Yoga Soup, 28 Parker Way
This co-ed workshop invites you into the heart of embodied healing. Reconnect with your truest nature, free of the mental, physical & emotional weights hindering you from living as the most luminous, free human you always were. In this ritualistic somatic workshop, you learn how to listen to the wisdom of your body, move through emotions, and release stuck energy.
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International Overdose Awareness Day CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
Sunday, August 31, 7:30 PM
Courthouse Sunken Gardens, 1100 Anacapa St.
You're invited to take part and stand in a circle during a simple but powerful candlelight VIGIL to honor those who have been impacted by overdose, as well as those who are hurting from harmful and divisive immigration policies impacting our communities. In a time when people are searching for connection and safety, this gathering is a chance to come together to support each other and to remember that we are really ONE BIG FAMILY.
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Afroman at SOhO on Labor Day!
Monday, September 1, 8:00 PM
SOhO, 1221 State St.
Enjoy an evening with Afroman at SOhO on Monday, September 1st. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with music starting at 8:00 PM. Dinner will be served in the back bar.
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Handmade Paper Workshop
Wednesday, September 3, 5:30 PM
The Crafter's Library, 9 E. Figueroa St.
Step into the enchanting world of papermaking with this workshop at The Crafter's Library!
In this immersive class, participants will learn the art of crafting beautiful paper from scratch using recycled materials and botanical additives.
Guided by experienced instructors, attendees will explore various techniques such as pulp preparation, sheet forming, and creative embellishments. Whether you're a novice or seasoned crafter, this workshop promises a delightful journey of creativity and eco-friendly craftsmanship, culminating in your own unique handmade paper creations to cherish.
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Jazz in the Bar with Tony Ybarra + Friends
Wednesday, September 3, 6:30 PM
SOhO, 1221 State St.
Tony Ybarra presents an evening of Jazz in Soho's back bar on Wednesday, September 3rd. Enjoy dinner alongside various up-and-coming jazz instrumentalists and vocalists backed by an all-star jazz trio!
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100 Years of Santa Barbara Public Art
Voting takes place: September 4-24
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the rebuilding of Santa Barbara as the American Riviera, a community-wide campaign is being launched to celebrate the city’s rich tradition of public art. The project, titled “100 Years of Santa Barbara Public Art,” aims to engage the community in voting for their favorite public art pieces in Santa Barbara.
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Opal's 25th Anniversary Kickoff Party
Friday, September 5, 6:00 PM
Opal Restaurant & Bar, 1325 State St.
Celebrate Opal's 25th Anniversary Kickoff Party on Friday, September 5th, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM+ with a festive evening of great food, live music, and community spirit. Enjoy a special 4-course prix fixe dinner, live jazz from Brian Mann and The Boss Cats, raffle giveaways, and a $10 certificate for your next visit. With surprises and a full month of celebration ahead, this is the perfect way to honor 25 years of local flavor and hospitality.
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Tamsen Gallery Hosts Renowned Photographer, Susan Bridges "Inside Heaven's Gate – Behind the Scenes with Susan Bridges."
Exhibition opening: September 19
Tamsen Gallery, 1309 State St.
The Tamsen Gallery is honored to host photographer Susan Bridges' exhibition "Inside Heaven's Gate—Behind the Scenes with Susan Bridges." In 1979, Bridges was granted unparalleled access by Academy Award-winning director Michael Cimino (The Deer Hunter, Thunderbolt and Lightfoot), as well as the producer and cinematographer, to photograph the making of the movie Heaven's Gate. Join Tamsen Gallery for this unique look into the world of filmmaking through Susan Bridges' distinctive narrative lens. The exhibition opens on September 19 with special programs and artist talks planned throughout its run.
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FERTILUM by Ricardo Ozier-Lafontaine
On Display until October 5
Seimandi & Leprieur, 33 W Anapamu St.
This solo exhibition features large black-and-white paintings that explore memories from the past through abstract shapes. Inspired by pre-Columbian symbols and Caribbean culture, Ozier-Lafontaine creates art that connects history with today’s world.
The 2025 show at Seimandi & Leprieur is his first solo exhibition in the United States. After showing in group exhibitions at major U.S. museums, this display brings together important works from the last ten years and invites visitors to discover a unique voice in contemporary Caribbean art.
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Family-to-Family Class Offered by National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
September 24-November 12, Wednesdays, 6:30 PM
September 27-November 15,
Saturdays, 10:00 AM
NAMI Family-to-Family is an 8-session educational program offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Santa Barbara. It's designed for family members, significant others, and friends of individuals with mental health conditions. The program provides valuable information, support, and coping strategies for those supporting a loved one with a mental health condition.
Research shows the program improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of participants.
The program is offered at no cost and in a safe, confidential setting.
NAMI-trained family members who have personal experience with mental illness lead the program.
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Downtown State Street Sizzling Salsa & Bachata Dance Nights
Wednesdays, 6:00 PM
M. Special Brewing, 634 State St.
Enjoy free salsa & bachata lessons every Wednesday in September in front of M. Special 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 will offer food and drink specials throughout the evening.
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Trivia Night at M. Special Brewing
Wednesdays, 6:30 PM
M. Special Brewing, 634 State St.
Enjoy every Wednesday at 6:30 PM at M. Special Brewing Company a free, live multimedia trivia night hosted by comedian Courtney Rainwater. Eat, drink, think, and win!
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Music Bingo
Wednesdays, 7:00 PM
Institution Ale, 516 State St.
Join Institution Ale on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM for a music bingo night. Music Bingo is just like normal bingo, but your bingo card will be full of song names. Listen to the music, fill out your card, and win prizes! There will be a new musical theme each week. It is free to play, but players must be 21+ to win a prize.
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Thursdays #1 Stand-up Comedy Show – SB Comedy Night
Thursdays, 7:30 PM
The Red Piano, 519 State St.
Enjoy every Thursday the world-famous Red Piano VIP Backstage Comedy Club and laugh with Santa Barbara locals and tourists all night long! Santa Barbara Comedy Night offers you a perfect night out for world-class laughs at local hometown prices, ensuring you get the best value for your entertainment night out.
Every Thursday night, professional stand-up comedians perform their headliner, featured, and opener comedy shows.
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Magic On State St. Fridays at Satellite Wine Bar
Fridays, 6:15 PM
Satellite, 1117 State St.
Magic Happens at Satellite Wine Bar!
Join Satellite and enjoy close up magic and mentalism with Gene Urban, a professional magician who calls Santa Barbara home!
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Karaoke Fridays on State at Longoria Wines
Fridays, 6:30 PM
Longoria Wines, 732 State St.
Join Longoria Wines and enjoy every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at their State St. location singing your heart out! Glass specials and bottle discounts every week. Hosted by El Karaoke.
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Line Dancing at Union on State
Fridays, 7:00 PM
Union, 609 State St.
Union Santa Barbara is more than just a venue; it's a vibrant destination where diverse tastes converge and spirits connect. They are Santa Barbara's premier spot for an unparalleled fusion of live music, exceptional dining, and an energetic club atmosphere, all housed under one roof. Whether you're seeking a lively night out, a delicious meal, or a cozy cafe experience, Union Santa Barbara delivers. Their stage hosts all types of music, from electrifying rock and soulful jazz to pulsating EDM and global rhythms. They're also home to dynamic jam sessions and open mic nights, inviting local talent and spontaneous collaborations to ignite the stage. And when the beat drops, their dance floor comes alive with everything from line dancing to swing and salsa.
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Sunken Garden Summer Cinema Series
Fridays, 8:30 PM
Courthouse Sunken Gardens, 1100 Anacapa St.
Enjoy Friday nights under the stars with the Summer Film Series! The 2025 theme is Dog Days of Summer and will take place weekly from July 11 to August 29, excluding August 1. Screenings take place on Friday evenings in July and August in the iconic courthouse Sunken Garden at 8:30 PM.
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Saturday Architectural Walking Tour
Saturdays, 10:00 AM
Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara, 229 E. Victoria St.
Join the architectural walking tour of historic buildings in downtown Santa Barbara and hear the rich anecdotal history of buildings such as de la Guerra Adobe, El Paseo, Meridian Studios, and the Lobero Theatre, among others.
The Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara offers its Sabado Architectural Walking Tour each Saturday beginning at 10:00 AM. The tour leaves from the City Hall steps adjacent to de la Guerra Plaza and is 1.5–2hours long. The suggested donation is $20 per person.
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Dance Hive: Ecstatic Dance
Sundays, 12:30 PM
Yoga Soup, 28 Parker Way
Santa Barbara Dance Hive invites you to celebrate life through movement! They gather Sundays as a community for a conscious dance journey that welcomes authentic expression, freedom of movement, and embodied connection.
Your entry fee is tax deductible! Dance Hive is hosted by INSPIRATIA, a registered 501c3 charitable organization.
Learn more at: Inspiratia.org.
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Creative Writing Night at Casa Agria
2nd Monday Each Month
Casa Agria, 418 State St.
Get ready to unleash your creativity! Casa Agria is thrilled to invite you to an enchanting evening of Creative Writing, in collaboration with Lowstate Writing Salon. Join them from 7:00 to 9:00 PM for an immersive exploration of the theme of Emergency. It's the perfect opportunity to harness the power of your imagination and let your thoughts flow freely onto the page.
Dive deep into the world of storytelling, and let the theme inspire and guide your literary endeavors. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this event promises to cultivate an environment where your creativity can flourish. They can't wait to see the unique stories and perspectives that will emerge from this gathering.
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Enrollment is now open for CEC's Fall Climate Stewards Course
Community Environmental Council's Environmental Hub, 1219 State St.
Ready to take climate action into your own hands? The Community Environmental Counci's (CEC) Climate Stewards Certification Program is your chance — and the next course kicks off on Tuesday, September 9. This eight-week course is the perfect opportunity to dive into the local climate movement, build skills for advancing equitable solutions, and connect with others who care deeply about building a more sustainable, resilient future. Through the course, you will:
- Engage in online course sessions, field trips, expert talks, and community-based projects
- Gain tools, knowledge, and pathways to lead local climate action
- Join a local network of passionate Climate Stewards dedicated to positive community impact
No matter your background — student, retiree, business owner, or anything in between — the climate crisis calls on all of us to act.
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Notice of Changes to Downtown Parking
The City of Santa Barbara (City) is working to lower employee parking rates and make short-term parking areas more convenient. This summer, we are making three changes to improve the availability of short-term parking, access to businesses, and the affordability of parking for downtown commuters.
- Reduced Rates for Lot 10 Permits
- 15-Minute Green Parking Zones & Painted Curbs in the Downtown Plaza
- Reduced Rate & Expanded Access for Locals Weekender Permit
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Where Community Meets Climate Action
Community Environmental Council's Environmental Hub, 1219 State St.
Turn your next gathering into a catalyst for change. The Community Environmental Council's Environmental Hub in downtown Santa Barbara offers sustainably designed, flexible venues for gatherings of all kinds. From meetings and conferences to receptions and film screenings, every booking supports bold, equitable climate solutions and helps grow a community of changemakers.
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State Street Flag Program
Heal The Ocean flags will be flying on State Street from 08/27 - 09/03.
Heal the Ocean focuses on wastewater infrastructure—sewers and septic systems—as well as ocean dumping practices that have contributed to ocean pollution. They are focused on Santa Barbara County, but our methods now serve as a model for other coastal communities across the country.
Learn more at: HealTheOcean.org
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