![A row of palm trees in a park in Santa Barbara, with Mediterranean-style building and its tower in the background, along with mountains in the distance.](http://storage.googleapis.com/montecito-estate-com/uploads/The_Palms_of_Santa_Barbara_(7618168710).jpg)
Fun in the Sun Edition
4th of July
Santa Barbara events in July 2024 begin with a BOOM thanks to several Fourth of July celebrations that set the stage for an unforgettable summer. From hometown parades to beachfront barbecues and picnics, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate Independence Day in Santa Barbara. The highlight of the evening is the breathtaking fireworks display over the ocean, illuminating the night sky in a brilliant array of colors and patterns. Each year, this joyous occasion creates a sense of community and shared pride that perfectly sets the tone for a month of fun in the sun.
![The Califonia Wine Festival in full swing with tented booths, people and wine next to the beach in Santa Barbara.](http://storage.googleapis.com/montecito-estate-com/uploads/a87c2f_e2476c31382a4ddba39fd3a621de7ca7~mv2.jpeg)
Celebrate Wine Culture
July 2024 is a prime month for wine aficionados in Santa Barbara, with numerous wine festivals highlighting the region’s exceptional vineyards. The California Wine Festival, July 19-20, is a standout event featuring beachfront wine tastings, gourmet food, and live entertainment. This festival is a unique opportunity to enjoy a variety of wines against the backdrop of stunning coastal views.
For a more relaxed wine-tasting experience, the Urban Wine Trail is a must-do. This self-guided tour through downtown Santa Barbara and the Funk Zone features numerous tasting rooms, each showcasing the distinctive flavors of the local wine country. Whether you’re an experienced wine lover or a curious beginner, the Urban Wine Trail offers a delightful journey through Santa Barbara’s delicious wine scene.
Enjoy Outdoor Concerts at the Santa Barbara Bowl
Santa Barbara’s summer evenings come alive with outdoor concerts, providing the perfect ambiance for an enjoyable night out. The Santa Barbara Bowl, our renowned open-air venue, hosts a diverse concert lineup in 2024 featuring local artists and internationally acclaimed musicians. Here, you can relish live performances under the sparkling night sky by some of your favorite artists like Cage the Elephant on July 3, Bert Kreischer on July 20, and Ziggy Marley on July 21. With the Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop, attending a concert here is an unforgettable experience.
Movie Nights at the Courthouse
Friday evenings in July and August mean free movie nights at the picturesque Sunken Gardens of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. This annual event is perfect for families, couples, and film enthusiasts looking to enjoy classic and contemporary films in a beautiful outdoor setting. Pack some snacks, grab a blanket, and settle in for an enchanting evening of cinema under the night sky. The movie nights feature a diverse selection of films, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
![The small Palmer Observatory bathed in a red glow at night lighting up the sky for star gazing.](http://storage.googleapis.com/montecito-estate-com/uploads/20190413-123forDAM-1585953095-1350x545.jpg)
Stargazing at the Natural History Museum
For those who marvel at the night sky, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History hosts stargazing events that are both educational and awe-inspiring. Weather permitting, the museum's Palmer Observatory opens to the public on the second Saturday of every month, offering a chance to look through powerful telescopes and learn about the cosmos from knowledgeable astronomers. This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to connect with the universe and appreciate the beauty of the stars.
French Wave Film Festival at Riviera Theatre
Embark on a 7-day cinematic trip to France without boarding a plane. From July 12-18, enjoy 11 new French films on the big screen at the French Wave Film Festival, hosted by the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and held at the Riviera Theatre. This event showcases the latest films from France’s most notable filmmakers, offering an unparalleled cinematic journey. Don’t miss the chance to catch these must-see films and celebrate the art of French filmmaking this July.
![The double dolphin boat sets its red, white and blue sail in the Santa Barbara harbor.](http://storage.googleapis.com/montecito-estate-com/uploads/DSC01210-16-1-1-uai-1461x8212.jpg)
Music on the Water with Ross Harper
On July 19, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., join the Santa Barbara Sailing Center for an enchanting evening of Music on the Water with popular local musician Ross Harper. Enjoy his captivating performance while taking in the sunset and the majestic views of the Santa Barbara coastline. This event features a variety of music that promises fun for friends and family alike. And from now until October, you can enjoy a variety of local musicians on board the 50 ft cruising catamaran that sets sail every Friday evening.
![Fiesta Santa Barbara 2024 "100 Years of Fiesta" poster with a large rendering of a female Flamenco dancer, and indigenous people dancing amidst Santa Barbara buildings.](http://storage.googleapis.com/montecito-estate-com/uploads/Fiesta_Poster_2024.jpg)
Old Spanish Days Fiesta
Any list of Santa Barbara events in July 2024 would be incomplete without highlighting Old Spanish Days Fiesta, one of our most cherished traditions. This multi-day festival, starting on July 31 and continuing to August 4, celebrates the city’s Spanish and Mexican heritage with parades, markets, and performances. Highlights include the El Desfile Histórico (Historical Parade) with beautiful costumes and historical reenactments, and the Fiesta Pequeña, a lively opening ceremony with traditional music and dance at the Santa Barbara Mission.
As you immerse yourself in the exciting events throughout Santa Barbara this July, consider that summer is also an excellent time to explore moving to or within any of the upscale Santa Barbara area communities. The pleasant weather, flexible schedules, and a surge of new properties on the market make this season perfect for finding your dream home or vacation getaway. If you're thinking about buying or selling, I'm here to help you navigate the process and achieve your real estate goals. Give me a call at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com for a free consultation.
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