Issue #007

The holiday magic is in full swing here in Santa Barbara, and this week’s lineup is brimming with festive fun and new discoveries. Whether you’re looking to shop under twinkling lights at the Holiday Night Market on State Street, snag last-minute treasures from local makers, or raise a toast at Casa Agria’s new taproom, there’s something to fill every moment with cheer. We’ve also got stylish new spots to tee off, historic spaces revamped for community gatherings, and beloved local shops celebrating milestones. Mix in a rich calendar of concerts, holiday performances, and tasting rooms under the stars—this is the season’s sparkle at its finest.

Read on for all the details and make this week your merry playground in Santa Barbara!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Santa Barbara’s Holiday Night Market Brings Festive Cheer This Friday

Get ready to kick off the holiday season with a magical evening at the Holiday Night Market this Friday, December 13, from 5 to 9 p.m. Taking place at 1131 State Street in Santa Barbara, this festive event promises to dazzle with twinkling lights, live music, and a vibrant array of local makers.

Shop for handmade treasures like jewelry, ceramics, candles, and home goods, perfect for gifting or indulging in something special for yourself. To complete the experience, enjoy delicious food and drinks from Mosaic Locale, Goodland Waffles and Melts, and Draughtsmen Aleworks. The warm holiday ambiance, complete with music and cozy vibes, makes this a must-visit event for spreading cheer and supporting local artisans.

Shop Local: Last Minute Makers Market Brings Holiday Cheer to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara locals are in for a treat with the upcoming "Last Minute Makers Market" happening on Saturday, December 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Topa Topa Brewery on Santa Barbara Street. The market features a curated lineup of local vendors offering handmade goods, perfect for holiday shopping.

Shoppers can explore a variety of unique items, including jewelry, ceramics, clothing, candles, arts and crafts, plants, and vintage treasures. Vendors include A Happy Mush, Raiz Feliz Shop, Loud Flower Art Co., Thirty Four Charms, Amanda Beth Studio, and more. Whether you’re looking for thoughtful gifts or just browsing, this market provides an excellent opportunity to support small businesses and artisans in the community.

Casa Agria Opens New Taproom in Santa Barbara with Grand Celebration

Beer enthusiasts, mark your calendars! Casa Agria is hosting the grand opening of its Santa Barbara taproom on Saturday, December 14th. The celebration promises a lively atmosphere with music, delicious food, exclusive merchandise, and a wide variety of beer for visitors to enjoy. The event begins at 12 PM, offering the perfect opportunity to gather friends, toast to new beginnings, and explore this exciting new spot.

The taproom is located in the historic Kim’s Service Dept. building at 418 State Street, tucked alongside Shaker Mill and Broad Street Oyster Company. Guests can enter from State Street and head toward the back of the building to find this hidden gem.

The new location is designed with everyone in mind—Casa Agria's taproom is both pet-friendly and kid-friendly, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. Regular taproom hours are available in their social media highlights for easy reference.

Can’t make it in person? Casa Agria offers online shopping for California residents, featuring bottles and cans, and ships apparel nationwide.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, don’t miss this exciting grand opening celebration. Cheers to Casa Agria’s newest venture in Santa Barbara!

Santa Barbara’s New Golf Lounge Combines Style and State-of-the-Art Simulators

The Golf Lounge has opened at Validation Ale Annex in Santa Barbara, combining cutting-edge Trackman simulators with a stylish, reimagined country club ambiance. Offering food and drink delivery straight to each bay, the space caters to golfers of all skill levels and doubles as a venue for private events. Located at 2840 De La Vina Street, it provides a fresh, elevated experience for sport and socializing.

The Golf Lounge has opened at Validation Ale Annex in Santa Barbara, combining cutting-edge Trackman simulators with a stylish, reimagined country club ambiance. Offering food and drink delivery straight to each bay, the space caters to golfers of all skill levels and doubles as a venue for private events. Located at 2840 De La Vina Street, it provides a fresh, elevated experience for sport and socializing. Visit their website here.

Louise Lowry Davis Center Reopens with Fresh Renovations in Downtown Santa Barbara

The Louise Lowry Davis Center, a beloved community hub since 1933, has reopened its doors after a complete renovation. Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara's Arts District, the center has been revitalized inside and out to better serve the community. The newly updated facility will continue to host senior programs, community events, and other activities, providing a welcoming space for residents to gather and connect.

This refreshed landmark combines modern amenities with its historic charm, offering a vibrant venue for diverse cultural and social events. The reopening marks an exciting chapter for Santa Barbara, as the center resumes its role as a cornerstone of the community. See Instagram Post here.

The Blue Door Celebrates 10 Years with Anniversary Sale and Giveaway

The Blue Door is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with a special event to thank the Santa Barbara community for a decade of support. From December 13th to 15th, shoppers can enjoy 10% off their entire purchase and enter a giveaway for one of ten $100 gift cards.

Known for its vintage finds and unique furnishings, The Blue Door has become a beloved destination for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures. The store attributes its success to the loyal customers and connections built over the years, creating a vibrant community around inspiring style and thoughtful design. This milestone marks a moment of gratitude and celebration, with a heartfelt message of appreciation to everyone who has walked through their doors. See Instagram

EVENTS

Tuesday

Fried Green Tomatoes | 7:00 PM | The Granada Theatre, Santa Barbara | $5 | Film screening with special talk by author Fannie Flagg.

Holiday Concert: Sing! A Song of Winter | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Marjorie Luke Theatre, Santa Barbara | $10 adults, ages 7-17 free | Celebrate with young voices performing songs for Christmas, Hanukkah, and winter.

Bilingual Songs and Stories | 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM | MLK Jr. Room, Eastside Library, Santa Barbara | Free | Develop literacy with rhymes, stories, and songs in English and Spanish for children ages 0-5 and caregivers.

General Trivia | 6:30–8:30 PM | Third Window Brewing | Free | Test your knowledge, win prizes, and enjoy brews with friends!

Sunset Sessions | 5:00 - 8:00 PM | Dusk Bar, 524 State St, Santa Barbara, CA | Free | Weekly live music, drinks, and sunset vibes every Tuesday at Dusk Bar.

Trivia Night @ Draughtsman Aleworks | Weekly on Tuesdays | 6:30pm - 8:30pm | Draughtsman Aleworks, 53 Santa Felicia Dr, Goleta, CA | Free | Enjoy trivia with prizes, food vendors, and team fun.

Head Games Trivia Night | Weekly on Tuesdays | 7:00pm - 9:00pm | Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co, 137 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA | Free | Join for multimedia trivia fun, prizes, and team competition in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone.

Wednesday

Live Jazz Nights | Every Wednesday | 6:30–9 PM | The Lion's Tale Bar, Montecito Inn, 1295 Coast Village Rd, Montecito, CA 93108 | Enjoy @sbjazzcollective's swanky jazz trio in a chic setting.

Ribbon-Cutting: Mission Creek Restoration | 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM | Oak Park, Santa Barbara | Free | Celebrate the creek’s transformation with Mayor Rowse and City Council, featuring restored habitats and over 3,000 native plants.

AWC-SB Holiday Party | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Villa Wine Bar, Santa Barbara | $45 members, $55 guests (early pricing) | Networking, appetizers, prizes, and holiday cheer.

Head Games Trivia Night | 6:00 - 8:00 PM | Longoria On State, 732 State St, Santa Barbara, CA | Free | Live multimedia trivia with prizes. Teams up to 6. Arrive early for best seats.

General Trivia | 7:00 PM | Captain Fatty’s (Goleta) | Free | Test your knowledge, win prizes, and enjoy brews with friends!

Thursday

MUNI Mega Mall | Every Thursday until Xmas, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Municipal Winemakers, Santa Barbara | Shop local makers, enjoy food by Rascals Vegan, and live music in the wine garden.

Art & Soul Grand Opening | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 1323 State Street, Santa Barbara | Celebrate the new ARTS District location with the exhibition Santa Barbara: The Art of Place featuring local artists.

Friday

Prime Time Band Holiday Sing-Along | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Santa Barbara Museum of Art Steps | Free | Enjoy festive tunes with a 60+ piece band and local school ensembles.

Una Noche de Las Posadas | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM | El Presidio Chapel to Casa de la Guerra, Santa Barbara | Free | Celebrate this cherished tradition with a procession, songs, food, and a vibrant evening market.

Bingo After Dark - B.A.D. Friday | 9:00 PM | The Cruisery | Free | Join Bear Cave Productions for a lively comedy bingo night featuring cash prizes, gift cards, surprise performances, and themed activities. Perfect for a fun evening out with friends​

Friday Night Swing | 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM | Carrillo Recreation Center, Santa Barbara | $20 at the door (cash only) | Swing dance lessons and live music for all skill levels, featuring jazz, jive, and more.

Star Party | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Palmer Observatory, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History | Free | Explore the night sky with a 20-inch telescope, featuring views of the Moon, nebulas, galaxies, and more.

Saturday

Westmont Christmas Festival | Saturday, December 14, 2024, 7:00 PM & Sunday, December 15, 2024, 3:00 PM | The Granada Theatre, Santa Barbara | $5 | Celebrate the season with music and “Dwelling Place” theme.

Bachata Workshop | Saturday, December 14, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | 5370 Hollister Avenue, Goleta | $25 (student discount available) | Open-level bachata workshop led by Erika. Build skills and connect with the dance community.

The Good Good Show | 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Night Lizard Brewing Co., Santa Barbara | $10 | Stand-up comedy with top comedians and craft beer. Ages 21+.

The Nutcracker | Saturday, December 14, 2024, 2:30 PM & 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 15, 2024, 2:30 PM | Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara | Prices vary | Celebrate the 49th anniversary with guest artists, live orchestra, and magical performances.

Big Brass Christmas Concert | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Storke Placita, Santa Barbara | Free | Enjoy festive Christmas classics performed by talented SBCC brass musicians in a cheerful outdoor setting.

The Hallelujah Project 10 | Saturday, December 14, 7:00 PM & Sunday, December 15, 3:00 PM | Lobero Theatre, Santa Barbara | $20–$50 | Holiday concert with Choral Society, orchestra, SING! Children’s Chorus, Meredith Baxter, and Santa Claus.

Santa Barbara Music Club Holiday Concert | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | First United Methodist Church, Santa Barbara | Free | Enjoy choral and instrumental music featuring Adelfos Ensemble, Erin Bonski, and Andrea Di Maggio. Reception follows.

Sunday

Santa Barbara Master Chorale Holiday Concert | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Montecito | $23 online, $25 at door, $5 children | Festive choral music, carol sing-along, and guest high school singers.

Full Moon Energy Sound Bath | 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Canary Hotel Rooftop, Santa Barbara | $44.52 | Relax with crystal bowls and chimes in a peaceful rooftop setting overlooking Santa Barbara.

LIVE MUSIC & DANCE

Wednesday

JJUUJJUU + Daiistar | 8:00 PM (Doors at 7:00 PM) | SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, Santa Barbara | 21+ | Alt-rock performances presented by (((folkYEAH!))). Dinner reservations available.

Thursday

SOhO's Holiday Sweater Party | 7:00 PM | SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, Santa Barbara | $25 advance, $30 at door (cash) | Festive music with The Framers, False Puppet, The Last Decade, Green Flag Summer, and DJ Darla Bea!

21 Thursdays @ Backstage | 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM | Backstage Kitchen & Bar, 409 State St, Santa Barbara, CA | Free | College night with country pop line dancing, DJs, and a mechanical bull every Thursday.

Pleasant Sounds | 9:00 PM | EOS Lounge, Santa Barbara | Free before 11 PM | Enjoy beats by Pleasant Sounds, Truman, and Thirdiiibeats with 2-for-1 Happy Hour drinks until 11 PM. Ages 21+.

Friday

Franc Moody DJ Set | 9:00 PM | EOS Lounge, Santa Barbara | $24.72 | Fields of Funk presents Franc Moody with Larry Dance Jr. Ages 21+.

Saturday

The Rhythm Industrial Complex | 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Buena Onda, Santa Barbara | Free | Enjoy afrobeat, reggae, and West African pop with $5 drafts, $2 off drinks, and $5 chimi papas.

Poor Man’s Whiskey: Soho’s 30th Anniversary | 9:00 PM (Doors at 7:30 PM) | SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, Santa Barbara | Ages 21+ | Americana and jam rock blend celebrating Soho’s milestone. Dinner reservations available.

Sunday

Folk Music at Wylde Works | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Wylde Works, Santa Barbara | Enjoy indie folk with Lone Quail, Noah Michael Ryan, Darien Lane, and Nono San Pedro.

Gospel Brunch | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, Santa Barbara | $35 at door (cash) | Celebrate with uplifting gospel music and a delicious brunch in a soulful atmosphere.

Experience the Magic of ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo This Holiday Season

The Santa Barbara Zoo's annual ZooLights event runs from November 13, 2024, to January 12, 2025, offering nightly displays of handcrafted lanterns illuminated by over 50,000 LED lights. Ticket prices vary from $21 to $35, with discounts for children, members, and groups. Parking costs $11 per vehicle, free for zoo members. Get More Information (link)

Thank you for reading Santa Barbara Spotlight today! If you enjoyed it, please share it with someone who might appreciate it too.

Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and Facebook for more updates and community highlights.

I love hearing from you! If there's anything you'd like to see more or less of, please reply to this email and let me know.

Was this email shared with you? Sign up here

Want to advertise to over 2,500 locals? Reply to this email.