Good morning, Santa Barbara.

Tucker’s Grove Park became a public space when local citizens, led by Judge Crow and the Goleta Women’s Club, persuaded developers to withdraw their bids in 1912.

Rancher George S. Edwards later paid $3,000 (saving it for future generations) and transferred it to county control.

Santa Barbara County Animal Services is urging pet owners to prepare for fireworks by updating microchip information, securing homes and planning safe indoor spots.

Free microchips, crate loans, collars and ID tags will be available at its three shelter locations Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 today from Vandenberg Space Force Base between 7:00 and 11:00 a.m. carrying 24 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit while its booster on a record 33rd flight will try to land on a drone ship (weather permitting, residents may hear sonic booms).

A Father's Day essay reimagines Star Wars' Mando and Grogu in Santa Barbara as the bounty hunter navigates local challenges like State Street shopping and parking rules while caring for his quirky foundling; the piece highlights that even intergalactic dads face everyday parenting hurdles.

Over 400 people gathered at the historic Stow House on Thursday evening for Fiesta Ranchera 2026 — a lively celebration of Old Spanish Days traditions featuring music, dance and food; local leaders honored community favorites.

Old Spanish Days will run from Aug. 5 to 9.

The 52nd Summer Solstice Parade dazzled Santa Barbara Street on Saturday with ocean-themed floats and costumes, and celebrations continue today at Alameda Park from noon to 7 p.m. (hundreds of locals joined the festive display).

A Carpinteria photographer captured vivid images of hummingbirds visiting backyard salvia blossoms on an overcast day.

Using a 500mm lens, the photographer recorded the birds' rapid wingbeats and role in pollination, showcasing nature's artistry for local observers.

Howard Chiang of UCSB was honored with the Dan David Prize for his work in Queer History and Sinophone Studies today.

He is the first East Asian winner to receive the prize ($300,000) and his research links modern East Asian thought with diverse cultural narratives.

The California Court of Appeal upheld the Coastal Commission’s injunction against Sable Offshore Corp, stopping pipeline repair work along the Gaviota Coast.

The ruling affirmed earlier cease-and-desist orders after Sable claimed it lacked due process following its restart of oil production on Platform Harmony (March 16 announcement).

Brady Janusek singled in two runs in a 3-run fifth inning as the Foresters beat the Arroyo Seco Saints 7-2 to extend their winning streak to 8 games.

The Foresters will face the Blues today in a California Collegiate League game.

Santa Barbara Auto Night

6-7:30 p.m. — Chase Palm Park — Free entry — Explore a showcase of vehicles from antiques to exotics at this vibrant car show.

Boho Tea Apothecary at Santa Barbara Lavender Festival

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Santa Barbara City College — Entry details not specified — Celebrate creativity with lavender-inspired artisans, food, drinks, and live entertainment.

Sinatra Under the Stars Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort — Full bar available — Experience iconic Sinatra hits in a stunning coastal outdoor setting.

Academy Festival Orchestra: The Planets, An HD Odyssey

7:30-9 p.m. — The Granada Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a cosmic journey through orchestral works accompanied by stunning NASA visuals.

Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Lobero Theatre — Ticket details not specified — Experience the roots music fusion of Grammy winners Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore.

Soccer Summer Camp in Santa Barbara

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. — University of California, Santa Barbara — Registration required — Train with Real Madrid coaches and improve your soccer skills while making new friends.

Jah Ollin Live with Koalishon & Heavy Rotation

9-11 p.m. — SOhO Restaurant & Music Club — Tickets available — Experience an evening of heavy rhythms and Irie vibes with Jah Ollin and special guests.