Good morning, Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara Humane CEO Kerri Burns is recognized in a new book that features influential animal welfare leaders; her compassionate approach supports local pets + families across the Central Coast.

The SBCC Theatre Group’s summer musical Anything Goes will bring classic Broadway comedy and vaudeville to the Garvin Theatre at SBCC West Campus from July 8 – 25.

The production features 32 performers, playful romance, and energetic dance numbers.

The Santa Barbara Tibetan community will honor the Dalai Lama's 91st birthday with prayers & cultural performances on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church to promote compassion and unity.

Santa Barbara County agriculture reached a record $2.24 billion in 2025 as strawberries and wine grapes drove gains.

The Crop and Livestock Report noted wine grapes (up 24% in value) and strong vegetable and nursery product performance helped boost overall output.

Santa Barbara Unified approved plans to build 106 affordable apartments near San Marcos High School for teachers on a 3.65-acre site off Hollister.

Ninety-seven units are reserved for educators (the rest for staff), with $60M in private and federal funds to support construction managed by the Housing Authority.

The school board postponed its vote on a new tech policy that aims to limit screen time for early learners, choosing to refine a draft (modeled on a recently approved Los Angeles resolution) with community input after the June 23 meeting.

The Santa Barbara Zoo reopened the Richard Block Conservation Hub today at its Hilltop location, featuring interactive exhibits on coastal conservation that include an otter spotter activity and hands-on opportunities to learn about snowy plovers.

On Thursday evening, hundreds gathered for Santa Barbara's fifth annual Plastic-Free Expo, where local groups and advocates showcased interactive exhibits + practical tips to reduce single-use plastics.

The event highlighted how small daily changes can contribute to lasting environmental improvements.

On June 25, 2026, the City reported it collected $3.4 million in transient occupancy taxes for May from hotels and short-term rentals.

Year-to-date revenues reached $34.2 million — 7.3% above budget.

The Goleta Planning Commission rejected Anthem Chapel’s plan for a church campus next to Christ Lutheran Church on Covington Way on Monday — commissioners approved splitting the 3.4-acre site but denied the permit due to traffic and noise concerns.

Anthem Chapel may appeal the decision.

Santa Barbara officials and community members are still weighing if the State Street closure should become permanent as planned improvements like low-speed vehicle access and defined bike lanes have not yet spurred the needed downtown economic activity.

A flexible shared-street model would support safety and help reach the Downtown Master Plan’s housing goals.

Local boaters can visit Santa Cruz Island as summer winds challenge crossings but lead to safe — serene coves.

Protected anchorages offer access to hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing including dolphins and whales, and wild pigs are gone after a completed eradication program.

Joe’s Café at 536 State St. has kept its historic charm since 1928 by serving hearty meals and a welcoming bar scene to regulars and visitors.

Ownership now adds weekday happy hour (2:30 to 5:30 p.m.) and weekend specials to preserve its classic feel.

The Goleta Design Board sent a 59 condo unit plan at 7360 Hollister Ave to the Planning Commission on Tuesday with design suggestions amid local concerns.

Developers will combine three parcels into 13 modern buildings + include shared outdoor spaces and parking while residents raised traffic and privacy issues.

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.

26th Annual Woodies at the Beach

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Santa Barbara City College — Free admission — Explore beautifully restored Woodies overlooking the Pacific Ocean in a picturesque coastal setting.

The Hidden Life of Wolves - Film

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Lobero Theatre — Tickets starting at $140 — Experience the captivating journey into the hidden life of wolves in this must-see film event.