Food festivals in Santa Barbara worth planning a trip around, by month.

Festivals through the year

Santa Barbara Vintners Festival ★ 4.5

OctoberThird Saturday of OctoberTicket needed125Wine Country (Gaviota)

The flagship annual Santa Barbara County wine event, now in its 42nd year, bringing together over 70 wineries alongside regional restaurant food pairings, live music, and educational programming. In 2026 the festival debuted a new location at Folded Hills polo ranch in Gaviota.

Focus: Wine

California Wine Festival Santa Barbara ★ 4.2

JulyTwo days, third weekend of JulyTicket needed125Waterfront

Annual two-day coastal wine and food event at Chase Palm Park. Friday features rare reserve tastings with gourmet appetizers; Saturday runs a beachside session with hundreds of wines, craft brews, a BBQ competition.

Focus: Wine

Old Spanish Days Fiesta - El Mercado De La Guerra ★ 4.3

AugustFirst week of August, four daysDowntown Santa Barbara

The food heart of Santa Barbara's signature five-day Fiesta. El Mercado De La Guerra fills De La Guerra Plaza with food stalls serving traditional Spanish and Mexican-American dishes alongside craft vendors and continuous live entertainment. A second Mercado Del Norte runs simultaneously at Mackenzie Park.

Focus: Spanish and Mexican

← Back to Santa Barbara food guide