Experience the Best Summer Festivals in Santa Barbara County
Planning your summer getaway? Santa Barbara County is the perfect destination, especially for travelers who love a mix of sun, wine, food, art, and live music. Summer in the Central Coast brings not only warm weather and ocean breezes but also an exciting calendar packed with local events and festivals.
Whether you’re staying in a beachfront Airbnb in Santa Barbara or a cozy vacation rental in Santa Ynez wine country, these festivals will give you a true taste of the local culture.
1. Old Spanish Days – Fiesta Santa Barbara (Early August)
Location: Downtown Santa Barbara
This iconic multi-day celebration has been a local tradition since 1924. Expect flamenco dancing, parades, mariachi music, authentic Spanish and Mexican cuisine, and a festive spirit that fills the streets. It's one of the most attended Santa Barbara County summer festivals and a must-see for visitors.
SEO tip: If you're looking for a vacation rental near downtown Santa Barbara during Fiesta, book early — this event attracts thousands of visitors every year.
2. California Wine Festival – Santa Barbara (July)
Location: Chase Palm Park & other locations
A favorite among wine lovers, this festival features hundreds of California wineries, gourmet food, and live entertainment. It's an ideal summer weekend plan if you're staying in one of our Santa Barbara vacation rentals near the beach.
3. Solvang Danish Days (September)
Location: Solvang
Though technically at the tail end of summer, this charming festival celebrates Solvang’s Danish heritage with traditional food, music, dancing, and even Viking reenactments. It’s perfect for guests staying in Airbnbs in Solvang or Santa Ynez Valley.
4. Santa Barbara Greek Festival (July/August)
Location: Oak Park, Santa Barbara
Hosted by Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, this festival is a lively celebration of Greek culture featuring delicious food, traditional dancing, and family fun. It’s a great local event for those staying near downtown or the Mesa area.
5. Live Oak Music Festival (June)
Location: Near Santa Ynez
A laid-back weekend of folk, roots, and Americana music in a scenic setting. Perfect for families or couples seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Consider staying at a vacation home in the Santa Ynez Valley for the full countryside vibe.
Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Book an Airbnb in Santa Barbara County
Summer is peak season for good reason. With beautiful beaches, lush vineyards, and a lively festival calendar, there’s always something happening. Our short-term rentals and Airbnb properties are centrally located, making it easy to enjoy all that Santa Barbara County has to offer.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend of wine tasting or bringing the whole family for a beach vacation, we provide professional Airbnb management in Santa Barbara County to ensure a seamless and memorable stay.
Need Help Managing Your Airbnb in Santa Barbara County?
If you're a property owner looking to get the most out of your vacation rental this summer, we offer Airbnb property management services in Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez, Solvang, Goleta, and beyond. From guest communication to cleaning coordination, our team helps you earn more while doing less.