Presidio by Candlelight


Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 5 to 8 p.m.
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park  • 123 E. Canon Perdido

An altar with lit candles and religious statues of saints in a church interior.

Join us for an enchanting candlelit evening of history, culture, and community


Join us for an enchanting candlelit evening celebrating the history and cultures of the historical inhabitants of El Presidio de Santa Bárbara. Listen to Chumash stories around a fire, visit our Nihonmachi Revisited exhibit about Santa Barbara’s historic Japantown. Watch
Baile de California perform to the sounds of early 1800s California played by local musicians Luis Moreno & Jim Garcia.   

This free, annual 1st Thursday program is a rare chance to see and experience the Presidio after dark. All ages are welcome. Free hot chocolate, baked goods, and non-alcoholic refreshments will be served.  

Where: El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park • 123 E. Canon Perdido St. 
When: Thursday, February 5th, 2026 from 5:00-8:00pm 
Parking: Free parking at 117 E. Canon Perdido St 

 

*Complimentary wine for SBTHP members in the Presidio Orchard from 5:00-6:30pm.  

Become a member today!   

Visit El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park