Community Events

FEBRUARY

Presidio by Candlelight offers a rare opportunity to experience the Santa Barbara Presidio after dark. Illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns and candlelight, the site comes to life with music, storytelling, and living history. Visitors are invited to explore the grounds at their own pace, encountering vignettes that reflect the layered histories of the Presidio Neighborhood and those who once called it home. This annual event fosters a deeper connection to the past, inviting the community to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Presidio.

MAY

Celebrate the many communities that have shaped Santa Barbara at this vibrant, family-friendly gathering held each spring at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. Through hands-on activities, walking tours, performances, and exhibits led by local organizations, Community History Day invites visitors to engage with the layered histories of the Presidio Neighborhood and the diverse cultures that continue to define it. Free and open to all, this event brings history to life—one story, one table, one shared experience at a time.

JULY

Since 2010, SBTHP’s Asian American Film Series has illuminated the diverse experiences of Asian American communities through powerful storytelling. Held each July at the historic Alhecama Theatre, this free series showcases films that delve into themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage, often followed by engaging discussions with filmmakers. By connecting contemporary narratives to the rich history of Santa Barbara’s Presidio Neighborhood, the series fosters dialogue and honors the enduring contributions of Asian American communities.

OCTOBER

This free, family-friendly event celebrates the rich histories and cultures of the Asian American communities that once thrived in the Presidio Neighborhood. Attendees enjoy a vibrant lineup of cultural performances—including lion dancing, taiko drumming, hula, and breakdancing—alongside artisan booths, hands-on crafts, and educational exhibits that honor Santa Barbara’s Asian American heritage. The festival also features special collaborations with local artists and community partners, offering unique experiences that connect past and present.

NOVEMBER

An annual celebration honoring the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos. Held each fall at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, this free, family-friendly event features over 70 local vendors, live music, dance performances, face painting, art workshops, and a community ofrenda (altar) where visitors can leave photos or mementos in remembrance of loved ones. In collaboration with Mujeres Makers Market, the day offers a vibrant blend of cultural expression, creativity, and community remembrance.

DECEMBER

Una Noche de Las Posadas is SBTHP’s annual candlelit procession that brings to life the cherished holiday tradition of Las Posadas. Held each December, the event begins at the Presidio Chapel and follows Mary, Joseph, and an angel through the streets of Santa Barbara, accompanied by traditional Spanish carols. The journey concludes at Casa de la Guerra, where the community gathers to enjoy festive food, music, and a vibrant evening market curated by Mujeres Makers Market. This celebration honors the spirit of hospitality and togetherness that has defined the neighborhood for generations.