Lectures

Throughout the year, SBTHP offers lectures on a variety of historical and cultural topics. Currently, all lectures are held virtually, via Zoom Webinar  >>

Presidio Pastimes by Candlelight

Enjoy a rare opportunity to visit the Presidio by candlelight and travel back in time to over two centuries ago. Discuss colonial California with the Presidio officers, experience a cooking demonstration in la cocina, and more  >>

Founding Day Festival

Commemorate 239 years of history at the birthplace of Santa Barbara, El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. Celebrate the history of Santa Barbara at the Founding Day Festival, featuring Presidio Neighborhood businesses and local entertainment in the heart of downtown  >>

Asian American Film Series

Since 2010, SBTHP has presented the Asian American Film Series, a four-part event held each Friday in July at the Alhecama Theatre. In an effort to explore the history and cultures of the Asian communities that once thrived in and around the Santa Barbara Presidio area, the series includes films that speak to the Asian American experience in the western US  >>

Asian American Neighborhood Festival

This free, family-friendly event celebrates the history and culture of the Asian communities that once thrived in and around the Santa Barbara Presidio. Learn about a number of Asian cultures through performances, food, and hands-on activities  >>

Día de los Muertos Craft Day

SBTHP presents this annual free family craft event in the courtyard of Casa de la Guerra to celebrate the Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This program celebrates the history and culture of Santa Barbara's Latinx families, bringing together parents and children to create holiday artwork  >>

Veteran's Day Ceremony

SBTHP presents this annual free family craft event in the courtyard of Casa de la Guerra to celebrate the Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This program celebrates the history and culture of Santa Barbara's Latinx families, bringing together parents and children to create holiday artwork  >>

Una Noche de Las Posadas

Una Noche de Las Posadas (The Inns) is the time-honored reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging in Bethlehem as it was once celebrated in Early California and is still observed throughout Latin America. The procession begins at the Presidio Chapel and winds over to State Street, through the De la Guerra Plaza, and continues to Casa de la Guerra with the singing of holiday songs in Spanish  >>