Whether you're planning a perfect mid-week happy hour, looking for live entertainment, or staying informed on local civic updates, we've got you covered. Here is what's happening around Downtown Santa Barbara this week.
State Street Update
Following extensive public testimony, the City Council voted to extend Title 31, allowing State Street to remain in its current configuration while work continues on the State Street Master Plan. The final plan is expected to return to City Council for review and potential adoption on September 1.
The Council also directed staff to develop an interim operations and management plan. DSBIA looks forward to working alongside businesses, property owners, the City, and community partners to help shape practical solutions that strengthen downtown and support the entire district.
We've already seen what's possible when we work together. DSBIA remains committed to building on that progress and helping shape a flexible path forward that serves our businesses, residents, employees, and visitors.
District News & City Council Updates
Old Spanish Days Fiesta is Almost Here!
This year, the de la Guerra Mercado will expand onto State Street between Canon Perdido and Ortega, bringing even more festive energy to the heart of downtown.
Please note that Mercado setup will begin early Wednesday, August 5, and the event will conclude at midnight on Saturday, August 8.
On June 30, City Council approved moving forward with a development agreement for Paseo Nuevo.
The development agreement will bring new housing to the former Nordstrom building and Yardi Systems corporate offices to the former Macy's building, helping reactivate downtown with hundreds of new residents and employees.
Community benefits include:
Housing Funds: $5 million from Yardi Systems and $700,000 from DSP to the Local Housing Trust Fund to support other housing projects.
Public Improvements: $1 million from DSP for downtown public improvements.
Plaza & Parking Support: $700,000 from Yardi to support the City's Downtown Plaza and Parking Program.
Affordability & Access: The project will include 10% onsite affordable housing and retain public parking access.
DSBIA will continue to monitor the project and provide updates as the project comes to fruition.
Comedian-led Food and Walking Tour
Join a comedian-led walking tour of Santa Barbara's arts district. Enjoy tasty snacks and drinks, visit iconic landmarks, and discover the city's history and culture with laughs and unique photo ops.
UCSB Arts & Lectures Free Summer Cinema: "Mixtapes & Misfits"
The Summer Film Series brings classic and contemporary films to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden each Friday evening at 8:30 PM in July and August. Presented in partnership with UCSB Arts & Lectures and the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture, the series offers free outdoor screenings in one of Santa Barbara's most iconic public spaces.
Interested in extra promotion for your businesses?
Here's some opportunities with Voice Magazine. Advertise in the award-winning Viva La Fiesta! edition, featuring Old Spanish Days schedules, interviews, historical information, and special Fiesta coverage. Ad space is available, with copy due by Tuesday, July 28 at 5:00 PM. Contact Mark Whitehurst at 805-895-3614 or mark@voicesb.com for more information.
La Paloma Cafe (702 Anacapa St.) | Mondays-Sundays |Learn More
Locals Night (20% off)
Finch & Fork (31 W. Carrillo St.) | Mondays, 5:00 PM |Learn More
Wine Wednesdays (50% off bottles of wine)
La Paloma Cafe (702 Anacapa St.) | Wednesdays |Learn More
Happy Hour
La Paloma Cafe (702 Anacapa St.) | Wednesdays-Sundays, 4:00 PM |Learn More
Kids Eat Free
La Paloma Cafe (702 Anacapa St.) | Sundays, 10:30 AM |Learn More
Sparkling Wine Tasting Flight
SB Bubbly Lounge (23 E. De La Guerra St. Suite 100) | July 1-31, 12:00 PM |Learn More
Red Wine Tasting Flight
Jamie Slone Wines (23 E. De La Guerra St.) | July 1-31, 12:00 PM |Learn More
Flag Program
This Week's Flag
Since 1976, Access Central Coast (ACC) has been a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing disability rights and supporting independence. They serve individuals of all ages, income levels, and disability experiences throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties.
Our Clean & Safe Program continues to make a visible impact downtown. Our team is out daily, keeping the streets clean, welcoming, and well-maintained, to help create clearly defined, comfortable, and safe spaces for the community. These efforts not only improve the appearance of our public spaces but also enhance overall safety and the experience for everyone who visits, works, or lives downtown.
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