Sep 13 Sunday
Since 2007, UCSB Reads has fostered a shared sense of belonging by bringing the UCSB campus and Santa Barbara communities together to read a common book that explores compelling issues of our time. Conceived by then Executive Vice Chancellor Gene Lucas, the program is led by the UCSB Library in collaboration with campus and community partners. Each year, a committee of UCSB faculty, students, staff, and community members selects a thought-provoking, interdisciplinary book written by a living author that encourages a wide range of readers to engage with a contemporary social, political, cultural or scientific issue such as climate change, racial justice, technology, memory, identity, and democracy.
The program kicks off in winter with a book giveaway for UCSB students led by the Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, and University Librarian, and culminates with a free public talk by the book’s author(s) at Campbell Hall in the spring. Throughout the winter and spring quarters, the Library sponsors a variety of free learning, experiential, and social events to explore the book’s themes. The selected book is also incorporated into the university curriculum for winter and spring, allowing students to explore its themes in an academic context. UCSB Reads is generously supported by many individuals, university departments, and organizations.
This exhibition highlights the history of UCSB Reads since its inception, featuring promotional posters, selected books, custom bookmarks along with testimonials and images of participants engaging with programming throughout the years. UCSB Reads has become a beloved campus tradition that brings together thousands of people every year and demonstrates the power of literature to bridge divides, promote intellectual engagement, and build community.
Show the beach some love! Join Explore Ecology for a cleanup on the 2nd Sunday of every month at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at beautiful Arroyo Burro Beach. Meet in front of the Watershed Resource Center (blue building) to sign in.
You are welcome to bring your own clean up supplies or use ours. Cleanups will be self-guided and can include the beach, the parking lot, or the open spaces surrounding Arroyo Burro.
Be sure to visit the Watershed Resource Center during cleanup hours to see interactive displays about local watersheds from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Participants will receive a coupon for a free cup of chowder from the Santa Barbara Shellfish Co.
Community service volunteer hours are available for this fun outdoor volunteer opportunity.
There’s no need to RSVP- you can just show up. We can’t wait to see you there!
For 30 years, Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.) has been the voice for Ventura County’s rescue dogs. This September, we’re celebrating this massive milestone at our brand-new home: 'olołkoy Beach Park (Oxnard Beach Park). Join us for a day of sun, sand, and wagging tails as we walk to save lives. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time walker, we can’t wait to see you there!
TOArts is launching its inaugural Spotlight Arts Festival, bringing together local artists, performers, and community organizations for a free afternoon of art, music, creativity, and connection.
The festival will feature live performances, artist booths, hands-on activities, live painting, and more on Sunday, September 13, from 2–5 p.m. at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center. The event also highlights TOArts’ investment in emerging artists, with production led by alumni of its workforce development programs.
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026
Time: 2-5 p.m.
Location: Bank of America Performing Arts Center2100 Thousand Oaks BoulevardThousand Oaks, California
Registration is free but RSVP is required to attend. Please RSVP atgivebutter.com/SpotlightFestival
For more information about TOArts and its initiatives, please visit www.toarts.org.
Sep 14 Monday
Voices Rock Youth Choir Comes to Westlake Village
Voices Rock California is launching a new Youth Rock Choir for students in grades 2–8 at Aspire Dance Studio in Westlake Village.Led by vocalist and music educator Savannah Koenig, the choir gives young singers a fun, supportive place to sing rock and pop music, build confidence, make friends and experience the joy of singing together.No auditions and no prior choir experience required.
Mondays, 3:45–5:00 p.m.Beginning September 14Aspire Dance Studio5700 Corsa Ave., Suite 106Westlake Village, CAInformation and registration: www.voicesrockcalifornia.com
Sep 15 Tuesday
Sep 16 Wednesday
Sep 17 Thursday
Voices Rock Adult Choir Comes to Westlake Village
Love to sing? Voices Rock California is launching a new no-audition adult rock and pop choir at Aspire Dance Studio in Westlake Village.
Led by vocalist and music educator Savannah Koenig, Voices Rock welcomes experienced singers as well as people who haven’t sung in years or aren’t sure they consider themselves singers. No auditions and no need to read music. Just come sing, meet people and have fun.
Thursdays, 7:45–9:00 p.m.Beginning September 10Aspire Dance Studio5700 Corsa Ave., Suite 106Westlake Village, CAInformation and registration: voicesrockcalifornia.com