Community Calendar

On the night of December 16, 1916, a group of conspirators murdered Grigori Rasputin, Russia’s “Mad Monk”. While meant to strengthen the Romanov dynasty, merely two months later this murder brought on their downfall and ushered in a year of two revolutions that ended with the Bolshevik takeover of Russia and the eventual murder of the Tsar and his family. In many ways, Russia and the rest of the world are still dealing with the consequences of that murder.

Most narratives in books, films and even songs about the murder of Rasputin focus on the victim, whereas this course will shed new light on the perpetrators of the crime. Our story will take us not only to the magnificent Yusupov Palace in Saint Petersburg, but also to the Yusupovs’ estates outside of Moscow and in Crimea, as well as to Oxford, Malta and Paris.

This course takes place Wednesdays from 1:30-3:30pm (PT) on Zoom.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people ages 50 and older, seeking intellectual stimulation through university level courses — without the pressure of grades — for the sake of learning and social engagement.

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.

Thursday, September 3
6:00 PM Show
(Galleries open: 5:00 - 8:00 PM)
FREE

Join the Museum for a special opportunity to see early California history brought to life through the song and dance of Flor y Canto, performed in the courtyard of the 1817 Casa Covarrubias, one of Santa Barbara's oldest homes.

Guests can also enjoy wine and view our latest exhibitions Finding Saint Barbara & Arte de los Mantónes along with our permanent galleries. All ages are welcome.

Join us for a talk by historian Neal Graffy
Wednesday, September 23
5:30 PM 

TICKETS: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/finding-saint-barbara-talk-tickets-1994242542127?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

Join historian Neal Graffy as he chronicles the origin and stories of our city’s patron saint, uncovering many places where her image and influence endure.

Finding Saint Barbara
In 1602, Spanish explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno gave her name to the Santa Barbara Channel, forever linking the saint to California's central coast. Over the centuries that followed, her image moved beyond churches and devotional art into civic life, appearing in festivals, monuments, and community celebrations. Few places have embraced Saint Barbara as enthusiastically as the city that bears her name.

Presented in conjunction with the Museum's newest exhibition, Finding Saint Barbara, this talk traces her journey from church altarpieces to parade floats, and asks why one small city has embraced its patron saint so completely.

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.

The beloved Malibu Chili Cook-Off® returns Labor Day Weekend for four days of chili, live music, family entertainment and community celebration. Presented by Aviator Nation with 100% of net proceeds benefiting Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, the event features the legendary chili competition, carnival rides, skate competition, local food vendors and the debut of the new Aviator Nation Dreamland Stage with live entertainment throughout the weekend.

After a one-year hiatus following the devastating Southern California wildfires, the event returns as a celebration of resilience and community connection. Guests can sample chili, cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award and enjoy activities for all ages. Returning award-winning chili vendors include Duke’s Malibu, Irv’s Burgers and Pickles & Peas. New to the chili vendor lineup are Tacos 1986, Dreamland Chili and Clark’s Malibu Oyster Bar, with more to be announced leading up to the event.

Happens on the following Dates:
Sep 4, 2026, 4:00pm to 10:00pm
Sep 5, 2026, 1:00pm to 10:00pm
Sep 6, 2026, 1:00pm to 10:00pm
Sep 7, 2026, 1:00pm to 8:00pm

Celebrate 25 years of Open Studio Tours with the Santa Barbara Studio Artists
Opening reception to feature a 25-year retrospective of great art by local artists
Date: Friday, Sept. 4, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Location: Community Arts Workshop (CAW), 631 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, 5:00–8:00 PM,
2026 Tour Dates: Saturday–Monday, Sept. 5-7, 2026, 11-5 pm
This year's tour showcases a diverse array of disciplines, including sculpture, contemporary abstract painting, symbolism, paper art, and assemblage. Tickets are $25 (kids under 12 are free) and available at https://santabarbarastudioartists.com/ and at the opening night reception.

Get ready for a high-energy night under the stars as Mad Caddies take the stage at Solvang Festival Theater. Formed in Santa Barbara in 1995, the band is known for their signature blend of ska, punk, reggae, and infectious melodies that have earned them a loyal following around the world.

Known for their lively performances and party atmosphere, Mad Caddies continue to be a favorite of fans old and new. Don't miss the chance to experience one of Santa Barbara County's most celebrated bands live in Solvang.

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.

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.