Entertainment
Laidback as we may be, Santa Barbara knows how to party! As the largest city between San Francisco and Los Angeles, our coastal enclave is a popular stop for your favorite bands and musical artists, and our unique and notable live performance and concert venues set the stage for an unforgettable night out on the town.
If you’re looking to take in a concert in Santa Barbara, look no further than the legendary Santa Barbara Bowl. A music lover’s dream come true, this naturally-formed amphitheater is nestled against the Riviera and boasts incredible acoustics, a stunning ocean-view setting, and an unparalleled intimate atmosphere. On those perfect California summer evenings, fans fill the 4,500-person capacity amphitheater to soak in the sweet sounds of their favorite performers under the clear, starry skies. Concerts at the Santa Barbara Bowl are not only a favorite of music fans, but also of the artists themselves, as many famous performers love the bowl so much, they request to stop in Santa Barbara on their national tours. Be sure not to miss the Bowl’s 75th anniversary season during summer 2011.
When State Street lights up after dark, so does the Santa Barbara nightlife, as music lovers take in live entertainment of nearly every sound and style. SoHo Restaurant & Music Club serves up live music nearly every night, and the recently renovated Granada Theatre offers an architecturally stunning backdrop for its shows. Just down the street, Lobero Theatre hosts the “Sings Like Hell” series and many other performances, while the iconic Arlington Theatre’s stage has played host to countless stars (of the earthbound variety) under its faux starry skies.
Also be sure to bring your dancing shoes and hit the floor at smaller venues where indie bands and other performers with dedicated followings entertain packed houses. Looking for a faster beat? Get your groove on at several nightclubs that pump up the volume after dark.
