Parks & Recreation News

July is Parks Make Life Better Month, and the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department is celebrating with a month full of opportunities to get outside, connect with others, and enjoy Santa Barbara’s parks and open spaces!

The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department is beginning the first phase of community outreach for a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Construction continues at Dwight Murphy Field to transform the 100-year-old park into a modern, inclusive space for all. As of June 2026, the Dwight Murphy Field Renovation Project is 50% complete.

Arts in the Open brings free performances to the historic Plaza del Mar Band Shell, offering more opportunities for the community to gather and enjoy live music and entertainment this summer. Presented by the Parks and Recreation…

The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department announces the return of Concerts in the Park. This free, family-friendly summer tradition has drawn large crowds and showcased a diverse range of musical talent at Chase Palm Park…

The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department will host an open house for community members to learn more about a project designed to celebrate and honor Chumash culture and history at Ambassador Park. The park site was…

The City of Santa Barbara will open two seasonal pools for the summer. Oak Park Wading Pool and Ortega Park Swimming Pool will open June 22. Both pools are free for public use and have lifeguards on duty. The City’s year-round pool, Los…

Organized by the Parks and Recreation Department, the Children’s Fiesta Parade invites families to be part of a beloved tradition during the week-long Old Spanish Days Fiesta celebration. The parade, now in its 94th year, will be held…

The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department is seeking up to 75 volunteers for a large-scale trail volunteer day on Rattlesnake Canyon Trail. As part of National Trails Day, this event highlights a nationwide effort to…