This month is your invitation to try something new: say yes to a concert you’d normally skip, linger at an exhibition, take the long walk at golden hour, book the table you’ve been meaning to, and treat an ordinary weeknight like it matters.
Below are a few January events worth penciling into your calendar.
ZOOLIGHTS AT THE SANTA BARBARA ZOO
Recurring Daily through January 12, 2026
Experience the zoo after dark with larger-than-life lantern displays, sparkling pathways, and festive music. Hot cocoa, photo ops, and immersive light installations make this a holiday favorite for all ages.
Photo Courtesy: Lompoc Record
Photo Courtesy: Visit Santa Barbara
MONET TO MATISSE FROM THE DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART
Recurring Daily through January 25, 2026
The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse from the Dallas Museum of Art traces the origins of the Impressionist movement through works by Monet, van Gogh, Gauguin, Matisse, Morisot, and others who helped shape modern art.
ANNE WILSON - KIDS HELPING KIDS ANNUAL BENEFIT
January 10, 2026 | Arlington Theatre
Celebrate 20 years of student-led impact with Kids Helping Kids Santa Barbara at this milestone benefit concert. Experience rising country star Anne Wilson, a GRAMMY-nominated artist known for her breakout hit “My Jesus” and acclaimed album REBEL.
Photo Courtesy: The Arlington Theatre
QUICK KNIT HAT
January 15, 2026 | EE Makerspace
Join Guest Artist Krista Rhodes as she guides you through knitting your own warm winter hat! Using a simple pattern and expert tips, you'll leave with a stylish wearable in this fun and supportive workshop.
ERIC HUTCHINSON WITH ANYA MARINA
January 16, 2026 | SOhO Restaurant & Music Club
Join at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club for the live performance of Eric Hutchinson with Anya Marina. Doors open at 7:30 with the show beginning at 9:00 PM.
Photo Courtesy: Visit Santa Barbara
Photo Courtesy: Visit Santa Barbara
MINDFULNESS & INTENTION SETTING WORKSHOP
January 17, 2026 | Los Olivos
Begin with a brief tarot reading to spark inspiration, then create a personal vision board that reflects your goals and intentions for the year ahead. Slow down, tune in, and set meaningful intentions for 2026.
GODMOTHERS GROW: HUMAN DESIGN WITH ALEXANDRA COLE
January 25, 2026 | Godmother's, Summerland
Following her sold-out conversation at The Rosewood Miramar, Alexandra Cole joins us for a Human Design workshop that will help you uncover how you’re uniquely designed to create, connect, and contribute in the easiest and most impactful way.
Photo Courtesy: Brian Kruelle
Photo Courtesy: Rennlist
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY CARS & COFFEE
January 25, 2026 | Manning Park
Montecito, California, is the spot. Weekly morning meet-up; casual, scenic, and surprisingly neighborly—arrive early for the best lineup.
More 2026 fun is on the way in the months ahead. Keep an eye out, we’ll keep sharing the latest upcoming events as they pop up.