The two day Solstice Festival is a community celebration with continuous live music by local and international artists; delicious foods and beverages from local restaurants, caterers and non-profit groups; an arts and crafts boutique with more than 60 artisans and craftsmen; a large "drum circle" formed by parade participants and anyone who cares to join in the beat. The wonderful floats from the parade are also on display. A special children's area features a stage with storytellers, musicians, drama, and mimes. The Festival is held at Alameda Park, which is at the end of Saturday’s parade route.
The Friday “Solstice Evening Event” with performances, dancers, musicians honor our parade artists, sponsors and the public attendees. (Friday’s attendance is smaller than Saturday's event, which follows the parade, but still a very good crowd)
The Solstice Parade starts at high noon, on Saturday and concludes at the festival site. Creative floats, fascinating costumes, and brilliant masks begin their journey from Cota Street up State Street to Micheltorena, transforming downtown Santa Barbara into a vibrant splash of color, music and dance. People-powered floats reignite the creative spirit of Santa Barbara. Commercial elements, such as written words, advertisements, live animals, or motorized vehicles (except wheelchairs) are excluded from the Parade, as is nudity.
The festival portion of the celebration is two days beginning Friday June 22nd from 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Saturday June 23rd from noon - 8:00 p.m
