The Santa Barbara Greek Festival is a weekend filled with delicious food, live music, dancing, and community. Hosted by Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church for the past 53 years, the festival has become a beloved Santa Barbara tradition where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to experience the warmth and hospitality of Greek culture. Guests can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, homemade pastries baked by the church parish, live music, traditional Greek dancing, local vendors, and a kids’ area with fun activities for the whole family. Whether you’re coming for a gyro, a piece of baklava, or simply to soak up the festive atmosphere, everyone is welcome. This year, we’re excited to make the celebration even bigger by expanding to three full days—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday!
The festival’s roots go back to 1956, when it began as a simple barbecue fundraiser for the church. Eventually, it grew into a weekend festival in 1973 at Oak Park before recently moving to its current home along Santa Barbara’s beautiful waterfront. While the location has changed, the heart of the festival has remained the same: bringing the community together to celebrate Greek culture while supporting the church’s mission. Today, the festival continues to serve as an important fundraiser, with proceeds helping maintain the church grounds, fund scholarships, and support local outreach and charitable programs.
Where: Chase Palm Park Field
When:
August 14: 3:30-8 p.m.
August 15: 12-8 p.m.
August 16: 12-6:30 p.m.
Tickets: $5, kids 12 and under free – each one comes with a free raffle ticket that enters you to win a trip for 2 to Greece. More raffle tickets can be purchased inside.
Website: sbgreekfest.org
