ARTOBER
October 1-31
Breathing life into Santa Barbara once again this fall, arts, music, dance, and theater all star in a stunning line-up throughout the entire month of October. From the launch of highly-anticipated seasons from the Santa Barbara Symphony, Granada Theatre, and Lobero Theatre, to concerts by award-winning musicians and art shows, locals of all ages and interests can look forward to a diverse cultural season.
Read below about each participating ARTOBER organization to learn about what programs, events and activities they are offering in October along with the dates, times and links to tickets if applicable.
Explore the Cultural Season
AIA SB ArchitecTours 2025
October 4, 10:00 AM (self guided tour), 4 PM (party)
The American Institute of Architects Santa Barbara is proud to announce its 16th annual ArchitecTours, this year themed ‘Living Architecture: Santa Barbara.’ The tour offers a curated exploration of the city’s distinctive architectural landscape, highlighting residential, commercial, and public spaces that define Santa Barbara living.
Participants will experience homes nestled in the tranquil foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, sun-drenched coastal retreats, and thoughtfully designed commercial and public spaces. Each site demonstrates the interplay of design, functionality, and environment, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship that shape the city’s built environment.
From private residences to dynamic workplaces and community gathering spaces, attendees will gain an insider’s perspective on how timeless architectural principles harmonize with modern innovation. The tour celebrates the ways in which architecture influences daily life, fosters community, and defines the unique character of Santa Barbara.
Band of Horses & Iron and Wine
October 3, 8:00 PM
Presented by Goldenvoice
Jerry Seinfeld
October 9, 7:00 PM
America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, comes to the Arlington Theatre stage in Santa Barbara, California to perform his newest stand-up routine on October 9, 2025 at 7pm. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 8, at 10am! Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. His latest Emmy nominated Netflix projects include Jerry Before Seinfeld and 23 Hours to Kill along with the highly acclaimed web series, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. Seinfeld has also starred in, written, and produced movies (Comedian, Bee Movie), directed and produced a Broadway hit (Colin Quinn: Long Story Short), and wrote three best-selling books (Is this Anything?, The Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee Book, and Seinlanguage) and a children’s book (Halloween). He stars in the Emmy-nominated comedy film, Unfrosted, which he directed, co-wrote, and produced. Seinfeld continues to perform both nationally and internationally.
Elizabeth Gilbert
October 11, 7:30 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
Ticket purchase includes a signed copy of Gilbert’s new memoir, All the Way to the River (pick up at event) “Gilbert has established herself as a straight-up storyteller who dares us into adventures of worldly discovery.” – Barbara Kingsolver “A mix of intelligence, wit and colloquial exuberance that is close to irresistible.” The New York Times Spend an unforgettable evening with Elizabeth Gilbert, the “rock star author” (Oprah Winfrey) whose bestselling books – including Eat, Pray, Love and Big Magic – have inspired millions to live more creative, courageous lives. In this intimate and expansive talk, Gilbert reflects on love, loss and the healing power of storytelling through the lens of her forthcoming (September 2025) memoir All the Way to the River – a deeply personal account of her relationship with her late partner, Rayya Elias. With her signature mix of wit, wisdom and radical candor, Gilbert invites us to explore what it means to seek connection, truth and transcendence in the face of profound grief.
Fareed Zakaria
October 16, 7:30 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
“Few thinkers can grasp the complexity of this moment, but Fareed Zakaria does it masterfully.” Wall Street Journal “Fareed Zakaria has been consistently brilliant in his analysis of world affairs but also something far more rare; he has turned out to be right.” – Walter Isaacson Fareed Zakaria offers a timely and far-reaching look at the forces shaping the future across politics, the economy and culture. As a Washington Post columnist, a five-time New York Times bestselling author and the long-running host of GPS on CNN, Zakaria has guided audiences through complex world events with clarity and depth. Drawing on decades of reporting and scholarship, this wide-ranging talk explores what it takes to understand and adapt to a rapidly changing world. With this event, Arts & Lectures is pleased to introduce the inaugural Roman Baratiak Endowed Lecture.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show: 50th Anniversary Celebration
October 18, 7:00 PM
A loving couple, a few lost monsters and a sweet transvestite from transsexual Transylvania sing and dance through a campy, sloppy salute to horror movies and sexual liberation. Bring your sense of humor. And some toast.
Trivia: 7pm (prizes)
Costume Contest: Following Trivia/before Film (sign ups required*; prizes)
Screening: following activities (please no throwing of food)
Boz Scaggs
October 21, 7:30 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
“An elegant R&B stylist with consummate blues and soul chops.” The Independent (U.K.)
“Scaggs is in full possession of that iconic voice; he delivers songs with an endemic empathy and intimacy that make them sound like living, breathing stories.” AllMusic
“A recurring rocker on the charts, scoring international acclaim with his silky-smooth voice.” Santa Barbara Independent
For more than 50 years, Boz Scaggs has been the smooth operator behind some of the most enduring sounds in pop, soul and blues. With signature hits like “Lido Shuffle” and the Grammy-winning “Lowdown,” he defined laid-back cool in the 1970s. Today, his unmistakable voice and guitar continue to seduce audiences, whether he’s delivering sultry originals or reimagining blues and rock classics with smoky intensity. From early days alongside Steve Miller and Duane Allman to his recent acclaimed albums, Scaggs brings a master’s touch a can’t miss evening that’s sure to sell out.
Blippi: Join the Band Tour
October 22, 6:00 PM
C'mon and join Blippi to make music in your hometown in the brand new live Blippi: Join the Band Tour!
Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies and musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms and instruments, through all your favorite Blippi hits. So grab your drumsticks, tune up your guitar, and move those feet with Blippi and get ready for a musical performance that's fun for the whole family!
Lila Downs
October 23, 7:30 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
“Few alternative artists have the dynamic power and range of this bilingual warrior-woman.” NPR “The Mexican American singer has a stunning voice [and] a confident multicultural vision grounded in her Mixtec Indian roots.” Los Angeles Times Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning icon Lila Downs brings her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence to a vibrant celebration of Día de Muertos. Raised in Minnesota and Oaxaca, Downs blends traditional Mexican and Mesoamerican music with folk, jazz, blues and originals in a deeply personal interpretation of Día de Muertos. This festive evening will also feature mariachis and dancers, evoking the rich spirit and color of Day of the Dead on both sides of the border.
Pedro Fernández
October 24, 8:00 PM
Presented by Amplify
Este concierto se reprogramó del 6 de junio de 2025 al 24 de octubre de 2025. Las entradas serán válidas para la nueva fecha.
This concert was rescheduled from June 6, 2025 to October 24, 2025. Tickets will be valid for the new date.
CAMA Presents Los Angeles Philharmonic
Gustavo Dudamel, Music & Artistic Director
Dudamel's Final Santa Barbara Appearance as Music & Artistic Director of LA Phil
October 3, 7:00 PM
The Granada Theatre
The Los Angeles Philharmonic, under the dynamic leadership of Gustavo Dudamel in his 17th and final season as Music & Artistic Director of the orchestra, opens CAMA's 107th season with a program of explosive energy and groundbreaking masterpieces. The concert begins with the West Coast premiere of John Adams's Frenzy, a work described by the composer as exploring "agitation or disorder of the mind, likened to madness," reflecting the tumultuous nature of the modern world. This LA Phil commission promises a thrilling start to the evening. The program then delves into the revolutionary world of Igor Stravinsky with the magic of the 1919 Suite from The Firebird, a work that catapulted Stravinsky to international fame, and culminates with the composer's The Rite of Spring, a ballet score so radical in its rhythmic complexity and primal force that it caused a riot at its 1913 premiere.
Philharmonia Orchestra, London
Santtu-Matias Rouvali, Principal Conductor
80th Anniversary Tour
October 20, 7:30 PM
The Granada Theatre
The renowned Philharmonia Orchestra of London returns to CAMA for the first time since 2019, under the baton of its dynamic new Principal Conductor, Finnish Maestro Santtu-Matias Rouvali for an epic program of powerful national voices and symphonic masterpieces. The concert opens with Sibelius's Finlandia, a stirring anthem of Finnish national pride and resilience, followed by the composer’s Symphony No. 5, a work of majestic beauty and profound emotional depth, culminating in its iconic “swan hymn” finale. The second half of the program features Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5. Written in response to political pressure in Soviet Russia, the symphony was a “triumphal success” at its 1937 premiere, receiving an ovation that lasted over half an hour. The symphony's dramatic arc continues to resonate with audiences today, raising questions about artistic freedom and the role of the artist in society.
War of the Worlds: The Panic Broadcast
October 8-26
Relive the legendary 1938 broadcast that sent the nation into panic! A masterful reenactment of Orson Welles’ infamous radio drama that blurred the line between fiction and reality.
Runtime
90 Minutes with no intermission.
Age Recommendations
Appropriate for all ages.
Samara Joy
October 2, 7:30 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
Five-time Grammy-winning Jazz Vocalist
“A classic jazz singer from a new generation.” NPR
“Every so often a new vocalist blows everyone on the jazz scene away with their distinctive style, charm, and dexterity. Samara Joy is that new voice that’s giving new purpose to the music.” JazzTimes
The voice redefining jazz for a new generation, Bronx native Samara Joy brings soulful depth and timeless elegance to the stage, with a sound rooted in gospel and shaped by legends like Sarah Vaughan and Betty Carter. Returning by popular demand, Joy will captivate Santa Barbara again with her lush interpretations, original lyrics and masterful storytelling. Her latest release is Portrait, a collection of standards and an original track featuring her singular voice. With five Grammy wins – including Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album – Joy is a true force in contemporary jazz. Witness this luminous talent and her octet live in concert.
Los Angeles Philharmonic
October 3, 7:00 PM
Presented by CAMA
The Los Angeles Philharmonic, under the dynamic leadership of Gustavo Dudamel in his 17th and final season as Music & Artistic Director of the orchestra, opens CAMA's 107th season with a program of explosive energy and groundbreaking masterpieces. The concert begins with the West Coast premiere of John Adams's Frenzy, a work described by the composer as exploring "agitation or disorder of the mind, likened to madness," reflecting the tumultuous nature of the modern world. This LA Phil commission promises a thrilling start to the evening. The program then delves into the revolutionary world of Igor Stravinsky with the magic of the 1919 Suite from The Firebird, a work that catapulted Stravinsky to international fame, and culminates with the composer’s The Rite of Spring, a ballet score so radical in its rhythmic complexity and primal force that it caused a riot at its 1913 premiere.
“The most important orchestra in America—period.”
–Los Angeles Times
The Screwtape Letters
October 4, 4:00 PM
Presented by Fellowship of the Performing Arts
A battle is being waged for your soul from an office in hell! Witness a fast-paced, tour-de-force performance in this acclaimed adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ satiric masterpiece. This international hit offers a faithful stage adaptation of Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters, following Screwtape, a senior tempter in Hell, as he schemes to capture the soul of an unsuspecting human on earth and reveals spiritual warfare in vivid, humorous, and powerful ways.
The Screwtape Letters run time is 90 minutes with no intermission.
It is recommended for ages 13 and older, and children under age 4 are not admitted.
Wild Rescue Film The Screwtape Letters
October 5, 3:00 PM
Presented by Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network
Experience the inspiring journey of animals given a second chance at a wild life in this giant screen adventure. Based on the work at the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network, this uplifting film follows the dedicated teams who rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and orphaned wild animals.
From the arrival of a fragile bobcat to the rehabilitation of a young fox, explore hospital admissions, groundbreaking medical treatments, and the delicate balance of wildlife care. Baby birds, nocturnal creatures, and even pelicans undergoing surgery highlight the interconnectedness of all species and the innovative efforts of modern conservation.
With breathtaking cinematography and heartwarming moments, Wild Rescue reminds us that every creature deserves a second chance—and that hope is worth fighting for.
Joint Season Opener with State Street Ballet
October 18, 7:30 PM
October 19, 3:00 PM
Presented by Santa Barbara Symphony & State Street Ballet
A love forbidden. A love immortal. The greatest moments from Prokofiev’s greatest ballet – the ardent “Romeo and Juliet” performed with grace and passion by dancers from State Street Ballet on The Granada’s stage. These concerts – and the season begins as Nir Kabaretti and the Santa Barbara Symphony perform Shostakovich’s spirited Festive Overture and Rachmaninoff’s late, luxuriant Symphonic Dances.
Philharmonia Orchestra
October 20, 7:30 PM
Presented by CAMA
The renowned Philharmonia Orchestra of London returns to CAMA for the first time since 2019, under the baton of its dynamic new Principal Conductor, Finnish Maestro Santtu-Matias Rouvali for an epic program of powerful national voices and symphonic masterpieces. The concert opens with Sibelius's Finlandia, a stirring anthem of Finnish national pride and resilience, followed by the composer’s Symphony No. 5, a work of majestic beauty and profound emotional depth, culminating in its iconic “swan hymn” finale. The second half of the program features Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5. Written in response to political pressure in Soviet Russia, the symphony was a “triumphal success” at its 1937 premiere, receiving an ovation that lasted over half an hour. The symphony's dramatic arc continues to resonate with audiences today, raising questions about artistic freedom and the role of the artist in society.
“The conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali, who is often drawn to Strauss’s orchestral epics in concert, doubled down in this blast of a performance. What a sound he drew from the Philharmonia—the strings were a blaze of scorching sunlight, the woodwind and brass bold and gleaming.” –The Times (London)
Sutra with the Monks from the Shaolin Temple
October 29, 7:30 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
An award-winning collaboration between choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, sculptor Antony Gormley, and 19 Buddhist monks from the Shaolin Temple, Sutra is a breathtaking spectacle of athleticism that explores the philosophy and faith behind the Shaolin tradition and its relationship with kung fu in a contemporary context.
Itzhak Perlman In The Fiddler’s House
October 30, 7:00 PM
Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures
“This could almost be a jam session in the company of friends and family, dealing with big feelings, anywhere across the globe.” — Financial Times
“If there’s anything that can be identified as the soul of Jewish society, it’s klezmer music.” — Itzhak Perlman
Celebrate 30 years of In the Fiddler’s House with the incomparable Itzhak Perlman leading an all-star klezmer orchestra in a joyous evening of music and memory. Originally captured in his Emmy Award-winning PBS special and bestselling album, Perlman’s foray into klezmer is a heartfelt tribute to Jewish musical traditions. Joined by Music Director Hankus Netsky, clarinetist Andy Statman, and members of Brave Old World and the Klezmer Conservatory Band, Perlman brings this irresistible sound to life in a concert guaranteed to lift spirits and move feet.
BENISE - 25 Years of Passion
October 10, 7:30 PM
Presented by Spanish Guitar Entertainment
The Prince of Spanish Guitar” launches his 25th Anniversary Tour. Armed with his Spanish guitar and a stage full of musicians and elaborately choreographed dancers, Benise takes the audience on a musical journey through Spanish Flamenco, Cuban Salsa, Brazilian Samba, Parisian Waltz, exotic drumming, and more!
The Graduates: The Sound of Simon-Garfunkel (Tribute Band)
October 11, 7:30 PM
Presented by Castle Entertainment
An energetic and heartwarming salute to the music of Simon & Garfunkel. With a backdrop of stunning multi-media, “Paul & Art" escort us through an evening filled with beautiful renditions of some of the most beloved folk songs ever written.
Hope Lives Here: Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness
Presented by Good Samaritan Shelter
October 16, 7:00 PM
This short documentary, created for Public Broadcasting Television, offers an intimate look at the challenges of homelessness in Santa Barbara County and the impact of programs that provide shelter, support, and hope. Following the premiere, enjoy a musical performance by Lois Mahalia and an intimate conversation between Good Samaritan Executive Director Sylvia Barnard and actor Dwayne Henry of his early life story.
Fleetwood Mask
October 17, 7:30 PM
The group humbly and proudly carries the auspicious gift of having Mick Fleetwood’s only endorsement in America. Each performer uses the correct and exact period-accurate equipment to deliver the most authentic tribute to Fleetwood Mac in the world.
Go to Hale Quips & Clips - Covered in Music
Presented by Lobero LIVE and Panda Man
October 18, 6:52 PM
A powerful celebration where timeless songs are reborn by emerging and seasoned artists. From stripped-down rock anthems to soul-stirring acoustic ballads, performers reimagine iconic tracks across decades and genres, honoring the originals while boldly making them their own. This show is more than a tribute; it’s a vibrant exploration of musical legacy and proof that a great song never stops inspiring. Hosted by Hale Milgrim (former President/CEO of Capitol Records) and Richard Salzberg (aka Music Maniac), the program draws from their extensive personal archives.
John Waters - The Naked Truth Halloween Show
Presented by Numbskull
October 19, 8:00 PM
Ok, John Waters is finally coming clean, so to speak, and his all-new, secret-sharing, one-man crackpot comedy show dares to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the filthy truth. It’s an endless bag of trans-gressive and hetero-nonaggressive twisted tales that will warm the dark little hearts of non-binary brats all over the world. Over-sharing? You bet. Too much information? Maybe so, but airing his dirty laundry makes Waters feel clean. He’ll talk to you straight even when he’s definitely not.
Humanity
Presented by Nebula Dance Lab
October 22, 7:00 PM
Choreography by Chloe Roberts, under the direction of Devyn Duex. Nebula’s fan favorite evening length adaptation follows the dance journey of our main character through New York City, illustrated through a diverse palette of dance, music and multimedia.
Petty Party: Celebrating the Music of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
Presented by Legends of the Canyon
October 24, 7:30 PM
With decades of combined experience performing in top-tier tribute acts, Petty Party delivers a powerhouse performance that captures the heart, soul, and energy of Tom Petty’s expansive catalogue. From the anthemic hits to deep cuts, this dynamic show, featuring six of the top tribute musicians in the industry, is a must-see for any Petty fan.
Pianos on State
October 1-19
This fall, State Street once again transforms into an open-air gallery and stage as Pianos on State celebrates its 16th year. From September 30 through October 19, 2025, the community is invited to experience this beloved interactive public art and music installation, where painted pianos become canvases for both visual art and spontaneous performance.
Each piano is hand-painted by a local artist, turning the instruments into vibrant works of public art. Once placed along State Street—and at the Santa Barbara Airport—they invite everyone to play, from seasoned musicians to curious passersby. Student recitals and pop-up performances will animate downtown throughout the two-and-a-half-week exhibition, while spontaneous street music adds to the city’s cultural heartbeat. A full performance schedule will be available soon at pianosonstate.com.
This year introduces two new piano locations: in front of The Red Piano (sponsored by Montecito Bank & Trust, Village Properties, and KLITE) and with a brand new location outside of MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. A complete map of placements can be found at pianosonstate.com/map. Santa Barbara High School will be celebrating 150 years with a piano by SBHS students that will live on the high school campus throughout the year. The piano and workshop space will be provided by the Arts Collaborative. Artists this year responded to a call for entry with the theme of Time.
2025 Piano Artists
We are proud to announce this year’s commissioned artists:
Maddie Cupples Kaz Fantone Stephanie Gonzalez Sami Hutchinson Stephanie Ingoldsby Vandana Khare Kieran Meaney Jack N. Mohr irene ramirez – Arts Fund Teen Mentor Katherine A. Taylor Juan Trejo Mae Wilson Helen Yanez
The 4th Annual Masq(p)arade! is Back!
October 3, 5:30 PM
Masq(p)arade! is a whimsical, progressive-style performance parade, showcasing a series of dynamic piano-based acts at the Pianos on State painted pianos. We enlist regional artists to create 15-minute works, incorporating playful masks and fancifully-painted pianos, to be performed in succession in the heart of Santa Barbara's historic cultural arts district. Participants are encouraged to get in on the fun by wearing their own vibrant masks while progressing up State Street to each performance in this imaginative, roving three-hour sequence. Now in its fifth year, Masq(p)arade! brings an art-centric, interactive parade back to State Street that is free of charge, full of surprises, and loads of fun!
1st Thursday
October 2, 5:00 PM
Join the Museum as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! Michael Montenegro of Chicano Culture SB has co-created a special evening of entertainment with a pop-up history exhibit and entertainment including Mariachi Reyes (5:15-6:15pm) dancing with Freddy Castro & Friends (6:30-8:00 pm).
Mountain Drive Memories: Screening of Hot Tubs
October 9, 5:30 PM
Mountain Drive, Santa Barbara’s own bohemian community, is credited with having invented the backyard hot tub.
The documentary, Hot Tubs, explores this legend through the eyes and first-hand accounts of Mountain Drivers, many who are no longer with us. Despite the chaotic times of the 1970s, the locals of Mountain Drive partied on, letting even their clothes come off in the hot tub. Rosenn incorporates archival footage, photographs, and interviews to tell the story that led to the rise of the modern-day spa.
The short film, which debuted at SBIFF in 2010, is presented in conjunction with the third edition release of the Lee Chiacos’s book, Mountain Drive: Santa Barbara’s Pioneering Bohemian Community. Attendees are invited to enjoy wine and meet filmmaker Gabe Rosenn and author Lee Chiacos.
Best Fest: A Celebration of the 2025 Best of Santa Barbara
Presented by the Santa Barbara Independent
October 16, 5:30 PM
The Santa Barbara Independent, EJI Event Co., and the Santa Barbara Historical Museum officially invite you to mingle and boogie with the finest folks in town! You voted for your favorite businesses, now let's celebrate them. Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the 2025 Best of Santa Barbara® on Thursday, October 16, 5:30-9pm at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.
Enjoy sips and bites from many of the winning restaurants, wineries, and breweries featured in our Best of Santa Barbara® issue, publishing October 16.
Joint Season Opener with State Street Ballet
October 18, 7:30 PM
October 19, 3:00 PM
A love forbidden. A love immortal. The greatest moments from Prokofiev’s greatest ballet—the ardent Romeo and Juliet performed with grace and passion by dancers from State Street Ballet on the Granada stage. These concerts—and the season—begin as Nir Kabaretti and the Santa Barbara Symphony perform Shostakovich’s spirited Festive Overture and Rachmaninoff’s Men’s Dance from the Opera Aleko.
Nathan Huff: Within Wilds
October 1-31, 10:00 AM
Sullivan Goss - An American Gallery is excited to announce its fourth solo exhibition for Nathan Huff. This new exhibition will feature works for sale concurrently with two separate museum exhibitions - a solo show at Stanislaus State University and a group show at the Westmont Ridley Tree Museum of Art in Montecito. Undeterred by this busy schedule, the artist has taken on the task of designing a site-specific installation at Sullivan Goss, taking over the exhibition space to make something unforgettable as he has done for so many museums and institutions. Huff’s iconic magical realist subject matter and versatility with painting, sculpture and works that combine the two, make his exhibitions uniquely experiential - where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Huff’s unique visual language creates freewheeling narratives: personal stories of suspending gravity, traversing emotional vertigo, and sorting reservoirs of memories. Using recurring iconography and evocative visual metaphors he has a particular talent for creating moments of wonder, where the expressive impact is high, but the meanings are mysterious.
