Events + Experiences
Where Santa Barbara Celebrates
La Arcada has always been more than a destination — it's one of Santa Barbara's most beloved gathering places for private events and community celebrations. For nearly a century, this Spanish Revival courtyard on State Street has been at the heart of Santa Barbara's most cherished traditions.
Some things are worth showing up for.
In 2026, La Arcada Plaza celebrates its centennial — 100 years as Santa Barbara's most beloved courtyard gathering place. Annual community events include Old Spanish Days Fiesta every August, the Annual Christmas Walk every December, and live music throughout the season. The plaza's always-on experiences — the Treasure Hunt art trail, the turtle fountain, and 22 sculptures throughout the courtyard — make every visit an event of its own.
Old Spanish Days Fiesta
EVERY AUGUST — La Arcada was built for this moment. When Old Spanish Days comes to Santa Barbara, this plaza isn't just a backdrop — it's part of the soul of the celebration.
Annual Christmas Walk
EVERY DECEMBER, La Arcada transforms. Lights, music, festivities, and the kind of family holiday magic that has made the Christmas Walk a Santa Barbara tradition for 30 years running.
Live Music
On select days throughout the season, La Arcada's courtyard fills with live music. The acoustics of a 100-year-old Spanish Revival plaza, it turns out, were made for this.
Signature Events
Plan Your Private Event at
La Arcada Plaza
La Arcada Plaza offers several options for private events and special occasions. All of La Arcada's restaurants offer both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Santa Barbara Courthouse Distillery is the plaza's premier full-service private event venue — available for corporate functions, celebrations, and larger gatherings with culinary and full bar service.
For intimate events and private dining, several of La Arcada's restaurants accommodate smaller groups and private bookings — contact Andersons Bakery & Restaurant, Barbieri & Kempe Wine, Hook & Press Donuts, Mizza Artisan Italian Cuisine, Petit Valentien, or State & Fig directly for availability.
ANY DAY. ANY TIME.
Always-On Experiences
Twenty-two treasures are hiding in plain sight at La Arcada Plaza. A 1761 mission bell. A bronze Spanish galleon cannon. A flying turtle. A window washer. How many can you find?
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The Sculptures
Bronze dolphins made for climbing. A sea turtle who is thoroughly unamused. A window washer on an eternal lunch break. No ticket required.
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The Turtle Fountain
The beating heart of La Arcada Plaza. Real turtles. A flying bronze one named Amelia. Pull up a chair, grab a coffee, and stay a while.
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Al Fresco Dining
Seven restaurants. Open courtyards. Santa Barbara sunshine. Some afternoons were made for lingering — and La Arcada Plaza was made for afternoons like these.
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La Arcada Plaza
1114 State Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 966-6634