Queen of the Festivals
Santa Barbara Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival
Volunteers work year-round to create the Santa Barbara Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival, a celebration of ocean-inspired art and jewelry in September. Around 45 artists and 4,000 guests from all over the country attend each year, spending two days surrounded by sea glass artists, jewelers, collectors, and fellow beachcombers. Attendees learn from experts who share their knowledge through an informative lecture series and educational exhibits.
The Santa Barbara Festival has art workshops on Saturday and Sunday, such as wire wrapping, charm bracelet making, and cyanotype making. The workshops are wonderful and very popular and sell out quickly so be sure to preregister online before the event if you are interested in attending one. There are food trucks, live music, and children’s events.
One of the most popular events is the Sea Glass Treasure Contest on Sunday afternoon, where attendees are encouraged to bring in their favorite sea glass treasures to enter. This year, there is a children’s category, and details on all the categories are on the festival website.
Whether you’re an artist or a shopper, a collector or an admirer of sea glass, local or just visiting, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Tickets are available online at santabarbaraseaglassandoceanartsfestival.com or at the gate. Contact the festival team at info@santabarbaraseaglassandoceanartsfestival.com if you are interested in volunteering.
Plan your trip
Places to stay, where to eat and drink, fun activities, and where to go beachcombing in Destination: Santa Barbara ›
Learn more about the best beaches and destinations for sea and beach glass, seashells, fossils, rocks, and more beach finds around the world. Articles ›
This article appeared in the Beachcombing Magazine July/August 2019 issue
