First Thursday Means Santa Barbar Downtown Events!

Presented every First Thursday 

of the Month

By The

Santa Barbara Downtown Organization

September 6th

1^st Thursday is an award winning program highlighting downtown arts, culture and entertainment on the first Thursday of every month. All 1^st Thursdayattractions are free from 5-8pm.

The next 1^st Thursday event is Thursday, September 6^th and the theme isBack to School!

Click on one of the links below for more information:

• About 1^st Thursday
• Download the September 1st Thursday Map and Guide (PDF)
• Galleries & Performing Arts Venues
• Special Performances
• Partner Events
• Photo Gallery

ABOUT 1^st THURSDAY

1^st Thursday is an evening of art and culture in downtown Santa Barbara. On the first Thursday of each month, participating galleries and art-related venues offer free access to visual and performing art in a fun and social environment from 5-8pm. 1^st Thursday venues feature attractions, such as art openings, live music, artists' receptions, lectures, wine tastings and hands-on activities. Many Downtown partners partake in this event including non-conventional galleries, retailers and restaurants. In addition, State Street comes alive on 1^st Thursday with performances and interactive exhibits. Look for previews of forthcoming plays, symphony performances, concerts and dance productions, as well as local up-and-coming performers. The Downtown Organization also partners with Santa Barbara cultural groups for one-time 1^st Thursday attractions.

1^st Thursday is for locals and visitors alike. It provides an opportunity for residents to indulge in local culture, mingle with neighbors and participate in the arts community. The program also offers visitors the chance to experience, in one evening, the diversity of downtown Santa Barbara’s visual and performing arts scene. is aimed at developing a lively atmosphere downtown as well as showcasing the cultural variety that Santa Barbara has to offer.

The 1^st Thursday Passport is a printed guide and map to all of the 1^st Thursday attractions and are available at participating galleries and venues, MTD shuttles, The Visitors’ Center, and hotel concierge desks. OR you can download a printable version above.

Expect something special in art and culture on the first Thursday of every month!

for participating merchants and venues, click here