Friday, December 24, 2021

The Monarchs have returned to Goleta's Ellwood Mesa!

 

Monarch Butterflies Return to Goleta’s Ellwood Mesa

Recent Count Indicates More than 15,000 Butterflies Present

Post Date:12/22/2021 12:41 PM

    The City of Goleta is pleased to share that monarch butterflies have returned to Goleta! Over 15,000 monarchs are spending the winter at Goleta’s Ellwood Mesa Monarch Butterfly Grove. After completing a long journey from inland California, this group of butterflies is settled into the eucalyptus tree grove until February. The return of the monarchs this year is especially exciting since it is a sign of hope that their population is increasing after many years of concerning, low numbers.

    George Thomson, Parks and Open Space Manager for the City of Goleta, said, “Ellwood Mesa is the gateway to the Gaviota Coast and a great place to escape for a quiet walk. We are so fortunate to witness one of nature’s great migrations right here in our own backyard.” 

    The best time to visit the Ellwood Mesa Monarch Butterfly Grove is during mid-day, when monarchs are flying around and more visible. If visiting during early-morning hours, or during cooler days, look for clusters of butterflies clinging to the ends of branches. Please don’t throw objects at clusters of butterflies or shake branches to get them to take flight. Please also remember to keep dogs on-leash. 

    The Ellwood Mesa Monarch Butterfly Grove is open to visitors. It is free to the public, with parking available on the 7700 block of Hollister Avenue. The Butterfly Grove is a 20-minute walk from the parking lot. Visitors are encouraged to avoid parking in the adjacent residential neighborhood. For specific locations, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/goletabutterflygrove.

    The City of Goleta is planning habitat and trail improvements for Ellwood Mesa, including the Monarch Butterfly Grove. To find out more, or for questions about visiting the Butterfly Grove, please contact George Thomson, Parks and Open Space Manager, at gthomson@cityofgoleta.org or 805-961-7578.

    Butterfly Grove_Mike Eliason Dec 2021

    Butterfly Grove2_Mike Eliason Dec 2021

    Pictured: Ellwood Mesa Butterfly Grove, December 2021, photo credit: Mike Eliason 

    Friday, December 3, 2021

    Holiday Happenings Downtown Santa Barbara

     


     

    Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Block Party (Friday, December 3, 6:00 - 9:00 PM)
    Join us for a holiday block party on State Street (Sola St. to Victoria St.) and in front of the Arlington Theatre! Enjoy live entertainment, music by DJ Darla Bea, and of course the lighting ceremony of the State Street Christmas tree by the Holiday Prince & Fairy, sponsored by Paseo Nuevo Shops & Restaurants! The Christmas tree is generously sponsored by Consumer Fire Products, Inc. to help make State Street holiday festivities even more magical. Santa Claus will be onsite for photos.


    Santa Barbara Holiday Markets

     State Street Promenade Market

    Every Thursday, 3:00-7:30 PM
    Join us in this locals night by supporting local businesses, makers, and artisans on the 1000 Block of State Street. Grab some food at the many delicious restaurants on this block, stop by our vendor's booths and local businesses and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and beautiful weather that Santa Barbara has to offer! 

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    Wednesday, December 1, 2021

    Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History - Folk & Tribal Market Place

     

    December 3, 2021




    Folk & Tribal Arts Marketplace

    At the Museum

    DECEMBER 3, 2021 / 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

    Santa Barbara’s most unique holiday shopping experience is back!

    Shop an unparalleled selection of one-of-a-kind gifts from around the world with 20 vendors representing 30 countries.

    Be generous to your loved ones while supporting international artisans and the local community: 25% of proceeds benefit Museum exhibits and education programs.

    The indoor/outdoor marketplace is open on the following days:

    Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 3–5, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

    information and photo from the SBNHM newsletter.

    www.sbnature.org