March 19, 2026
Like many cities worldwide, there’s been a sustained buzz to Santa Barbara’s coffee scene over the past 15 years. The current environment of multiple roasting companies, countless bean-savvy cafés, and even java-serving cocktail joints represents a relatively mature, stable status quo, with excellent espressos and consistent cups of joe available all over town.
Into that milieu comes the Central Coast’s first-ever Coffee Culture Fest on March 28, which will take over the lawn of Santa Barbara Junior High and the stage of the Marjorie Luke Theatre with tastings, talks, and demonstrations. The event is free, though those wanting to sip coffees along the way can buy a pass to do so. See coffeeculturefest.com .