What are the top things to do in Santa Barbara this January - it's sunset season!
From refreshing dips and glowing lanterns to world‑class soccer and family fun, January in Santa Barbara has something for everyone.
Sunset season in Santa Barbara is one of our favorite times of year. There’s nothing better than grabbing a delicious pizza from Bettina or Lucky Penny, finding a cozy spot on the beach and watching the sky change colors over the Pacific. It sets the tone for a month full of memorable community events and activities.
❄️ Polar Dip at Leadbetter Beach — January 1
Kick off the New Year with a brisk (and exhilarating!) plunge into the Pacific! The community gathers at Leadbetter Beach for check‑in at 11:00 a.m., with the Polar Dip taking place at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 1. It’s a fun way to start the year with friends, family, and fellow locals | more information
📍 Leadbetter Beach
✨ ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo — Through January 11
Looking for a magical outing? ZooLights transforms the Santa Barbara Zoo into a glowing wonderland with larger‑than‑life lanterns, illuminated pathways, and festive displays throughout the grounds. It’s a beautiful evening activity that’s perfect for all ages and makes for a great date night or family adventure | more information
📍 Santa Barbara Zoo
⚽️ US Women’s National Soccer Team vs. Chile — January 27
Experience elite international soccer right here at home! The U.S. Women’s National Team takes on the Chile Women’s National Team at Harder Stadium in Santa Barbara. Known as “Soccer Heaven” on the Central Coast, this event is a rare opportunity to watch world‑class athletes compete in an electric atmosphere | more information
📍 Harder Stadium — UCSB
🕺🏻 Mania: The ABBA Tribute at the Lobero — January 29
Get ready to dance along to the hits of ABBA! Mania: The ABBA Tribute brings dazzling costumes, dynamic choreography, and spot‑on musicianship to the historic Lobero Theatre. Whether you’re an ABBA superfan or just love a high‑energy show, this performance is sure to thrill | more information
🕰 Thursday, January 29 at 7:30 p.m.
📍 Lobero Theatre
⛸️ Sock Skating at MOXI — Through February 1
Looking for family‑friendly fun? Sock Skating at MOXI lets kids (and adults!) glide across the “ice” — in socks! This seasonal activity inside MOXI’s interactive museum space blends playful imagination with creative movement, making it a hit with locals and visitors alike | more information
📍 MOXI — The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Make the Most of January in Santa Barbara
From community traditions like the Polar Dip to cultural experiences like ZooLights and Mania: The ABBA Tribute, January in Santa Barbara is full of ways to connect, explore and celebrate. And of course, don’t forget to enjoy those dreamy sunset moments with an ocean‑side pizza in hand.
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