Category: Events

Meet the Development Team at the Museum of Ventura County

Hi, I’m Heather Williams, Chief Development Officer at the Museum of Ventura County.

First and foremost, thank you for your support of the Museum. It’s people like you who help keep our mission, vision, and purpose alive.

I wanted to reach out to introduce myself and our team. You may know our Barbara Barnard Smith CEO, Elena Brokaw, but you may not know us, the development team. We’re the ones who call to thank you for your donations, send your tax letters, answer your membership questions, and most importantly, build and sustain the funding plan for the Museum of Ventura County.

Our small but mighty team wouldn’t be able to do what we do without you. Each quarter, we’ll send an email like this one highlighting wins that you, our MVC community, made possible.

National Association of Women Business Owners, Santa Barbara chapter (NAWBO-SB) to honor outstanding women at 12th annual Bravo Awards Ceremony

SANTA BARBARA — The National Association of Women Business Owners, Santa Barbara chapter (NAWBO-SB) is proud to announce the 12th Annual BRAVO Awards, celebrating the accomplishments of outstanding women in the Santa Barbara community. President Dr. Mary Jean Vignone and President-Elect Annika Jensen will be co-hosting an engaging luncheon to honor nine incredible winners.

The event will take place on April 30, 2026, at The Leta Hotel (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) in Goleta. This year’s theme, “Business in Bloom”, celebrates the remarkable growth, resilience, and impact of the women in the Santa Barbara community.

‘Let Us Entertain You Seaside’ with free live music all month long at Ventura Harbor Village

VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village is setting the stage for a menagerie of free, family-friendly, live weekly music throughout April 2026 on the seaside Promenade Stage at the waterfront.  The ongoing music series showcases a dockside selection of top-notch musicians who present a variety of genres, including Pop, Rock and coastal surf rock.

Enjoy the perfect coastal day with live music from 1 – 4 PM. Relax by the water as talented local musicians set the scene with a mix of lively and 

laid-back tunes. 

Whether you’re dining at a waterfront restaurant or simply soaking up the ocean breeze, the vibrant music adds the perfect soundtrack to your visit.

Santa Paula Art Museum — Celebrate 16 years with us: Anniversary party & fundraiser on April 18

Join us at the Santa Paula Art Museum’s Plein Air Anniversary Party on the outdoor patio at Parque 1055! Celebrate 16 years of art, community, and creativity as we honor the Shively, Clark, and Gunderson families for their incredible longstanding support.

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and handcrafted cocktails while watching live painting by several of our Cole Creativity Center teaching artists, and bid on their original works in a silent auction. All proceeds support the Museum’s arts education programs, which provide 1,600 hours of arts instruction to more than 6,000 K-12 students every year.

Bilingual report — Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara x DJ Javier Tee Dropping Soon

Hi Friends!

I have a cool announcement for you!

In honor of DJ Javier’s exhibition San Milano Drive, we are so happy to be launching our very own MCASB x DJ Javier t-shirt!

This tee will only be available for $35 at pre-sale, so make sure to get yours now.

Pre-sale ends April 20th, price will go up to $45.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Final Call: Spring Climate Stewards Course starts this Wednesday!

The Central Coast is counting on people like you to step up for a climate-safe future. CEC’s Climate Stewards Certification Program, in partnership with the University of California Environmental Stewards program, gives you the tools to launch and lead climate solutions in your neighborhood. Starting this Wednesday, April 15, join a cohort of community members, professionals, students, and retirees who are done waiting on the sidelines and ready to lead.

Bilingual report — Ventura’s Music Under the Stars tickets go on sale May 12

VENTURA — Music Under the Stars returns to the Olivas Adobe Historical Park this summer with eight outdoor concerts on Saturdays from July through August. Tickets go on sale May 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PST. 

The City encourages people to purchase tickets online, as many concerts sell out quickly. While tickets are also available by phone or in person, please note that customer service may not be able to accommodate all requests promptly due to high demand. Purchasing tickets online ensures the fastest and most reliable way to secure seats. 

SEEAG’s 13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day Set For April 11

VENTURA COUNTY — More than 20 farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will open their doors to the public during the 13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day on Saturday, April 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free event, organized by Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEG),  invites community members of all ages to explore and experience local farms, ranches and agricultural venues across Ventura County.

Farm Day features tours, tastings, giveaways, and family-friendly activities while visitors learn first-hand about the hands and lands that provide food to local communities and the world. 

Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council (CEC) announces 2026 Environmental Heroes ahead of Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival (April 25-26)

SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) has announced its 2026 Environmental Heroes, honoring Megan Birney Rudert and Assemblymember Gregg Hart for their leadership and innovation in advancing climate solutions. The awards will be presented at the 56th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, returning to Alameda Park April 25–26, 2026.

One of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country—and among the largest on the West Coast—the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival is a beloved community tradition that brings together thousands of attendees for a weekend of environmental action, education, and celebration. The free, two-day event will take place Saturday, April 25 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

UCSB — The Current — ‘To advance quantum technology, miniaturization is the name of the game’ and more news, events

UC Santa Barbara’s Top News & Featured Events
April 9, 2026
? Top News
Daniel Blumenthal in his lab
To advance quantum technology, miniaturization is the name of the game
Daniel Blumenthal’s research group is working to shrink large lasers, optical components and quantum optical light-matter experiments down to the size of a deck of cards.

ReFrame 2026: A Day of Inspiration, Advocacy, and Skill-Building for Ventura County’s Creative Community to be held April 12

CAMARILLO — Ventura County’s artists, cultural leaders, and creative entrepreneurs are invited to gather for ReFrame, a one-day convening designed to strengthen the region’s creative economy and support the people who power it. The 3rd annual event is taking place Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM at Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIArt) in Camarillo. It brings together creatives from across the county to learn, connect, and explore how arts and culture can drive both community wellbeing and economic vitality.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

EN ESPAÑOL: PRESENCIAL: QUICKBOOKS ESENCIAL Y DESARROLLO DE HABILIDADES: TALLER INTERACTIVO PARA NEGOCIOS PRESENTADO POR LA CIUDAD DE OXNARD

9 de abril a las 9:00 am

Acompañe a la ciudad de Oxnard, al Colaborativo de Desarrollo Económico y a Accelerate CA en este taller práctico e interactivo, diseñado tanto para usuarios principiantes y usuarios expertos de QuickBooks en Oxnard. Si está comenzando desde cero o lleva años utilizando QuickBooks y desea perfeccionar sus habilidades, esta sesión abordará las funciones esenciales y explorará temas más avanzados en función de las preguntas de los participantes. Registro: 8:30 am. Dirección: Biblioteca Pública de Oxnard – Biblioteca Principal, 251 S A St, Oxnard, CA 93030. El programa Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA) está financiado por el Estado de California y administrado por el Defensor de la Pequeña Empresa de California (CalOSBA, por sus siglas en inglés). Precio: GRATIS.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Arte Del Pueblo 2026 Application is open!

The time you all have been waiting for has arrived!

The Arte Del Pueblo Application is now OPEN. Click the link HERE to access it.

Friendly reminder.
– Please read the application in its entirety before submitting.
– Make sure all your information is correct. What ends up being submitted is what we will end up printing on your artwork’s label.
– Completing this application DOES NOT guarantee you a spot in the exhibition. You MUST drop off your artwork on a drop off date.

Explore Lompoc — Your budget-friendly guide to Lompoc on California’s Central Coast

LOMPOC — Colorful murals, crave-worthy wines, and fresh-air adventures—all without breaking the bank.

Set between rolling hills and the Pacific, Lompoc is your launchpad for adventure. Explore the charming downtown, sip local wines, hike scenic trails, or catch a rocket lighting up the sky from nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Things to Do That Won’t Break the Bank

Lompoc offers plenty of memorable experiences that don’t require a big budget. From outdoor adventures to local culture, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.

Historic and Cultural Experiences: La Purísima Mission

La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is one of California’s most fully restored Spanish missions, set amid rolling hills and oak-studded landscapes.

People Helping People — First Women’s Legacy of Giving Luncheon has Impactful Beginning

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — A sea of women in yellow gathered to the brighten the lives of clients of People Helping People at the inaugural luncheon for the Women’s Legacy of Giving in the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests were encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize warmth, hope, and shared light. 

 The leadership of philanthropist Linda Johansen helped galvanize 72 women to join PHP’s newly formed Women’s giving circle. “When women come together, we are powerful and we can do amazing things,” Johansen told guests. 

“A heartfelt and sincere thank you to Linda Johansen for her unwavering dedication to the Santa Ynez Valley and People Helping People “said Erica Jane Flores, CEO of PHP. “Women’s Legacy of Giving is a reflection of her vision, leadership, and deep care for this community – we are truly grateful.”

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Introducing the 2026 “Great Navigators” of District 2

You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards on May 7, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Amgen campus in Thousand Oaks.

Join us as we celebrate the “Great Navigators” of our community—these exceptional honorees representing Education, Public Safety, Community Leadership, Prosperity, and Environmentalism. Each awardee reflects the very best of Ventura County—an educator shaping future leaders, a first responder dedicated to keeping our communities safe, a community leader making an impact on the lives of many, an innovator strengthening our local economy, and a community garden collective advancing sustainability, local food access, and environmental stewardship.

My Way Home in Oxnard announces April, May workshops

Join us for a free series of workshops designed to help you build knowledge and practical skills. This month’s topics include our HUD-approved Homebuyer Workshop, Estate Planning, and a Beginner’s Guide to Couponing. Whether you’re preparing to buy a home, planning for the future, or looking for ways to save on everyday expenses, these sessions offer practical tools you can use right away.

Bilingual report — Ventura City Council meetings return to Council Chambers beginning April 14

VENTURA — The City of Ventura will resume hosting City Council meetings in Council Chambers beginning Tuesday, April 14, following the completion of accessibility upgrades. 

Council Chambers had been temporarily closed to allow for improvements that enhance access and usability for all participants. Since August 2025, meetings have been held at the Wright Event Center at Ventura College.

Oxnard launches Arts, Culture & Creativity Month on April 1 featuring new cultural district

OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will officially launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant public celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic kickoff event on Wednesday, April 1 at the Oxnard Transit Center.

Hosted by the City of Oxnard, Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will transform the Transit Center into a lively hub of creativity. Attendees will experience interactive art activations, live performances, and a special lowrider on exhibit—alongside refreshments and opportunities to connect with the artists and organizations shaping the district.

Ventura County Office of Education — Science Fair & Mock Trial Results, Why Equity Matters, DC Advocacy, and more

Why Equity Matters in Our Schools
Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

Despite what you may have heard, equity in education is a straightforward, commonsense idea. It’s simply acknowledging that some students face more challenges than others. These can range from poverty and disabilities to language barriers or trauma at home.

Whatever their struggles, all students deserve the chance to succeed in school – and that’s what equity is all about. As you can see in this graphic, equity and equality are not the same thing.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Show Up for Our Planet This Earth Month!

Join the Community Environmental Council (CEC) at our Earth Month events to jump into the local climate movement, connect with your community, and take meaningful action together. From festivals and celebrations to lectures and workshops — there’s something for everyone. Browse the full April events line-up below.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

FUNDAMENTALS OF FOOD BUSINESSES

April 2 @ 12:00 pm

Fundamentals of Food Businesses gives an overview of the various food business structures. From Cottage Food Law (which allows preparing approved foods at home) to full-service restaurants and everything in between. This webinar will allow attendees to explore their ideas, consider different models for their food business dream, and see the steps for each, as well as the phasing from one to another. This webinar is for anyone interested in bringing a food product to market and entering the food industry. Offered as a Zoom meeting so that attendees can ask questions during the presentation. Price: FREE.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

County of Ventura appoints new Director of the Health Care Agency

Dr. John Fankhauser has been appointed Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency. Fankhauser has served as the Interim Director for the Health Care Agency since January 2026. Prior to his role as Interim Director for the Health Care Agency, Fankhauser served as Chief Executive Officer for the Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital since 2019, a role he continued to hold while also serving as the Interim Director.

“Dr. Fankhauser has consistently shown a deep commitment to public service, paired with the depth of expertise needed to lead complex medical systems,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “His leadership in managing large-scale health care operations and his deep commitment to addressing community needs positions Dr. Fankhauser to make a meaningful and continued positive impact on our health care system. His record of strong health care leadership and experience make him exceptionally well-prepared to serve as the Director for the Health Care Agency.”

Ventura County expected to take part in national ‘No Kings III Protest’ on March 28

VENTURA COUNTY — On March 28, thousands of Ventura County neighbors will come together along with millions of Americans across the country in a nationwide day of nonviolent protest at the third No Kings National Day of Action. There are more than 3,000 events nationwide. 

Once again, the local coalition of pro-democracy organizers from Indivisible Ventura, Justice For All Ventura County, and 50501 VC are hosting the No Kings Ventura County event March 28, from 10 AM to Noon, at the Ventura County Government Center, on the corner of S. Victoria Ave. and Telegraph Rd. in Ventura.

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Turn FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Into Action

Ever felt FOMO watching millions take to the streets for change? Now’s your chance to lock in.

We’re building a space to turn local power into real impact – right here in our community. Join us to learn how we can connect national movements like No Kings Day and May Day, and take action for an economy and democracy that work for all of us – not just the wealthy few.

Join our prep meeting on Zoom this Thursday, March 26 at 6PM!

You’ll learn how to support upcoming national actions in ways that fit you – whether that’s creating posters, dropping off flyers at local businesses and community centers, or inviting friends to march alongside you.

No Kings Day | March 28, 2026

A day to stand together and defend our communities against unjust and harmful policies. Our country belongs to the people – not to strongmen, billionaires, or those who aim to rule through fear and division.

NO KINGS 3 Santa Barbara Rally and March to start at Alameda Park, Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA — The NO KINGS 3 Santa Barbara will begin at 11 a.m. at , Alameda Park, 1400 Santa Barbara St. Primary speeches start at 12:30, and the march at around 1:30.

Prepare for warm weather: wear a hat, and carry plenty of water and sunscreen.

Our event is part of more than 3,000 rallies nationwide.

Santa Barbara duo wins international competition, Allan Hancock College faculty among winners

Click here for the entire media release en español SANTA MARIA — An Allan Hancock College piano faculty member is taking her talents to one of the world’s most prestigious stages after winning an international music competition with a fellow…

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara’s Summer exhibitions — Arte del Pueblo: Open call for Artists / Convocatoria Abierta para Artistas

We are thrilled to announce that Arte del Pueblo is returning to the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara for its third year and this summer, we are going bigger than ever.

Estamos emocionados de anunciar que Arte del Pueblo regresa al Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Santa Barbara para su tercer año ¡y este verano lo haremos más grande que nunca!

UCSB — The Current — ‘The Big Bee Project brings natural history collections into the 21st century’ and more news, events

Led by UCSB researchers, a pioneering, multi-campus initiative brings natural history collections into the era of AI, big data and networked databases.

Read more about the Big Bee Project

Ventura Charter School 5th Graders craft ceramic bowls, raise $1,190 for local farmworkers

VENTURA — With handmade ceramic bowls and homemade soup in hand, 5th graders at Ventura Charter School raised $1,190 for local farmworker families on February 6th, capping a semester spent studying the very community they were raising money for. More than 100 guests attended the third annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser, where students served homemade soup in handcrafted ceramic bowls that guests purchased to take home, raising funds for the cause. They also hosted an art gallery of human rights posters and spoke directly with guests about why the work mattered. All proceeds were donated to Friends of Field Workers and House Farm Workers Now, two organizations supporting the Ventura County farmworker community.

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing eNewsletter – March 2026

One of the great privileges of my work is the chance to speak with service members and military families. Each conversation reminds me just how often they are asked to uproot their lives: moving from base to base, state to state, sometimes across the world. Beyond the logistics of finding a new home, packing and unpacking boxes, the real disruptions run deeper. Every move means enrolling children in new schools, locating the nearest grocery store, finding a dentist who is taking new patients, discovering a new congregation, meeting new neighbors, finding where to get a haircut, identifying a reliable plumber, even deciding, once again, where to put the Christmas tree. Individually, these tasks may seem small, but repeatedly layered together, they can create isolation, instability, and lost opportunities. But these moves, at least, come with the support structures of the military.

Port of Hueneme — Running on Sunshine: Sea Splash Color Dash 5k returns in full color

ORT HUENEME — The City of Port Hueneme and the Port of Hueneme successfully hosted their third annual Sea Splash Color Dash 5K this weekend, drawing a vibrant crowd of community members for a day centered on wellness, connection, and coastal fun.

More than 800 participants gathered at Hueneme Beach before setting off along the coastal scenic beachfront course, running, walking, and celebrating as they were doused in colorful powder along the route. The high-energy event brought together families, local organizations, and visitors of all ages.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

IN-PERSON EVENT: SMALL BUSINESS START-UP BASICS

March 25 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE, City of Thousand Oaks, Economic Development Collaborative and Accelerate CA in this information-packed workshop that will help you assess whether starting a small business is right for you and consider the various options for starting a business, legal structures, and business plan basics. Address: City of Thousand Oaks, Oak & Park Room, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA Hub) is funded by the State of California and administered by CalOSBA. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

CSUCI to host 2026 Ventura County Agricultural Education Summit on March 27

CAMARILLO — Ventura County Farm to School will host the 2026 Agricultural Education Summit at CSU Channel Islands, bringing together educators, farmers, students, and community leaders for a day of learning, collaboration, and innovation focused on the region’s agriculture industry.

The summit will take place Friday, March 27, 2026, at CSU Channel Islands’ Grand Salon, featuring hands-on workshops, expert-led discussions, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen agricultural education across Ventura County.

Bilingual report — 150 community photographs capture what it means to thrive in Ventura County

THOUSAND OAKS — From coastal landscapes to quiet family moments, 150 photographs submitted by residents across Ventura County and neighboring communities will debut this month in THRIVE: Ventura County, a community photography exhibition exploring themes of hope, connection, and well-being across the region. Selected from more than 250 submissions by photographers of all ages and backgrounds, the exhibition offers a collective portrait of what it means to thrive in our communities.

Presented by TOArts in partnership with SeeingHappy, a global nonprofit that uses photography and positive psychology to foster belonging and well-being, THRIVE: Ventura County is designed as a true community collaboration—bringing together artists, residents, nonprofit organizations, libraries, local businesses, and cultural partners to celebrate creativity as a pathway to connection and well-being. The initiative is also TOArts’ first fully bilingual (English-Spanish) arts project, expanding participation and accessibility across the region’s diverse communities.

Oxnard joining other cities nationwide to rename annual César Chávez event on March 22 in light of allegations linked to the farm labor leader

Groups move swiftly nationwide to remove images, honors for César Chávez, while others promote access to sexual assault and mental health counseling services

By Frank X. Moraga • www.Amigos805.com © 2025

OXNARD — Oxnard is joining other cities nationwide in renaming their annual César Chávez celebration in light of the sexual assault allegations linked to the late farm labor leader.

“March for Justice! March for Farmworkers rights! Sunday March 22, 2026 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. The events starts at 3:30 pm.,” according to a Facebook post by Javier Gomez, founder of the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center in Oxnard.

Since early this month, cities across the nation either canceled or renamed their celebrations ahead of the labor leader’s birthday on March 31, 2026. Their actions followed news of a potential explosive story by a national publication that was first reported by the San Antonio Express-News on March 6, 2026. The reports focused on revelations of a “sensitive matter” involving Chavez.

Those reports were confirmed when an extensive story by the New York Times was published on March 18 detailing allegations of years of sexual abuse by Chavez of minors and sexual assault incidents involving farmworkers rights labor leader Dolores Huerta. Huerta confirmed those assaults in the story.

Bilingual report — Downtown Oxnard Cultural District takes center stage at Arts, Culture & Creativity Month kick-off on April 1

OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District, bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic public kickoff event.

Hosted by the City of Oxnard, the Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will take place at the John C. Zaragoza Transit Center is an inspired and accessible venue that reflects the district’s creativity through large-scale murals, interactive pop-up art experiences, and locally crafted offerings, including bespoke coffee from Dolce Vita.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Regional leaders discuss education, industry, energy and housing’ and more news, events

At a partnership summit hosted by the nonprofit REACH, leaders from across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties convened on campus with an eye toward collaboration and innovation.

Habitat Ventura’s Women Build 2026 mobilizes community to provide necessary repairs for senior residents

NEWBURY PARK — Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Habitat Ventura) brought together more than 70 volunteers this International Women’s Day weekend for its annual Women Build event presented by Bank of America. On Saturday, March 7, volunteers gathered at a senior mobile home park in Newbury Park to complete critical repairs on six mobile homes for the senior community. Throughout the day, volunteers worked side-by-side completing interior and exterior repairs, painting, replacing stairs, and addressing any additional needs that required support.

9/11 Survivor and wellness visionary Ana Maria Lugo to co-host ‘Rooted: A Wellness Summit” in Oxnard

OXNARD — On Sunday, May 3, 2026, OPAC (the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit) in partnership with Raising Mami Alchemy, Inc., will host Rooted: A Wellness Summit, a first-of-its-kind immersive gathering designed to bridge indigenous culture, mental health, and somatic healing. The summit is co-led by Ana Maria Lugo, a wellness educator and holistic practitioner whose personal journey from 9/11 survivor to community healer has transformed wellness access for thousands in Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Ventura’s Summer Activity Guide has arrived!

VENTURA — The Parks & Recreation Summer Activity Guide is available online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide. Registration begins Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, Room 226, 501 Poli Street. Registration information and policies are on page 7.

UCSB — The Current — ‘New dashboard maps bike safety across Santa Barbara County’ and more news, events

The Santa Barbara County Active Transportation Dashboard brings together bike and pedestrian safety data to reveal patterns, trends and hotspots for collisions and near-misses across the county.

Museum of Ventura County — Celebrating 2026 Women of the Year in Ventura County

The Museum of Ventura County’s Board of Directors and staff are proud to celebrate two remarkable women whose leadership and dedication strengthen our organization and community. Dr. Sevet Johnson, MVC Board Member, and Elena Brokaw, MVC’s Barbara Barnard Smith CEO, have each been recognized as 2026 Women of the Year.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announces 2026 Summer Music Festival & School

View in Browser   Music Academy of the West announces 2026 Summer Music Festival & School American Mosaic: The 79th annual Summer Music Festival celebrates American voices, June 17–August 8 in Santa Barbara Subscriptions on sale April 9 Individual tickets…

Ventura County Arts Council (VCAC) — CALL TO ARTISTS: Mo(u)rning Earth at the Atrium Gallery

“Mo(u)rning Earth,” featuring lead artist Vanessa Morrow, is one in a series of art exhibitions addressing mental health that is part of VibeWell Ventura County, a county-wide initiative that uses art and culture to raise awareness of mental health conditions. This show’s theme invites artists to consider the/their physical environment and the idea that processing grief or loss through arts can transform “mourning” into the “morning” of a new dawn/day.