Celebrate the Fourth of July in Santa Barbara, Montecito & Goleta – Fireworks, Parades, Pancakes & Drones!
Looking for the best way to spend your Fourth of July in Santa Barbara and Goleta? Whether you’re into fireworks, parades, pancakes, or the area’s first-ever drone light show, this Independence Day is packed with fun for the whole family. We’ve rounded up four can’t-miss events happening across town, each with its own festive flavor. Let the red, white, and celebration begin.
Start Your Day with Pancakes in Montecito
Nothing says “America” like pancakes served by firefighters. Kick off your Fourth of July at the Montecito Fire Department’s Annual Pancake Breakfast, a beloved community tradition.
Location: Montecito Fire Station 91 – 595 San Ysidro Road
Time: 7:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Tickets: $15 at the door | Kids 10 & under eat free
Proceeds benefit the Montecito Firefighters Charitable Foundation
Fuel up before the festivities with a hearty, delicious breakfast and get to know the local heroes who keep our community safe.
Join the Montecito Parade & Party
After breakfast, it’s parade time. Dress up your bikes, scooters, wagons, or pets in patriotic colors and join the Montecito Annual Fourth of July Parade brought to you by the Montecito Association.
Parade Route: San Ysidro Road (Upper Manning Park to Montecito Union School)
Start Time: 11:30 a.m.
After-Party: Lower Manning Park with food, games, live music and pie-eating contests
Whether you march in the parade or cheer from the sidelines, this is small-town Americana at its best. The post-parade party at Manning Park is a blast for all ages with live music games, food, adult beverages and more.
Goleta’s First-Ever Drone Light Show
New for 2025! The City of Goleta is debuting its very first Drone Light Show — a cutting-edge, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fireworks.
Location: Dos Pueblos High School – 7266 Alameda Ave
Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.
Activities: Food trucks, DJ Darla Bea, line dancing, games, and more
Drone Show: Starts around 8:30 p.m.
Thanks to generous community sponsors, this event is free and open to all. It’s a high-tech twist on a classic celebration — don’t miss the drones lighting up the night sky.
Old-Fashioned Fun at Stow House
Head over to Rancho La Patera & Stow House for the 51st Annual Old Fashion 4th of July, presented by the Goleta Valley Historical Society.
Location: Rancho La Patera
Live Music: The Cliffhangers and Cadillac Angels
Activities: Tractor rides, vintage machinery exhibits, local vendors, and more
Step back in time for a charming afternoon filled with live music, historic displays, and old-school Americana — perfect for families and history lovers alike.
End the Day with Fireworks on the Santa Barbara Waterfront
Wrap up your Independence Day with Santa Barbara’s spectacular Fourth of July Celebration at West Beach.
Location: Cabrillo Blvd & West Beach
Food & Vendors: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Live Music All Day at the West Beach Bandstand
Fireworks Begin: 9:00 p.m. (Simulcast on 92.9 FM KjEE)
This full-day event features food trucks, dance performances, and a 20-minute fireworks display launched from West Beach — a truly magical ending to a day of celebration.
Want More Details?
Click the links below each section above to learn more about each event, including parking, accessibility, and how to participate.
From pancakes to parades, drones to fireworks, this is going to be a Fourth to remember. Happy Independence Day, Santa Barbara and Goleta!
