Coast Village Happenings

While finishing landscaping touches take place on the Olive Mill Roundabout, crews have been busy beautifying Coast Village Road for the holidays. Last week a tree lighting took place, featuring performances and appearances by Santa Barbara High School Madrigals, Santa Barbara Youth Symphony, and the Santa Barbara Festival Ballet (Nutcracker characters). 

Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse spoke at the ceremony, sponsored by Coast Village Association and the Rosewood Miramar, and then helped Santa Claus light the large tree, which was co-sponsored by Montecito Community Foundation. Lots of businesses are in the holiday spirit, lighting up their windows with decorations and festive offerings. 

At Montecito Country Mart, holiday happenings are in full swing, with Santa visits on Saturdays (one left this Saturday, December 16, 1 – 4 pm), the annual Giving Tree through December 20 (buy a gift listed on the tree, and the gift goes to a child in need, via Unity Shoppe), and lots of festive holiday gifting displays. New shop Emily Joubert is rumored to be opening in the spring, featuring home and garden goods and located in the former home of Montecito Mercantile, which closed in August. Other new businesses to join the mart in early 2024 include Oat Bakery, Alma Fonda Fina, and Orlebar Brown. In the neighboring Coast Village Walk, Montecito Dry Bar is scheduled to open early next year and is currently offering pre-opening specials (visit www.drybarshops.com for info).