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41st Annual Santa Barbara Vintners Festival:A Celebration of Santa Barbara County’s Winemakers, Wines, Food & Community
October 18 @ 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm PDT
Join us on October 18, 2025, in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country for an unforgettable afternoon of wines, local cuisine, live music, and the rare chance to meet and connect with the winemakers, chefs, and fellow wine lovers who make this region so special.
The Santa Barbara Vintners Association is thrilled to announce the 41st Annual Santa Barbara Vintners Festival, the original and longest-running wine festival in Santa Barbara County. Scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. (with early entry at 12 p.m.), this year’s event will once again be held at the stunning Vega Vineyard & Farm (9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton). Guests will taste exceptional wines, savor fresh local flavors, and enjoy live music in a beautiful vineyard setting.
What to Expect in 2025
At the Vintners Festival, guests wander through the vines, meeting winemakers while sipping, and immerse themselves in Santa Barbara Wine Country in its most vibrant, authentic form. It’s a “Do and See” experience where tasting, learning, relaxing, and connecting all come together in one unforgettable day.
This year marks significant growth, with 80+ wineries represented. That’s a notable increase from 68 in 2024 and brings together a dynamic mix of both established and emerging producers from across the region. Guests can also enjoy gourmet dishes from top restaurants, chefs, and local purveyors, featuring seasonal ingredients that celebrate Central Coast cuisine.
The festival will also showcase sparkling wines in the Rio Vista Chevrolet Bubble Lounge and live music all afternoon by longtime favorite Generic Clapton.
Wine Camp – New to 2025
An immersive, summer-camp-inspired space reimagined for wine lovers, debuting at the 2025 Vintners Festival. Held in the cabana area, Wine Camp offers fun, interactive, and educational activities designed for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers.
Key Features & Highlights:
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Fireside Chats – Casual, on-stage conversations with the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance, the Rhone Rangers and other special guests, offering insider stories, wine knowledge, and regional insights.
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Grape Games – Hands-on wine learning with activities like Pinot Noir clone tastings, Rhone white wine analysis, and educational displays.
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Sensory Aroma Challenge – Test your nose by identifying grape varietal aromas in black glasses without peeking.
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Blind Tasting Challenge – Taste and identify a selection of red and white wines, guess varietals and AVAs, and compete for prizes.
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Interactive Photo Ops & Nostalgic Touches – Shareable moments designed to spark social media buzz and festival FOMO.
Tickets & VIP Experiences
This year’s festival offers a variety of ticket options to fit every kind of wine lover:
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VIP Private Cabanas – Enjoy early entry, reserved on-site parking, bottles of Santa Barbara wine, and a charcuterie spread, plus a curated six-pack of wines to take home.
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Early Entry Tickets – Get an extra hour of access starting at 12 p.m. to explore the festival in a more spacious setting and meet winemakers and chefs before general admission begins.
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General Admission Tickets – Includes unlimited wine tastings, food pairings, live music, and access to the full festival experience starting at 1 p.m.
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Locals Discount Tickets – A limited number of discounted tickets are available for Santa Barbara County residents.
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Non-Drinking Tickets – For designated drivers and guests under 21; children under 6 are free.
Tickets are available now at www.sbvintnersweekend.com. The event is 21+ for alcohol consumption, held rain or shine, and tickets are non-refundable.
About the Santa Barbara Vintners
Founded more than 40 years ago, the Santa Barbara Vintners Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Santa Barbara County as a world-class wine-producing region. The association hosts festivals, educational seminars, and tastings; advocates for the local wine industry; and connects wine lovers with the rich traditions of Santa Barbara Wine Country. For photos and logos.
CONTACT: Please contact us to learn more about the Santa Barbara Vintners Association and the 41st Santa Barbara Vintners Festival or to arrange an interview for an article.
Website: https://sbcountywines.com/
Festival Website: https://www.sbvintnersweekend.com/
Email: info@sbcountywines.com, sonjarei@militiaconsulting.com (Media and PR)
Social Media:
Event Hashtags: #SBVF2025 #SantaBarbaraWineCountry #SBCWines
