Summer Solstice Art Soirée

Saturday, May 24, a private estate in Montecito came alive with color, music, and community celebration during the inaugural Summer Solstice Art Soirée—the first major fundraising event to benefit Santa Barbara's beloved Solstice Parade and Festival, now celebrating 51 years of community-driven creativity.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the estate’s garden, the soirée featured a live art auction showcasing over a dozen pieces by talented local artists, a vibrant silent auction, and unique opportunities for attendees to directly sponsor parade artists, musical ensembles, and even the essential mask and prop department of the Summer Solstice Workshop. Fine art included works by renowned local artists including Larry Vigon, Christopher Noxon, John Behring, Gregory Beeman, Michael Long, Andrew Annenberg, Brad Nack, Lanny Sherwin, Carol Cunningham, Brian Kuhlman, Michael Stubbs, Claudia Bratton and more! 

The live auction was led by Summer Solstice Celebration Board President Justin Gunn, with Executive Director Penny Little joining as co-anchor. Together, they rallied guests to support the creative legacy of the festival, which has become a cultural touchstone in Santa Barbara for over five decades. All proceeds from the night go toward sustaining the Solstice Parade and Festival and supporting the local artists who bring it to life each year.

Guests enjoyed sweet and savory light fare catered by Blue Owl, beverages from Bona Fide Nitro Coffee, Teeccino, Fox Wines, Foxen Winery, Rincon Brewery, The Brewhouse, Valet Parking by Blue Star Valet, and the ambience, connection and magic of Solstice!  In attendance were Solstice supporters Rick Oshay, Teresa Kuskey, Alan and Cindy Macy, Adam McKaig, Fishbon President Ron Glover, and former executive director, Robin Elander, amongst many other Santa Barbara movers and shakers!

A highlight of the evening was a performance by the La Boheme dancers, a song by Solstice artist Adriana Reyna and a presentation by Pali X Mano, the Hungarian artist that makes the giant inflatable art float in the parade. Their contribution helped energize the crowd and underscored the artistic spirit the festival is known for.

John Palminteri and La Boheme