The Santa Barbara Independent is celebrating 40 years of local news! Come celebrate at our free public block party on Saturday, August 29, 2026 11am-4pm at the El Presidio Historic State Park parade grounds.

Since 1986, the Independent has been required reading for Santa Barbara County and every day, we see the impact of our reporting on locals, families, and businesses. From reporting on education, to housing, to county and city governments, to the most in-depth arts & culture coverage, to the most extensive event calendar listings in the county. Through fires and floods, since our first print issue, we have never missed a week of publishing. 

Your partnership will make a real difference in continuing our efforts to grow and sustain local journalism in our community. Whether it supports growing our newsrooms or investing in our technology, your contribution will ensure community stories are continued to be told by a trusted and reliable news organization. 

Note: all gifts are tax deductible.

Join us today, be a catalyst for change, and help us celebrate 40 years. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.

Thank you for your generosity and support.