Stearns Wharf is more than a nice place to watch boats or fish, it’s a structure that changed the face of Santa Barbara-literally. 150 years ago, Santa Barbara, being surrounded by mountains, was an isolated pueblo. There were no roads into town, there was no railroad. When John Peck Stearns built the wharf in 1872 he not only opened the door to large-scale commerce and trade; he introduced Santa Barbara to the rest of the world.
Since that time, Stearns Wharf has evolved along with the city. It was a vital conduit for a growing fishing fleet. It was the birthplace of commercial diving. It served as a focal point to bring the community together. Over the years, Stearns Wharf has been battered by storms, scorched by fires, even damaged by a water spout, but through it all, it has persevered because it offers something no other place in town can match-perspective.
In honor of this 150th anniversary, Stearns Wharf merchants will hold a 150th Anniversary Celebration on October 8th, 2022.
There will be anniversary specials, live music, a bit of history and lots of fun, family-friendly activities. The Wharf offers many attractions during your visit:
For an updated Schedule of Events for Saturday, October 8th, visit Stearns Wharf Celebrates 150th Anniversary including…
- Live music
- Library on the Go outreach van
- Festive treats including ice cream, sherbet, candy, popcorn, fudge, and cotton candy
- Jewelry, art, crafts, gifts, and toys
- Shells, minerals, and fossils
- Wine tasting
- Sportswear clothing
- Fishing gear rental and bait and tackle
- Palm reading
- Fresh fish, shellfish, steaks, prime rib, fish and chips, burgers, cocktails, exotic tropical drinks, and more
- Child-friendly water taxi and harbor tours
- Interactive Sea Center museum
Watch for further announcements
Stay tuned to Stearns Wharf Celebrates 150th Anniversary for the remainder of the concerts, and other events that will take place throughout the year.
Historical photos credit: Edson Smith Photo Collection
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The Stearns Wharf Merchants Association represents the merchants and business owners on Stearns Wharf. Stearns Wharf is located at the end of State Street between East Beach and the Santa Barbara Harbor. For more information, visit www.stearnswharf.org