No street party but the Summer Solstice Festival goes virtual for 2020

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Quite possibly the most eclectic festival of its kind in the United States, the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Festival, will go dark in its "in person" mode, for 2020, due to the coronavirus crisis.
 

"While we are certainly heartbroken to make this announcement, we feel it is in the best interest and welfare of our community," said Robin Elander, Executive Director of Summer Solstice Celebration.

There is a bright light within the decision.

On line and virtual events will be held for artists in the area.

"The schedule of activities is set to be announced the first week of May" said  Elander.

Known for grassroots creativity,  organizers are going all out to make the event take place using modern technology  linked together as it it were a giant hand made float.   In this case,  it will be with video, computers,  and imagination to showcase what they are creating in studios, workshops, and dance halls.

Elander says the team is keeping, "the Solstice spirit alive and thriving.  We are in the process of planning a plethora of free and donation-based online classes and gatherings in May and June and possibly beyond."

Community members will be asked to join in.   "Artists, performers, costumers, musicians, storytellers, dancers and creative makers, we invite you to share your creative Solstice spirit with our community," she said. 

 The event was going to take place on the weekend of June 20th over three days.

The event included a Friday night concert and festival in Alameda Park, a spectacular "human powered" hand crafted 90 minute Saturday parade in front of 75,000 people on State Street downtown linked to a day of sun loving entertainment, and a follow up day of music and activities on Sunday.

It's been called one of a kind in America and has been featured on national TV travel and entertainment shows including Good Morning America.

The Summer Solstice Celebration began in 1976, by then organizer MIchael Gonzales.    The UC Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Architecture and Design is collaborating for an online Solstice "parade of history," to showcase a sampling of the organization's 45-year history.

 "We can't wait to see you at one of our online workshop gatherings," said Artistic Director, Riccardo Morrison. "We will make the best of this challenging situation, have some fun and make new connections in the process!"  

 For more information on Summer Solstice Celebration's go to:  soladmin@solsticeparade.com or visit  www.solsticeparade.com. .