Experience an extravaganza of local flavors as the wineries of the Santa Barbara County Vintners' Association host their annual Vintners' Festival at Lompoc's River Park. The Festival features more than 100 wineries, as well as live music, a silent auction and wine country cuisine by the area's finest chefs.

The Santa Maria Valley's excellent winegrowing climate is also very favorable to Valley strawberries and other produce, all of which contribute to the valley's rich agricultural legacy. Santa Maria Valley strawberries are renowned for their juicy, flavorful character, and they find their ultimate showcase each April during the Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival at the Santa Maria Fairpark. This berry bash features strawberry varietal sampling, strawberry desserts, educational exhibits and old-fashioned carnival entertainment.

The Santa Maria Valley is renowned for its world-class Chardonnay, so it's no surprise that the valley is home to the ultimate celebration of this noble varietal. The Chardonnay Symposium unites top Chardonnay producers from around California for seminars, tastings, dining and more. The event begins with informational sessions and a winemaker's luncheon, followed by a grand tasting featuring Chardonnays from more than 50 wineries paired with gourmet treats from local purveyors.

The Santa Maria Valley's signature fall event features a feast for the senses courtesy of local winemakers, brewers and artists. The festival unfolds along South McClelland Street in Santa Maria, and it includes a car show, live entertainment, art demonstrations, children's games, Santa Maria BBQ, and wine and beer tasting. Admission is free, and optional tickets can be purchased for access to the wine and beer tasting tent.