The Concierge Edit
Curated seasonal highlights, celebrations, and local experiences.
February has arrived, and with it festive weekends, world-class culture, and a powerful moment of renewal as we welcome Lunar New Year and step into the Year of the Fire Horse — a symbol of momentum, passion, and bold new beginnings. It feels like an invitation to lean into what lights us up. Whether you’re hosting at home, heading out for an evening on State Street, gathering with friends, or dreaming up your next adventure, this is a beautiful month to celebrate connection, creativity, and a little romance.
February Highlights
🎬 Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF)
Santa Barbara’s signature winter celebration returns with red-carpet premieres, screenings from around the globe, celebrity tribute events, and panel discussions. The debut for the new SBIFF Film Center, ready to light up with energy as film lovers gather from near and far — a can’t-miss cultural moment this month.
🎭 Broadway Comes to Town
The Book of Mormon arrives at the historic Granada Theatre, bringing laugh-out-loud moments and unforgettable performances. Perfect for a date night or group outing. Two nights only: Tuesday, February 24th at 7:30pm and Wednesday, February 25th at 7:30pm.
❄️ Winter Olympics Fever
From February 6–22, the 2026 Winter Olympics take center stage in Italy, bringing world-class competition across skiing, skating, hockey, snowboarding, and more. With the Opening Ceremony kicking off at 11:00 AM PT on Feb. 6, it’s the perfect excuse to host viewing gatherings, plan cozy watch parties between festival outings, or simply enjoy cheering on athletes throughout the month.
🗓️ Important Date Reminders
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Friday, Feb. 6 — 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony — begins 11:00 AM PT
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Sunday, Feb. 8 — Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium — Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots
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Saturday, Feb. 14 — Valentine’s Day
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Friday, Feb. 13 & Monday, Feb. 16 — President’s Day Weekend (schools typically closed both days)
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Tuesday, Feb. 17 — Lunar New Year — welcoming the Year of the Fire Horse
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Sunday, Feb. 22 — 2026 Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony
Entertaining & Hosting Inspiration
🏈 Host the Ultimate Super Bowl Gathering
It’s Seahawks vs. Patriots this year — whether you’re celebrating your team, vibing with the halftime show, or here for the food extravaganza, let’s make it elevated. From curated game-day spreads and drink flights to styled tablescapes and cozy lounge setups, we can transform your living room into the ultimate viewing party.
Prefer to skip hosting? Lucky members of Montecito Club can simply show up and enjoy wall-to-wall screens with private bar staff.
💕 Throw a Fabulous Galentine’s Party
Because February isn’t just for romance — it’s for your favorite people.
Host a chic Galentine’s soirée with Girl Dinner Galore:
✨ Cheese & Charcuterie
✨ Caviar & Champagne
✨ Sweet Treats & Signature Cocktails
Dress code? Either your best pajamas or your best ball gown — dealer’s choice. Cozy glam or full fantasy. It’s all about laughter, indulgence, and celebrating friendship in style.
🏮 Celebrate Lunar New Year
Tuesday, Feb. 17 marks Lunar New Year — a powerful transition into the Year of the Fire Horse, symbolizing independence, passion, and forward momentum.
It’s a beautiful reason to gather with intention: think red and gold accents, glowing lanterns, family-style dishes, dumplings and noodles for prosperity, citrus for abundance, and champagne or specialty cocktails to toast what’s ahead. Whether intimate or festive, Lunar New Year celebrations are all about renewal, connection, and welcoming good fortune.
If you’d like help curating menus, décor, or a full hosting experience, I’d love to assist.
🍽️ Valentine's Dining in Town
Staying local this Valentine’s Day? Santa Barbara offers plenty of romantic options, whether you’re craving cozy bistro vibes, bold modern flavors, or a truly elevated experience:
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Bouchon — Downtown Santa Barbara
An intimate French-inspired gem known for candlelit ambiance, rose petals, and impeccable service.
Elegant Valentine’s Special: 3-course seasonal Wine Country dinner
$85 per person -
Black Sheep — Downtown Santa Barbara
Bold flavors in a cozy-modern setting, perfect for a Valentine’s night that’s anything but ordinary.
Valentine’s Prix Fixe: Romantic 3-course menu
$85 per person -
Dom’s Taverna — Downtown Santa Barbara
Basque-inspired coastal cuisine with shareable plates, grilled meats and seafood, inventive cocktails, and a warm, convivial atmosphere.
Valentine’s Highlight: Special dinner offerings and Basque-style shared plates
$50–$100 (varies) -
Stonehouse Restaurant — Montecito
From garden brunch to twinklelight dinner, this iconic setting delivers timeless romance.
Champagne Brunch: 3-course prix fixe with free-flowing Champagne, Prosecco, Mimosas & more — $275 per person
Valentine’s Dinner: Intimate 4-course experience — $425 per person -
Little Mountain — Montecito
Chef Diego’s four-course Valentine’s menu with optional wine pairings, perfect for couples or gathering your favorite people around the table.
$225 per person
Reservations highly recommended across the board.
💖 Valentine's & President's Weekend Escapes
With Valentine’s Day falling right into President’s Weekend this year, it’s the perfect opportunity to turn a simple celebration into something truly memorable.
Stay close to home yet feel worlds away with a romantic escape to San Ysidro Ranch, where candlelit cottages, crackling fireplaces, and hillside serenity set the tone for timeless romance. Or head up to wine country for a cozy retreat at The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, pairing fireside evenings with exceptional dining and Santa Ynez Valley charm.
Feeling adventurous? Take things even further with a sun-soaked getaway to Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Cabo — an over-the-top romantic setting for reconnecting, celebrating, and truly unplugging.
Whether it’s your first Valentine’s together or your fifteenth, this long weekend is a great opportunity to slow down and savor time with your favorite person.
🧳 Travel Desk: Spring Break & Summer Planning
Now’s the perfect time to start mapping out spring break adventures and summer holidays. I’m excited to share that I’m now an independent agent and elite travel designer with SuiteDNA’s Suite Club, offering insider access to the world’s most exceptional hotels, bespoke experiences, and preferred perks — from Aspen to Athens, Santorini to South Africa.
Family trips, romantic escapes, or milestone celebrations abroad — let’s design something remarkable.
💌 I’d Love to Hear From You
February invites us to move with intention — to gather, celebrate, and say yes to what feels exciting and meaningful.
As we step into the Year of the Fire Horse, may this month inspire bold ideas, beautiful connections, and forward momentum in all the ways that matter most. From film festival nights and festive gatherings to seaside strolls and future travel dreams, I’m here to help you make it all seamless.
If you’re dreaming it, let’s plan it.
Best,
Harrison
Your private, trusted resource on the American Riviera
Harrison Lifestyle Concierge
📞 +1 805 245 7007
📧 harrison@harrisonlifestyleconcierge.com
🌐 www.harrisonlifestyleconcierge.com
