SANTA BARBARA… will don its posh petals and sophisticated stems and super-fabulous floral aura over the first weekend of spring when the orchids, and orchid enthusiasts, come to town for a full-on orchid extravaganza. But there are other reasons to stay around the American Riviera beyond the Santa Barbara International Orchid Show, especially if fine coffee, and the collaborative effects and come-together coolness it inspires, is your thing. The inaugural Coffee Culture Fest is brewing March 28, the Saturday after the flower spectacular concludes, and it will draw those who love a warm cup of something bean-y and brilliant. And, yes, artists who deftly work with foam and want to display their skills at the Latte Art Throwdown.
TRYING TOASTY LIBATIONS… is enhanced by a coffeehouse soundtrack, and the festival will feature live tunes that complement the coffee-scented scene. Food trucks, a marketplace, and other simmering sights will add to the sip-and-socialize scene. Entry is free, but if you’d like to “level up your day,” you might want to purchase a ticket that will give you access to “… exclusive tastings, workshops, reserved seating, and special festival perks.” For prices — the All Day Coffee Pass for an adult is $30 — and more information about the brewful bash, including its location at the Marjorie Luke Theater, and the coffee lovers and coffee pros staging this new event, visit the Coffee Culture Fest site.