The Courthouse Jazz Series
What’s more Santa Barbaran than beautiful people gathering to enjoy great food, fancy drinks, and top-notch entertainment while benefiting nonprofits in a world-class setting? That combo is coming to fruition in the Courthouse Jazz Series, a collaborative effort between Premiere Events and Elements Restaurant that will showcase solid jazz and afternoon refreshments for the next seven Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. in the Sunken Gardens of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.
Starting on August 23-when Oxnard’s six-man ensemble Vega takes the stage to benefit a collection of environmental organizations such as the Community Environmental Council -the Sunken Gardens will be a place for socialites and families alike. Those seeking to imbibe and be seen can frolic in the actual Sunken Gardens, while parents and kids can spread out blankets on the raised sections of the courthouse lawn and have an unimpeded view of the band. Meanwhile, Elements Restaurant will be selling gourmet picnic baskets full of cheeses, breads, dried meats, and fresh fruits.
Explained Josh Murray of Premiere Events, “Our idea was to meld Concerts in the Park and [SBMA’s] Nights.” And since both of those seasons are winding down, the timing was perfect, according to Murray. “We wanted to still do something that feels summery, because our summer goes ’til November. And every Santa Barbaran knows the best weather is in September, not June. So we’ll pick up where the other series left off.” Best of all, there’s no fee to enjoy the live music, and the nonprofits will benefit from sponsorships and the sales of food and drinks.
Future events will benefit the Unity Shoppe and youth organizations, but they’re still seeking more interested nonprofits as well as qualified bands and publicity-seeking sponsors. If you fit that bill, email info@pe-sb.com. For more info, see courthousejazz.com.
