This majestic building in the center of historic downtown offers a wide array of options for Santa Barbara Courthouse ceremony sites. This location has long been the choice of many couples since the building was completed in 1929. Stroll through the tiled hallways and lush gardens and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to another era. Walk up a winding staircase to the clock tower and experience a breathtaking 360 view of the city. You’ll find countless architectural backdrops and a tropical garden that are perfect for timeless wedding photos.
As a wedding planner whose team has planned dozens of Santa Barbara Courthouse weddings right here at the courthouse, I wanted to share my favorite locations for your “I dos”.
Wedding Ceremony in The Sunken Garden
There are several areas in the interior courtyard that can be used for a ceremony. The Sunken Garden, a favorite of many couples, faces the main archway and wins first place for a backdrop with the grandest architecture. This is often used for weddings that have large bridal parties and guest attendance as the area can accommodate up to 250 guests.
Wedding Ceremony at the Fiesta Stage
Another popular site is the Fiesta Stage, named for its use as the main entertainment venue during Santa Barbara’s annual Fiesta celebration which takes place in early August. This is also the place where Queen Elizabeth II made her appearance when she visited Santa Barbara in 1983.
Fiesta is a lively, festive time to visit Santa Barbara, but not the best time to plan your courthouse wedding ceremony! The Fiesta Stage is also a good choice for a large bridal party and generally has less foot traffic than the main archway area.
Wedding Ceremony in the Palm Terrace
Raised slightly above the Sunken Garden area is the Palm Terrace. This site offers sweeping views of the gardens and the courthouse building. Couples who choose to use this area often install an arch or arbor. Weddings by the Sea can custom design any arch/arbor to suit your vision and individual style.
Wedding Ceremony on The Rotunda Lawn
The Rotunda Lawn offers a charming, intimate area for smaller weddings. This space also offers a greater degree of privacy, with a lush backdrop for gorgeous wedding day photos.
Wedding Photography Locations
Throughout the courthouse grounds and inside the building itself there are many lovely places to be discovered. One of our favorite locations for wedding photography is the second-floor mezzanine hallway which overlooks the gardens. The bright, diffused light in this location is always good and flattering to everyone.
There are almost endless locations for photography to be discovered around every corner! See more ceremony site and Courthouse wedding photography inspiration here.
Info on Booking a Courthouse Ceremony Site
The Sunken Gardens are available for wedding ceremonies 7 days a week, with two time slots available; 11 am - 2 pm and 3 pm - 6 pm. Once you’ve reserved your date and paid the fees, you can choose from any of the sites mentioned above in the Sunken Gardens.
Photos can be taken all around the courthouse grounds. But keep in mind that the building is a working courthouse and building access closes by 5:00 PM. Our clients sometimes choose to schedule a First Look photography session to fully take advantage of all the gorgeous photo ops inside the building. Contact us for more information on your Santa Barbara Courthouse wedding— We will plan a beautiful day for you!