Santa Maria Community Raises Over $120,000 at Santa Barbara Humane's Wild West Fest

The annual event saw a 25% increase in funds raised to support pet services in the local community.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:48pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of people and animals enjoying an outdoor festival, with soft, blurred pools of warm light and color creating a sense of joy and community.The vibrant Wild West Fest celebration brings the Santa Maria community together to support local pets and families in need.Santa Barbara Today

The Santa Barbara Humane's 2026 Wild West Fest, an annual event dedicated to supporting pets and families served by the organization's Santa Maria Campus, raised over $130,000 - a 25% increase from the previous year. The event welcomed 265 guests, reflecting a 6% increase from 2025 and a 44% growth since its inaugural event in 2024. All funds raised will directly benefit the Santa Maria Campus, helping to provide vital services for the local community, including low-cost veterinary care, affordable dog training, pet food assistance, and adoption services.

Why it matters

The Wild West Fest event highlights the continued generosity and commitment of the Santa Maria community in supporting animal welfare and expanding access to pet care services. As the event continues to grow, it is becoming a signature event that brings the community together in support of a shared mission and a stronger, more compassionate future for local animals.

The details

The event featured western-inspired festivities, including live and silent auctions, a fund-a-need, and opportunities to learn more about Santa Barbara Humane's work in the Santa Maria community. The live auction was led by local auctioneer John Glines, who offered the 'Jim Glines Memorial Santa Maria BBQ for 20,' a beloved Santa Maria-style barbecue experience. Local businesses, sponsors, and supporters played a critical role in making the event possible and in expanding access to pet care across the region.

  • The 2026 Wild West Fest event took place on March 30, 2026.
  • The event was the third annual Wild West Fest, with the inaugural event held in 2024.

The players

Santa Barbara Humane

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and the oldest animal welfare agency in Santa Barbara County, serving the community for over 135 years. The organization's two campuses in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria provide low-cost veterinary care, affordable dog training, adoption, and socially-conscious sheltering for local animals.

Paige Van Tuyl

Chief Philanthropy Officer at Santa Barbara Humane.

Kelly White O'Neill

Philanthropy Officer at Santa Barbara Humane's Santa Maria Campus.

John Glines

A local auctioneer who led the live auction at the event and honored his father's legacy by offering the 'Jim Glines Memorial Santa Maria BBQ for 20.'

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What they’re saying

“Wild West Fest continues to grow because Santa Maria continues to show up. This community's commitment to supporting animals and families is what makes this event so special and so impactful.”

— Paige Van Tuyl, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Santa Barbara Humane

“This event truly reflects the heart of Santa Maria. It is inspiring to see neighbors, businesses, and animal lovers come together to support animals right here in our community.”

— Kelly White O'Neill, Philanthropy Officer at Santa Barbara Humane's Santa Maria Campus

What’s next

Santa Barbara Humane plans to continue hosting the annual Wild West Fest event to support the organization's work in the Santa Maria community.

The takeaway

The success of the Wild West Fest event highlights the strong community support and commitment to animal welfare in Santa Maria. The funds raised will directly benefit local pets and families, expanding access to vital services and strengthening the bond between people and their animal companions.