Santa Maria again showed up in a big way for animals at Santa Barbara Humane’s 2026 Wild West Fest, an event dedicated to supporting pets and families served by the organization’s Santa Maria Campus.
Now in its third year, the fundraiser welcomed 265 guests, reflecting a 6% increase from 2025 and 44% growth since its inaugural event in 2024.
The benefit raised more than $120,000, a 25% increase over last year and a 75% increase from the first Wild West Fest, highlighting the continued generosity of the Santa Maria community, the organization reports.
Every dollar raised will directly benefit the Santa Maria Campus, helping to provide vital services for Santa Maria and surrounding communities, including low-cost veterinary care, affordable dog training, pet food assistance, and adoption services.
“Wild West Fest continues to grow because Santa Maria continues to show up,” said Paige Van Tuyl, chief philanthropy officer at Santa Barbara Humane. “This community’s commitment to supporting animals and families is what makes this event so special and so impactful.”
Guests enjoyed an evening of 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 resident John Glines, who honored his father’s legacy by offering the Jim Glines Memorial Santa Maria BBQ for 20, a Santa Maria-style barbecue experience that celebrates the region’s culinary tradition, organizers said
Local businesses, sponsors and supporters were instrumental in making the event possible and in expanding access to pet care across the region.
“This event truly reflects the heart of Santa Maria,” said Kelly White O’Neill, philanthropy officer at Santa Barbara Humane’s Santa Maria Campus. “It is inspiring to see neighbors, businesses, and animal lovers come together to support animals right here in our community.”
To learn more about Santa Barbara Humane or to support its programs, visit sbhumane.org.