A Live TED Experience at the Library
TEDx Santa Barbara is bringing TEDLive to the Santa Barbara Public Library, streaming a live TED Conference session followed by a facilitated Community Conversation where attendees can reflect, share insights, and explore big ideas together.
is going LIVE!
TEDx Santa Barbara Salons are back in person!
These gatherings feature curated TED Talks and community conversations led by local experts on sustainability, creativity, and social justice. Seats are limited—stay connected to save your spot.
TEDx Santa Barbara Live brings the energy of a TED Conference to the Santa Barbara Library’s Faulkner Gallery, streaming talks from the global stage. More than just watching, it’s about engaging, reflecting, and discussing. After each session, we’ll explore how these ideas connect to our local challenges and opportunities.
Conversations That Transformed: From 2020-2025
Our 175+ Virtual Salons brought together scientists, artists, technologists, and changemakers to tackle urgent challenges in Climate Innovation, Social Justice, AI Ethics, Creative Technology, and Pandemic Recovery.
These discussions didn't just generate ideas—they sparked startups, shaped policies, and forged unexpected collaborations that created a lasting impact.
Videos Here
BJ King, Attendee“This program is one of the best I have ever seen in my life. This was amazing and there are not enough words to say Thank You and your Team.”
Cheri C. Wilson, Education and Training Manager, Johns Hopkins Medicine“Thanks so much for hosting such an important presentation by Dr. Wizdom Powell.”
Julie Sorenson, Attendee“This series has been terrific! I have caught a few of them and the conversations have been insightful. Keep up the great work.”
Dr. Yonette Thomas, Making Waves speaker“Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your Conversations. Each of these presentations helps to make connections across disciplines, as a result, we’re all inspired to learn more.”
Evan Asher, TEDxSantaBarbara performer“Really nicely done to be using your platform to spotlight something like this. Very proud of you guys.”
Dr. Harry Grammer, Making Waves speaker“It was an honor to contribute, once again, to the profoundly vital discussions the TEDx Santa Barbara team hosts, initiates and propagates with unparalleled integrity and consistency.”
What is a TEDx Santa Barbara Salon?
A TEDx Santa Barbara Salon is an intimate gathering that sparks deep conversations and builds community through powerful ideas. Unlike traditional TEDx conferences, Salons focus on one compelling theme, explored through selected TED Talks and an interactive discussion led by a local thought leader.
MARK SYLVESTER
TEDx Santa Barbara Salon Host
TRACY WYLE
TEDx Santa Barbara Salon ProducerMore Than Just Watching
Salons go beyond passive listening - they create space to reflect, discuss, and dive into big questions shaping our world today. We don’t just watch talks; we explore the ideas they spark.It's About Engaging
Sustainability
Social Justice
Creativity
Technology
Beyond the Event
From Dialogue to ActionAfter each Salon, participants have launched collaborations, started initiatives, and built lasting networks that transform our community. Recent outcomes include sustainability partnerships with local nonprofits, mentorship programs connecting seasoned innovators with emerging leaders, and community projects addressing Santa Barbara's unique challenges.
Special thanks to the Community Environmental Council and UCSB Bren School of Environmental Science & Management for their partnership in our environmental impact work.
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