Santa Barbara: A month of noshing and drinking at Epicure.SB

While most places devote a week or two to restaurants and dining out, Santa Barbara ratchets up the foodie factor with an entire month of events, collectively called Epicure.SB. Of course, October is also grape harvest time, perfect for celebrating with winemaker dinners, seasonal menus and more.

For a complete list of events, go to the Epicure.SB website.

Here are some highlights:

> Vineyards across Santa Barbara County open their doors and talk about their wines. The Celebration of Harvest Festival from Oct. 8 to 11 includes events such as grape-stomping and music at Andrew Murray Vineyards (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 9) and a winery walk and chat with winemaker Karen Steinwachs at Buttonwood Farm Winery (10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 10).

Ticket prices for events vary. The Vinters Visa gets you into events at 12 wineries on all four days for $35.

Information: Santa Barbara County Vintners’ Assn., (805) 688-0881; e-mail information@sbcountywines.com.

> After wine country, leave room for the Santa Barbara Beer Festival from noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 16 at Elings Park (1298 Las Positas Road) that focuses on microbreweries such as Cal Poly Brew Crew, Anacapa Brewing Co. and Pacific Libations, to name a few.

Tickets, which cost $45 per person in advance or $55 at the door, get you admission, a glass and an afternoon of beer tastings (21 and older only). Proceeds benefit the park and SB Rugby Assn.

Information: Santa Barbara Beer Festival; e-mail contact@sbbeerfestival.com.