Tag archives: Laurie Kirby

Written by Melissa Borders FestForums 2026 – “The Premier Gathering for Festival Leaders” – founded by Laurie Kirby of Montecito, convened over 600 of the most forward-thinking leaders across festivals, live events, arts, and culture. More than a conference, FestForums serves as a dynamic hub where artists, producers, creators, technologists, and community builders come together […]

What happens when you bring the most passionate festival producers, industry giants, and creative minds together in one breathtaking location? You get FestForums, the ultimate festival of festivals! This year, Santa Barbara was once again the backdrop for three days of inspiration, collaboration, and, of course, some serious celebration. Held from this February at the […]

The sixth annual FestForums, which serves the festival industry from ticketing, sponsorship, programming, sustainability, and marketing, hosted a boffo bash at MOXI for 300 guests to mark the launch of the two-day event in Santa Barbara. “It’s beyond my wildest dreams,” said Laurie Kirby, co-founder and president. “It is a magical event and the first […]

Winning a Living Legend Award at the annual FestForums Santa Barbara is film director Penelope Spheeris. A not-to-miss three-day event is filled with a VIP Speaker Line-Up that includes Steve Baltin from Forbes Magazine, former World Surfing Champion Shaun Tomson, Skip Martin (Kool & the Gang, The Dazz Band), Jon Anderson (Yes), Grammy Songwriter Ray […]