SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Local bars and restaurants have struggled with restrictions imposed upon them because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the return of football season, many businesses on State Street say they’ve already seen a big boost in sales this weekend.

Only permitted to open outdoors, restaurants and bars have come up with creative ways to space groups apart while bringing some of their TV screens outside. 

At all bars, people are required to purchase food with their drinks. 

Many have also added plexiglas dividers while operating on a reservation-only basis.

With professional sports — NBA, MLB, NHL — in full swing and the football season kicking off, many business owners are hoping they’ll be able to safely fill their venues once again.

(More information, video and pictures will be added here later tonight.)