AI image – Event may differ
Holiday Snowfall at Paseo Nuevo
Santa Barbara, CA
A diverse collection of holiday events across Santa Barbara.
About
Experience the magic of the holiday season with a dazzling array of events across Santa Barbara. From enchanting light displays and festive markets to captivating performances and culinary delights, there's something to spark joy for everyone. Discover unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and create unforgettable memories during this special time of year.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday shoppers
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Varies
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Varies by event. Some events are free, others have specific costs listed.
Duration
Varies by event
Ages
Most events appear to be family-friendly, with some exceptions noted (e.g., 21+ for certain bars/drink events).
Schedule
ZooLights: Nov. 13 through Jan. 12, 2025 from 4:30-8:30 p.m.; Seaside Sock Skating: Nov. 20 through Jan. 30, 2025 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; A Cowboy Christmas: Nov. 29-Dec. 21 from 3:30-7:30 p.m.; Christmas Patch: Nov. 29-Dec. 23 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Holiday Harbor Cruise Aboard Lil’ Toot: Now through Dec. 23; 12 Festive Nights at Hotel Californian: Now through Dec. 22; Sip & Dip: Specialty Hot Chocolate Pop-Up: Dec. 12-28 from 5-8 p.m.; Movie Nights at The Steward: Dec. 13, 19 & 20; Miracle at Pearl Social: Elfing Around: Dec. 13-21 from 1-3 p.m.; Holiday Trim Calligraphy Workshop: Dec. 14 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Annual Maker’s Fair: Holiday Edition: Dec. 14 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Holiday Fair at The Post: Dec. 14-15 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Holiday Candle-Making Workshop: Dec. 21 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Holiday Living Succulent Wreath-Making: Dec. 22 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Holiday Chocolate-Making with Jessica Foster: Dec. 22 from 2-4 p.m.; Snowfall at Rosewood Miramar Beach: Dec. 24-25 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Menorah Lighting Ceremony: Dec. 25-Jan. 2 at 5 p.m.; Dorrance Dance: Holiday Nutcracker Suite: Dec. 5 from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; A Winter Music Showcase: Dec. 7 at 6 p.m.; State Street Academy’s Rudolph: Dec. 7 and 8; The Island of Misfit Gays: Dec. 9 from 7-9 p.m.; Holiday Sing-Along with the Prime Time Band: Dec. 13 from 6-8 p.m.; Big Brass Christmas Concert: Dec. 14 from 12-2 p.m.; Pink Martini Holiday Show Featuring China Forbes: Dec. 17 from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Candlelight Concert: Christmas Special featuring the Nutcracker & More: Dec. 20 from 8:15-9:30 p.m.; The Nutcracker at Granada Theatre: Dec. 21 and 22; A Crimson Holiday: Now through Dec. 31; A Mindful Holiday Market: Dec. 4 from 1-5 p.m.; Holiday Sip & Stroll at Old Mission Santa Barbara: Dec. 6 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Holiday Market at Sunstone Winery: Dec. 7-8 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Mistletoe Mall: Dec. 7-22 from 12-6 p.m.; The Yes Store: Ongoing; Nightmare Before Christmas Pop-up: Now through Dec. 31; Miracle at Pearl Social: Now-Jan. 1, 2025; Winter Chalet at Kimpton Canary Hotel: Now-Jan. 31, 2025; Winter Solstice Holiday Pop-up at Dusk Bar: Now through Dec. 29; Festive Cocktails at Plow & Angel Speakeasy: Now through Dec. 25 from 5-11:30 p.m.; Challah Braiding & Mindfulness at El Encanto: Dec. 15 from 2-4 p.m.; Christmas Eve Brunch at The Revere Room: Dec. 24 from 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; A Coastal Christmas Celebration at Costa Kitchen and Bar: Dec. 24 and 25 starting at 5 p.m.; Christmas Eve Dinner at The Revere Room: Dec. 24 from 5-9 p.m.; Christmas Eve at Caruso’s: Dec. 24 from 5-9 p.m.; Christmas Eve Dinner at Angel Oak: Dec. 24 from 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Christmas Eve Prix Fixe Dinner at El Encanto: Dec. 24 from 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Christmas Eve & Christmas Dinner at Bouchon: Dec. 24 and 25; Christmas Day Breakfast at The Revere Room: Dec. 25 from 7 a.m.-10 a.m.; Christmas Day Prix Fixe Lunch at El Encanto: Dec. 25 from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Christmas Day Dining at The Stonehouse: Dec. 25 from 12-3:30 p.m.; Christmas Day Buffet: Dec. 25 from 1-7 p.m.; Christmas Day Dinner at Angel Oak: Dec. 25 from 2:30-9:30 p.m.; Christmas Day Dinner at Caruso’s: Dec. 25 from 3-9:30 p.m.; Christmas Day Dinner at The Revere Room: Dec. 25 from 5:30-9 p.m.; Christmas Day Prix Fixe Dinner at El Encanto: Dec. 25 from 5:30-9:30 p.m.; First Night of Hanukkah at El Encanto: Dec. 26 from 5-7:30 p.m.
Featured Performers
- China Forbes
- Prime Time Band
- Santa Barbara City College brass musicians
- State Street Ballet
- Santa Barbara Gay Men's Chorus
- UCSB Arts & Lectures
- Grace Fisher Foundation
Organizer
Visit Santa Barbara
Practical Information
Accessibility
https://santabarbaraca.com/accessibility-statement
Pet Policy
Not specified, assume service animals only unless otherwise indicated for specific events.
Food & Drink
Food trucks and beverage vendors available on-site for some events; special Christmas Eve and Day dining experiences offered at various restaurants.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the specific event details for each activity, as dates, times, and pricing vary significantly across the diverse offerings.
- Book tickets in advance for popular performances and dining experiences, especially those on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as they tend to sell out quickly.
- Consider utilizing the provided links to explore hotel and restaurant options, as well as artisan marketplaces, to plan a complete holiday outing.
- Dress in layers, as some events are outdoors and California coastal weather can be unpredictable, even during the winter months.
- Utilize the 'Visit Santa Barbara' contact information if you need personalized assistance in planning your holiday itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of holiday events are available in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara offers a wide variety of holiday events, including light displays, ice skating, holiday markets, craft workshops, musical performances, theatrical shows, and special Christmas Eve and Day dining experiences.
Are there events suitable for families?
Yes, most of the listed events are family-friendly, with options like ZooLights, Christmas Patch, and various workshops designed for all ages. Some adult-oriented events, like those at bars, may have age restrictions.
Where can I find specific details about each event?
The provided list includes links to individual event pages where you can find detailed information on dates, times, locations, and pricing for each specific activity.
Is there a central location for all these events?
No, the events are spread across various venues throughout Santa Barbara, including the zoo, museums, theaters, hotels, wineries, and restaurants, offering a diverse range of experiences.
Can I find holiday shopping opportunities?
Absolutely! The guide highlights several artisan marketplaces, maker's fairs, and specialty stores like 'The Yes Store' that offer unique holiday gifts and seasonal items.