Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights Tour
holiday_light_displays

Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights Tour

Experience the magic of the holiday season on the Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights tour. This 90-minute excursion winds through the city's most festive neighborhoods, showcasing dazzling light displays and capturing the spirit of Christmas. Since 1999, this beloved family tradition has offered a front-row seat to the enchanting decorations that transform Santa Barbara into a winter wonderland. Keep an eye out for carolers and Santa himself as you ride in comfort and style.

What to Expect

90-minute trolley tour of festive holiday lights

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $35 – Get tickets
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Other Christmas Events Near Santa Barbara

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

πŸŽ„ πŸŽ„ πŸŽ„ πŸŽ„ πŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, cheerful, magical

Energy Level

Low

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

πŸ“· πŸ“· πŸ“· πŸ“· πŸ“· (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • 14-day event welcoming guests from all over the country
  • Family favorite since 1999

Tags

holiday light displaysfamily friendlyseasonal activitiesholiday traditionSanta visitsfestive atmospherecommunity celebrationguided tours

Featured Video

Location

Santa Barbara Trolley
1 Garden Street
Santa Barbara, CA
93101

Event Details

Duration

90 minutes

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

Santa Barbara Trolley

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Book tickets well in advance, as the popular Trolley of Lights tour often sells out, especially for weekend dates.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled check-in time to ensure a smooth boarding process, as trolleys depart promptly.
  • Dress in layers, as evenings can be cool in Santa Barbara, even during the holiday season, and the trolley is an open-air experience.
  • Consider the weekend schedule for Saturday and Sunday tours, which offer earlier check-in times at 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM, potentially allowing for more flexibility.
  • While the tour runs rain or shine, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly to maximize your comfort while enjoying the festive lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Trolley of Lights tour?

The tour is approximately 90 minutes long, providing ample time to experience the festive holiday lights of Santa Barbara.

Are tickets refundable or transferable?

No, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, so please ensure your chosen date and time are correct before purchasing.

Can I bring my pet on the tour?

Generally, pets are not allowed on the trolley. However, service animals are welcome.

What happens if it rains?

The Trolley of Lights tour operates rain or shine, so the event will proceed as scheduled regardless of weather conditions.

Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages. Lap children under 2 years old do not require a ticket.

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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 30, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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