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Last updated: November 11, 2024

Thrilled about the festive season in Isla Vista? Discover all the holiday events with our ultimate guide! From Isla Vista residents to seasonal tourists, our guide is your gateway to holiday magic.

Popular events in the area include the enchanting Solvang Julefest, where charming Danish traditions bring a unique flair to the holiday festivities. The Santa Barbara Parade of Lights dazzles with beautifully decorated boats gliding along the waterfront, creating a picturesque scene. And the Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it marks the official start of the holiday season with a stunning display. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.

Isla Vista Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Synchronized light and music display in Solvang Park.

Description:

Solvang Julefest is a month-long holiday celebration featuring daily light and music shows, a city-wide Nisser Adventure, traditional European-style Makers Markets, and festive Candlelight Tours. The event includes the Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony, a holiday parade, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus. It also offers family-friendly activities like the Copenhagen Countdown and concludes with the Solvang Christmas Tree Burn.

Where: Solvang | More Info: Solvang Julefest

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Live entertainment with ballerinas and holiday music.

Description:

The Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive event in Solvang Park featuring holiday dancers, ballerinas, and music performances. The Solvang Christmas Tree will illuminate at approximately 6:30 PM, marking the beginning of the holiday season.

Where: Solvang | More Info: Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Illuminated watercraft parade with holiday-themed decorations.

Description:

The 37th Annual Santa Barbara Harbor Parade of Lights features a Winter Wonderland at the City Pier with holiday elves, 12 tons of snow, and goodie bags. The event includes a human-powered boat parade, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, and a fireworks show.

Where: Santa Barbara | More Info: Santa Barbara Parade of Lights

Event Organizer?

Isla Vista Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

Traditional European-style market with local artisans and seasonal items.

Description:

The Solvang Julefest Maker’s Market is an open-air Christmas market in Solvang Park, featuring local artisans offering unique holiday gifts and seasonal treats.

Where: Solvang | More Info: Solvang Maker’s Market

Event Organizer?

Isla Vista Holiday Shows and Entertainment

What to Expect:

Family-friendly parade with marching bands and horses.

Description:

The Solvang Julefest Parade features marching bands, horses, and parade floats traveling along Solvang's main streets, offering a lively and festive atmosphere.

Where: Solvang | More Info: Solvang Julefest Parade

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Classical and Broadway music celebration with renowned performers.

Description:

The Santa Barbara Symphony Holiday Pops Concert features a lively performance with leading Broadway music director and conductor Andy Einhorn, UCSB Choirs, and Broadway star Christiane Noll, celebrating the holiday season with classic and contemporary music.

Where: Santa Barbara | More Info: Santa Barbara Symphony Holiday Pops Concert

Event Organizer?

Isla Vista Gift Guide

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