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!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Isla Vista
- Solvang Julefest (Solvang)
- Santa Barbara Parade of Lights (Santa Barbara)
- Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade (Marina del Rey)
- Solvang Julefest Parade (Solvang)
- Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony (Solvang)
- Santa Barbara Symphony Holiday Pops Concert (Santa Barbara)
- Solvang Maker’s Market (Solvang)
See these and even more events listed below!
Isla Vista Holiday Light Displays
Solvang Julefest
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
Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony
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
Santa Barbara Parade of Lights
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
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
What to Expect:
Dazzling holiday light displays on decorated boats.
Description:
The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade features a spectacular display of boats decorated with festive lights and decorations, creating a dazzling spectacle on the water. The event includes a fireworks display and live music, showcasing the creativity and spirit of the participating boat owners.
Where: Marina del Rey | More Info: Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Isla Vista Holiday Markets and Shopping
Solvang Maker’s Market
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
Isla Vista Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Solvang Julefest Parade
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
Santa Barbara Symphony Holiday Pops Concert
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
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Goleta (2 miles)
- Santa Barbara (9 miles)
- Ventura (34 miles)
- Lompoc (37 miles)
- Oxnard (42 miles)
- Port Hueneme (42 miles)