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A Cowboy Christmas in Buellton, CA: A Festive Family Outing

The holiday season brings an array of magical experiences, and one of our favorites this year was A Cowboy Christmas in Buellton, California. Hosted by SYV Horseback Rides, this festive event offers a unique blend of cowboy charm and holiday cheer, perfect for families with young children. Here’s a look at our unforgettable visit packed with activities, laughter, and seasonal joy.

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A Cowboy Christmas in Buellton, CA. View of general store and mercantile building.

When is A Cowboy Christmas?

A Cowboy Christmas is typically held on weekends throughout December. The event transforms Buellton into a holiday haven where kids can explore a mix of Western-themed and traditional Christmas activities. Check the official A Cowboy Christmas website or social media pages for specific dates and times to ensure you don’t miss out.


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How to Get to Buellton, California

Buellton lies in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, conveniently located off Highway 101 in Central California. It’s approximately 45 minutes from Santa Barbara and a little over two hours from Los Angeles. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this charming town is easy to reach and offers a scenic drive through rolling hills and vineyards.

Parking for the event is available on-site, making it a hassle-free destination for families.


The Places Where We Go visit A Cowboy Christmas - family posting in front of A Cowboy Christmas sign - Julie and four grandkids.

Our Experience at A Cowboy Christmas

We visited A Cowboy Christmas in early December with our four grandchildren. This adventure offered excitement and memories to cherish. Here are some of the highlights from our two-hour visit:

Activities for the Littles

  • Petting Zoo: Our grandchildren delighted in meeting and petting friendly farm animals.
  • Mechanical Bull Ride: This was a crowd favorite, offering speeds appropriate to the rider.
  • Lil Lasso Arena: A hands-on activity where kids tried their hand at lassoing.
  • Mt. Crumpet Hay Bale Climb: A whimsical haystack challenge with a fun slide.
  • Jr. Reindeer Games: Horseback rides through a festive obstacle course added a magical touch.
  • Ornament Decorating Station: Creativity flowed as they crafted personalized Christmas ornaments.
  • A Daring Elf Adventure: The North Pole pony ride had our grandkids riding through a winter wonderland scene.
  • Photos with Santa and the Grinch: A must-do photo opportunity to round out the day.

From the joyous laughter of the hay bale climb to the proud smiles of successful lasso throws, the event offered non-stop entertainment for our little ones.


Young child riding a pony at A Cowboy Christmas in Buellton, CA

Who is This Event Best For?

We highly recommend A Cowboy Christmas for families with young children. The event is designed to engage and entertain kids with age-appropriate activities while providing a festive atmosphere for adults to enjoy. This event is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a unique holiday outing beyond the usual light displays and mall Santas.


Where to Stay in Buellton

When planning a visit to Buellton, CA, you’ll discover a range of charming lodging options designed to cater to various tastes and preferences. Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara County’s wine country, Buellton offers visitors a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Whether you’re seeking a cozy inn or a luxurious resort experience, this quaint town has something to offer every traveler.

One top lodging option in Buellton is the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott. This upscale hotel is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding vineyards and attractions. Featuring spacious rooms, a refreshing outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, guests can enjoy comfort and convenience during their stay.

Another well-rated option is the Hampton Inn & Suites. This charming hotel boasts modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a refreshing outdoor pool, and a well-equipped fitness center to cater to all your needs during your stay. Each room is thoughtfully designed with plush bedding, a spacious workspace, and a flat-screen TV to enhance relaxation. Guests can start their day with a complimentary hot breakfast featuring a variety of delicious options to suit all tastes.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re local to the Santa Ynez Valley or planning a holiday road trip through California, A Cowboy Christmas is an event that promises to delight kids and adults alike. With activities that capture the magic of the season and a welcoming Western spirit, it’s an experience not to be missed.

Make this holiday season unforgettable—plan your trip to Buellton and immerse your family in the charm of A Cowboy Christmas!

Happy holidays!
Julie & Art

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