13+ Ways to Celebrate Julefest – Solvang Christmas 2023
Celebrate Julefest at Solvang – Christmas Danish Style
Solvang, California, is known as one of the ten best winter holiday towns in the United States. Visit here in December for Solvang Christmas 2023, and you’ll quickly understand why. Readers Digest confirmed this reputation by calling Solvang the “Best Christmas Town in California.”
The annual Solvang Julefest 2023 celebration returns on Friday, November 24, 2023, and runs through Friday, January 5, 2024.
The Danish Village abounds with the Christmas spirit in December as Julefest is celebrated with festive decorations, Christmas music, and holiday cheer. Enjoy a Christmas parade, marvel at the sparkling Christmas lights, and shop for unique gifts. The magic of Christmas shines around every corner in this Southern California gem that brings us to Northern European Christmas traditions.
Even though Santa Barbara County doesn’t receive snowfall, add a sprinkle of cultural joy and holiday spirit. Make your plans to celebrate Christmas in Solvang. This incredible Danish city in California becomes one of the most beautiful places in the state to celebrate Christmas.
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Join the extraordinary celebration in Solvang and make memories of family fun, culinary delights, and wintery holiday experiences. Whether you come for a day to stroll through the streets or stay for a few days, you’ll experience a warmed heart and uplifted soul.
If you’re interested in a new Christmas experience in Southern California, read our guide on enjoying Julefest at Solvang. With the best things to do during Julefest on our list, you can make this year a December to remember.
Travel Tip – Check official city websites to confirm events, dates, opening times, weather, and road conditions before your travel
What is Solvang Julefest?
Solvang Julefest is a cornerstone event in this Christmas village during December. This beloved traditional celebration lasts over a month, bringing visitors Christmas cheer and family fun. Experience light shows, ornamented trees, holiday music, and unique holiday shopping at Solvang Christmas 2023.
- The village shows off holiday decorations during December
- A full schedule of activities supports Julefest, including a tree lighting ceremony, Christmas parade, and the Solvang Christmas market
- Hotel availability is generally good during the pre-Christmas weeks
When is Solvang Julefest?
Julefest runs every year from late November through early January. Mark your calendar and plan your day or weekend road trip to Solvang Christmas 2023.
Julefest: November 24, 2023, through January 5, 2024
Solvang Julefest Schedule of Events
Visit the official Solvang Julefest website for the latest information on scheduled Solvang Christmas events.
Find the official Solvang Julefest Schedule of Events Here
The 15 Best Things To Do at Julefest Solvang 2023
We’ve compiled the best things to do at Solvang Julefest. Check out our listings to plan your merry and bright holiday adventure in Solvang.
1. Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Julefest kickoff event takes place on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 5 – 6:30 PM; come early for seating at Solvang Park. You won’t want to miss this special ceremony as the City of Solvang lights its city tree to bring in the holiday season.
The Solvang Tree Lighting Ceremony includes holiday dancers with ballerinas and music performances during this exciting occasion.
Location: 1630 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
2. Julefest Candlelight Tours
Enjoy the Julefest Candlelight Walking Tour with a local guide. You’ll receive an LED candle at the start of the walk to illuminate your way through the town streets. As you pass buildings that feature Danish architecture, your guide, adorned in Danish folk dress, will introduce you to fun facts and Danish holiday traditions.
The Candlelight tours run on Saturday evenings in Solvang during Julefest.
The tours are a great way to experience the town’s Danish culture. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, listen to Christmas Carols, and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus during your tour. Spots are limited for this tour, so plan to be sure you get a place on the tour. At the time of this writing this article, tickets are priced at $36
Dates: December 8, 9, 15, and 16, plus December 18 through December 23
Time: 5 pm
Check Julefest Candlelight Tour Information Here
3. Julefest Parade
Join the fun of the jubilant Solvang Julefest Parade. It’s one of the most anticipated seasonal events in Solvang. After a hearty Danish breakfast, get a good viewing spot on Copenhagen Drive or Mission Drive. Behold the display of dancers, holiday floats, horses, marching bands, and more.
Over 400 participants representing 50 groups march and make their way through the Solvang streets. It’s a great way to bring more hygge (Danish coziness) to your holiday celebration.
Date and time: Saturday, December 2, 2023, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
4. Solvang Nisse Adventures
Gnome hunters rejoice! There are Solvang Nisse (Danish for “gnome”) hiding throughout the city, and the mischievous band of gnomes challenges you to find them in the Nisse Adventures Scavenger Hunt. It’s lots of fun for the whole family.
Get in on the quest by decoding clues to locate their hiding places. Scan the QR code as you find each nisse to confirm your findings. You’ll be rewarded with a special prize if you find all the hidden gnomes.
Stop at the Solvang Visitors Center to pick up clues.
Solvang Visitors Center: 1637-1639 Copenhagen Dr.
5. Christmas Shopping in Solvang
We love the unique shops in the Danish Capital of America. You won’t find big-name stores. Instead, the Danish town is filled with over 150 mom-and-pop Danish shops and boutiques with unique treasures that are hard to find elsewhere.
You can get your Christmas shopping done in the wonderful gift shops where you find European clocks, antique treasures, Danish cookware, and more. You’ll find so much here to bring joy to your loved ones when they open gifts on Christmas day.
Christmas Shopping is available in Solvang throughout the year at Jule Hus. It’s Solvang’s Christmas shop and a must-stop for us on every visit. Step inside to find new ornaments for your tree. They also sell an incredible array of holiday nutcrackers and hand-crafted gifts.
You’ll find unique gifts in the European-flavored stores, which offer abundant selections of unique items. Book lovers should stop at The Book Loft. In this independent bookstore, you’ll find signed books by local authors, antiquarian books upstairs, and more. The premises also house the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. If you want to find the perfect book for yourself or gift to someone special, stop at The Book Loft. You’ll find a wide selection from fairy tales to modern novels. The friendly staff will even gift wrap your book at no extra charge!
Culinary fans will delight at the offerings at Solvang Spice Merchant with its hand-bottled spices and contemporary cookbooks. You’ll be sure to find a great stocking stuffer here.
Find a Listing of Solvang Shops Here
6. Solvang Makers Market
Meet local artisans and crafters who offer their wares for purchase at the Solvang Makers Market. This Solvang Christmas Market event takes place on Saturdays leading up to Christmas. You’ll find a great selection of handmade goods and art pieces for your holiday shopping.
Location: Elverhøj Museum of History & Art
1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, CA
December 10th & 17th from 11 am – 5 pm
7. Light & Music Show
Get ready to be dazzled at the Solvang Light & Music Show during the Solvang Julefest! Solvang Park transforms into a vibrant spectacle every evening as it glimmers with sparkling lights and festive decorations. As the heart of Solvang’s holiday magic, you can’t miss the 10-minute light and music display that occurs on the hour each night. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere and experience the joy and wonder of this magical event. Stay tuned for the showtimes, and mark your calendar for an unforgettable evening filled with holiday cheer.
Dates: November 24, 2023 – January 6, 2024
Location: Solvang Park,1630 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
8. Santa’s Village
Say hello to Santa Claus every Saturday before Christmas at Santa’s Village. Bring your littles so they can let Santa know their wishes for making it onto the nice list. Santa is here from 12 pm to 4 pm. Photographs are free and make a remarkable memory of your trip to Solvang.
Santa visits for photos on Saturdays in December. Mark your calendar to visit on December 2, 9, 16, and 23 in 2023.
9. Take Photos To Remember Your Trip to Solvang
Don’t go to Julefest without taking many photos to remember your trip. Here’s a few unique spots in this Scandinavian town in California that make for memorable photographs
Alisal Road – On the eastern end of town, this road has numerous shops, restaurants, and displays of festive decorations in December. It’s lovely to see how the town’s storeowners get into the holiday spirit by showing holiday lights and trees in their stores.
Copenhagen Drive – It is Solvang’s main road and home to many notable stores. In December, the street is lined with sparkling lights and is a beautiful place to stroll with loved ones. During your December visit, take a romantic stroll and admire the beautifully decorated storefronts.
Solvang Park – If it’s your first time in Solvang, visit Solvang Park. It’s home to the famous Hans Christian Andersen statue. In December, decorations grace the park. Also, if you’ve been enjoying holiday drinks, you’ll find clean bathrooms here.
The Windmill – is an iconic landmark in Solvang. During Christmas, the nearby shops display Christmas decorations, setting the season’s mood.
10. Solvang Christmas Tree Burn
The Solvang Christmas Tree Burn, supervised by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, is one of the largest fire safety demonstrations along the California Central Coast. This annual event is a powerful safety demonstration at the start of the New Year, ending the Solvang Julefest celebration. With free live entertainment and the option to purchase refreshments, the Solvang Tree Burn is an engaging and informative way to learn about fire safety while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Date: January 5, 2024, from 5 pm to 7 pm
Location: Mission Parking Lot – 1760 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
What to Eat at Solvang Julefest?
Solvang, California, is a fantastic food town that takes it up a notch during Julefest. You’ll find over sixty eateries in town, from traditional Danish fare to Belgian and Mexican offerings, burgers, and farm-to-table selections. And there’s plenty of coffee, wine, and beer to quench your thirst.
Here are a few notable places to add to your foodie exploration in Solvang:
Brekkies By Chomp – This is our new favorite breakfast stop in town. They serve an all-day breakfast, including waffles.
Cafe Dolce – If you need a jolt of coffee, check out Cafe Dolce for an array of coffee-based beverages and sweet treats
Mad & Vin – The Landsby’s signature restaurant specializes in delicious wine-country-inspired cuisine. Dishes are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients from California’s central coast. It’s #2 on TripAdvisor for restaurants in Solvang.
Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery – You’ll find tasty baked desserts, pastries, and meat pies here.
Paula’s Pancake House – The #1 restaurant in town per TripAdvisor reviewers. Stop here for the Danish pancakes to round out a traditional eating experience in town.
Solvang Bakery – Visit the Solvang Bakery for the best in Danish baked goods. They’ve been serving them here since 1981. You’ll not only find traditional desserts, but you can also find fantastic gingerbread houses here too. The wonderful aromas of holiday spices are hard to resist. You can also pick up a Gingerbread House Decorating Kit to take home.
Solvang Restaurant – A trip to Solvang isn’t complete without trying the traditional Danish Aebleskiver. This treat goes well with or after your pancakes and sausages.
Travel Tip: For eating during the holiday season at Solvang, inquire with your restaurant of choice to make a reservation
Getting to Solvang Christmas 2023 Julefest
Solvang is 35 miles north of Santa Barbara and 125 miles north of Los Angeles on the 101 (Ventura) Freeway.
Train connections are available via Amtrak daily on the Amtrak Thruway Motor Coach to downtown Solvang from Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Carpinteria, California. Train passengers can use their tickets for additional discounts throughout Solvang.
Watch our Christmas Solvang Julefest video
Where to Stay for Solvang Christmas 2023 Julefest?
Solvang offers nearly two dozen places for lodging – including cottages, hotels, and quaint bed and breakfast locations.
Here are our top choices for Solvang hotels. All options below are rated 4.5 or better on Expedia at the time of this post.
Budget Inns in Solvang
Located in the heart of Solvang, you’ll be in the center of the town shops, restaurants, and bakeries. You’ll feel as if you’re in Denmark. This inn provides old-world grace and charm. Rooms are decorated in the Danish tradition.
Located in nearby Buellton, this Inn is close to an excellent selection of shops, attractions, and restaurants.
Mid-Range Lodging in Solvang
Mirabelle Inn & Restaurant is located in the heart of Solvang. This traditional Danish hotel features rooms with old-world European style décor.
This 3-star hotel offers relaxation and comfort in spacious guest rooms. The room décor complements the peaceful surroundings of the Solvang area.
Higher End Accommodations in Solvang
This inn is revitalized, and exciting updates are on the way. You’ll find an award-winning experience at the Inn’s restaurant just minutes from Solvang. The inviting accommodations are in a quaint and scenic setting, just perfect for a weekend getaway.
This 4-star Inn offers a luxurious atmosphere with warm hospitality for folks who want an indulgent getaway. The unique environment provides all the conveniences of a modern luxury hotel. Enjoy gourmet breakfast, evening wine hour, and seasonal dessert with every stay.
More Travel Tips for Your Visit to Solvang and Julefest
Bring comfortable shoes
Solvang is a place where you park your car and walk through town. There are only several blocks from east to west and north to south. The good news is that parking is always free in town. Bring comfortable walking shoes for your visit.
Bring money
We’re used to paying for our purchases these days with credit cards or Apple Pay on our phones. Still, bringing dollar bills and coins for donations, tips, and small expenditures is a good idea.
Bring a tote bag or two
Likely you won’t leave Solvang without purchasing holiday gifts and souvenirs from your visit. Carrying a bag with you will make it convenient to keep strolling through the town as you do shopping during your visit.
More Holiday Activities Near Solvang
You’ll have a great time if Julefest is your sole destination in the Santa Ynez Valley. If you have more time beyond Solvang Christmas 2023, think about staying a few days to enjoy the merry season with more holiday events nearby Solvang.
11. Buellton Winter Fest
Celebrate Winter Fest on the first Sunday of December in nearby Buellton on December 3, 2023.
This event starts with Breakfast with Santa at the Buellton Rec Center from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. When you’re done with breakfast, enjoy the neighborhood parade, which begins at Jonata Middle School at the noon hour.
In the afternoon, the fun continues at Holiday Village at Village Park. You’ll find this event behind Tractor Supply. Holiday Village features 20 tons of snow, vendors, and live entertainment. This event runs from 4 pm to 7 pm and concludes with a Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at 7 pm.
Admission:
- $15 General Admission
- $5 Children ages 6-12
- Children 5 and under FREE
Reservations are required for Breakfast with Santa
Ticket includes Breakfast with Santa, a Photo op with Santa (taken with your own camera/phone), and a gift bag with Christmas crafts to make at home.
Website link for reservations
Website for Buellton Winterfest Information
12. A Cowboy Christmas
SYV Horseback Rides presents this month-long event. A huge list of events will keep you busy with all sorts of activities when the North Pole comes to Santa Ynez Valley. Enjoy Christmas hay rides, Santa’s petting zoo, a Junior Reindeer obstacle course, a bounce house, carnival games, and more.
Quench your thirst between activities at the ultimate hot cocoa bar or Santa’s Speakeasy (21+).
Dates: November 24 – December 16, 2023
Location: River View Park, Buelllton
Tickets and info: www.syvcowboychristmas.com
13. Los Olivos Olde Fashioned Christmas
Visit nearby Los Olivos to join in the celebration of Olde Fashioned Christmas. A 10-15 minute drive from Solvang will land you in another great place to ring in the season. This rain-or-shine event features holiday lights, Christmas shopping, snow, roasted walnuts, and hot cocoa. There’s cookie decorating for the kids and free photos with Santa.
You can also enjoy Bierstacheln – an old German winter beer tradition where the glass of malty beer is hit with a hot poker to warm it and bring on a carmelized marshmallow aroma.
Live music enhances the event from 4 pm to 7 pm, and Tree Lighting takes place in the middle of town at 6 pm.
The event starts at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Los Olivos.
Date and Time: December 2, 2023, 2 pm – 7 pm
Website link for Los Olivos Olde Fashioned Christmas
More Things To Do in Solvang
Julefest is the landmark event in Solvang during the Christmas season. But there’s so much more to do in Solvang, including…
- The Elverhøj Museum of History & Art – Learn about Danish history inside an 18th-century-styled Scandinavian home
- Old Mission Santa Ines – the historic landmark founded in 1804 is an active Catholic Church and museum and is open to the public
- Wine tasting – Relax in any number of wine-tasting rooms in town and nearby
- and more
Add a Tour When You Visit Solvang
Santa Ynez Valley Biking and Wine Tasting Tour
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 57 reviews!
Tour length – 5.5 Hours
Forget about touring the local wineries stuffed in an uncomfortable minivan. Instead, let the wind wisp around you as you cycle in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley on this biking and wine-tasting tour.
The tour departs from Los Olivos and travels through local parks and villages. Along the way, you’ll enjoy wine tastings and sample locally-grown food.
Your expert guide will reveal wine secrets of the region. E-bikes are available on request.
What Is Included With This Tour?
- 2 Wine Tastings
- Use of Rad Power E-Bike or Poseidon gravel/road sport bike
- Gourmet Picnic Lunch
- Olive Oil Tasting
- Souvenir Water Bottle
- Professional Guide with Sommelier Experience
- Van Support
- Lunch
- Bottled water
- Alcoholic Beverages
Solvang Origins
In Santa Barbara County, Solvang is a small Danish town founded in 1911 by a group of Danes who wanted to escape the harsh Midwest winters. Attracted by the sunny climate and fertile land, they purchased over 9,000 acres of land and named it “Solvang,” which means “sunny field” in Danish.
The town has maintained its Danish heritage throughout the years, making it a popular tourist destination and a unique cultural experience in California. Today, Solvang is known for its windmills, half-timbered buildings, festivals, and traditional Danish cuisine. It truly is a hidden gem with a fascinating history.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Yes, Solvang is worth visiting at Christmas. Solvang is beautifully decorated during the festive season and hosts many yuletide events, making it an attractive destination. The town also hosts a month of Danish-themed holiday events known as Julefest.
Yes, Solvang is considered a dog-friendly destination. There are several places where visitors can dine with their dogs, such as Cecco Ristorante and Paula’s Pancake House. Moreover, there are dog-friendly wineries near Solvang, such as Sunstone Winery, Vega Vineyard and Farm, Alma Rosa Winery and Vineyards, Brave & Maiden Estate, and Hitching Post. In addition, Solvang offers pet-friendly attractions like horse-drawn streetcar rides for well-behaved, leashed pets. Visitors should check with specific establishments to learn about their dog policies.
Yes, Solvang does have a Christmas market. The market is part of Solvang’s annual holiday celebration known as Julefest. The Julefest event runs from late November to early January.
Julefest includes the Makers Market, where you can find handcrafted gifts and goods made by talented artisans. In addition to the market, Christmas shopping is available in Solvang throughout the year at the Jule Hus, Solvang’s Christmas shop.
Listen to our Solvang podcast
For more ideas on things to do in Solvang throughout the year, listen to our podcast episode on Solvang California.
Get the Latest Information about Solvang Julefest
Solvang is a small town, but it’s big on Christmas. If you live in Southern California, it’s an excellent choice for a day trip or a weekend adventure. December should be when you and your loved ones enjoy fun things to do. Put Solvang Christmas Julefest on your list and enjoy a Danish Christmas party.
For the latest information on Solvang Julefest, visit the official Solvang Julefest website.
Social: Instagram @SOLVANGUSA
Find more great Christmas events in California
There are even more great places to celebrate Christmas in California. Check out our blog post featuring the best California Christmas events.
Check out our post on 50+ Great Southern California Christmas Events
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Thanks for reading. We hope to see you at The Places Where We Go!
Julie & Art
#julefest #solvang #solvangchristmas
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