Are you looking for a weekend getaway filled with sun, sand, and fun? Tucked away on the stunning California coast, Santa Barbara offers a variety of activities and events to suit any taste. In this weekend guide, we will highlight some of the must-see events and attractions in Santa Barbara to help you make the most of your visit.
When: December 21, 2024
Where: Dusk Bar
Sip warming winter cocktails and cozy up with your crew by candlelight. Join Dusk Bar at Drift Santa Barbara as we slow down the shortest days of the year every night this holiday season with our Winter Solstice popup at Dusk.
When: December 21, 2024 at 1 P.M. - 3 P.M.
Where: Helena Avenue Bakery
Let your children dive into a world of holiday wonder at Helena Avenue Bakery, decorating cookies, dancing with elves, listening to festive stories and capping it off with a magical visit to Miracle at Pearl Social on every Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 22.
Your ticket includes a gingerbread house, decorating materials, expert guidance, crafting essentials, a special letter-writing session to Santa, and an exclusive table reservation to Miracle at Pearl Social from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., right after our ‘Elfing Around’ adventure. It’s an afternoon of holiday enchantment you won’t want to miss!
Join Pearl Social for a delightful holiday experience – all children are welcome, but please note, this event is thoughtfully tailored for ages 4 to 9. The workshop will be led by an Elf all the way from the North Pole, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the Christmas spirit!
When: December 21-22, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.
Where: Granada Theatre
One of State Street Ballet’s most delightful productions, this timeless holiday tale is a favorite for audiences of all ages. The story follows Clara on an enchanting journey as her toy nutcracker comes to life and they travel to the land of the sweets. This magical quest has something for everyone including battling toy soldiers and mice, sparkling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy. Accompanied by the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra, an international cast of professional dancers unite with over 100 young dancers from the State Street Ballet Academy for an unforgettable weekend of performances to celebrate the magic of the season.
When: December 21, 2024 at 6 P.M. - 8 P.M.
Where: Paseo Nuevo Shopping Center
Throw on your ugliest Christmas sweater and join us at Captain Fatty’s Beer Garden for good beer, a local DJ, and festive vibes!
When: December 21, 2024 at 3:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
Where: SYV Horseback Rides
A Cowboy Christmas returns to Santa Ynez Valley for another year of unforgettable holiday activities for all ages! Bring the kids for some old-fashioned family fun including animal encounters, holiday horse & pony rides, crafts, games, an obstacle course, a giant hay bale pyramid, Ultimate Hot Cocoa Bar, Santa, and so much more!
When: December 22, 2024 at 10 A.M. - 1 P.M.
Where: El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel
Join garden expert, Dawn O’Donnell and upgrade the classic holiday craft in wreath making, with living succulents. Native to California, succulents are a natural beauty to your home, all year long. Dawn shares historical and symbolic facts on succulents while leading guests to build the wreath with moss and pinning the succulents. The workshop ends with a care routine to ensure freshness and vitality.
Gourmet refreshments and valet parking included.
When: December 22, 2024 at 7 A.M. - 12 P.M.
Where: The Steward, Santa Barbara, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Embrace the holiday season and celebrate with a festive, garden-inspired buffet with Santa at The Steward Santa Barbara hotel. The brunch will be from 7 a.m. until 12 p.m. with special appearances by Santa throughout the event and a cozy hot cocoa bar.
Kids can enjoy complimentary ornament decorating, making it a magical morning to remember.
When: December 22, 2024
Where: La Cumbre Plaza
A Crimson Holiday is a collection of local artisans offering an amazing collection of handcrafted gifts for your holidays. Find new treasures from new and returning local artisans.
When: December 21-22, 2024
Where: Hotel Californian
The festivities have arrived in the Funk Zone at Hotel Californian. Each weekend between Thanksgiving and Christmas, join them for a series of complimentary festivities from tastings, to workshops and so much more!
Wine Painting Workshop, Dec. 21 from 4 – 6 p.m.
Join Danielle Renee as she walks you through how to paint with wine (and do a little tasting while you’re at it). Space is limited. Pre-registration required.
Live Music, Dec. 22 from 4 – 6 p.m.
Head to Djinn to enjoy a fun evening filled with live music.
We hope you enjoyed our weekend guide and have a fun-filled weekend ahead!
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