Experience the Festive Delights of Santa Barbara This Holiday Season
The magical holiday spirit has swept over Santa Barbara, unveiling a multitude of seasonal events and activities for everyone to enjoy. From enchanting light displays to heartwarming celebrations, the city has countless opportunities to immerse yourself in holiday cheer.
Festive holiday fun
Prepare for a fully packed holiday calendar in Santa Barbara! We’ve compiled a list of festive events and activities for every age.
Snowfall at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel | Dec. 24 & 25 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rosewood Miramar Beach introduces a touch of winter wonder with snow on the California Coast. Throughout December, experience the magic of weekly snowfall on The Event Lawn. Enjoy hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, kids' activities, and a host of festivities to celebrate the season.
Holiday Movie Nights at the Steward | Dec. 28 at 7:00 pm
Embrace the cozy holiday vibes at the Steward's Garden Theater, where complimentary screenings of Terra's favorite family holiday movies and cult classics. Bring your loved ones, as doors open at 6:30 p.m. Snacks and drinks available for purchase will elevate your movie-watching experience.
Miracle Cocktail Pop-Up Bar | now until Jan. 1, 2024
Step into a Winter Wonderland at Pearl Social in the Funk Zone transformed into a festive cocktail bar. Experience extravagant holiday décor and a unique cocktail menu, featuring special events throughout December.
ZooLights at Santa Barbara Zoo | now until Jan. 14, 2024 between 4:30 - 8:30 pm
Embark on a luminous adventure at the Santa Barbara Zoo with their dazzling new attraction, ZooLights. Wander through a mesmerizing exhibition of handcrafted silk lanterns that illuminate animal and nature themes. Capture delightful moments with Santa Claus on select dates and indulge in delectable holiday treats and beverages.
Holiday Shopping & Marketplaces
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of artisan pop-ups and seasonal marketplaces, where you can support local businesses while discovering unique gifts that encapsulate Santa Barbara's charm.
Streets of Vintage Holiday Market | now until Dec. 23 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
At the Streets of Vintage Holiday Market, situated at De La Guerra Plaza, discover an enchanting array of locally crafted treasures. Delight in the opportunity to find distinctive items that make perfect gifts for your loved ones.
State Street Promenade Market | every Thursday of the month from 3:00 - 8:00 pm
Don't miss the State Street Promenade Market! This is your chance to share the essence of Santa Barbara through its signature products and goods. As State Street transforms into a local marketplace, relish the pedestrian-friendly environment, temporary art installations, and illuminating light displays. Meet and support downtown Santa Barbara's local makers while enjoying delectable eats and drinks offered by downtown purveyors.
New Year's Day Celebrations
Bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024 with a flair that's distinctively Santa Barbara.
New Year’s Day Wine Tour | January 1st, 2024 from 10 am - 4:30 pm
Add delight to your New Year by embarking on a Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour. What better way to start the first day of 2024 than by exploring the esteemed vineyards and tasting rooms of Santa Barbara's wine country?
New Year’s Day Polar Dip | January 1st, 2024 at 11:30 am
Join the exhilarating New Year’s Day Polar Dip. Celebrate the beginning of the year with a refreshing dip into the Pacific Ocean! Whether you're diving into the icy waters yourself or cheering on as an enthusiastic spectator, this year's event promises to be bigger than ever, featuring prizes, giveaways, special guests, and festive beverages for all to enjoy.
With an array of engaging activities and festive spectacles, Santa Barbara is brimming with seasonal delights. Embrace the spirit of the holidays, make memories, and toast to a splendid new year ahead, Santa Barbara-style!
Season's greetings and best wishes for the New Year from the entire team at McGowan Partners!