The American Riviera
Winter in Santa Barbara is the season for festive merriment, tasty culinary delights and extra time with loved ones. As the season changes and stars sparkle through the night sky, come explore all of the events and other holiday happenings in Santa Barbara. We hope you use this events guide to make lasting memories in Santa Barbara this holiday season.
Looking for somewhere extra-festive to stay? Here’s a list of hotels dressed and ready for the season with themed events and decor galore.
Consider your holiday calendar booked, Santa Barbara has endless holiday events and activities that are guaranteed to fill you with glee. With new events added daily, be sure to check back so you don’t miss a single jovial moment.
Sip ‘n’ Dip Hot Chocolate and Game Night, Now through Dec. 19 from 5-8 p.m.
As the days grow shorter and evenings cooler, Menchaca Chocolates invites you to slow down and savor the season at its annual Hot Chocolate Pop-Up. Enjoy flickering lights, board games and handcrafted cups of rich, decadent cocoa paired with freshly baked waffles on a stick, whipped cream pudding or thick dark sipping chocolate inspired by Spain. Each Friday brings a new flavor, so stop by often to relax on the cozy patio or grab your treats to go — each batch is made fresh nightly for the perfect end to the week.
Cost: $10-$20 per person
ZooLights at Santa Barbara Zoo, Now through Jan. 11, 2026 from 4:30-8:30 p.m.
To ring in the holidays, Santa Barbara Zoo debuts its walk-through light show, ZooLights. Here, guests will experience a glowing display of handcrafted, silk-adorned animal- and nature-themed lanterns with interactive zones, photo opportunities with Santa Claus (select dates) and festive libations and snacks for purchase. New this year, experience Adult Nights at Santa Barbara Zoolights on Nov. 20 and Dec. 18.
Cost: $20-$34 per person
Seaside Sock Skating at MOXI, Now through Feb. 1, 2026
This winter is about to get a whole lot cooler — without the chill. Sock skating is coming to MOXI’s rooftop! This new seasonal exhibit will allow kids and adults to kick off their shoes to enjoy frictionless fun by sliding across a specialty tile floor reminiscent of ice, without the chill.
Cost: Included with the price of admission
Christmas Patch, Now through Dec. 23 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Embrace the holiday spirit at Lane Farms Christmas Patch! Choose from a selection of fresh Noble, Nordman or Douglas fir trees, and challenge yourself in the corn maze, perfect for all ages. Before you leave, pick up some fresh produce for a festive pie, and don’t forget to snap a photo in your favorite holiday sweater for a seasonal keepsake.
Cost: Admission is free
Stearns Wharf Tree-Lighting Ceremony, Dec. 5 from 4-6 p.m.
Celebrate the season at the Stearns Wharf Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring the illumination of the 25-foot Christmas tree, music from DJ Scott Topper, performances by the Dos Pueblos High School Choir and family-friendly holiday activities. Enjoy a festive sweater contest for humans and pets, a classic car photo op, special offers from Wharf businesses and opportunities to connect with local nonprofits.
Cost: Admission is free
Wreath-Making Workshop, Dec. 5 from 5:30-6:45 p.m.
Candle Bar 111 partners with Sorelle for a hands-on wreath-making workshop led by Amber Rose. Using fresh greenery and festive accents, participants will craft their own seasonal wreaths in a relaxed, creative setting with all materials provided.
Cost: $75 per person
Goleta Holiday Parade, Dec. 6 from 6-9 p.m.
Holiday spirit returns to Old Town Goleta as the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club hosts its annual parade, a longtime favorite featuring festive floats, live music, dance groups and spirited participants from across the community.
Cost: Free to attend
Trolley of Lights Tour, Dec. 11 at 5:30 p.m.
Hop aboard the Holiday Trolley of Lights for a 90-minute tour of Santa Barbara’s most dazzling holiday displays. Departing from Third Window Brewing, the evening includes festive drinks, snacks and an optional happy hour from 4:30–5:30 p.m.. Ages 21+.
Cost: $35 per person
Christmas Mariachi Festival, Dec. 13 from 7-9 p.m.
Experience the magic of the season at the Christmas Mariachi Festival at Lobero Theatre, presented by HR Entertainment and featuring El Mariachi Estrella de México — the world’s largest mariachi. Enjoy a festive evening of traditional posadas, carols, folkloric ballet and more, performed by the acclaimed group founded in Guadalajara and known for appearances with the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco and the program Luján en Vivo.
Cost: $57-$87 per person
Parade of Lights, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Celebrate the 39th Annual Santa Barbara Parade of Lights! Festivities begin with the Human-Powered Parade at 2 p.m., a Winter Wonderland on the City Pier from 3–5 p.m. and the illuminated boat parade at 5:30 p.m., featuring about 30 decorated vessels cruising from Leadbetter Beach to Stearns Wharf. The evening concludes with a fireworks show around 7 p.m., best viewed from Stearns Wharf, the breakwater, West Beach or East Beach. Boat registration is free and open to all categories, with entry forms available online or at harbor locations.
Cost: Free to attend
Parade of Lights Cruise Aboard Double Dolphin, Dec. 14 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Enjoy the parade and fireworks finale from the best viewing location on the water, the Double Dolphin! This festive event marks the 39th Annual Parade of Lights. The annual boat parade begins with nearly 30 boats motoring, sailing, and paddling the Santa Barbara Coastline, culminating with a fireworks display.
Cost: $101.68 per person
Christmas at The Manor Bar, Dec. 24 and 25
Enjoy live entertainment and seasonal cocktails at The Manor Bar this Christmas Eve and Christmas night — a festive, spirited way to celebrate the holiday.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Snowfall at Rosewood Miramar Beach, Dec. 24 and 25
Rosewood Miramar Beach is bringing snow to the California coast. This Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, gather on the property and experience snowfall on the resort’s event lawn. This magical experience is accompanied by hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, kid’s activities and more.
Cost: Admission is free.
Holiday theater, musical acts and festive performances in Santa Barbara will surely get you into the joy and merriment of the season. From annual productions to one-of-a-kind shows, the stage is set for a bright winter season.
Jake Shimabukuro’s Holidays in Hawaiʻi, Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro returns with Holidays in Hawai‘i at Arlington Theatre, a festive concert that blends island warmth with holiday classics. Joined by Jackson Waldhoff and Justin Kawika Young, he invites audiences to celebrate the season through joyful melodies and the unmistakable spirit of aloha.
Cost: $23.51 per ticket
Santa Barbara Master Chorale Presents “The Light So Shines,” Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.
This Christmas, the Santa Barbara Master Chorale and Dr. David Lozano Torres present The Light So Shines at Lobero Theatre — a theatrical concert blending drama and music in a story of hope, joy and divine light. Centered around Gerald Finzi’s In Terra Pax, the program features works by Sarah Quartel, Dan Forrest, Mack Wilberg and Mark Hayes, along with beloved carols like Angels We Have Heard on High, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing and Deck the Hall. A heartwarming holiday experience for the whole family.
Cost: $33-$63 per ticket
50th Anniversary of The Nutcracker, Dec. 13-14
Experience the magic of the season as Santa Barbara Festival Ballet celebrates 50 years of The Nutcracker at the historic Arlington Theatre. This landmark production features world-class guest artists from leading companies including San Francisco Ballet, Houston Ballet and Dance Theatre of Harlem, accompanied by a live symphony orchestra conducted by Elise Unruh. Performances take place Dec. 13 at 2:30 and 7 pm and Dec. 14 at 2:30 pm.
Cost: Ticket prices start at $52 per person
A Winter Music Showcase, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m.
Enjoy an inspiring evening of music and holiday spirit at Grace Fisher Foundation’s eighth annual “Winter Music Showcase” at the historic Granada Theatre, featuring top local talent and special performances by participants from the Inclusive Arts Clubhouse. This cherished Santa Barbara tradition celebrates people of all abilities and promises to be a memorable concert you won’t want to miss.
Cost: $30-$88 per ticket
Artisan pop-ups and seasonal marketplaces are in plentiful supply this holiday season. Show your support for local makers and shop local goods straight from the source! Another way to shop small is by visiting local independent retailers. This gift-buying guide will steer you to shops and products that can only be found on The American Riviera®, along with premier purveyors of Santa Barbara’s signature style and some delectable Central Coast goodies to boot.
Sip & Shop Holiday Market, Nov. 23-Dec. 7 from 12-5 p.m.
Hosted by Meet Me at the Market, this festive shopping series at Pali Wine Co.’s wine garden invites guests to sip and shop from more than 20 local artisans and small businesses while enjoying Santa Barbara County wines from Pali Wine Co. Discover unique gifts, handmade goods and holiday treasures in a relaxed, community-focused setting on Nov. 23; Nov. 28 for the Black Friday Market; and Sunday, Dec. 7, with markets running from midday into the afternoon or evening depending on the date.
Cost: Admission is free
Sip & Stroll Holiday Market at Old Mission Santa Barbara, Dec. 5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Sip & Stroll at Old Mission Santa Barbara invites guests to enjoy a festive courtyard market with sips from local wineries and breweries, bites to eat and shopping from local artisan vendors. Admission includes unlimited food and drink, making it a relaxed and spirited way to tackle holiday gifting.
Cost: $50 per person
Presidio Neighborhood Holiday Stroll, Dec. 6 from 2-5 p.m.
Kick off the holiday season in Santa Barbara’s historic Presidio Neighborhood with the Holiday Stroll, a festive walk through local wineries, shops, cultural sites and restaurants offering bites, drinks and seasonal specials. Guests can check in at Casa de la Guerra to pick up a map and explore participating stops throughout the neighborhood.
Cost: $60 per person
Holiday Boutique at Santa Barbara Tennis Club, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Get into the holiday spirit at the Santa Barbara Tennis Club’s annual Holiday Boutique, featuring free parking, local vendors, family activities and festive surprises. Browse handcrafted gifts, pick up fresh seasonal produce and garden tips, and let kids enjoy baby goats, baked treats and a holiday-themed contest.
Cost: Admission is free
The Yes Store, Ongoing
Santa Barbara’s original artists’ gift gallery, The Yes Store is continuing its tradition of highlighting the finest area artisans including woodworking, ceramics, fine jewelry, glasswork, fabric, leather and more.
Cost: Varies per item.
Nightmare Before Christmas Pop-up, Now through Dec. 31
Shaker Mill’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” holiday pop-up features giant Oogie Boogie and Jack Skellington inflatables, festive décor and movie-inspired cocktails like the “Ghost Dog Nog.”
Cost: Varies by menu item.
Holiday Afternoon Tea Service, Saturdays and Sundays between Dec. 6-21
Celebrate the season with a holiday afternoon tea at San Ysidro Ranch, surrounded by twinkling lights, festive florals and the charm of the Ranch’s winter wonderland. Enjoy handcrafted pastries, seasonal teas and a market cart with artisan ornaments, San Ysidro Ranch jams and gift cards. Adults can elevate the experience with a champagne tea service, while children enjoy a Nutcracker tea featuring storytelling, gingerbread cookie decorating and a Santa letter-writing station.
Cost: Varies
Miracle at Pearl Social, Nov. 13 through Jan. 6, 2025
Experience the holidays in a dazzling new way with over-the-top décor, festive displays and an unforgettable cocktail menu at Miracle (at Pearl Social Cocktail Club). Featuring whimsical collectible ceramic cocktail vessels and plenty of yuletide cheer, this event is a must-see for every Christmas lover in Santa Barbara. Perfect for social gatherings or work celebrations, reservations are highly recommended as spots fill quickly.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Tinsel Tavern at Paloma, Nov. 20 through Jan. 1, 2026
Step into the holiday spirit at Tinsel Tavern, Paloma’s festive seasonal pop-up. This local favorite transforms into a cozy winter wonderland with twinkling lights, themed cocktails and holiday cheer. Enjoy creative seasonal drinks, bites from Paloma’s menu and a merry atmosphere perfect for gatherings with friends or a festive night out.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Honor Hanukkah at The Revere Room, Dec. 14-22
Celebrate Hanukkah at The Revere Room with a week-long dining experience featuring curated dishes crafted for the occasion. Enjoy festive flavors and the warm, elegant ambiance of Rosewood Miramar Beach throughout the holiday.
Cost: Varies
12 Days of Cocktails at Plow & Angel Speakeasy, Dec. 14-25 from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Escape to the holiday wonderland of San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, where luxury meets rustic charm. The property sparkles with over 60,000 lights, festive decor and roaring fireplaces. Don’t miss Plow & Angel Speakeasy, adorned with thousands of ornaments, serving 12 days of festive cocktails, all set to live holiday music in a cozy, magical setting.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Breakfast with Santa at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, Dec. 13 from 7-11 a.m.
Celebrate the season with a magical morning by the beach at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort’s Roundhouse during a festive breakfast with Santa. Enjoy the signature breakfast menu alongside seasonal holiday specials, meet Santa for photos and take part in cheerful holiday activities for all ages. Reservations are required, and complimentary self-parking is included.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Nutcracker High Tea at Finch & Fork, Dec. 13, 14, 20 & 21 from 4-6 p.m.
Step into a winter wonderland for a Nutcracker Ballet-themed afternoon tea party at Finch & Fork, Dec. 13, 14, 20 and 21. Enjoy pastries, scones and tea sandwiches with classic fillings, paired with curated teas, champagne or festive cocktails like the Tututini and Fritz’s Spritz. Perfect for a cozy holiday outing or post-ballet treat, this enchanting tea service captures the spirit of the Nutcracker in every sip.
Cost: $66 per person
The Holiday Tea Blending Bar, Dec. 19 from 3-5 p.m.
Savor the season at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara’s Holiday Tea Blending Bar, featuring a guided tasting of Magic Hour’s artisanal holiday blends from Ojai, followed by the chance to create your own custom blend to take home.
Cost: $115 per person
Christmas Eve Brunch at The Revere Room, Dec. 24
Celebrate Christmas Eve at The Revere Room at Rosewood Miramar Beach and enjoy a la carte brunch menu crafted from the freshest locally sourced ingredients.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Christmas at The Set, Dec. 24-25 from 3-10 p.m.
Celebrate the season with coastal flair and festive flavors at The Set. Enjoy holiday specials like roasted prime rib with Yukon gold mashed potatoes, crispy chili salmon with jasmine rice pilaf and seared chicken breast with roasted broccolini. Pair your entrée with family-style sides such as crispy brussels sprouts or mushroom and blue cheese risotto, and end on a sweet note with apple galette, carrot cake or the signature wave breaker brownie sundae.
Cost: Varies by menu item
Christmas Eve Dinner at The Revere Room, Dec. 24
Celebrate Christmas Eve at The Revere Room at Rosewood Miramar Beach and enjoy a festive four-course dinner menu crafted from the freshest locally sourced ingredients.
Cost: $165 per adult, $65 per child
Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes at Caruso’s, Dec. 24
Embrace la dolce vita of the American Riviera with ocean views, fine wine and dinner at Caruso’s at Rosewood Miramar Beach. For the occasion, the beachfront restaurant will offer chef Massimo Falsini’s Feast of the Seven Fishes. Also known as La Vigilia or The Eve, this traditional Italian-American meal consists of exquisite fish and seafood dishes.
Cost: $295 per adult, $125 per child (children under four are free)
Christmas Eve Dinner at Opal Restaurant and Bar, Dec. 24 at 5 p.m.
Celebrate Christmas Eve at Opal Restaurant and Bar with a special three-course prix fixe menu featuring festive appetizers, entrées and desserts, or enjoy selections from the regular dinner menu. Seatings are available at 5, 5:30 or 6 p.m., and again at 7:30 or 8 p.m. and later.
Cost: TBA
Christmas Buffet at The Steward, Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrate Christmas Day at Terra at The Steward, Santa Barbara with a festive holiday buffet featuring seasonal favorites like butternut squash soup, bibb salad and a seafood display, along with hearty mains including rosemary-encrusted prime rib, chicken marsala and seafood stew. Classic sides, Yukon whipped potatoes, seaside mac and cheese and decadent desserts round out the menu. The buffet is served from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with à la carte dining available until 9:30 p.m.
Cost: $35-$95 per person
Christmas Day Buffet, Dec. 25 from 12-7 p.m.
Gather your loved ones and celebrate Christmas Day with a festive holiday buffet at Finch & Fork, featuring a lavish raw bar, carving stations, classic sides, soups, salads and decadent desserts. Set in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this downtown favorite, it’s a perfect way to savor the season together.
Cost: $120 per adult, $55 per child
Christmas Dining at Lulio, Dec. 25
Celebrate Christmas Day at Lulio at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara with festive dining options, including a special holiday breakfast, a lavish brunch with buffet and live stations, and enhanced seasonal specials offered alongside the à la carte dinner menu.
Christmas Day Delights at The Revere Room, Dec. 25
Share an unforgettable holiday repast drawn from the bounty of Southern California at Rosewood Miramar Beach. The Revere Room’s brunch buffet and festive prix fixe will pair regionally influenced Christmas classics with an extraordinary assortment of seasonal dishes.
Cost: $185 per adult, $65 per child
Christmas Day Dinner at San Ysidro Ranch, Dec. 25 from 12-8 p.m.
Savor the holiday spirit with a four-course Christmas Day dinner at San Ysidro Ranch. Surrounded by poinsettias, glowing fireplaces and candlelight, guests will enjoy a gourmet menu of seasonal ingredients and refined flavors, accompanied by live carolers on the veranda for a touch of timeless cheer.
Cost: $290 per adult, $115 per child
Christmas Day Dinner at Caruso’s, Dec. 25
Celebrate the holidays with an unforgettable oceanfront dining experience at Caruso’s. Savor a festive menu crafted by executive chef Massimo Falsini and toast to the season as you take in sweeping Pacific views and the flavors of the occasion.
Cost: $265 per adult, $125 per child (children under four are free)
Christmas Day Dinner at The Revere Room, Dec. 25 from 5:30-9 p.m.
Experience a memorable holiday inspired by the abundance of Southern California. At The Revere Room, indulge in a four-course, prix fixe dinner that skillfully combines regional Christmas favorites with an exceptional array of seasonal culinary creations.
Cost: $145 per adult, $65 per child (ages four to 12 years old; children under four dine for free).
