‘Tis the season for all things merry and bright on the Santa Barbara South Coast. Swap snow for soft, coastal sand this winter and savor all of the festive things The American Riviera® has to offer. December boasts a variety of holiday events, live performances, rejuvenating celebrations and more. Think: Parade of Lights, a Christmas-themed bar and live holiday performances.
Seasonal tip? Explore the Santa Barbara South Coast at your leisure and choose from more than 15 local accommodations offering a third night free when you book a two-night stay. With so many shows to attend and shops to enjoy, do yourself a favor and add on an extra night.
events & activities
Cheer and spirited festivities deck the streets (and waters) of Santa Barbara all December long, starting with the annual Christmas Patch at Lane Farms (Nov. 29-Dec. 23), where patrons can shop for the perfect Noble or Douglas Fir to display in their homes during the holiday season.
Nov. 20 through Jan. 30, 2025, MOXI is hosting climate-friendly Seaside Sock Skating atop the museum’s rooftop. Dec. 4 , join Palma Colectiva at El Encanto for A Mindful Holiday Market, a curated event featuring over twenty conscious brands, artisans and wellness goods. Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks by the lily pond at this historic Riviera property while you shop mindfully and support local creatives.
Venture out to Goleta, where you’ll get the small-town (but just as festive!) holiday treatment at the Goleta Holiday Parade (Dec. 7), complete with decked-out floats, dance groups and live bands making their way down Hollister Avenue.
We’re predicting Pearl Social Cocktail Club to be the town socialite this December: With events like the elaborate Christmas-themed bar, Miracle (in operation between Nov. 16-Jan. 1, 2025), there’s plenty of fun and intricately crafted cocktails to be had in this corner of the Funk Zone all month long.
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 “Jack Skellington,” “What’s This?” and “Lock, Shock and Barrel.” Try your luck with a Dice Shot and enjoy drinks served in themed mugs, all brimming with holiday cheer.
This time of year, when the nights are chilly in many parts of the country, encouraging many to retreat inside for warmth, Santa Barbara doesn’t stay landlocked—we get into the holiday spirit at sea, too. Join the Santa Barbara Waterfront in celebrating the 38th Annual Parade of Lights in the Santa Barbara Harbor on Dec. 8, where attendees can kick off the season with a visit to Winter Wonderland at Stearns Wharf, followed by a parade of costumed kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders, a tree lighting ceremony and the grand finale: the boat parade, where over 30 vessels will circumnavigate the wharf, adorned with holiday lights and oftentimes, festive music. Want an on-the-water view of the parade? Set sail aboard Double Dolphin with the Santa Barbara Sailing Center or Azure Seas with Celebration Cruises for front-row seating for one of Santa Barbara’s most coveted annual holiday events.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
The lineup at Lobero Theatre is bustling with live shows, of the holiday variety and not, in December with performances like State Street Ballet Academy’s Rudolph (Dec. 7-8), The Island of Misfit Gays (Dec. 9), The JOHNNYSWIM Christmas Show (Dec. 10), Christmas with The Petersons (Dec. 12) and Jane Lynch (Dec. 17).
Head to ARTS District Santa Barbara for a special winter music showcase hosted by the Inclusive Arts Clubhouse (Dec. 7) or ring in the new year with the Santa Barbara Symphony at Granada Theatre.
SHOPPING
It’s that time of year when folks trade gifts with loved ones and share during the season of giving. Make your purchases extra special and unique by visiting the numerous artisan markets and holiday boutiques that Santa Barbara has to offer. Say “yes” at The Yes Store and experience Santa Barbara’s original artists’ gift gallery. Offering one-stop shopping for arts, crafts, custom fine jewelry, blown glass, photography, ceramics, woodworking, clothing and leather goods, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for the art-lover in your life. Shop the monthly Mujeres Makers Market on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, a community market that amplifies local businesses run by women of color, and find handmade, one-of-a-kind treasures. Explore the festive atmosphere of Paseo Nuevo Shopping Center, where you can enjoy outdoor holiday shopping amidst twinkling lights and seasonal décor. For more tips on selecting the perfect gift from The American Riviera®, look no further than this Santa Barbara gift guide.
Prioritize supporting local, POC- and minority-owned businesses when checking off your shopping list this year. Pick up a gift card to Summerland Salon and Spa, a box of Cristy’s Cookies or a unique gift from one of these Black-owned businesses to give to your loved ones while directly championing some of the businesses that make Santa Barbara the special destination that it is.
The fun doesn’t stop here: Take a look at these holiday events and happenings throughout the Santa Barbara South Coast.
