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Ultimate Guide: 14 Festive Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Santa Barbara

Writer's picture: Santa Barbara GURUSanta Barbara GURU

Enjoy Santa Barbara as it transforms into a cozy yet lively holiday escape. Here’s a guide to enjoying unique experiences that make Santa Barbara a magnificent place for the holidays.



2. Holiday Wine Tasting in the Funk Zone, The Wharf and Downtown.



3. Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights Tour


4. Free Self-Guided Drive Lights Tour


5. Holiday Meals on the Town


6. The Children's Holiday Parade on Milpas Street


7. The Harbor Parade of Lights


8.The Lights of Solvang and Danish Holiday Traditions


9. Snow in Santa Barbara? Yes, at Paseo Nuevo!


10. Holiday Theatre and Performances like The Nutcracker





11. Holiday Hikes with Ocean Views  (avg temp 47-62 degrees F)




12. Sunset Beach Picnics on Christmas Day (avg temp 47-62 degrees F)


13. The Santa Barbara Zoo’s Zoolights


14. Santa Barbara Resorts: Enjoy Resort Restaurants, Gift Stores and Holiday Decorations.

- Bacara by Ritz-Carlton

- Rosewood Miramar

- Santa Barbara Hilton

- El Encanto



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