Seaside Sock Skating at MOXI
Nov. 20, 2024 – Jan. 30, 2025, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Experience the fun of ice skating—without the chill—at MOXI’s rooftop sock skating exhibit. This frictionless skating experience features a specialty tile floor. Ideal for both kids and adults, sock skating invites everyone to slip off their shoes and slide across the floor in a safe and enjoyable environment. MOXI’s interactive rooftop provides stunning views of Santa Barbara while offering unique holiday-themed activities that add extra sparkle to your visit.
A Cowboy Christmas
Nov. 29 – Dec. 21, 3:30–7:30 p.m.
Journey into the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley for A Cowboy Christmas, a unique celebration of holiday traditions with a western twist. Highlights include holiday animal encounters and the Daring Elf Adventure, a pony ride that takes visitors through a whimsical North Pole setting. Guests can also challenge themselves with the Tipsy Ornament horseback activity, visit Santa in a vintage sleigh, and enjoy festive food and drinks. Additional activities include inflatable houses, obstacle courses, and a hay bale pyramid, all designed to entertain kids and adults alike.
Lane Farms Christmas Patch
Nov. 29 – Dec. 23, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Christmas events in Santa Barbara would be incomplete without a trip to Lane Farms, where fresh-cut Christmas trees abound, including Noble, Nordman, and Douglas fir varieties. The Christmas Patch also features a fun corn maze, perfect for creating joyful memories with family and friends. Visitors can explore the farm’s fresh produce offerings, ideal for holiday baking or cooking, and capture the season’s charm with a special photo opportunity in this cozy holiday setting.
Holiday Harbor Cruise Aboard Lil’ Toot
Dec. 1–23
Step aboard the iconic Lil’ Toot for a holiday-themed harbor cruise. Decked out in festive decor, this charming water taxi takes guests on a scenic journey through Santa Barbara’s harbor. The friendly crew shares local history and insights into marine life while creating a cheerful holiday atmosphere. It’s a delightful way to see Santa Barbara’s waterfront while soaking up the magic of the season.
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Paseo Nuevo
Dec. 1, 5–8 p.m.
Paseo Nuevo hosts its annual, beloved tree-lighting ceremony, a magical evening that kicks off the holiday season. Join Mayor Randy Rowse, Santa Claus, and DJ Darla Bea for an unforgettable night under the stars. The festivities include live music, snow flurries, and a Peppermint Parlor After-Party, where families can capture cherished holiday moments with photos and festive fun.
Holiday Tree Lighting at El Encanto
Dec. 4, 5–7 p.m.
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a spectacular tree-lighting ceremony at El Encanto. Held on the Pacific Lawn, this event includes festive music, seasonal refreshments, and stunning ocean views. El Encanto's elegant ambiance makes it a truly magical event for families and friends looking to enjoy timeless holiday traditions.
Merry Miramar Event & Holiday Stroll
Dec. 5, 5–7 p.m.
Rosewood Miramar Beach invites you to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a festive family celebration. Enjoy a holiday concert, visit with Santa Claus, and witness a California Coastal “snowfall.” Stroll through the property’s beautifully decorated grounds and take advantage of exclusive shopping opportunities from participating retailers. It’s a perfect way to combine holiday cheer with a touch of coastal elegance.
Holiday at the Ranch
Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Rancho La Patera and Stow House host Holiday at the Ranch, a festive event with something for everyone. Explore the historic Stow House, beautifully adorned for the season, and enjoy activities such as children’s crafts, tractor rides, and live music. Visitors can also shop for unique gifts at the local artisan market or indulge in delicious offerings from food trucks. Santa and his rein-goats make a special appearance, adding extra holiday magic.
38th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights
Dec. 8, 5:30 p.m.
Any list of Christmas events in Santa Barbara would be incomplete without mention of the annual Holiday Parade of Lights at the Santa Barbara waterfront. This treasured event showcases elaborately decorated boats gliding through the harbor, spreading holiday magic and a bit of yo-ho-ho from yuletide pirates. The evening culminates in a dazzling fireworks display that lights up the sky. Viewing spots include Stearns Wharf, the breakwater, and East Beach, offering picturesque vistas of the parade and fireworks.
Movie Nights at The Steward
Dec. 13, 19 & 20, 5–9 p.m.
Gather with loved ones for festive movie nights at The Steward’s garden lawn. Enjoy holiday classics like The Grinch and Home Alone in a charming outdoor setting. Guests should arrive early for happy hour, indulge in dinner at Terra restaurant, or relax by the cozy fireplace. These evenings provide the perfect combination of holiday cheer and cinematic delight.
Snowfall at Rosewood Miramar Beach
Dec. 24, 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Experience the magic of a white Christmas at Rosewood Miramar Beach, where snow falls on the event lawn for some holiday merriment. Revelers can sip hot chocolate in this lovely setting, savor roasted chestnuts, and play in the snow. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a winter wonderland by the sea.
Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Dec. 25 – Jan. 2, 5 p.m.
Also, at Miramar Beach, everyone is invited to celebrate the Festival of Lights during Rosewood Miramar Beach’s nightly menorah lightings. This warm and inclusive event features traditional treats, stories of resilience, and a festive atmosphere that welcomes all.
Santa Barbara truly shines during the holiday season, offering an abundance of activities that capture the joy and magic—Santa Barbara style. Another Christmas event in Santa Barbara, and one that promises to give you cause to celebrate year-round, is finding your perfect new home. The holiday season may not be the most traditional time to buy a house, but it can actually be one of the most strategic. While others are busy decking the halls, savvy buyers can take advantage of unique opportunities in the real estate market. As a top real estate agent with numerous accolades, I invite you to explore the exceptional listings on my comprehensive website, then call me at (805) 886-9378 or email me at to arrange a tour.
Of Related Interest: