SANTA BARBARA’S HOLIDAY SEASON GUIDE
Winter arrives gently along the California coast, not with snowdrifts or frost but with golden sunsets, crisp evenings, and a festive glow that lingers in the air. Lights wind around palms, music floats from open plazas, and familiar streets take on a soft shimmer as Santa Barbara slips into the season. The holidays here unfold with a coastal grace, from slow mornings to illuminated nights, creating moments that feel both celebratory and serene.
From harbor parades to lantern-lit zoo paths, Santa Barbara comes alive with celebrations that feel both festive and uniquely coastal. These gatherings, traditions, and standout moments capture the season's charm and invite everyone to enjoy winter’s glow in our corner of California.
ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo
November 12 – January 11 | 4:30 – 8:30 p.m.
The Santa Barbara Zoo transforms into an illuminated dreamscape with its annual walk-through experience, ZooLights. Stroll past glowing, hand-crafted lanterns inspired by animals and nature, explore interactive light zones, sip festive treats, and capture a photo with Santa on select evenings. New this year, adults can enjoy special 21+ nights on November 20 and December 18.
Holiday Afternoon Tea at San Ysidro Ranch
December 6 – December 21 (Weekends) | San Ysidro Ranch
San Ysidro Ranch’s winter gardens, fireplaces, and twinkling lights set the scene for a beloved seasonal tradition. Guests are welcomed with delicate pastries, curated teas, and champagne service, creating an afternoon that feels timeless, elegant, and unmistakably Montecito.
SOhO’s Annual Holiday Sweater Party
December 12 | 6:00 p.m. | SOhO Music Club
SOhO’s iconic sweater party returns for a night of live performances from False Puppet, The Last Decade, Green Flag Summer, and DJ Darla Bea. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., the show begins at 7:00 p.m., and the evening benefits the Unity Shoppe. Dinner reservations are available in the back bar or on the patio, with standing room in the stage room for a lively, dance-filled night. (21+)
Holiday Shopping & Garden Walk at Lotusland
December 13 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Lotusland | Members Event
Lotusland opens its gates for a rare winter visit, inviting members to wander the gardens at a quieter, more contemplative time of year. Seasonal blooms, winding paths, and peaceful vistas create a serene backdrop for holiday shopping in the Garden Shop, where curated gifts and botanical treasures await. It is a gentle, intimate way to welcome the season in one of Montecito’s most enchanting landscapes.
Montecito Menorah Lighting
December 16 | 5:00 p.m. | Upper Village Green
A cherished local gathering, the annual Menorah Lighting brings neighbors together for an evening filled with warmth, light, and Hanukkah celebration at the heart of Montecito’s Upper Village.
Parade of Lights & Winter Wonderland
December 14 | 2:00 –7:00 p.m. | Santa Barbara Harbor & Waterfront
The festivities begin with family-friendly activities and a bustling Winter Wonderland on the City Pier. As evening falls, nearly 30 illuminated boats glide along the shoreline in a sparkling holiday procession. Fireworks over the water offer a magical finale to one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic seasonal traditions.
Miracle at Pearl Social
November 13 – January 6 | Pearl Social, Funk Zone
Pearl Social’s much-loved holiday pop-up returns with twinkle lights, whimsical décor, and an inventive cocktail menu served in collectible glassware. The space feels cozy, spirited, and joyfully over-the-top. It’s a favorite for festive nights out, and reservations are strongly encouraged.
Tinsel Tavern at La Paloma
November 20 – January 1 | La Paloma, Downtown Santa Barbara
La Paloma transforms into Tinsel Tavern, a chic winter hideaway draped in lights and filled with holiday cocktails and playful touches. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, making it ideal for date nights, celebratory gatherings, or a spirited stop during downtown outings.
Snowfall at Rosewood Miramar Beach
December 24 – December 25 | Rosewood Miramar Beach
Snow gently falls over the Miramar’s great lawn on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, creating a touch of winter magic by the sea. Hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, and children’s activities complete the experience, offering a coastal Christmas moment that feels straight from a storybook.
Christmas at the Theatres
December | Arlington, Granada, Lobero & More
Santa Barbara’s historic theatres set the stage for some of the season’s most beloved performances. From the 50th Anniversary of The Nutcracker to choral concerts and holiday showcases, these storied venues glow with bright marquees, velvet seats, and a sense of tradition that makes every show feel magical.
Seaside Sock Skating at MOXI
November 22 – February 1 | MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Winter gets a playful twist at MOXI, where the rooftop transforms into a seaside sock-skating rink. Guests of all ages can slip off their shoes and glide across a specialty tile floor that mimics the feel of ice without any of the cold. It’s lighthearted, imaginative, and one of the season’s most joyful outings.
Photo Credits
ZooLights: The Santa Barbara Independent. San Ysidro Ranch: San Ysidro Ranch. SOho: Visit Santa Barbara. Lotusland: Lotusland. Parade of Lights: City of Santa Barbara. Pearl Social: Siteline Santa Barbara. La Paloma: Santa Barbara Independent. Christmas at the Theatres: American Theatre Guide. MOXI: MOXI.
