It’s easy to be burnt out by the holidays, but why do that? This year, let’s take a breath, take a stroll, and take in what our enchanting city has to offer this time of year. There will be parades aplenty, lights in constant twinkle, choirs in harmony, music to soothe and inspire, movies and theater to pull the heartstrings, dance that amazes, area artisans selling their goods and wares, crafting workshops for the young and older, ugly sweaters, toys for tykes, generosity, community, and so much more that we had to lay it all out for you. Outside the lights are shining, and friends are calling, “Yoo hoo!” Come on, it’s lovely weather to share the holidays in S.B. with you.
Parades
62nd Annual Downtown Holiday Parade This year’s theme of Winter Nights & Holiday Lights will bring more than 50,000 spectators to the streets of S.B. to watch the fabulous holiday floats, spectacular performance groups, high-stepping marching bands, Grand Marshal Alan Thicke, and, of course, the annual arrival of the big man in red himself, Santa Claus. Fri., Dec. 5. Meet and greet with Santa: 4-5:30pm; Paseo Nuevo Ctr. Court. Parade: 6:30pm; travels down Sola St. (1300 block) to Cota St. (600 block). Free. Call 962-2098 x800 or visit downtownsb.org.
Solvang Julefest Parade With more than 250 participants including dancers, musical groups, vintage vehicles, horses, carriages, and animals, this parade will get you in the holiday spirit, especially when you see Sinterklaas, a k a Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus!). Sat., Dec. 6, 11am. Parade starts at Solvang Veterans Hall (1745 Mission Dr.), travels west on Mission Dr. (Hwy. 246), turns left on Fourth Pl., left on Copenhagen Dr., and ends on Alisal Rd. near the village post office. Free. Call 688-6144 or visit solvangusa.com.