Experience the 4th Annual Santa Ynez Valley Holiday Lights Festival – December 5–21, 2025
The holidays shine brighter than ever this year! From December 5–21, 2025, the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland for the 4th Annual Santa Ynez Valley Holiday Lights Festival. Step into a world of twinkling lights, festive music, and joyful memories waiting to be made.
Every evening, thousands of glittering lights illuminate winding garden trails, creating a magical experience for families, couples, and friends. Wander beneath a canopy of color. Feel the crunch of snow beneath your feet. Breathe in the scent of roasted marshmallows and holiday treats. Everywhere you look, the spirit of the season shines.
This beloved community tradition welcomes guests from near and far to celebrate the joy of the holidays, while supporting the nonprofit Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation. Each sparkling night helps nurture and preserve this beautiful garden for generations to come.
From the moment you arrive, the holiday spirit wraps around you like a cozy scarf. Stroll through dazzling light displays that dance across the landscape. Pause to watch snowflakes drift through the night sky. Capture magical moments with your loved ones in every glowing corner.
And of course, Santa Claus will be there to spread cheer! Stop by Santa’s festive garden nook for photos, laughter, and heartfelt wishes. It’s the perfect place to make memories that last long after the lights go out.
Every twinkling light, every smiling face, and every festive song captures the warmth of the holiday season. Whether it’s your first visit or an annual family tradition, the Holiday Lights Festival offers something special for everyone.
“We’re thrilled to once again share this magical event with our community,” said Derek Glas, President of the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation. “The Holiday Lights Festival brings people together in the spirit of joy, giving, and wonder—while supporting the future of our beautiful garden.”
Each ticket helps fund education, preservation, and volunteer programs that keep the garden thriving year-round. It’s holiday fun that truly gives back.
Don’t miss one of Santa Barbara County’s brightest holiday traditions! Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with lights, laughter, and lasting memories.
Tickets and details: syvholidaylights.com
The Santa Ynez Valley Holiday Lights Festival is an annual celebration that transforms the Botanic Garden into a radiant holiday destination. Featuring dazzling displays, local performers, artisan shopping, and family-friendly fun, the event has quickly become a must-see holiday tradition throughout Santa Barbara County.
About the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation
Founded in 2006, the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring exploration, education, and appreciation of the Central Coast’s natural environment. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the Garden is managed by volunteers and supported through community events like the Holiday Lights Festival.
Celebrate the season with lights, laughter, and lasting memories—only at the Santa Ynez Valley Holiday Lights Festival!
Dates & Times:
Solvang’s Danish-style holiday celebration begins November 28, 2025, with some new facets and fun-filled events; it runs throughout the festive season, until January 4, 2026.
It’s time for Solvang’s annual Julefest celebration extraordinaire! Held in one of the “Most Magical Christmas Towns and Villages Across the World” (according to Oprah Daily), Solvang Julefest is a month+ of lights, celebratory events, and holiday cheer, which runs November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026. Join us for lots of family fun, seasonal music, holiday shopping, culinary delights, wine & beer, and more. Skål!
Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks returns January 18 – 31, 2026, with a variety of special prix fixe price points that showcase the region’s culinary bounty — and the perfect Santa Ynez Valley wines to pair with it.
For two weeks in January, some of the area s top restaurants offer prix-fixe menus highlighting the Valley’s seasonal bounty. Savor three-course meals from award-winning chefs for $30, $40 and $50, as well as two-for-one tastings, special tasting flights and discounts from over two dozen participating wineries and tasting rooms
Indulge in a relaxing two-night stay for two at the Grand Chalet. Upon arrival, enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine. Additionally, benefit from BOGO wine tasting offers valued at over $100. Your stay includes two 50-minute Swedish massages, with the option to upgrade and have your massage indoors or outdoors at your preference.
Price for Spa Package: $1,095.00 + tax
*This package is available Sunday-Thursday, subject to availability. Spa appointments must be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance. Spa gratuity not included.
