Head to Solvang, California to celebrate the Christmas season this year, and you might feel like you’ve stumbled half-way across the world. Fact is, you’re only about 100 miles out from Los Angeles. But then, that’s Solvang for ya.
In a grand holiday tradition loved by locals and tourists alike, Solvang, California, “The Danish Capital of America”, will deck its streets in shimmering seasonal regalia in anticipation of another busy Christmas. They call it the Julefest Celebration, and it’s one of our favorite choices for doing something a little different for the holidays.
Solvang Julefest 2009
Solvang’s harmonious hamlet is a sight to see at any time of year, but that holiday magic is not without its special something. Everything from the quaint Danish-style houses and streetlamps to the famous windmill will be done up glittering white lights, and you can bet there will be music in the air.
In fact, the theme of Solvang Julefest 2009 is “Village of Music”, and they’re making good with free concerts, street performers, carolers, holiday musicals, and a whole lot more courtesy of the annual Julefest Parade on Saturday, December 5.
The lights go up November 20 along with daily open houses at a number of the shops (Julefest is an awesome place to find that unexpected Christmas gift). Major events are held on weekends in December, all completely free. December 4 and 5 bring the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Julefest Parade – dancing, vintage cars, animals, Santa. Stop in the second weekend to attend the Nativity Pageant on December 12, and show up early to guarantee seats.
Holiday cheer with a decidedly Danish twist, all free events and a splendid shopping opportunity, that sounds like a good time in Solvang to me. While Solvang’s Web site gets its act together, view this press release for more details.
Of course you can stay on-site (find general Solvang info here), but we find a day or two of Solvang more than enough, even in December. We like to stay in the far more coastal Santa Barbara, about 35-45 miles out from Solvang depending on how you drive. Transportation options from Santa Barbara to Solvang are plentiful. See here.
Consider a stay at the Holiday Inn Santa Barbara Hotel – Goleta. We’ve recommended the property in the past for a good location and always-fresh accommodations, and right now they’re running a buy 2 nights get 1 free special. Not too shabby for a quick Santa Barbara getaway.
Have fun!
Note: Julefest comes from the Danish word “Jul”, which means Christmas or, more specifically, “Yule”. Jul is celebrated in Denmark beginning on the Advent.
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2 Comments
What is happening on Dec.26.09 at the Yule festival? we are planning to be in Solvang over Christmas.
Hi Angelika, glad to hear you’re experiencing Solvang for the holidays.
The answer is that we don’t know. USA Travel Guide is a big fan of Solvang and Julfest, but we’re not affiliated with either. Online event information is coming up pretty short, so I’d recommend taking your question directly to the source.
You’ll find the contact information at the bottom of this press release.
They usually release a more in-depth calendar, but it can come out pretty late in the game. If you’re willing to wait for the answer, just keep your eye on the Web site.
Thanks again.
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