Recently named "Best Christmas Town in the U.S.", Julefest is pure holiday magic. The windmills sparkle, carolers wander like characters from a storybook, and the whole village feels wrapped in twinkling lights and good cheer. Each day brings a new festive adventure, warm pastries in the morning, candlelit strolls at night, and joyful moments tucked into every corner. If you’re ready for a December that feels straight out of a holiday tale, Solvang is calling.
Explore Julefest
Julefest transforms Solvang into a month-long celebration of Danish holiday traditions. From the Maker’s Market and Candlelight Tours to Santa’s Village, the Light & Music Show, and the mischievous Nisser Adventure, there’s something magical happening every single week. If you're planning a visit, or just looking to fill your calendar with festive fun, our full Julefest guide has everything you need to make the most of your holiday season.
All Julefest Events
Holiday Honors for Solvang
The votes are in, and Solvang is shining bright this season! We’re thrilled to share that our Danish village was voted #1 Best Christmas Town in the U.S. by TZR (The Zoe Report) readers, securing the top spot thanks to our festive charm, twinkling lights, and beloved Danish traditions.
Even more good news: the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards results are now official, and Solvang once again stood out on the national stage, the only California destination to place within the top five also as a "Best Christmas Town"! It’s an exciting honor that celebrates Solvang’s magic, community spirit, and timeless holiday traditions.
Copenhagen Countdown
Ring in the New Year Danish-style! The Copenhagen Countdown returns to Solvang Park on Wednesday, December 31, featuring The Molly Ringwald Project performing live from 2:00–4:00 PM. At 3:00 PM, we’ll join Denmark in celebrating their midnight with a European-style countdown. Enjoy festive foods, a beer, wine & spirits garden, and family-friendly fun (weather permitting).
Solvang Christmas Tree Burn
One of the Central Coast’s most spectacular (and important!) fire-safety demonstrations returns Friday, January 9. Supervised by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, the Solvang Christmas Tree Burn begins at 5:00 PM and serves as the ceremonial finale to the Julefest season. This fiery tradition brings the community together and marks a warm, glowing end to the winter festivities.
The History of Julefest in Solvang
Solvang’s Julefest traditions date back to the 1960s, when the season began with the beloved Christmas window-unveiling party, every shop revealing its holiday display at exactly 8 p.m., accompanied by music, folk dancing, and Danish treats. Early celebrations also introduced the town’s first Jul Nisser, the playful Danish Christmas elves that appeared in shop windows and along Copenhagen Drive. Thousands of lights, a glowing fir tree in Solvang Park, handmade decorations, Christmas markets, and a parade where Santa arrived each year in a new and surprising way helped shape the magical, Danish-inspired Julefest that continues to delight visitors today.
Discover Solvang History
Recipe Corner: Æbleskiver
Bring a taste of Solvang into your home with this beloved Danish treat! Aebleskiver (round, fluffy pancake balls) are a holiday must during Julefest. Enjoy them warm with powdered sugar, jam, or jelly. This recipe, courtesy of The Solvang Restaurant, is the perfect way to add a little hygge to your holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe
Feel the Magic by Staying in Solvang
Turn your holiday visit into a festive getaway with seasonal lodging specials throughout Solvang. Stay steps away from Julefest events, cozy shops, holiday lights, and delicious dining. You’ll find the perfect home base for your winter escape here.
Lodging Deals and PackagesThere’s still time to experience the enchantment of Solvang Julefest. Our Danish village is glowing with holiday warmth, Scandinavian traditions, and festive moments waiting on every corner. Wander, sip, shop, and soak in the joy that makes this season in Solvang truly unforgettable. Before the holidays slip away, come make a little more magic with us.
