There is nothing more appealing than wandering through the crisp holiday streets of Santa Barbara. Although there might be no snow or changing winter leaves, this city still has its Christmas perks. Going up and down State Street, you will find yourself listening to holiday carols and peak musical showcases. Continuing on State Street, a path is opened to walk on the wharf, where a Christmas tree is decorated with an assortment of lights, and shiny ornaments. Off to the east where the Zoo lies, colors illuminate the sky like a painting. In the final act, the ocean gleams with a dazzling display of inflatable Christmas decorations on boats in the harbor. Here are a few activities to keep your holidays merry and bright even if you are staying local for break.
Grace Fisher Winter Showcase:
For the eighth year in a row, musicians and performers have gathered in the Granada Theatre to put on the Winter Music Showcase in celebration of the Grace Fisher Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on people with disabilities and makes sure they can perform the arts they love. This cherished Santa Barbara tradition is performed by the Inclusive Arts Clubhouse, part of the Grace Fisher Foundation, and in this performance, they play music and show different types of talents. The Grace Fisher Foundation and the people participating are proud to present featured local talents to our community for the Christmas holidays. The showcase will happen on December 14th at 6:00 p.m., and the cost for admission ranges between 30-88 dollars.
2. The Stearns Wharf Tree:
On December sixth, a 25ft Christmas tree on Stearns Wharf was draped in lights and filled with ornaments in celebration of the winter season. There was music played by local DJ Scott Topper, and performances by the Dos Pueblos High School choir.
3. ZooLights:
For the third year in a row, the Santa Barbara Zoo puts on a display of colorful lights and Christmas events. At the Zoo, the guests can walk under the lighting of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns that are made to look like animals. On top of this, guests have interactive zones with the animals around the zoo, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. This year the Zoo introduced AdultsNights, a way to bring in adults to drink booze, listen to live music while experiencing the ZooLights. The ZooLights began in late November and will end on January 11th of 2026 the time during the day the festival takes place is 4:30pm-8:30pm. The next AdultNight will be on December 18th, at 4:30pm-8:30pm. Admission for the ZooLights will be between 20-34 dollars, while the AdultsNights general admission will be 34 dollars.
4. The Parade of Lights:
Coming this December 14th, Santa Barbara celebrates its 39th annual Parade of Lights festival down at the harbor. .Taylor Escola explains what happens during the parade: ”boat owners would decorate their boat to fit the holiday spirit and go around the harbor in a circle displaying it.”
Wintertime is here along with a vast amount of local activities. There are many opportunities to celebrate in some way. From listening to holiday choral music to watching boats sail with Santa Claus hoisted on the mast. The holidays are a time to celebrate tradition and spending time with family and friends, so don’t be a loner and get out there.