What’s December like in Santa Barbara? We’re like the rest of the country, but with fewer layers and more beach days. Our coastal town gets festive during the holidays and puts on may fun, family friendly events. Check out just a few of the most popular holiday events this month.
66TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN SANTA BARBARA HOLIDAY PARADE
More than 65,000 spectators will line State Street in anticipation of Santa Barbara’s only nighttime parade, the 66th Annual Downtown Santa Barbara Holiday Parade, Presented by Consumer Fire Products Inc! Officially kicking off the holiday season, this signature Downtown Santa Barbara event brings a colossal contingent of high-stepping marching bands, fabulous holiday-themed floats, spectacular performance groups, and local personalities.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 at 6:30PM on State Street, from Sola St. to Cota St.
https://www.downtownsb.org/events/downtown-holiday-parade
32ND ANNUAL PARADE OF LIGHTS AT THE HARBOR
Commemorate the holiday season and celebrate the 32nd Annual Parade of Lights. Starting with fun for the entire family at Santa’s Village, the event culminates with a 5-minute fireworks display. The boat parade is preceded by Santa’s Village activities beginning at 3 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Harbor. Hundreds of families will come out to play in 10 tons of snow and take photos with Santa to get into the holiday spirit. The first 400 children receive free goody bags from Santa’s helpers!
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2018 at 3:00PM on Harbor Way, Santa Barbara
https://www.santabarbaraca.gov/gov/depts/waterfront/events/light_parade.asp
SANTA BARBARA NIGHT MARKET
Santa Barbara, also known as the Californian Riviera, will host the first ever European-style Christmas Night Market at 701 State Street (formerly Macy’s) in Paseo Nuevo Shops & Restaurants.
Every Christmas, all over Europe, craftsmen, retailers, wineries and artisans exhibit their goods in a traditional night market often known for its lively and unique shopping experience. This year, Santa Barbara Night Market LLC, is proud to bring this tradition to State Street with holiday themed décor, live music, carolers, food, beverages and all the best products the Central Coast has to offer!
NOV 23, 2018 – DEC 29, 2019 from 4:00PM – 10:00PM
RECURRING WEEKLY ON SUNDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY
https://santabarbaranightmarket.com/
NUTCRACKER AT THE GRANADA
State Street Ballet brings this annual favorite to the grandeur of The Granada. Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra and the talented students of Gustafson Dance join State Street Ballet’s professional dancers in this celebration of the magic of the holiday season. Through virtuosic dancing, opulent sets and costumes, and brilliant comedic moments, the beloved story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince delights audiences of all ages. Three performances only!
SATURDAY, DEC 15, 2018 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm
SUNDAY, DEC 16 at 2:00pm