Is a trip to Europe not in the books this season? No worries – you only need to drive 4 hours for all the vibes! In Solvang, you can stroll down Copenhagen Drive and taste authentic Danish pastries such as Aebleskiver. Don’t forget to sip on regional wine, as Solvang – unlike Denmark – in actually soaking in sun. Shop from local boutique shops, and explore the cute little town via four-wheeled surrey cycles, or historic wooden streetcars pulled by beautiful horses.
Solvang, a much-awarded city
If you don’t trust us when we say this town is a real-life fairytale…maybe you trust the many awards it holds! Solvang was voted as “Best Small Town in the West” in USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards. It also lands in top 5 for “Best Small Town Food Scene.”
Oh, and if you were wondering when’s the best time to visit…it’s now! Solvang was voted #1 “Best U.S. Christmas Town” in TZR’s Reader’s Choice Poll. It also made Newsweek’s top 4 “Best Christmas Town” award.
Okay, one more – it was called the “Most Magical Christmas Towns and Villages Across the World” by Oprah Daily.
Ready to visit now? Here’s what you can’t miss this holiday season.
Solvang Julefest
If you visit Solvang in December, you’re right in time for the month-long celebration of Julefest. You’ll find so many sparkling lights, celebratory events, and holiday cheer. The celebrations last all the way through January 4, 2026. It’s fun for the whole family, with seasonal music, holiday shopping, delicious food and drinks, and more. Here’s the breakdown:
Maker’s Market – Wednesday’s Dec 17 from 3 PM – 7 PM
Fashioned after traditional European markets, it will feature local artisans, crafters, and food vendors offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and seasonal treats. It’s an open-air Christmas market under the stars!
Photos with Santa Paws – Saturday, December 13, from 10 AM – 12 PM
Therapy Dogs of America returns with their festive Santa Paws photo booth in Solvang Park, 1630 Mission Drive. Bring your own pup for a cute holiday snapshot or pose with one of their friendly therapy dogs! This is a free event.
Christmas Matters Holiday Carolers – December 13 & 20 from 5 PM – 8 PM
On Saturdays leading up to Christmas, you can enjoy the delightful performances of the Christmas Matters Holiday Carolers.
Copenhagen Countdown – December 3, from 2 PM – 4 PM
The local NYE event. It’s a festive celebration featuring live music and a European-style countdown to Danish midnight (3 PM). There’ll be loads of delicious food, beer, and wine.
Solvang Christmas Tree Burn – January 9, 5 PM
The Solvang Tree Burn is a powerful safety demonstration at the start of the New Year, heralding the end of the Solvang Julefest celebration.
Oh, and before you leave town, be sure to stop by Jule Hus. This is Solvang’s dedicated Christmas shop since 1967, where you can pick out a handcrafted ornament.
Visiting Solvang
With so many wonderful seasonal activities, and about a million awards under its belt, we have to conclude that Solvang is definitely worth the drive from San Diego. Make it a weekend so you can take your time and enjoy everything this town has to offer. From iconic old-world architecture and charming cottage-style streets to fantastic wine and beautiful traditions, Solvang truly has something for everyone.