It’s December and there is so much going on in Santa Barbara this time of the year! From holiday markets and parades to wine tours and concerts, there is something for everyone in the American Riviera.

If you still need gift ideas, don’t forget about Santa Barbara Adventure Company’s Gift Certificates! Everyone wants to experience the “Best Kayak Tour” in the nation (yes, we were voted #1 by USA Today’s readers!) or Santa Barbara’s best wine tour (and yes, we were voted #1 Best ‘SB Wine Tour Company’ by The Independent)!

As the year comes to a close, we would like to wish all of our friends and guests a happy and healthy holiday season. Enjoy the events below, cheers!

38th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights
WHEN: Sat, Dec 8th
TIME: 5:30 PM
WHERE: Santa Barbara Harbor
This evening of fun will be capped off by a brief fireworks show. Best viewing locations for the boat parade and fireworks include Stearns Wharf, the breakwater, West Beach, and East Beach. 

Holiday Wine Tour in Santa Ynez
WHEN: Every day in December
TIME: 10 AM to 5 PM
WHERE: Includes pick-up/drop-off in Santa Barbara and transportation to Santa Ynez Valley
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season in Santa Barbara Wine Country! Experience a festive wine tour featuring cozy tasting rooms, seasonal decor, and the crisp beauty of the vineyards in winter. Make your December extra special with this delightful holiday getaway. — Book Now

7th Annual “A Winter Showcase” by The Grace Fisher Foundation
WHEN: Sat, Dec 7th
TIME: 6 PM
WHERE: Granada Theatre
This premier event is dedicated to promoting the arts and disability inclusion and highlighting the incredible talent in Santa Barbara County. The night will include the premiere of a brand new original composition and short film by Grace Fisher, a highly anticipated moment of the evening. Performers include the Santa Barbara Chamber Players, Jackson Gillies, Will Breman, Music Academy of the West- Sing, Elite Dance Company, and more.

Sunset Kayak in Santa Barbara Harbor
WHEN: Every evening in December
WHERE: Santa Barbara Harbor
Winter is the best time of year for sunsets in Santa Barbara due to seasonal weather patterns including offshore winds. These winds keep the coast fog-free and carry medium and high-level clouds across the sky. Join us for a spectacular twilight sky viewing on our very special Sunset Kayak Tour! — Book Now

3rd Annual ZooLights
WHEN: Every day in December
TIME: 4:30-8:30 PM
WHERE: Santa Barbara Zoo
Walk through the Zoo and enjoy an interactive light exhibit, featuring thousands of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns lit with more than 50,000 LED bulbs showcasing animal and nature scenes representing wild places worldwide.

Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour at Channel Islands National Park
WHEN: Every day in December
WHERE: Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island
Yes, it’s true, our Channel Islands kayak tours run year-round! Join us as we explore world-renowned sea caves, giant kelp forests and recreate alongside wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. — Book Now

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Catch a movie at the Arlington Theater
The Arlington Theater at 1317 State Street will be showing holiday favorites throughout the holiday. This historic theater is a great venue for catching a show. The interior has been decorated to resemble a historic village complete with twinkling lights on the ceiling. Relax and enjoy some ction!

Check out of the holiday lights on the SB Trolley Lights
This 90 minute tour takes you to some of the best light displays in town. Snuggle up with a blanket and enjoy all the flashing decor Santa Barbara has to offer. This tour is offered the 9th through the 22nd, but does often sell out – so call in advance to book your date.

Visit one of Santa Barbara’s beautiful parks
There are several parks through out the city for guests of all ages to enjoy. Chase Palm Park sits across from the shoreline, features a marine themed play structure. Downtown you will find Alice Keck Park Gardens featuring a duck pond and wandering paths. Here is a list of other parks in the Santa Barbara area. For the adventurous at heart, there is also the Channel Islands National Park just off the coast of Santa Barbara.

Book an fun activity for the day
If you love to get out and see the sights, then book a biking tour, kayaking trip or SUP tour. Santa Barbara Adventure Company has trips departing every day and can work with groups big or small. The holidays are best when you can come together and explore – let us help you plan a day of bonding and fun this season.

From our family to yours, Santa Barbara Adventure Company wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I hope these suggestions help you make the most of the holiday season, and provide fun for the whole family. If you are looking for some more suggestions and tips, check out all the other trips we offer or give us a ring (805-884-9283)  or send us an email and we will be happy to plan an unforgettable adventure customized just for your needs.

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