The holiday season in Santa Barbara arrives with its own kind of magic – sunlit days, crisp evenings, and a calendar full of community traditions that make this time of year feel truly special. From festive parades to cozy neighborhood gatherings, here are some of the best ways to celebrate along the American Riviera this season.
Santa Barbara Holiday Parade of Lights
Date: December 14, 2025
Time: 2pm
Location: Santa Barbara Harbor
Celebrate the 39th Annual Santa Barbara Parade of Lights at the waterfront on Sunday, December 14! Festivities kick off with a Winter Wonderland on the City Pier from 3–5 PM, featuring 10 tons of snow, holiday elves, goodie bags, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The Human-Powered Parade begins at 2 PM, with kayakers and paddleboarders looping the Harbor and Stearns Wharf in festive attire. Then, at 5:30 PM, around 30 illuminated boats will light up the coastline from Leadbetter Beach to the Cabrillo Pavilion before returning to Stearns Wharf.
The evening wraps up with a fireworks show at approximately 7 PM. Best viewing spots include Stearns Wharf, the breakwater, West Beach, and East Beach.
Boat registration is free and open to all, with five categories available: human-powered, power, sail, commercial fishing, and commercial others. Entry forms are available online or at participating harbor locations.
This annual event is presented by the 2025 Parade of Lights Committee and sponsored by the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department, Santa Barbara Harbor Merchants Association, Stearns Wharf Business Association, and the Santa Barbara Yacht Club.
Photo and information – Courtesy of Santa Barbara, The American Riviera
Santa Barbara Festival Ballet Presents 50th Anniversary of The Nutcracker
Date / Time: December 13th at 2:30 pm and 7 pm and December 14th at 2:30 pm.
Location: The Arlington Theatre
Website: https://www.arlingtontheatresb.com/event-details/the-nutcracker-2
Admission: $52 – $225
Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Barbara Festival Ballet celebrates the 50th anniversary of The Nutcracker at the historic Arlington Theatre. This milestone production features internationally acclaimed guest artists—Misa Kuranaga with San Francisco Ballet, Angelo Greco from Houston Ballet, and Alexandra Hutchinson and Kouadio Davis with Dance Theatre of Harlem—accompanied by a live symphony orchestra conducted by Elise Unruh.
Stunning stage elements, dazzling choreography, and powerful performances will enchant audiences of all ages in this unforgettable holiday tradition.
Photo and information – Courtesy of Santa Barbara, The American Riviera
Downtown Holiday Sing-Along with the Prime Time Band
Date: December 12, 2025
Time: 6pm to 8pm
Location: Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Admission: Free
Celebrate the season with a festive Downtown Holiday Sing-Along featuring the Prime Time Band, a 60+ piece ensemble, along with local school groups! Enjoy live music on the steps of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and join in singing your favorite holiday songs in a joyful, community-filled evening.
This heartwarming event is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, surrounded by music, cheer, and friends.
Sponsored by Consumer Fire Products Inc. and Big Red Crane Co.
Photo and information – Courtesy of Santa Barbara, The American Riviera
As our community comes alive with festive traditions, I hope you enjoy every moment of the holiday season here on the South Coast. If you’re dreaming of making Santa Barbara your home in the new year, I’d be delighted to help.
Contact Gary today at 805-455-8910 or email him at [email protected] for a personalized consultation, and let’s make your holiday season even brighter with the right home for you!
