The Danish Capital of America

On view through Monday, October 12th. Open Saturday and Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Monday, Thursday and Friday 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Plein air artists capture the valley's rolling hills, rivers and vineyards in watercolor, oil, pastel and more at the California Nature Art Museum. Most works are for sale, benefiting both the artists and the museum, so catch this exhibition before it closes. Museum admission applies.

The California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM) is pleased to announce the opening of its latest exhibition Untamed Desert ~ Captured by Paulette Donnellon. The show will be on view from July 26, 2026 to January 18, 2027 in the museum’s Valley Oak Gallery.

Vast, rugged, and full of life, Untamed Desert is a photographic tribute to the extraordinary beauty of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. From the powerful, sure-footed climb of a desert bighorn sheep along rugged ridgelines to the alert, wide-eyed stance of a burrowing owl guarding its sandy doorway, each image reflects Donnellon’s deep reverence for this arid landscape. More than a visual journey, this exhibition is a celebration of the park’s wild spirit and a reminder that even in the harshest environments, beauty endures.

Through the Eyes of Bjørn Wiinblad

Step into the colorful, imaginative world of Danish artist Bjørn Wiinblad at Elverhøj Museum of History & Art. This major exhibition celebrates Wiinblad’s distinctive style, whimsical figures, vibrant colors, and joyful approach to art and design. Discover the remarkable creativity and boundless imagination that made his work instantly recognizable around the world.

On View: August 22, 2026–January 10, 2027

Thursday – Monday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, Solvang

Admission – $5 Adults, $4 Seniors, children under 12 free

Saturday, September 26th through Saturday, October 3rd, during library hours (closes at 3:00 PM on October 3rd).

Book lovers, take note: the Solvang Library lobby fills with gently used titles for a week-long sale. Browse the shelves and take home a stack of new reads for a song, all in support of your local library.

A beloved Solvang tradition, the Scarecrow Fest features dozens of creative scarecrows crafted by local businesses and residents. Visitors can stroll through town all October long to see the unique displays and vote for their favorites.

Join us for a restorative afternoon at the estate featuring vineyard yoga, wine tasting, and a leisurely picnic among the vines. Begin with a guided outdoor yoga session surrounded by sweeping estate views, then settle into deep relaxation during an immersive sound bath experience designed to reset mind and body.

Afterward, continue the afternoon with a curated tasting of estate wines and a picnic lunch enjoyed at your own pace in the serene beauty of the property. Whether you come to unwind, reconnect, or simply savor the moment, this is the perfect blend of wellness, wine, and wine country escape.

Saturday, October 3rd

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Awards ceremony in Solvang Park in the late afternoon)
Location: Centered around Copenhagen Drive and Solvang Park
Cost: Free for spectators

Enjoy a stunning display of vintage cars, hot rods, and timeless classics, all set against the charm of our Danish-inspired village. It’s a fun-filled day of chrome, community, and classic automotive style you won’t want to miss.

All proceeds from the event support the philanthropic work of the Vikings of Solvang, providing funding for medically related needs in the Santa Ynez Valley.

For more information: https://www.vikingsofsolvang.org/carshow

Saturday, October 3rd from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Solvang's neighborhood craft beer and wine cellar marks 14 years with an all-day thank-you celebration. Expect music, special pricing on favorite craft beers and local wines, and giveaways throughout the day.

Saturday, October 3rd, 4:00pm – 5:30pm

Enjoy wines from the Santa Ynez Valley, along with Solvang bites.  

List of particpants coming. 

The Solvang Grand Tasting will take place on Second Street in front of Solvang Festival Theater (420 2nd St Solvang, CA 93463) from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. 

This ticket does not include entry into the Solvang Dinner. Do not buy this ticket if you plan to purchase the dinner ticket. Dinner tickets include the tasting.

Must be 21+ to attend.

Tickets & More Information: https://eventsbyenfuego.ticketsauce.com/e/taste-of-the-santa-ynez-valley-26/tickets

Saturday, October 3rd, 4:00pm – 8:00pm

Indulge in an unforgettable evening in Solvang, California. Join us for a grand tasting of Santa Barbara County wines in the garden of Solvang Festival Theater. 

After the tasting, enjoy an al fresco, multi-course, family-style dinner at long tables on Second Street, set for 100 guests. Each course, crafted by a Solvang Chef, will be perfectly paired with Santa Ynez Valley wines. Featured restaurants will include Peasants Feast, Whiskey ‘N Rye, The Gathering Table, and Olsen’s Bakery. 

Begin your evening with a tasting reception from 4pm – 5:30pm. The Solvang Dinner will take place on a closed portion of Second Street from 6pm – 8 pm.

Presented by the City of Solvang. 

Must be 21+ to attend.

Tickets & Mor Information: https://eventsbyenfuego.ticketsauce.com/e/taste-of-the-santa-ynez-valley-26/tickets

Saturday, October 3rd, 8 – 10 p.m.

Join us on the stage of the Solvang Festival Theater for specialty drinks by Rock12 Distillery for an intimate 50 guests. 

Experience a rare behind the scenes look at the Solvang Festival Theater’s inner workings. 

Tickets & More Information: https://eventsbyenfuego.ticketsauce.com/e/taste-of-the-santa-ynez-valley-26/tickets

Sunday, October 4th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Raise a stein for a great cause at The Center's annual Oktoberfest, formerly the Solvang Senior Center's, with a Solvang twist. Enjoy a hearty meal from High on the Hog catering, local wine and craft beer, and live blues in the beautiful outdoor Theaterfest Garden.

A live auction and the Center's famous dessert auction round out the afternoon. Tickets are $150 per person, and every one supports The Center.

Friday, November 6th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday, November 7th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Queen of Arts returns to the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art for a festive holiday shopping experience featuring handcrafted works from more than 20 regional artists and makers.

Discover a curated collection of art, jewelry, ceramics, home décor, accessories and one-of-a-kind gifts, and support talented Santa Ynez Valley artists while you check off your holiday list.

Grab your flock and get ready for the most fun night of the season – Turkey Bingo! 50 chances to win & fun for the entire family!

When: Saturday, November 14, 2026

Doors open at 4pm, Bingo is 5-9pm

Where: Solvang Veterans Hall

VIP Tables Available for Purchase: more information to come

Saturday, November 21st from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Get a jump on holiday shopping at the California Nature Art Museum's annual market of local small businesses, artists and makers. It's the place to find unique, handcrafted gifts you won't see anywhere else.

Thursday, November 26th from 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Leave the prep, the cooking and the cleanup to Craft House at Corque. Enjoy a buffet of traditional Thanksgiving favorites with some delicious Craft House additions. Adults $79, children 3 to 12 $30, and reservations are recommended.

It’s time for Solvang’s annual Julefest celebration extraordinaire, when the entire Danish-style village transforms into a glowing winter wonderland filled with lights, laughter, and old-world holiday charm. Recognized as one of the “Most Magical Christmas Towns and Villages Across the World” by Oprah Daily, Solvang delivers an unforgettable European-inspired holiday experience right in the heart of California’s Central Coast.

From November 27, 2025 through January 3, 2026, Julefest unfolds as more than a single event — it is a month-plus celebration of tradition, community, and seasonal joy. The village streets sparkle with thousands of twinkling lights, festive décor adorns the iconic Danish architecture, and the scent of fresh-baked pastries and mulled wine drifts through the crisp winter air.

Throughout the season, guests can enjoy:

• Seasonal music and live entertainment, including choirs, bands, and cultural performances that celebrate Solvang’s Danish heritage.
• Signature events like the Julefest Parade, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa visits, and family-friendly festivities that bring generations together.
• Holiday shopping at its most charming, with locally owned boutiques, artisan markets, and specialty shops offering handcrafted gifts, Scandinavian imports, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
• Culinary delights, wine, and beer, from traditional Danish treats like æbleskiver and kringle to award-winning wines and craft brews from the Santa Ynez Valley.

Julefest captures the essence of hygge — the Danish art of cozy contentment — inviting visitors to slow down, gather with loved ones, and savor the simple pleasures of the season. Whether strolling beneath illuminated windmills, warming up with a cup of gløgg, or sharing laughter at a festive event, every corner of Solvang radiates welcoming holiday spirit.

Rooted in authentic Scandinavian tradition yet infused with Central Coast warmth, Solvang Julefest offers a rare blend of European atmosphere, small-town hospitality, and nationally recognized charm. It’s not just a holiday celebration — it’s an immersive experience that draws visitors from near and far to celebrate the season in truly magical style.

So bundle up, bring your holiday spirit, and join us for a month of lights, celebration, and community.

Skål — to joy, togetherness, and a season well celebrated!

November 27th, 2026 – January 3rd, 2027

Join in on the city-wide hunt for the mischievous Solvang Nisser (Danish for “gnome”)! This group of Nisser have hidden themselves throughout Downtown Solvang and we need your help tracking them down. Find one, or find them all as you enjoy all that Downtown Solvang has to offer. Fun for the whole family!

All Julefest long, pop into the Solvang Visitor Center for a list of clues to the various hiding spots the Nisser frequents.

Santa’s Village will open on Saturday, November 28th and will be open every Saturday and Sunday November 28th, 29th and December 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, and 20th, 2026 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Come on out and meet Mr. Claus with Christmas lists at the ready!

*This event is rain or shine.