by Noella Noelophile®
“The Gift of Peace.”
That’s a gift that’s all-too-precious today. As we approach Christmas, 2015–and wish for everyone to receive it–it’s also the theme of Solvang’s 2015 Julefest.
Solvang opens its traditional Danish Christmas celebration this Friday, December 4, with their tree lighting ceremony, from 5:00 to 6:30 pm in Solvang Park. Tap dancers, ballerinas and a carol sing-along will all be part of the festivities.
And that’s just the beginning.
Julefest, in Solvang, continues with their Julefest Parade, Saturday morning, December 5, starting at 11 at Mission Drive. The parade route goes down to Fourth Place, then east on Copenhagen Drive.
The following Saturday, December 12, the outdoor Solvang Festival Theatre brings the Christmas story to life with a live Nativity pageant. A choir, live animals and actors in traditional costumes are featured in these two free performances, at 5 and 7 pm. (As you might expect, these are popular, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Get there early!)
Meanwhile, if you’re finishing up your Christmas shopping, Solvang’s small businesses invite you to enjoy their hospitality! The first two weekends in December are themed, “Shop, Mingle and Jingle”, and for December 4-6 and December 11-13, local shops host open houses, with extended hours, free gift wrapping and refreshments.
Of course, no Christmas celebration–in Danish or otherwise–is complete without Santa! He’ll be around for free visits in Solvang Park’s Santa Village, both weekends. Since his hours vary, I’ve published them below (with thanks to the Solvang Chamber of Commerce!):
Santa Visits
December 4th – 4 –8 PM
December 5th -12:30-4:30PM
December 6th – 11 AM–2:00 PM
December 12th – 10 AM-4 PM
December 13th – 11 AM-2PM
Okay–there’s more! Solvang’s “Julefest Wine Walk”, for those over 21, happens Saturday and Sunday, December 12th and 13th. This is a two-day passport to more than 13 wine-tasting rooms in the area. Here’s the link for information.
And–here’s a quick heads-up. Last Christmas, Solvang’s “Christmas Lights and Sights” sold out, according to their Facebook page!
No wonder. These are two trolley tours, each lasting just over an hour, leaving from Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall. Trolleys take their passengers throughout Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley, showing them the area’s most beautiful Christmas lights (and serving hot chocolate!)
This year’s edition of Solvang’s “Christmas Lights and Sights” happens Tuesday, December 15th. Trolleys leave at 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm. The phone number for information is (805) 688-PLAY, and you may want to call NOW.
So–Glaedelig Jul! This Christmas, may you experience the gift of peace, wherever you may be.