Solvang, often referred to as the “Danish Village,” has recently been named the second-best Christmas town in the United States by Newsweek. Located in Santa Barbara County, this charming town is also recognized as California’s top holiday destination.

Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, famous for its wineries and close to Highway 246, Solvang transforms into a festive wonderland from late November through early January. Newsweek praises Solvang’s unique way of celebrating Christmas, particularly highlighting the annual Julefest, pronounced “yool-fest,” which draws crowds from far and wide.

During the Julefest, visitors can indulge in Danish pastries, beautiful holiday decorations, parades, and live performances. The festivities kick off with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in early December and conclude with a dramatic tree bonfire on New Year’s Day. Every evening, the town hosts various activities, including scavenger hunts, candlelight tours, and an enchanting light show in the downtown park. For more information about the Julefest, you can visit [Solvang’s official website](https://solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvang-julefest/).

Located just two hours north of Los Angeles, Solvang is a favorite getaway for many Southern Californians. With its European ambiance, visitors can relax and enjoy wine tasting. The town is also famous for its traditional Danish goods, including wooden shoes and aebleskivers, a delightful pastry that resembles a cross between a doughnut and a pancake. Unlike in Denmark, where aebleskivers are typically a holiday treat, you can find them year-round in Solvang.

This isn’t the first time Solvang has been recognized for its Christmas celebrations. In 2022, it was voted “Best Small Town in California.” This year, Texas’s Grapevine took the top spot as the best Christmas town, with Solvang in second place and Healdsburg in Sonoma County claiming third. For a complete list of the winners, check [Newsweek’s article](https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice/best-christmas-town).