Solvang Julefest

Christmas is a magical time of year and Solvang Julefest is the perfect way to celebrate the season. You can join in the fun for a day or spend a few days in this wonderful Christmassy Danish Village in California.

Julefest (pronounced ‘yule-fest’) runs daily from December 1st to January 5th. Special events vary throughout the festival, but there is fun to be had each and every day.

I was there for the Julefest Wine and Beer Walk (Skal Stroll) this year, which was a lot of fun. Other special events include:

• Shop, Mingle and Jingle entertainment and deals
• Candlelight tours (free!)
• Live music in the Park
• Visit with Santa
• Nativity Pagent
• Holiday Lights Tour
• Farmer’s Market
• Christmas Tree Burn

One of my favorite activities is one that visitors can do any day at their own pace and it’s free to participate. Jule Nisse is a magical elf-like creature popular in Danish folklore. Nisse is said to bring good luck and prosperity and, also, Nisse likes to hide. There are a dozen lucky Nisse hidden throughout downtown Solvang.

Stop by the Solvang Visitors’ Center to pick up a map and list of clues, so that you can find all 12 hidden Nisse. Take a picture of each one with your phone and then return to the Center to show them your pictures. Then, they’ll give you a little prize. This is a fun way for adults and kids to explore the town.

Solvang Julefest Photo Gallery