One Of America’s Best Christmas Towns Has Announced Its 2025 Return — And You Can Reach It From L.A. In Less Than 3 Hours

If you think Solvang, a.k.a. “The Danish Capital of America,” is already Christmassy most of the year, then just wait until you see it during Julefest . The 2025 Solvang Christmas celebration is a month-long winter escape where the quaint hamlet is filled with twinkling lights, traditional ornaments, seasonal treats, and other holiday delights. And we’re not the only ones who think Solvang is a Christmas paradise — Solvang was named the second best Christmas town in the entire United States, according to this study from Newsweek. Julefest kicks off on Nov. 28, 2025, and you can enjoy the Christmas festivities through Jan. 4, 2026. Will you bring a little hygge into your holidays this year? Things to do at Solvang Julefest -------------------------------- Solvang Julefest offers a fantastic range of delightful activities and spectacles in an alluring Scandinavian setting. Hop on the Solvang Trolley for an entertaining Christmas light tour, snag a spot on the coveted Candlelight tours led by costumed guides, or hop around town for the Nisser Adventure scavenger hunt. The festivities include ongoing entertainment throughout the town, ranging from a festive tree lighting ceremony and parade at the beginning of December, to a huge Makers Market where you can pick up unique holiday gifts. Each evening, crowds gather in Solvang Park to catch the synchronized light and music show. After all this merriment, you may find yourself a little peckish, and you’ll be drawn to the array of cheeses, cured meats, and pastries throughout Solvang. You’ll basically eat your way through the town , stopping at the most iconic places like Cailloux Cheese Shop, Bit O Denmark, Crawford Family Wines, and Olsen’s Bakery for bites and sips all through the new year. This year, Julefest has expanded the attractions to be more available on weekdays, so there are plenty of opportunities to see Solvang at its best. Visiting Solvang Julefest ------------------------- It takes about 3.5 hours to reach Solvang by car from Los Angeles. If you’re planning to stay overnight, the city of Solvang recommends booking your hotel as soon as possible, as Julefest always draws major crowds to the small town — estimated at over 50,000 people a year. 📍 Location : Solvang, California 🗓️ Dates : Nov. 28, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026 🌐 Website : Solvang Julefest Source: https://secretlosangeles.com/solvang-christmas-julefest-california-best-christmas-town/