The S. Y. Valley Residents Association, a Santa Ynez Valley community group, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Solvang challenging the city’s processing of the application of the Wildwood development near Solvang’s eastern gateway, the corner of Highway 246 (Mission Drive) and Alamo Pintado Road.  

SYVRA’s lawsuit contends that the City Planning staff acted improperly: 1) in processing the defective preliminary application for the Wildwood project, 2) in unilaterally revising the full development application, and 3) in ultimately finding the development application complete.  The lawsuit asks the court to declare the application void and of no effect and to issue a writ of mandate requiring the city to cease processing the application. It also asks the court to vacate the determination of completeness made by City Planning and to deem the City Planning manager’s actions to unilaterally revise the application a violation of state law.

The Wildwood Project was proposed by developer Joshua Richman/Lots on Alamo Pintado, LLC of Oakland, California, to be constructed both on undeveloped lands northwest of the corner of Alamo Pintado Road and Old Mission Drive and on a portion of the open space area of the Mission Oaks subdivision. The developer filed the application as a “Builder’s Remedy” project, including a 100-unit multi-family housing development that includes seven buildings, reduced parking, and setback requirements. Current zoning on the site allows up to 56 units, 36 of which are planned for affordable housing.

Applications for Builder’s Remedy projects were permitted to be filed during the period that Solvang was out of compliance with the state’s Housing Accountability Act, whereby the city was required to update the Housing Element of its General Plan to identify affordable housing locations. The city’s Housing Element was out of compliance with state housing laws for eight months, from June 15, 2023, until Feb. 12, 2024. While the city was out of compliance, the developer filed a Builders Remedy “Preliminary Application” on Oct. 6, 2023. Once the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development certified the city’s revised Housing Element in February 2024, no new Builder’s Remedy projects could be applied for, but projects already in the pipeline that were compliant with the Builder’s Remedy law could still proceed.  

SYVRA observed that the developer failed to submit a compliant “Preliminary Application” for the Builder’s Remedy project because it failed to include signatures from all of the landowners of the proposed project site, including the owners of the Mission Oaks subdivision lands, which is specifically required by the Builder’s Remedy statute. The city notified the developer of the omission, but the developer did not respond. The Builder’s Remedy law requires the preliminary application to be voided if defects in the application are not corrected within six months of submittal. SYVRA said the developer failed to correct the defective preliminary application in a timely manner, and when the Housing Element was certified, the developer could not amend or resubmit a Builder’s Remedy project application for Wildwood. 

The SYVRA claims that despite being notified of the defects in the proposed Wildwood project’s preliminary application, the city and its planning staff then accepted and began processing the developer’s subsequent full application for the Builder’s Remedy project. The developer continuously refused to supply required information requested by the city and then revised its full project application to reduce the number of affordable housing units to 13, which further disqualified the Wildwood project from processing as a Builder’s Remedy development. The City Planning staff then unilaterally revised the application to conform to the affordable housing requirements of the Builder’s Remedy law, and determined the application for the Wildwood project was complete, a critical milestone in the city’s project review process.  

“We are not opposing the project — we are simply asking that it be brought into compliance with the law,” said a SYVRA spokesperson. “We believe in thoughtful development that benefits the entire Santa Ynez Valley and provides needed affordable housing, while respecting our community’s rural character and the integrity of the city’s zoning and land use planning laws.”

The post Lawsuit filed against city to stop Wildwood development appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

The Board of Directors and staff of the California Nature Art Museum (www.calnatureartmuseum.org) proudly announce their 25th anniversary celebration and fundraiser at Vincent Vineyards in Santa Ynez on Sunday, May 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Embracing nostalgia, guests will enjoy an array of scrapbooks, photo collages, and exhibition monographs from the early days of the museum’s founding, staff and board presentations, and a live auction to follow the delicious lunch on the patio which overlooks the vineyard. A springtime-inspired, locally sourced luncheon catered by High on the Hog promises delicious bites accompanied by the award-winning wines of Vincent Vineyard and floral birthday cake from Solvang Bakery. Key donors, board members, and founder and artist Patti Jacquemain will be honored at the luncheon.
Tickets are on sale now at www.calnatureartmuseum.org/news/25th-anniversary-celebration

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On Tuesday, April 1, Chef Michael Cherney and his wife, Sarah Cherney, owners of Solvang restaurant peasants FEAST (www.peasantsFEAST.com), celebrated their first five years in business with a downtown Solvang block party on a closed-to-traffic section of Copenhagen Drive. At the family-friendly afternoon event from 4 to 7 p.m., friends and fans of the Cherney Hospitality group joined in full force for food from some of peasants FEAST’s culinary colleagues, craft beers and local wines, and party-appropriate activities and entertainment.

Hundreds of community members gathered between the Cherneys’ two downtown Solvang eateries, peasants FEASTand peasants DELI & ARCADE, to “feast” on what amounted to 200-plus smashburgers from Santa Barbara’s Third Window Brewing Co.; more than 100 gyros from Motley Crew Ranch; quesabirria tacos, elote cups, and more from The Birria Boyz; sweets of all sorts from Lindsay’s Little Bakery; and a special “birthday” sheet cake from peasants FEAST Executive Pastry Chef Taylor Tate, delicately adorned with in-season flora.

Local beers from Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. and Third Window Brewing Co., and wines from Future Perfect, filled guest’s cups, while Santa Barbara County’s DJ Peetey spun tunes that had partiers — of all ages — literally dancing in the street. The arcade at peasants DELI was open for gaming fun, Buzzle Bee Face Painting decorated long lines of little faces, and 805 Camera Bus captured moments and memories from within their vintage Volkswagen.

“Our main goal with peasants FEAST was to create a community-focused restaurant, a place for our colleagues to showcase their produce and products, and to join us at the table,” said Michael Cherney. “Turns out, we’re well on our way toward that goal. And that community? We can’t believe the love that they’ve shown us these past five years, and itwas on full display this past Tuesday night. We are beyond honored, and were so happy to celebrate with everyone who has made peasants FEAST what it is.”

peasants FEAST is located at 487 Atterdag Road, in downtown Solvang (at the corner of Copenhagen Drive). peasantsDELI & ARCADE is at 473 Atterdag Road, #104, across Copenhagen Drive from peasants FEAST. peasants FEAST and peasants DELI & ARCADE are currently open for take-away service, indoor or outdoor dining, Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. To reach peasants FEAST directly, please call (805) 686-4555.

The post peasants FEAST restaurant celebrates five years with block party appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District Board, 5:30 p.m.

Board Room, Administration Office, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, 2975 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: www.syvuhsd.org

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16

Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, 9 a.m.

Betteravia Government Center, 511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

Santa Ynez Community Services District, 5:30 p.m.

At Community Services District Building, 1070 Faraday St.

For more info: sycsd.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17

Solvang Design Review Committee, 5 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

Buellton Planning Commission, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23

Los Alamos Community Services District, 6 p.m.

At LACSD Board Room, 82 Saint Joseph St., Los Alamos

For more info: losalamoscsd.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 24

Buellton City Council, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, APRIL 28

Solvang City Council, 6:30 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30

Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, 9 a.m.

123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

EVENTS

THURSDAY, APRIL 17

Cottage Heart & Vascular Center Virtual Meet the Doctor, 4 p.m.

Cottage Heart & Vascular Center presents a free Virtual Meet the Doctor event on Thursday, April 17, from 4 to 5 p.m., featuring cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon Dr. Michael Paulsen, who will lead a conversation on advances in cardiac surgery have improved in the diagnoses, treatment and quality of life for heart disease patients. The event will also feature a Q&A session. 

To register for this free virtual event, go to cottagehealth.org/heartmtd

SATURDAY, APRIL 19

High Tea Garden Party, 3 to 5 p.m.

Join us for a delightful afternoon of high tea in the garden, where spring comes alive in full bloom! Dress in your finest florals and chic hats to embrace the season’s charm. Savor a selection of delicious drinks and bite-sized treats, all while being surrounded by the serene beauty of our garden. This special event supports our local botanic garden, offering the perfect setting to relax, connect, and celebrate nature’s vibrant colors. Admission is $50 for members and $100 for non-members.

At Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden (in River View Park), 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton

For more info: santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.org

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, AND SATURDAY, APRIL 26

38th Annual Solvang Datsun Roadster Classic, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

This legendary show is traditionally held the last Saturday in April each year in Solvang. Nearly 100 Datsun Roadsters descend the town for a get-together on Friday night and the day-long show and shine on 1st Street with Datsun Roadster enthusiasts attending from all over the world. Raffle proceeds go to the American Diabetes Association.

To register, go to ww04.elbowspace.com/secure/20161029130157801040

At 1st Street in Solvang

Solvang Knife Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Friday); 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Saturday)

A must see – the 2025 Solvang Custom Knife Show happens beginning Friday, April 25, and continues on Saturday, April 26, in Solvang.

One-day and two-day passes are available for purchase at the door on the days of the event. One-day passes will be $20 and two-day passes will be $35. Preserving the tradition started in 1985 by Nordic Knives, we are continuing this highly prestigious custom knife show. Meet the artists and find out the process and history of their work. Artist from various parts of the world come together to display some of the finest and most collectible knives ever created.

At Craft House at Corque, 420 Alisal Road, Solvang

For more info: solvangcustomknifeshow.com

SATURDAY, MAY 3

Buellton Brew Fest, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Join us for the annual Buellton Brew Fest. Taking place on Saturday, May 3, at River View Park, this event promises an exciting lineup of craft breweries, wineries, ciders, kombucha, and spirits — over 55 in total!

Don’t forget your Star Wars costumes for our costume contest, with prizes awarded on stage! Enjoy live entertainment by DJ Peete and Will Breman, alongside delicious food trucks, merchant vendors, and fun activities like mega-sized beer pong and cornhole.

Presented by the Buellton Chamber of Commerce, this event offers VIP and General Admission tickets, with VIP entry starting at 11:30 a.m. and General Admission at 12:30 p.m.

Shuttle transportation options are available from various locations for your convenience.

At River View Park, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton

For more info: 

Rancho Visitadores Parade, 12 to 3 p.m.

Mark your calendars for one of Solvang’s most cherished traditions, the Rancheros Visitadores Parade! On Saturday, May 3, the charming streets of Solvang will transform into a celebration of history, culture, and the cowboy spirit. While the exact parade time is to be announced, the festivities promise a day filled with excitement and community spirit. The Rancheros Visitadores is a longstanding tradition that brings together horseback riders from near and far. Clad in classic Western attire, riders proudly parade through Solvang, celebrating camaraderie and the enduring legacy of the American West. The parade features beautifully adorned horses, wagons, and riders. The picturesque backdrop of Solvang’s iconic windmills and half-timbered buildings sets the scene.

At Alisal Road to Mission Santa Ines in Solvang

ONGOING

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS

Storytime at Solvang Library, 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. 

Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

WEDNESDAYS

Solvang Farmers Market, 2:30 to 6 p.m.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays in Buellton, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

MONDAY, MARCH 31

Community Meeting: Preparing the Santa Ynez Valley for Threat of Wildfire, 5:30 p.m.

Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann, along with Buellton Mayor David Silva and Solvang City Councilmember Elizabeth Orona, will be holding a community meeting on the threat of wildfire in the Santa Ynez Valley. Also on hand will be fire prevention experts and community leaders on the topics of fire risk assessment, firewise community program, large animal evacuation, and a community wildfire protection plan.

At Solvang Veterans Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

SPORTS AND RECREATION

Drop-In Adult Basketball, Year Round, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 7:15 a.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

Ballroom Dancing, Ongoing, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 to 8 p.m.

Have you ever wanted to learn to dance ballroom or just brush up on your skills? Join Instructors David and Jo for an evening of fun. No partner needed and drop-ins are welcome! Adults only. Held in Room B.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

Aerobic Tap for Seniors, Monday’s 10 to 11 a.m.

Tap dance to Broadway show tunes and get a great aerobic workout. Bring your tap shoes and level of experience! Each 75-minute class will include a preview, warm-up, aerobic workout and cool down. Held in Room A.

For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.com

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We’re gearing up for a fashion adventure this season, and what better place than Elna’s Dress Shop in Solvang to lead the way with our glamorous and fabulous take on style for you. Since spring is officially here, take a look at our new arrivals.

We definitely can help with wardrobe planning, always keeping in mind what is best for you, our customer.
Color, size, fit, versatility for work, casual or dressy. What makes a great fashion image? Proper fit, good color, and great proportion for your age, size and height. For “fashion lovers,” spring cleaning is inevitable — we are ready to put winter dressing away. This is a good time to look over the clothes you didn’t wear and donate them to a charity. Out with the old and hardly worn, and in with the new seasons pieces.

The classic pairing of black and white adds sophistication to black prints and graphic punch to knits and stripes.

Also, black and gold is a striking combo and can take you from work to an evening get-together. For spring you will be seeing matching floral bouquets, contrasting prints and textures, and crayola-bright colors to mix-and-match prints.

We cannot forget the natural selection of beige and khaki and soft versions of brighter hues for prints, patterns and knits. What can I say about denim?

Denim fabrics go with everything, and have continued for many years. You can’t go wrong with deep shades of indigo and/or navy denim. When in doubt, bring in your favorite pieces from home and our staff will assist in helping you build your spring wardrobe. Visit us soon. All sale merchandise is 50% off regular prices. Come in now for the best selection. Elna’s Dress Shop is located at 1673 Copenhagen Drive in the heart of Solvang, and open Monday, closed Tuesday, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Looking forward to seeing you!

The post ELNA’S FASHION CHATTER: Out with the old and hardly worn, in with the news fashions appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

The modern diet is filled primarily with processed foods and medications. Because of this, it is also filled with obesity, digestive issues, and a variety of diseases. The majority of people are also eating far too much food but ironically, not getting nearly as much nutrition as they need — their bodies are actually starving. These processed foods are a major threat to the beneficial bacteria, called probiotics, in your body, and help take you down a very unhealthful road. 

Probiotics are an extremely important element of health. They populate your gut, have a profound effect on your gastrointestinal and immune system, keep your weight down, detoxify your system, and improve and maintain your overall health. 

You can find probiotics in a lot of foods and in capsule form, but the easiest delivery for your body is within fermented foods which are very easy to make yourself. You can even ferment what you grow organically in your own backyard garden, making it very low in cost.

Korean Dr. Kuk Moon Park uses the fermentation process to create his own probiotics that he administers to cancer patients and others with serious health problems that are no longer responsive to conventional treatment in hospitals. He ferments the wild plants that grow in the organic fields where he lives in the mountains of Korea. Patients come to his retreat for a seven-day fast, detoxifying their bodies with his seasonal mixtures. He has yielded excellent results with this process.

Eating fermented food is an ancient practice that fell out of tradition for one reason or another. It was very common during Roman times, in ancient Indian society, Asian cultures, and Eastern European countries. Fermentation increases the nutrition in a food source. For instance, if you have one gram of nutrition in one fresh apple, the fermentation process increases the nutrients of that apple 10 times. Because of this, your body is fed as it wants to be fed and requires less food. When you’re eating less food, your organs don’t need to work as hard, and they retain their energy to extend your health and life.

Fermenting is a very creative process as there is no exact recipe for doing so. It can depend on the environment of your home (warmer environments ferment things faster), your preference to sweet or sour, and your personal taste regarding fruits and vegetables. (Seasonal foods are best, but not required.) You can ferment only one fruit or vegetable or a mixture of several different ones. It all depends on what you like best. (Fermenting animal products like dairy is not recommended for health.)

There are several ways to ferment fruits or vegetables, but Koreans keep it simple by just adding sugar to the mixture. Sugar acts as a pre-biotic — in other words, an immediate and accessible food for the microflora of bacteria. Be certainthat the sugar you get is organic from sugar cane (not sugar beets as they are most commonly genetically modified) and as minimally processed as possible. Something like sucanat or muscovado sugar is recommended as it retains the sugar cane’s mineral-rich molasses but is not an absolute must. 

It is recommended to use a clay bowl/jar (because the clay is a breathable material, allowing oxygen to travel throughout its walls) for this process, but you can begin with a glass container as you feel your way through the first several tries. You should try small batches at first until you discover a recipe you enjoy, and then you can enlarge the batch to supply your whole family. (Be mindful of the batch. If it tastes toxic, throw it out. It is easily contaminated by flies, extreme weather, and the like.)

In this clay bowl/jar, add fresh, organic (very important), and clean fruits or vegetables that have been diced small. The standard recipe is to use half of the weight of fruits/vegetables of sugar, so if you are using ½ pound of strawberries, use ¼ pound of sugar. Pour the sugar over the fruit/vegetable and mix to incorporate the sugar throughout. Seal the jar with a breathable type of material that keeps flies out, such as a piece of cotton, kept taut on the bowl/jar with a large elastic band or the like. Leave it on your counter and stir once per day. 

You will see the fermentation process in action as there will be a bubbling happening throughout the mixture. After three days you can begin using it or you can taste the brine and decide whether or not you want to leave it out longer.The longer you leave it out, the more sour (like vinegar) it will become. Eventually, it will turn into vinegar. When it is to your liking, strain out the fruit/vegetable matter and preserve the liquid brine in a jar and refrigerate. You can use it as you like. Drink it straight, add it to smoothies or juice, mix it into a salad dressing, etc. 

If it is too sweet, lessen the sugar. If it is not sweet enough, add more. Feel free to play around with the recipe until you get it right for everyone in your family. 

(It should be noted that this microflora is extremely sensitive to the environment. If its atmosphere is very negative, with bad feelings throughout the house like fighting and negative thinking, it will not taste as good as a home environment that is peaceful and positive.) 

Keeping your family healthy can be a fun and inexpensive task that you can share with your children. Allowing them to formulate their own recipe they enjoy will teach them more about health and the wonders of probiotics. 

Dr. Lee’s office is located at 175 McMurray Road, Suite G, Buellton. Dr. Lee also has offices in Los Angeles and Paso Robles. To make an appointment call (805) 693-5162 or 310-666-8021.

The post GOOD MEDICINE: Fermented foods the easiest delivery mode for probiotics appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

TUESDAY, APRIL 1

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, 9 a.m.

County Administration Building, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

THURSDAY, APRIL 3

Buellton Planning Commission, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, APRIL 7

Solvang Planning Commission, 5 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, 9 a.m.

Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building, 511 Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, 9 a.m.

Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building, 511 Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria

For more info: countyofsb.org

Los Olivos Community Services District, 6 p.m.

Los Olivos Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado Ave, Los Olivos

For more info: losolivoscsd.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

Buellton City Council, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, APRIL 14

Solvang City Council, 6:30 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 15

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District Board, 5:30 p.m.

Board Room, Administration Office, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, 2975 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: www.syvuhsd.org

EVENTS

TUESDAY, APRIL 1

peasants FEAST 5-Year Anniversary Block Party, 4 to 7 p.m.

Come celebrate five amazing years with the Peasants FEAST (plus DELI) family! The public is invited for a day full of delicious food and drinks, live DJ, arcade games

and tons of fun with the community that made it all possible.

Let’s eat, dance, play, and make more memories together. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

At Copenhagen Drive and Atterdag Road between peasents FEAST and peasants DELI + ARCADE, Solvang

For more info: peasantsFEAST.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 5

Bounty of the Valley 50th Anniversary Celebration, 5 to 10 p.m.

Santa Ynez Valley Family School will celebrate 50 years of planting seeds in education during our Bounty of the Valley fundraiser. Five generations of alumni and current families alongside community supporters will gather at the SYV Family School campus for an evening of games, silent and live auction and music. Dinner will be provided by Valley Piggery and spirits will be provided by local alumni winemakers and brewers. With an estimated attendance of 350 SYV Family School enthusiasts, this evening promises to be a fun and fruitful event supporting this important educational institution.

For more information, to RSVP, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.syvfamilyschool.org/bountytickets or contact our staff at fiftiethanniversary@syvfamilyschool.org or call the office at (805) 688-5440.

At Santa Ynez Valley Family School, 5300 Figueroa Mountain Road, Los Olivos (near former Neverland Ranch)

For more info: www.syvfamilyschool.org

Valleywide Shred Day, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Protecting Privacy: Santa Ynez Valley residents can safeguard sensitive documents during the Valleywide Shred Day on Saturday, April 5. Shred locations in Buellton, Solvang, and Santa Ynez offer a convenient way to dispose of confidential papers securely.

• Buellton: 8 to 9:30 a.m. (Buellton City Hall Parking Lot)
• Solvang: 10 to 11:30 a.m. (Lawvex, LLP Parking Lot – 595 Alamo Pintado, Solvang)
• Santa Ynez: Noon to 1:30 p.m. (The field located across from the Mercantile on Meadowvale St.)

$6 per banker’s box – Cash or Check only

Ozomatli, 7 to 9 p.m.

Celebrating 30 years of Ozomatli’s collaborative, energetic blend of multi-cultural music and activism that has earned them three Grammys, four Hollywood Bowl shows, a TED Talk and much more. Since forming in 1995, the Los Angeles-bred lineup has inspired and energized listeners as far away as Burma and Mongolia. Ozo’s messages and music, sung in both Spanish and English, need no translation. Like The Doors, X, Los Lobos, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and other L.A.-based artists who take cues from the city and also reflect and unearth its movements, Ozomatli reaches from the curbs to the high-rises.

If the city of Los Angeles had a soundtrack, it would be Ozomatli’s music. 

At Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang

For tickets/more info: solvangtheaterfest.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 12

An Immersive Murder Mystery Experience, 5 to 8 p.m.

Trouble in Tombstone: Experience a night of intrigue and suspense Murder Mystery Experience in the Santa Ynez Valley. Cloak & Dagger Mysteries offers an unparalleled immersive murder mystery dinner experience, where you don’t just watch the story unfold — you live it.

Your ticket includes:

• A multi-course themed dinner
• Two drinks (beer, wine, themed cocktails or mocktails, soft drinks)
• A fully customized character selected just for you
• Access to our exclusive web app for clues, notes, and suspects
• A night of unforgettable fun!

At AJ Spurs, 350 E. Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cloakanddaggermysteries.com

A Hard Day’s Night: Southern California’s #1 Beatles Tribute Show, 7 p.m.

Hard Day’s Night, Southern California’s #1 Beatles Tribute Show, has been thrilling audiences with tight harmonies and flawless note-for-note instrumental renditions of Beatle hits. Hard Day’s Night has honed their show to become one of the most musically and visually satisfying Beatle tribute acts in the world. Hard Day’s Night is based in Los Angeles and available to perform throughout North America, Europe and Japan. 

At Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang

For tickets/more info: solvangtheaterfest.org 

ONGOING

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS

Storytime at Solvang Library, 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. 

Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

WEDNESDAYS

Solvang Farmers Market, 2:30 to 6 p.m.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays in Buellton, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

SPORTS AND RECREATION

Drop-In Adult Basketball, Year Round, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 7:15 a.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

Ballroom Dancing, Ongoing, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 to 8 p.m.

Have you ever wanted to learn to dance ballroom or just brush up on your skills? Join Instructors David and Jo for an evening of fun. No partner needed and drop-ins are welcome! Adults only. Held in Room B.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

Aerobic Tap for Seniors, Monday’s 10 to 11 a.m.

Tap dance to Broadway show tunes and get a great aerobic workout. Bring your tap shoes and level of experience! Each 75-minute class will include a preview, warm-up, aerobic workout and cool down. Held in Room A.

For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.com

The post April Calendar of Events appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

LEGO®, the iconic Danish building block brand, serves as the inspiration behind the two-day, family-friendly expo and town-wide building competition, the latter of which will pit some of the top brick builders against each other as they construct their own takes on a handful of Hans Christian Andersen’s most famous tales, all chasing one grand prize.

The weekend-long festival promises to have event all over town from the Veterans Hall to Solvang Park to builders at various locations around town. For a schedule and other information, go to solvangusa.com/solvang-brick-builds-2025/.

The post City hosts inaugural ‘Solvang Bricks & Builds’ Lego festival and competition April 5-6 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19

Santa Ynez Community Services District, 5:30 p.m.

At Community Services District Building, 1070 Faraday St.

For more info: sycsd.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 20

Solvang Design Review Committee, 5 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

Buellton Planning Commission, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, MARCH 24

Solvang City Council, 6:30 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 25

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, 9 a.m.

County Administration Building, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

Measure U Citizens’ Oversight Committee, 2 p.m.

At Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26

Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, 9 a.m.

123 East Anapamu Street, Room 17, Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

Los Alamos Community Services District, 6 p.m.

At LACSD Board Room, 82 Saint Joseph St., Los Alamos

For more info: losalamoscsd.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 27

Buellton City Council, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 1

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, 9 a.m.

County Administration Building, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

For more info: countyofsb.org

EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19

Vikings of Solvang Blood Drive, 1 to 6 p.m.

This blood drive presents an opportunity for the community to come together and address the ongoing blood supply shortages in local hospitals. The Vikings of Solvang, with their long-standing history of giving back, view this event as a vital part of their mission to support medical care and enhance the wellbeing of the community. All eligible donors aged 18 and older are strongly encouraged to participate. Whether you’re a first-time donor or a seasoned contributor, your donation could save up to three lives. The donation process is straightforward, safe, and quick.

To thank participants for their generosity, all donors will receive a $25 voucher, redeemable that evening or the following day at participating local restaurants and bakeries, courtesy of the Vikings of Solvang.

At Solvang Veterans Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: vikingsofsolvang.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 22 AND SUNDAY, MARCH 23

Painting in the Vineyard, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Saturday) and 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Sunday)

Are you looking for something unique to do in Santa Barbara County Wine Country? Why not join us for one of our two Painting in the Vineyard sessions, Saturday at Sunstone Winery or Sunday at Vega Vineyards, to grab a glass of wine and a paintbrush?!

Our painting in the vineyard classes provide a beautiful, stress-free environment that will both inspire your creative spirit and indulge the wine-lover in you. Don’t consider yourself an artist just yet? Don’t worry. Our trained artist will walk you through the entire painting process step-by-step. No previous painting experience necessary. You’ll be amazed at what you can create in just a few hours- even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush in your life!

$89 per person — includes a tasting of wine from the winery location and all the supplies necessary to create your landscape.

At Sunstone Winery, 125 Refugio Road, Santa Ynez (Saturday) and Vega Vineyard, 9496 Santa Rosa Road (Sunday)

For more info: artspotonwheels.com/event-category/p-i-v-public/

MONDAY, MARCH 31 TO FRIDAY, APRIL 4

Spring Break Art Camp, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

So party we shall do, bouncing into the world of color and creativity at Spring Break Art Camp! Each day will include a morning creative project followed by an afternoon guided painting. Our projects will be bright and cheerful to welcome in the changing season.

Participants may choose to join for one day or (at a discounted rate) for all five days. Geared toward children ages 7-12, we provide space and guidance for kids to freely create, learn different skills in various mediums and build self-confidence.

Camps are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and held at our Solvang studio located at 320 Alisal Road, Suite 306B

As always all materials provided, we just ask that your child bring a sack lunch and water bottle

We offer payment plans if needed — please reach out to info@artspotonwheels.com to inquire.

At Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, Suite 306B, Solvang

For more info: artspotonwheels.com/events/spring-break-art-camp-2025/

ONGOING

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS

Storytime at Solvang Library, 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Join us indoors on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. 

Come to enjoy songs, stories, movement, and a warm welcome. Please make a reservation at cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

At Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: Solvang Library (805) 688-4214

WEDNESDAYS

Solvang Farmers Market, 2:30 to 6 p.m.

Each week, the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year-round rain or shine. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified — the only way to buy! Join us in downtown Solvang every Wednesday on First Street, between Mission Drive (Highway 246) and Copenhagen Drive.

Wine Wednesdays in Buellton, 4 to 8 p.m.

Please join us for an evening out with family fun for all in Buellton, hosted by Esfuerzo Wines and The Birria Boyz. This event will take place each Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Each week we will have guest food vendors, live music and much more to be announced. We hope to see you there!

At 140 Industrial Way, Buellton

For more info: info@esfuerzowine.com

MONDAY, MARCH 31

Community Meeting: Preparing the Santa Ynez Valley for Threat of Wildfire, 5:30 p.m.

Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann, along with Buellton Mayor David Silva and Solvang City Councilmember Elizabeth Orona, will be holding a community meeting on the threat of wildfire in the Santa Ynez Valley. Also on hand will be fire prevention experts and community leaders on the topics of fire risk assessment, firewise community program, large animal evacuation, and a community wildfire protection plan.

At Solvang Veterans Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang

SPORTS AND RECREATION

Drop-In Adult Basketball, Year Round, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 7:15 a.m.

Start your day with a pick up game of basketball with friends.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

Ballroom Dancing, Ongoing, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 to 8 p.m.

Have you ever wanted to learn to dance ballroom or just brush up on your skills? Join Instructors David and Jo for an evening of fun. No partner needed and drop-ins are welcome! Adults only. Held in Room B.

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

Aerobic Tap for Seniors, Monday’s 10 to 11 a.m.

Tap dance to Broadway show tunes and get a great aerobic workout. Bring your tap shoes and level of experience! Each 75-minute class will include a preview, warm-up, aerobic workout and cool down. Held in Room A.

For info on these and other programs, go to buelltonrec.com

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