Solvang has announced new experiences and details for this year’s Solvang Julefest (SolvangUSA.com/things-to-do/solvang-julefest; pronounced ‘Yoola-Fest’), the town’s annual holiday celebration. The seasonal event stretches five weeks, beginning Friday, Nov. 29 and running through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. Solvang Julefest 2024 will once again include multiple holiday-themed happenings all located within Solvang, frequently listed as one of the nation’s “most Christmassy towns,” and this year, voted as one of the “Best Christmas Towns” in the U.S., and the top one in California.

Solvang Julefest 2024 will include the expansion of the event’s nighttime Makers Market, now scheduled for three Wednesdays in December (Dec. 4, 11, 18 from 3 to 7 p.m.)

The open-air night markets, fashioned after traditional European Christmas markets, will feature a village of crafters and local artisans offering one-of-a-kind holiday gift ideas, seasonal treats, and more in the village’s central Solvang Park (corner of Mission Drive and First Street). Solvang Park is also the location of the nightly Light & Music Shows, running Nov. 29 through Jan. 5. The holiday-themed, choreographed light and music display, which is free to attend, entails two different shows that will alternate on the hour each evening. Showtimes will be 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 p.m.

“Our Denmark-reminiscent village is festive year ‘round, day or night, but the evenings here during Solvang Julefest are extra magical,” said Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy. “The enhancement of our nightly experiences, and the addition of new daily offerings, provide locals and visitors with a month-plus worth of opportunities to create new holiday memories. And what better place to do that, than in one of America’s most Christmassy towns.”

The popularity of the Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours has sparked the addition of new Solvang Jul Daylight Tours on select dates beginning Nov. 30, running through Dec. 28. Guests will stroll the streets of Solvang, lined with unique shops and delicious foods, including the village’s iconic Danish pastries, during the morning tours led by a local Dane dressed in traditional folk garb. Immersed in Solvang’s rich heritage, attendees will experience Solvang’s Jul spirit through taste, sight, and sound, learning how Solvang keeps its Danish Jul traditions alive. Tours begin at 10 a.m.; advance purchase is required, and tickets are now available at eventbrite.com/o/solvang-hyggehuset-55482949883.

The nighttime tour counterpart, Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will also be offered on select dates beginning Nov. 30,running through Dec. 28. The Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will provide special holiday experiences for locals and visitors as they traverse the village of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Advance purchase is required; tickets are now available at eventbrite.com/o/solvang-hyggehuset-55482949883.

Additional evening entertainment options include the Solvang Trolley Christmas Light Tour, available via advance purchase for Thursday through Sunday nights throughout December. Guests will tour the lights of the Santa Ynez Valley, passing through decorated neighborhoods and past illuminated storefronts, all aboard one of Solvang’s recognizable trolleys. Solvang Trolley Tour tickets are available at book.peek.com/s/d6109943-5251-4516-a496-44bbb4f8858c/6aw07.

The start to Solvang’s holiday season is marked by the Solvang Julefest Tree Lighting Ceremony, set for Friday, Dec. 6, at 5:30 p.m. in Solvang Park. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is once again slated to include ballerinas encircling the Solvang Christmas tree, other live entertainment, caroling, and the much-anticipated tree lighting at about 6:30 p.m.

The following morning, Saturday, Dec. 7 (11 a.m.), the 2024 Solvang Julefest Parade, carrying the theme of “Gingerbread Dreams,” will feature marching bands, horses, classic cars, plus more parade floats and entries’ enticing theme interpretation. Post-parade, Julefest boasts a free opportunity to meet Santa Claus in Solvang Park, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Solvang Julefest Santa meet-and-greets and photo ops will continue Saturdays and Sundays during December (Dec. 14, 15, 21, and 22), from 12 to 4 p.m. in Solvang Park. Entertaining holiday revelers throughout downtown Solvang will be a merry band of carolers, Christmas Matters, singing from 4 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 7, 14, and 21.

Another daily Solvang Julefest activity is the now-annual Nisser Adventure, where participants join in a city-wide hunt for the mysterious Solvang Nisser (Christmas elves) which have hidden themselves throughout downtown Solvang. Nisse-hunters of all ages may stop by the Solvang Visitor Center between Nov. 29 and Jan. 5, for a list of clues to the various hiding spots that the Nisser frequent. Once participants have found each Nisse, they may return to the Visitor Center to receive a special Solvang keepsake.

Solvang Julefest 2024 also introduced a New Year’s event, the “Copenhagen Countdown,” scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 2 to 4 p.m. in Solvang Park. Guests are invited to count down to New Year’s in Denmark (3 p.m. PST) with live music, children’s activities and crafts, and vendors (further details TBA).

Serving as Julefest’s unofficial finale is the annual Solvang Christmas Tree Burn. Usually held in early January as a close to each year’s Solvang Julefest celebration, Solvang’s Tree Burn is considered to be one of the largest fire safety demonstrations along the California Central Coast. The 2025 Tree Burn is currently scheduled for Friday, Jan. 10, 5 p.m. (weather permitting).

Solvang Julefest 2024 is produced by the City of Solvang (CityofSolvang.com). All Solvang Julefest events are open to the public with either free or paid admission. More information and event updates will be available at SolvangUSA.com/things-to-do/solvang-julefest.

Feature Image: People gather around the lighted Christmas tree in Solvang Park during the tree lighting in 2023. This year’s tree-lighting, considered by many the kickoff to Julefest, is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 29. 

The post Solvang’s Julefest to feature ‘Gingerbread Dreams’ Parade during five-week celebration appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Buellton Planning Commission, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Solvang City Council, 6:30 p.m.

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

For more info: cityofsolvang.com

MONDAY, NOV. 12

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: syvuhsd.org

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

Los Olivos Community Services District, 6 p.m.

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

For more info: losolivoscsd.com

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

Buellton City Council, 6 p.m.

At Council Chambers, 140 West Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: cityofbuellton.com

EVENTS

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, NOV. 8-10

Buellton Fall Festival, 4 to 10 p.m. (Friday), 12 to 10 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)

The Buellton Fall Festival will be a three-day festival that is “Fun for the Whole Family!” The free-admission event will take place Friday, Nov. 8, to Sunday, Nov. 10, on Avenue of Flags! The event will have live music on two stages, carnival rides and games, merchant and food vendors, and beer, wine, seltzer, and kombucha for sale.

The event will include the “Ales on the Avenue”

Craft Beer & Wine Festival on Saturday from 12 to 3:30 p.m. with 15-plus breweries, wineries, seltzers, and more.

Located at Avenue of the Flags, north of Highway 246, Buellton

For more info: buelltonfallfest.com

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, NOV. 8-9

Elverhøj’s Queen of Arts, 4 to 7 p.m. (Friday) and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday)

Save the dates! Elverhøj’s Queen of Arts is back for 2024. Local artists share their unique creations at this well-loved Solvang event. Queen of Arts is hosted at the beautiful and historic Elverhøj Museum of History & Art which welcomes nearly 25,000 visitors annually. Join us 

for the Friday Sip & Shop from 4 to 7 p.m., and Saturday for the event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be a great variety of unique and imaginative work by 20+ regional crafts people.

At Elverhøj Museum, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang

For more info: elverhoj.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Santa Ynez Valley Salute to the Vets, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Come to Solvang Park for a military vehicle display, flyover, food, beer & wine, silent auction, 50/50, games, prizes, and much more! Live music to be performed by Out of the Blue. All donations to SBCVF Benefit – SB County Veterans and their families.

At Solvang Park, 1630 Mission Drive, Solvang

For more info: salutetothevets.org or sbcvf.org

SYV Historical Museum 40th Annual Vaquero Benefit, 5 to 9 p.m.

It’s time once again for the Annual Vaquero Benefit Dinner and Auction at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum in celebration of the traditional Vaquero spirit and way of life. This popular event honoring the ”2024 Vaquero of the Year” will take place on Nov. 9 in the beautiful courtyard setting of the museum in historic downtown Santa Ynez. This event will honor the Vaquero of the Year, local Santa Ynez horseman, realtor, ”Ranchero” and popular valley friend, Joe Olla. Don’t miss this annual celebration. Sponsorship packages are available.

At Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum, 3596 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez

For tickets or more info: Call (805) 688-7889, info@santaynezmuseum.org, or go to santaynezmuseum.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Solvang Community Cleanup, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Solvang residents — get your trash pile ready or green waste, clean scrap metal, wood or bulk waste (mattresses, unusable furniture, etc). No electronic waste or hazardous waste. Free drop off, but customers will be required to show a valid photo ID with a matching Waste Management Bill.

At Public Parking Lot 4, 1616 Oak St., Solvang

For more info: Call City of Solvang (805) 688- 5575 or go to cityofsolvang.org

Zaca Mesa Harvest Fall Fiesta, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Our 2024 Annual Harvest Fall Fiesta will mark the close of our 49th vintage harvested at our historic estate winery and the 51st year since our founding in 1973.

With delicious tacos from Tortilleria Mexico and live music performed by Robert Herrera, this celebration is bound to be one for the books! Tickets are $60 general admission and $50 for winery members.

At Zaca Mesa Winery and Vineyards, 6905 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos

For tickets or more info: zacamesa.com/upcoming-events/, call (805) 688-9339 or email events@zacamesa.com

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Explore Paths To Wellness And Growth – The Sanctuary, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fall is the time of year where decline and decay lead to regeneration and renewal. Its emphasis on the cycle of life lends itself beautifully to this event. The Sanctuary is a collective gathering where wellness, growth, and positivity come together. Experience a day filled with inspiration as you explore different modalities of healing and wellness. Shop our vendors, book a session with our intuitives, and engage in meaningful workshops. With a full bar and food service available for purchase, this free in-person event has everything you need for inner enrichment, nourishment anddiscovery. Walk-Up experiences and mini workshops will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

At Craft House at Corque, 420 Alisal Road, Solvang

For more info: thesanctuarysyv.com

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

ONGOING

Pickleball, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pickleball — part Ping-Pong, part badminton, lots of momentum — is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The games can be fast-paced and deliver a good workout. 2 person teams/ or singles. All are welcome!

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

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

For more info: buelltonrec.com

Open Basketball, Ongoing, Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

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

At Buellton Rec Center, 301 Second St., Buellton

For more info: buelltonrec.com

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

The post Calendar of Events November 7 – 17 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Coming to the Viking Charities Classic Car Show, one is expected to see a wide variety of cars and other vehicles, mostly of the ‘classic’ variety, but sometimes you come across something a little different.

So it was as this reporter was going down Copenhagen Drive in Solvang shortly after arriving, and someone stopped to ask me where the “rat-rods” were. Not only didn’t I know where they were, I didn’t know what they were and I politely told the person I hadn’t seen them.

However, after walking just half a block, I found three of the so-called “rat-rods” parked right next to each other, and the owner of one of them, Ray Venegas from Chino Hills, was more than happy to enlighten me.

“In the 1940s and ’50s, people were putting together and racing jalopies,” Venegas explained. “But then that died out, and so the ‘rat-rod’ guys came along, the cars with big engines and they put their own stuff on it.” 

Venegas used as an example the cars they brought to the show: “If you want to put a cat on [the front bumper] you can. Ifyou want to show off a gold-plated engine [pointing to another rat-rod] you can do it. You can do whatever you want with it.”

Mark Goodacre of Temecula, who along with Venegas belongs to a Southern California car club called the 5150s, elaborated on the rat-rod concept.

“It’s just everyone doing something a little different with their car; with rat-rods there are no two completely alike,” Goodacre said. “And there are no big rules to follow; in fact, I call my car ‘Defiance,’ because I’m defying the rules.”

And so it was on this October day as everyone seemed to have a story about their car, and enjoyed hearing others.

This was the second year, the annual car show in Solvang was put on by the Vikings of Solvang, a noted community group, who took it over after the organizers of the Wheels ‘n’ Windmills decided to retire that particular event.

All money raised from the show and the gala dinner the night before goes to the Vikings of Solvang Endowment Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization which provides funding for the medically related needs of qualified individuals and health care organizations in the Santa Ynez Valley and throughout Santa Barbara County. Some of the money also goes toward the Vikings’ annual Christmas party for underpriviledged kids, coming in December.

Anyone walked through the streets of downtown Solvang got to see a eclectic mix of vehicles.

Dave Lazarro of Buellton had on display his white 1999 Pontiac Trans Am, with a Daytona 500 logo on the door.

“I found this one in Pennsylvania,” said Lazarro, who said he usually likes to buy Trans Ams. “It was built as a pace car, but it’s not the pace car for NASCAR races — there’s only two of those.”

“I like to show this off all over the area, from Paso to Carpinteria,” he said.

A little farther down the street was a pink 1957 Ford Thunderbird owned by Holly Foley of Fremont, who had the backseat and rear decked out in all sorts of artifacts of the time, like Barbie dolls, lunch pails, and Coca-Cola souvenirs.

“Some people use props on their cars for these things, and I just wanted to put some stuff up there that represents the car’s year,” Foley said. “The only problem is people see that there and they think the stuff’s on sale, and I have to tell them ‘no, it’s just for show.'”

Foley estimated she goes to about 80 car shows a year, but this was her first time at the Solvang one.

“I found out about it on a car website somewhere,” she said. “I’m really liking it here. Hey, you got the best pastries.”

The entries were rated by a panel of judges in several categories and awards were handed out in an afternoon ceremony at Solvang Park. The winners included:

Class AA – Modified – T-Bucket/Hot Rod (Open) to 1948: Winner – Victor Velasco – Yellow 1923 Ford T Bucket; Runner Up – Mary Jones – Red 1927 Ford T Bucket

B – Stock – 1955-1957 Chevy: Winner – Hank Baier – 1955 Chevrolet 210

BB – Modified – Hot Rod (Coupe/Sedan) to 1932: Winner – Tildon Courson – Red 1930 Studebaker Dictator Club Sedan

C – Stock – 1960-1999 GM (Excl. Class F): Winner – Mel Tomlinson – Blue 1969 Chevy Impala SS

CC1 – Modified – Hot Rod Coupe 1933-1948: Winner – Mike Zapata – Sunset Orange Pearl 1948 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible

CC2 – Modified – Hot Rod Sedan 1933-1948: Winner – Byron Beaver – Green 1937 Ford Tudor Humpback Sedan

CG – Modified – Mercury Cougar ( to 1999): Winner – Georgina May – Blue 1967 Mercury Cougar

D – Stock – 1960-1999 Ford/Mopar/Other (Excl. Class F): Winner – James Mintie – Blue 1969 Mercedes 280SE

DD – Modified – 1949-1959 All Makes (Excl. Class FF): Winner – Tina Almazan – Blue 1951 Ford Shoebox

EE – Modified – 1960-1999 All Makes: Winner – Merle Heggen – Blue 1969 Chevy Nova

F – Stock – 1964-1999 Camaro/Challenger/Cuda/Firebird/Mustang: Winner – Neal McCarter – Turquoise 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible

FF – Modified – 1955-1957 Chevy: Winner – Jerry Fults – Blue 1957 Chevy 210

G – Stock – Corvettes to 1999: Tom Jordan – Nassau Blue 1966 Chevy Corvette Stingray

GG – Modified – Camaro/Challenger/Cuda/Firebird/Mustang to 1999: Winner – Dan Lazzaro – White 1999 Pontiac Trans Am

H – Stock – Trucks, El Camino, Ranchero to 1999: Winner – Steve Donovan – Turquoise 1962 Ford F-100

HH1 – Modified – Trucks to 1949: Winner – Mike Murphy – Tan 1934 Ford Pickup

HH2 – Modified – Trucks, El Camino, Ranchero to 1950-1999: Mike Buckels – Winner – Aqua 1965 Chevy El Camino

I – Stock – Sports Car (Foreign or Domestic) to 1999: Winner – Daniel Redmon – Gray/Blue 1957 Mercedes 190SL

II – Modified – Sports Car (Foreign or Domestic) to 1999: Winner – A.C. D’Augustine – Red 1965 Ford Cobra

MS – Modified – Military Vehicles to 1999: Winner -Dennis Beebe – Tan 1942 Ford GPW (Jeep)

RS – Modified – Rat Rods (any year): Winner – Robert Wong – Copper 1936 Ford Pickup Rat Rod

Feature image: A row of rat-rods is shown on Copenhagen Drive in Solvang during the Viking Charities Car Show in Solvang on Oct. 19.

The post Motor buffs admire fancy wheels at Solvang car show appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge #2640, in collaboration with Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, has a tradition of honoring a senior at the high school who exhibits the values of hard work, community, and school service and academic excellence.

For the month of September, the staff at the high school has selected Josue Salinas. He is described as a student with true integrity, is an excellent role model, and someone everyone on campus likes to be around!

As a freshman, Josue played soccer and currently represents SYHS on the cross-country team, serving as team captain. He is also on the track team. He excels in both. Last year he was the treasurer of the Organization of Latinos and Americans.

Josue has a weighted GPA of 3.9 and is currently enrolled in three AP courses and one concurrent Allan Hancock College course. Over the summer, he took an accelerated college-level precalculus course.

Josue plays instruments at his church. He also helps young students by training them in running.

Josue will be a first-generation college student, hoping to attend Cal Poly SLO or Cal State Long Beach, majoring in mechanical engineering. He dreams of working for NASA one day and plans to continue running and training.

Santa Ynez Valley Elks is pleased to honor Josue Salinas as our September Student of the Month. Congratulations to Josue and his family!

Feature image provided by the Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge #2640.

The post Josue Salinas named SYV Elks September Student of the Month appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Halloween will be upon us in a little over two weeks, on Thursday, Oct. 31, and until — well, even beyond that — there are plenty of scary, not-so-scary, and just plain fun activities for Valley residents to enjoy.

One staple of the season has been the Haunted House put on by Solvang Parks and Recreation, which is coming back on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 25 and 26, with the theme “Lost Shadows.” One difference, though: Instead of happening at the Parks and Rec building, it will move across 2nd Street and be staged at the Solvang Festival Theater.

The attraction is open from 6 to 9:30 p.m., with a kid-friendlier event from 6 to 6:30 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. The Festival Theater is located at 420 2nd St. in Solvang.

Also, if you’re in Solvang this month walk around and find multiple displays in front of businesses for the Scarecrow Fest. During the month-long Scarecrow Fest, which concludes on Halloween (Thursday, Oct. 31), Solvang businesses and organizations will participate in the contest by featuring a scarecrow of their own creation posted at their location. The 2024 festival includes the use of QR codes and a digital voting system, as well as using traditional paper maps and ballots. See SYVscarecrows.com for more information.

On Saturday, Oct. 26, get ready for a hauntingly good time at Zaca Mesa Vineyards (6893 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos) for the Spooky Paella Pop-Up. The event goes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with live music from the talented Cary Park, delicious food from Vin X Food & Wine Events, Zaca Mesa & TREAD wine, spooky-themed goods from Perfectly Weird Shop, and tarot readings. Enjoy a delightful array of our wines as you relax in the atmosphere and kick off spooky season in style. Walk-ins welcome, or make a reservation! For more info, go to zacamesa.com/upcoming-events.

The SYV Humane Society & DAWG animal shelter (which won the Harvest Trophy last year for best Scarecrow Fest display BTW) is hosting a special Halloween Trunk or Treat Adoption Event and Haunted Vet Clinic from 3 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27. The shelter on 111 Commerce Drive in Buellton invites the public to come for “trunk or treat” and maybe adopt a four-legged friend in the process. 

The Humane Society also appreciates help and donations for decorations, purchasing a “trunk or treat” space, and food trucks and trailers to join in the event at no cost. For more info, call (805) 688-8224 or email info@syvhumane.org.

Still need to get a pumpkin for Halloween? The Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch is back at its usual spot at 1035 Alamo Pintado Road in Solvang. The patch is offering hundreds of pumpkins for sale, and while you’re looking, take a trip through the 14-acre corn maze, which has a new wrinkle this year: a scavenger hunt. There’s also a kids maze and refreshments offered while you look for that perfect gourd.

Another pumpkin-hunting option is Summerset Farm (3450 Baseline Ave, Santa Ynez). For over 18 years Summerset Farm has been providing the Santa Ynez Valley with a classic Pumpkin Patch experience. From Cinderella Pumpkins, to White, Blue, Green, traditonal Jack O Lantern, Peanut, and several other varieties. You can find mini pumpkins as well as giant statement piece pumpkins to adorn your doorstep, wowing all who visit. They also offer a general store and a sunflower maze to stroll through.

And the festivities don’t stop at Oct. 31 — the weekend after, Saturday, Nov. 2, will be a celebration of Dia de Los Muertes Day at the Flying Flags RV Park in Buellton. Join the fun for a day of festivities for Dia de Los Muertes — or “Day of the Dead” — with live music, food and activities. Also that evening, Sunstone Winery (125 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez) is holding a Haunted Ball, an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and hauntingly good vibes. This year’s theme is “Masquerade,” so attendees are asked to wear their best masks. Shuttle service will be available between Santa Barbara and Sunstone. For more info go to sunstonewinery.com/event/2024-haunted-ball-at-sunstone.

However, you choose to celebrate, have a happy, and safe, Halloween.

Feature image: The Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch on Alamo Pintado Road is back selling pumpkins big, little, and in-between through Oct. 31. Star File Photo

The post Valley has frightful and fun happening into Halloween and beyond appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 20, 2024

4 to 7 p.m.: Free Concert – Catch local band Sean Wiggins & lOne gOat, performing live on the Midgaard Pavilion Stage in Parking Lot 2, in downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Danish Days Viking Beer & Wine Garden. All ages welcome; must be 21 years or older to enter Viking Beer & Wine Garden.

4 to 9 p.m.: Axe Throwing – An axe-throwing arena in downtown Solvang. Participants must be 13 years of age or older to enjoy. Ages 13-17 need to have a parent or guardian present. Closed-toe shoes required. Axe throwing continues on Saturday and Sunday.

4 to 9 p.m.: Viking Beer & Wine Garden – Outdoor beer and wine garden; supports the Solvang Danish Days Foundation. Viking Beer & Wine Garden continues on Saturday. (Guests must be 21 years of age or older to purchase alcoholic beverages.)

7:30 p.m.: Torchlight Parade – Free for participants, all ages welcome, candles will be provided. Route begins at Alisal Road and Laurel Avenue, strolling south down Alisal Road and ending at the Midgaard Pavilion Stage (in Parking Lot 2, downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Danish Days Viking Beer & Wine Garden).

8 p.m.: Opening Ceremonies in Solvang Park introducing the 2024 Danish Maid, Kaeley Reid. Velkommen Street Dance follows with Danish dancers performing to live music.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21, 2024

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Æbleskiver Breakfast on Copenhagen Drive between First and Second Streets, $10 per person (with Danish sausage, $12). Tickets available online in advance, or at the event entrance.

9 a.m.: Old World Artisans Marketplace –Demonstrations and artisan hand-crafted items, including Scandinavian arts & crafts, woodworking, papercutting (papirklip), rosemåling, fabric art, jewelry, pottery, and the ever-popular Danish Sisterhood Booth. An open-air Nordic shopping district of finely crafted items, on First Street.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Expanded Kid’s Korner featuring the popular LEGO® tent, in Solvang Park, plus Luna’s Jumps attractions on First Street (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Solvang Danish Days LEGO Building Competition – Watch the creative process as three of California’s top brick builders compete against each other with their own supersized takes on three of Solvang’s prized windmills. Builders will be located in Solvang Park. (Building continues Sunday morning.)

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Living History Days at Elverhøj Museum of History & Art (1624 Elverhoy Way; www.Elverhoj.org). Exhibits come to life during this free, interactive history lesson for all ages. Craftspeople, artisans, and storytellers demonstrate their skills and entertain visitors. Snap a selfie at the Viking photo stop stocked with costumes and props.

10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.: John and Ashley Clark, Hans Christian Andersen Storytimes – Young and old alike will enjoy listening to hours of tales from Denmark’s favorite author. Saturday readings: 10:30 a.m. at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum (at The Book Loft), 1 p.m. at the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art.

11 a.m. to 9 p.m.: Axe Throwing – An axe throwing arena in downtown Solvang (see Friday’s listing).

11:30 a.m.: Free Æbleskiver Eating Contest – Contest will be held in the Midgaard Pavilion in Parking Lot 2, downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Danish Days Viking Beer & Wine Garden. All ages welcome for this five-minute competition.

12 to 4 p.m.: Guided Solvang Food Tour – Led by Santa Barbara’s ‘Eat This, Shoot That!‘, discover the best comfort food, hidden watering holes, and artisan shops in downtown Solvang while learning about the local history. Tourincludes 8-9 tastings and foodie locations, bites, and sips – with a professional tour guide – while learning foodie photo tips and tricks using your smartphone’s camera. Details available at eatthisshootthat.com/tours/solvang (Advance ticket purchase is required.)

12 to 9 p.m.: Viking Beer & Wine Garden – supports the Solvang Danish Days Foundation. (Guests must be 21 years of age or older to purchase alcoholic beverages.)

2:30 PM: Danish Days Parade – Includes the Solvang Village Band atop the Carlsberg Beer Wagon, floats, equestrians, Village Dancers, and more. Line-up starts at 1:30 p.m. on First Street, between Molle Way and Oak Street; parade begins by turning east on Copenhagen Drive, then north on Alisal Road, west on Mission Drive, south on Fourth Place, east on Copenhagen, south on Second Street, finishes at corner of Oak Street near Solvang City Hall. NO CHARGE to participate in the parade; applications are available at www.SolvangDanishDays.org/contact-us.

3:30 to 10:30 p.m.: Free Concerts featuring live performances on the Midgaard Pavilion Stage in Parking Lot 2, in downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Viking Beer & Wine Garden. All ages welcome (must be 21 years or older to enter Viking Beer & Wine Garden). Concerts are free and open to the public. Out Of The Blue performs 3:30 to 6 p.m.; The Molly Ringwald Project performs 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 22, 2024

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Æbleskiver Breakfast on Copenhagen Drive between First and Second Streets (see Saturday’s listing). Advance tickets available for sale at solvang-danish-days-2024.eventbrite.com.

9 a.m.: Old World Artisans Marketplace –Demonstrations and artisan. An open-air Nordic shopping district of finely crafted items, on First Street (see Saturday listing).

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Solvang Danish Days LEGO Building Competition – Watch the conclusion of the creative process as three of California’s top LEGO builders compete against each other with their own, supersized takes on three of Solvang’s prized windmills. Builders will be located in Solvang Park. Judging of the builds begins at 1:45 p.m. on Sunday, followed by a 3 p.m. winner announcement for the best build, which will occur during the Solvang Danish Days Closing Ceremony.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Axe Throwing – An axe throwing arena in downtown Solvang. (See Friday listing)

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Expanded Kid’s Korner featuring the popular LEGO® tent, in Solvang Park, plus Luna’s Jumps attractions on First Street.

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Living History Days at Elverhøj Museum of History & Art (1624 Elverhoy Way; www.Elverhoj.org). (See Saturday listing).

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: John and Ashley Clark, Hans Christian Andersen Storytimes – Denmark’s favorite author reads hours of tales. Sunday readings: 11 a.m. at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum (at The Book Loft), 1 p.m. at the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art.

11:30 a.m.: Free Æbleskiver Eating Contest – Contest will be held in the Midgaard Pavilion in Parking Lot 2, downtown Solvang, adjacent to the Danish Days Viking Beer & Wine Garden. All ages welcome for this five-minute competition.

12 to 2 p.m.: Free Concert – Terry & The Ripleys perform live in the Solvang Park Gazebo.

2 p.m.: Children’s Parade – Parade begins at Atterdag Square (corner of Atterdag Road and Copenhagen Drive) and meanders down Copenhagen to Solvang Park. All children and families are welcome to join this event; no charge to participate, and costumes are encouraged.

3 p.m.: Danish Days Closing Ceremony in Solvang Park – The 2024 Danish Days Maid closes the festive event weekend, with a live music performance to follow.

All events listed here are subject to change or cancellation.

The post Solvang Danish Days 2024 Schedule appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Cachuma Lake was full, the sun was shining, and the fish were biting on the weekend of April 20-21 as nearly 600 anglers fished for fun, and prizes, at the 27th annual Neal Taylor Nature Fish Derby.

The derby is the major fundraiser for The Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake, a nonprofit organization serves as the center of activity for Cachuma Lake, with events and programs meant “to encourage public understanding, enjoyment, and protection of Cachuma Lake, the Upper Santa Ynez River, and the San Rafael Mountain Range Watershed,” according to the center’s Mission Statement.

The derby was held from 6 a.m. on Saturday until 12 p.m. and Sunday, and offered cash prizes amounting to more than $5,000 plus thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise prizes awarded in many categories and to anglers of all ages. Certain prizes were designated for children and for teens.

Also, part of the derby was an area in front of the Nature Center where children could do arts and crafts with the help of the center’s volunteers, a Books and Treasures Sale at the center on Saturday, and live music at the lake’s marina.

All of it was music to the ears, and pleasing to the eyes, of Nature Center Executive Director Julie McDonald, who has seen quite a few fish derbies during her tenure.

“It really good to see everybody out and enjoying this,” McDonald said at the Nature Center. “For one thing, we were wondering about the weather, because we’ve been getting rain on the weekends, but the sun’s come out and it just beautiful today.”

The derby has weathered through a difficult stretch, being put on hiatus due to COVID, and the water levels of the lake had caused concern. However, the pandemic restrictions are longer prevalent, and increased rainfall over the past year and a half has filled out the lake.

“Just a couple of years ago, the water was very low, and we had people fishing off the shore, but now that’s been filled,” McDonald said. “And now we have people coming up over the hill again, and we have such a great turnout today.”

McDonald’s favorite aspect of the event is the people that she sees coming back year after year.

“I have people telling me they’ve been coming for over 20 years and telling me ‘I came here as a kid and now I’m bringing my own kid'” she said. “I love hearing those stories.”

Over at the lake’s marina, there was plenty of activity as anglers of all ages were bringing in and setting off boats, getting gear and supplies, and bringing in fish to the weighing center to enter it in for the derby.

One coming to the weighing center was 11-year-old Chloe King of Solvang, submitting a bass she caught. The fish was weighed out at 1.72 pounds. That bass, which she threw back in the lake after the weigh, would win her $50 for the third heaviest fish caught by a girl in her age group (11-15).

And to prove Chloe, who came with her father Shane King, was no slouch at this fishing thing, she also caught another bass, this one 2.34 pounds, which would win her another $75 for second place in that category.

“I hope I can win something, but I’m just having a good time,” said Chloe. “My dad and I like to come at least once a month to do some fishing.”

While many were turning in their catches for the derby, there were some, like Shawn Johnson of Lompoc, who were just there for the fishing in general.

“Actually, I’m coming back next weekend [April 27-28] for a bass tournament here,” said Johnson, who was bringing in his boat with his fishing companion Andre Gossellin of Santa Barbarba. “I go to the bass tournaments a lot, and I like to do a pre-fish.”

Johnson was also pleased that the fishing conditions at Cachuma Lake are getting better.

“Since the water conditions have improved and the lake’s more full, it’s great,” he said. “It really opens up the fishing a lot more when there’s more water to explore.”

A list of the Fish Derby winners:

Heaviest trout: 1. Ernest Brentwood, 60, Grover Beach (6.61 lbs., $599); 2. Jason Anderson, 70, Cambria (5.16, $300).

Heaviest bass: 1. Aydin Gomez, 13, Santa Ynez (3.44/18.25″, $599); 2. John Flynn, 54, Santa Ynez (3.44/18″, $300).

Heaviest crappie: Terrance Cochran, 60, Gardena (2.03, $599); 2. Lorraine Pulido, 57, Carpinteria (1.98, $300).

Heaviest catfish: Matthew Hurzaeta, 52, Moorpark (5.07, $599); 2. Philippe Parsy, 38, Santa Barbara (4.85, $300).

Heaviest carp: 1. Pete Dasis, 50, Lompoc (10.09, $300); 2. Becky Dasis, 52, Lompoc (7.23, $150).

THE Neal Taylor “Young Angler Award”

First Catch by an angler 15 years or younger

Saturday: Cash Franco, 14, Lompoc (2.42 bass, $50).

Sunday: Jose Mendoza, 14 (1.54 crappie, $50).

Heaviest Fish caught by Girl 11-15 years old: 1, Paisley Mitchell, 15 (2.47 bass, $125); 2. Chloe King, 11, Solvang (2.34 bass, $75); 3. Chloe King, 11, Solvang (1.72 bass, $50).

Heaviest Fish caught by Boy 11-15 years old: 1. Aydin Gomez, 13, Santa Ynez (3.44 bass, $75); 2. Camden Emery, 12, Fillmore (3.17 trout, $50).

The Dutch Wilson Prize (fish caught by the oldest angler): Gust Balla Sr., 95, Santa Barbara (2.20 trout).

$25 and new fishing rod each given to first 10 kids 10 and under to catch a fish: 1. Jack Siebenaler, 10, blue gill; 2. Rosalie Shaw, 10, trout; 3. Duke Harmony, 6, from Goleta, blue gill; 4. Luca Kaddatz, 8, bass; 5. Joaquin Kaddatz, 5, bass; 6. Andrew Parra, 6, from Santa Maria, blue gill; 7. Abigail Belluz, 5, from Lompoc, bass; 8. Waylon Estes, 7, from Sisquoc, crappie; 9. Presley Hamby, 7, from Lompoc, trout; 10. Leonardo Sandoval, 9, bass.

Feature Image: Chloe King, 11, of Solvang, shows off one of two bass she caught April 20 in the Neal Taylor Fishing Derby at Cachuma Lake. This fish, weighed at 1.72 pounds and another bass she caught at 2.34 pounds, were the third- and second-heaviest fishes caught by a girl aged 11-15, which won her $125 total. Photos by Mike Chaldu

The post Anglers from all over enjoy another Fish Derby at Cachuma appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

STAFF REPORT

The Book Loft in Solvang will be holding a book signing for author Roger Rapaport and his novel “Searching for Patty Hearst,” on Sunday, Jan. 28, from 12 to 3 p.m.

On the night that Patty Hearst was kidnapped in 1974, journalist Roger D. Rapoport was a short distance away in his El Cerrito home. He quickly became one of the primary reporters covering the saga as it unfolded in real time. His reporting gave local and national readers a window into one of the most bizarre and polarizing crimes in U.S. history. Now, 50 years later, he has written a novel that draws us back to that time.

Rapaport, an award-winning film producer, publisher, author, and investigative journalist, has covered the Patty Hearst story for half a century. With a wry sensibility and insider knowledge that Rapoport is one of the few people to possess, “Searching for Patty Hearst,” goes beyond the tabloid headlines to tell the story in all its depth.

The Book Loft is located at 1680 Mission Drive in Solvang. Find out more about the book at pattyhearst.com.

The post Author of ‘Searching for Patty Hearst’ to appear at book signing at the Book Loft appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

Staff Report

The book signing and reading of “From White to Black: One Life Between Two Worlds,” a memoir of her life by local author Iris Rideau, scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m., Friday, Nov. 3, at Rideau Winery has been canceled for personal reasons. It will be rescheduled at a late date, according to Rideau.

Rideau, owner of the winery and vineyard that bears her name, spent 32 years in the insurance industry and also spent time on the California political scene, fighting for the rights of the underprivileged. The book is an intimate look into her life as a Creole woman born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1936, when Jim Crow was the law of the land, through her journey to become the first black woman to own her own winery and vineyard in United States.

Despite the cancellation, her book may still be purchased at Rideau Winery, at 1562 Alamo Pintado Road in Solvang, accessed on Amazon.com, or at The Book Loft, 1680 Mission Drive in Solvang.

The post Saturday book signing in Solvang cancelled appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.

PARc Place at 1623 Mission Drive in Solvang will be holding an Artisans Market on Saturday, Oct. 28, from 12 to 5 p.m.

The event is billed as the first of what will be a monthly Artisans Market, to happen on the last Saturday of each month.

For more information, go to @solvangartisansmarket on Instagram.

The post Monthly Solvang Artisans Market to begin Saturday, Oct. 28 appeared first on Santa Ynez Valley Star.