So, you’ve decided to spend Thanksgiving in Santa Barbara, and we can’t think of a more perfect idea. Exploring the Pacific Coast Highway and landing in sunny Santa Barbara during the holidays is guaranteed to be fun. Be sure to allocate time for all the festive things the city hosts that weekend.
Here are some spectacular events that your entire family can enjoy when looking for things to do in Santa Barbara on Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Wine Tour
Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours will host an expert tour with guides at three local wineries where you can explore the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. Lunch and a door-to-door shuttle service from your hotel are included in the tour.
While exploring the wineries, your guide will share local history and insights into the region, plus why the wine in Santa Barbara is so unique. Treat your palate for the day, and maybe you’ll find a favorite bottle to share with the family on Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving Centerpiece Arranging Workshop
There are several florists and garden clubs in Santa Barbara that host Thanksgiving centerpiece workshops. This could be a really fun way to spend the day as you master the art of layering flowers and creating your very own unique and elegant centerpiece. Tickets include time with a professional instructor and all necessary materials, and may include snacks and drinks.
Thanksgiving 4-Miler
Every Thanksgiving, Run Santa Barbara hosts their annual Thanksgiving 4-Miler. As the name suggests, the four-mile run starts at the Magnolia Shopping Center (5124 Hollister Avenue, Santa Barbara, 93111) and takes runners through the neighborhood before coming to an end at Thunderbird Park.
The event usually lasts for a couple of hours from 7 am to 11 am and includes a delicious post-run slice of pumpkin pie.
Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is open on Thanksgiving and welcomes all families who want to be out of the house and around animal friends for the day. You’ll be greeted with 146 species of animals, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and more.
The zoo overlooks the ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains for an incredible view while visiting. Once you’re done, you can head to one of these beautiful restaurants offering Thanksgiving dinner.
Turkey Day Paddle
Be active on Thanksgiving with a morning paddle before settling for dinner. You can cruise the coast with your family on paddle boards and enjoy the fresh ocean air while exploring. Rentals are usually around $20 per person at places like the Paddle Sports Center.
Enjoy these fun activities throughout Santa Barbara before you have your Thanksgiving feast. If you don’t like cooking, you can get reservations at one of Santa Barbara’s amazing restaurants and leave the cooking to someone else.
