ALONG COMES MARY

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Solvang. Jule Fest officially kicks off on December 5th with their Tree Lighting Ceremony. The Jule Fest atmosphere is already in full force. We recently headed up the 101 for an impromptu night. Although we were in the middle of a huge rainstorm, I knew we would keep plenty busy. The wet ambience added to the European charm, and we even discovered Solvang’s very own game arcade.

Celebrate the Season at Jule Fest in Solvang

Check into the Royal Copenhagen Inn

Solvang has over half a dozen hotels in the downtown village. This makes it ideal to park the car once and walk out to explore. We still succeeded in doing this despite the rain. The Royal Copenhagen Inn on Mission Drive is a modest option with comfy rooms and easy access to the town. Since Mabel and I are always in the Christmas spirit, it doesn’t hurt that the Jule Hus (Christmas House gift shop) is directly across the street.

Our double Queen room was spacious with a fridge, dining table, writing desk, and shower. A helpful perk is their continental breakfast brought to your door each morning. The “breakfast box” has pastries, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, cereal, string cheese, and drinks. Their outdoor activity center has a pool, jacuzzi, mini golfing, Chess, and a bean bag drop game. Each suite is unique, with inspiration from old-world European architecture.

I love that they’re pet-friendly. A “Secret Garden” in the back offers a secluded and enclosed space for pups to stretch their legs and go potty.

Eat and Play at Peasants DELI and Arcade

It was a highlight of my last Solvang trek to dine at Peasants FEAST. We were excited to return, but they were a little crowded due to the rain. As we waited for a table to open, we checked out their sister, Peasants DELI and Arcade, just across the street.

The intimate deli caters to almost everyone with a large sandwich menu (just hoping gluten-free bread is added one day). The grab ‘n go space is fit for families picnicking, those off to wine taste, or anyone in need of a top-notch meal in a casual setting.

The hidden treat to the deli is the game arcade. A small space packs over a dozen classic games like air hockey and pinball. All ages are welcome, and parents can even enjoy a glass of wine while the kiddos play.

Lunch at Peasants FEAST

Peasants FEAST continues to create buzz in Solvang and for good reason. The Michelin Bib Gourmand–recognized restaurant has a simple menu that packs a lot of flavor. Mabel and I had such a great time here earlier this year. The ambience is intimate yet suitable for families.

Back in the day, the Greenhouse Cafe was at this location. It was a slightly more elegant setting for diner dishes like a pancake breakfast (my go-to order). Peasants FEAST gives the space a whole new vibe without feeling too upscale. Despite the crowded rainy day, the service was once again great. Our server answered all of our questions and was very personable. The hostess even came over to the arcade when our table was ready.

Peasants FEAST’s menu consists of modern spins on lunch staples. Think grilled cheese, fried chicken, and even tacos. Since Mike is dairy-free to my gluten-free, we zeroed in on the latter. I love a great taco with a homemade tortilla. Being in LA, I’m always ready to try somewhere new. I see many taco spots I love boast “Homemade Tortillas.” Yet Peasants FEAST is truly the real deal for me. They’re large, warm, and melt in my mouth. Mike continues to rave about his carnitas tacos as well as the vegan chocolate coconut ice cream we devoured.

Take a Yuletide Break and Wine Taste

Mike and I had been itching to do some wine tasting in Solvang. What better way to get into that Jule Fest spirit even more? After lunch, we walked over to Crawford Family Wines. We held our breath a bit given the girls were with us but Crawford has created such a welcoming experience even for those under 21.

We were greeted warmly by Michaela Horvath. It’s a family affair as her parents, Mark and Wendy, own the winery, which launched over a decade ago. They are clearly passionate about winemaking, and it shows in each glass. In addition to their Crawford Family Wine label, they recently launched Low Tide Wine Co. While their first label focuses on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Rhone varietals, Low Tide takes inspiration from the coastal climate of Santa Barbara County.

We both enjoyed a wine flight, which consisted of five tastings for $25. It’s an excellent introduction to Crawford’s small production wines. It was hard to pick a favorite, but the 2023 Viognier quickly won me over with its notes of honeysuckle and a hint of vanilla spice. Their 2021 Pinot Noir was another highlight, as I rarely can resist a Pinot. Especially from the Santa Ynez Valley. It’s an ideal red to enjoy with a savory dish or if you’re like me, on its own after a long day.

Cozy up at Kaena Wines

By the time we arrived at Kaena, the rain was getting heavy. That didn’t stop us from having a blast. Kaena is just on the outskirts of town on Highway 246. Horse farms surround the area, and lucky for Mabel, the resident cats were hanging out, ready to be loved. Musicians played live music inside the spacious tasting room, and we took a cozy spot outside under the covered patio. The large space is ideal for families, and since we weren’t the only group with kiddos along, Mabel got to play while we enjoyed our tasting.

Kaena grows its wines at three separate vineyards. Two in Ballard Canyon and one just by the Mission in Solvang. Mike and I shared a standard flight, which showcases some of Kaena’s beloved reds and whites. Several were blends, and we particularly enjoyed the Hapa red. With its complex and bold notes, Hapa can be enjoyed now or even aged up to 15 years.

Enjoy Jule Fest in Solvang All Month Long

Whatever the weather may be, Solvang is always a fun trip. Hotels are booking up fast for the Jule Fest Solvang celebrations, but check out the tree lighting ceremony, parade, and more. Get all of the info and plan a festive trip HERE.