There’s something especially magical about Solvang during the holidays. Each December, the Danish-inspired village comes alive for Julefest, transforming its charming streets into a festive celebration filled with twinkling lights, holiday markets, seasonal treats, and plenty of Christmas cheer. This year, there’s another reason to make the trip: a holiday cookie decorating workshop at Hotel Ynez.
On Saturday, December 12, Hotel Ynez is partnering with the beloved Solvang Bakery for an afternoon of festive creativity, sweet treats, and holiday spirit. Whether you're planning a family outing, a weekend getaway, or simply looking for a new way to celebrate the season, this hands-on experience is a delightful addition to your Solvang holiday itinerary.
A Holiday Cookie Decorating Workshop with Solvang Bakery
Known for its elaborate gingerbread houses and generations of baking tradition, Solvang Bakery is bringing its decorating expertise to Hotel Ynez for a special holiday workshop.
Guests will have the opportunity to decorate six festive, holiday-shaped shortbread cookies, with guidance from the bakery's talented team. From colorful icing to sweet finishing touches, all the decorating supplies will be provided, leaving plenty of room for creativity.
Each ticket includes six holiday shortbread cookies to decorate and take home, icing, candy, and all necessary decorating supplies, plus hands-on instruction from the Solvang Bakery team. Guests can also enjoy their choice of a welcome glass of wine (21+) or sparkling cider.
Designed for all ages and open to the public, the workshop is an easygoing way to spend an afternoon getting into the holiday spirit. No decorating experience is necessary, just a little imagination and an appreciation for something sweet.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026
Time: 2–4 PM
Location: Hotel Ynez, Solvang, California
Tickets: $55 per person
Who Can Attend: Open to the public; all ages welcome
A Gingerbread House Made for Hotel Ynez
The holiday magic doesn't stop at the cookie decorating table. This season, Solvang Bakery is bringing another one of its signature creations to Hotel Ynez: a custom gingerbread house made especially for the property.
The bakery's elaborate, handcrafted gingerbread houses have earned quite the reputation, with creations finding their way into some pretty famous homes. Known for their intricate details and impressive designs, these edible works of art are a holiday tradition in their own right.
During the holiday season, guests can find Hotel Ynez's very own gingerbread house on display in the guest lounge. It's one more sweet reason to stop by, settle in, and soak up the festive atmosphere at Hotel Ynez.
Make a Weekend of Solvang Julefest
A visit to Solvang during December is an experience all its own. The town's annual Julefest celebration brings a little extra magic to the Santa Ynez Valley, with festive decorations, holiday shopping, seasonal food and drink, and community celebrations throughout the village.
After an afternoon of cookie decorating, continue exploring everything Julefest has to offer. Wander through Solvang's storybook streets, browse local boutiques, discover Danish-inspired holiday treats, and take in the lights and decorations that make this little corner of California feel especially festive.
For those traveling from out of town, a holiday weekend in Solvang is the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy the season.
Stay a Little Longer at Hotel Ynez
Make Hotel Ynez your home for the holidays. Located just minutes from downtown Solvang and the heart of Julefest festivities, this boutique retreat offers a quieter place to unwind between holiday adventures.
Set across two peaceful acres, Hotel Ynez pairs the charm of a California motor lodge with thoughtful modern design. Guest rooms feature warm natural textures and inviting details, while outdoor gathering spaces, cozy fire pits, and shaded patios create plenty of opportunities to settle in and enjoy the slower side of the season.
There's always something good brewing in the guest lounge. Guests can help themselves to complimentary Rustic Bakery cookies and seasonal teas from Rishi's Holiday Collection, available daily. On Friday and Saturday evenings, there's a little extra holiday cheer to sip on: traditional Scandinavian gløgg, a warm, spiced mulled wine served complimentary to hotel guests.
Whether you're visiting for the cookie decorating workshop, exploring Solvang's holiday festivities, or planning a winter escape to the Santa Ynez Valley, Hotel Ynez makes a welcoming home base for the occasion.
Make a weekend of it, decorate something sweet, and discover a little holiday magic in Solvang.