Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley Returns This Fall

Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley Returns This Fall

October 1-4: What to Expect

Presented by Visit the Santa Ynez Valley in partnership with Sunset Magazine, Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley showcases everything that makes this destination one of California’s premier culinary and wine regions.

Throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy:

• Chef-led communal dinners
• Curated wine tastings
• Vineyard walks with winemakers
• Farm tours and agritourism experiences
• Horseback rides
• Zipline adventures
• Live music
• Brunch events
• Exclusive after parties

Each event is designed to connect visitors with the local chefs, winemakers, farmers, ranchers, and artisans who help define the authentic character of the Santa Ynez Valley.

Explore the Valley’s Agricultural Roots

Go Beyond the Vineyard with Hands-On Farm Experiences

This family-friendly adventure takes guests behind the scenes of the region’s agricultural heritage with visits to working farms, historic ranches, olive groves, organic produce fields, and family-owned walnut orchards. Along the way, attendees will enjoy farm-fresh tastings, U-pick experiences, and a picnic celebrating local ingredients.

One of this year’s newest experiences is the Heritage Farmland Flavors of SYV Tour on Friday, October 2nd.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to discover why agriculture remains at the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley and its vibrant culinary scene.

Signature Communal Dinners Return

Why Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley Is a Must-Visit Fall Event

One of the highlights of Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley is its unforgettable communal dining experiences.

Thursday, October 1st: Los Alamos

The weekend begins in the culinary hotspot of Los Alamos with a wine tasting reception followed by a family-style dinner in the historic 1880 Union Hotel Courtyard. The evening concludes with the exclusive 1880 Speakeasy After Party.

Friday, October 2nd: Santa Ynez & Los Olivos

Friday evening moves to Santa Ynez, where guests will enjoy wines from Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, and Happy Canyon before gathering for a communal dinner at Santa Ynez Ranch. Acclaimed local restaurants including Bar Le Côte, Los Olivos Wine Merchant Café, Hitching Post 2, Lucky Penny, and Willows at Chumash Casino Resort will prepare an unforgettable family-style feast.

Saturday, October 3rd: Solvang

Saturday concludes in the charming Danish village of Solvang with the popular Solvang Grand Tasting, featuring wines from across the Santa Ynez Valley alongside bites from local restaurants.

As the sun sets, guests will gather around a spectacular communal table on Second Street for one of the festival’s signature dinners. Participating restaurants include Peasants Feast, The Gathering Table, Coast Range, Whiskey ‘N Rye, and Olsen’s Bakery, with every course thoughtfully paired with local wines.

Outdoor Adventures Meet Wine Country

Taste Local Food, Wine, and Farm Experiences

Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley isn’t just about exceptional food and wine—it also celebrates the incredible outdoor recreation that makes Santa Barbara Wine Country so special.

Saturday’s lineup includes:

• Horseback rides through Alisal Ranch
• Haywagon rides with a classic cowboy breakfast
• Ziplining with Highline Adventures
• Vineyard walks at Saarloos & Sons
• The popular Franc & Blanc Tasting featuring specialty wines, local bites, and live music

These immersive experiences offer visitors a new perspective on the landscapes that make the Santa Ynez Valley one of California’s most beloved destinations.

End the Weekend with Brunch in Buellton

The celebration wraps up on Sunday with a relaxed Brunch & Tasting at The Tavern at Zaca Creek in Buellton.

Guests will enjoy a walk-around brunch featuring wines from Sta. Rita Hills and Buellton-area wineries, along with cocktails from Rock 12 Distillery, all set within one of the Valley’s most historic venues.

Plan Your Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley Getaway

All official Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley events require advance tickets, with prices ranging from $35 for select experiences to $200 for signature communal dinners.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a friends’ getaway, or your first visit to Solvang, Santa Ynez, or the greater Santa Ynez Valley, Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley offers an unforgettable way to experience the very best of Santa Barbara Wine Country.

Tickets are on sale now, and many events have limited capacity. Be sure to check our Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley page for hotel offers when planning your trip.

We look forward to raising a glass with you this October!

Frequently Asked Questions About Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley

When is Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley?

Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley takes place October 1–4 and features four days of food, wine, outdoor adventures, and culinary experiences throughout Santa Barbara Wine Country.

Where is Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley held?

Events take place throughout the Santa Ynez Valley, including Solvang, Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Los Alamos, Buellton, and Ballard.

What kinds of events are included in the Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley?

Guests can enjoy wine tastings, chef dinners, vineyard walks, horseback rides, farm tours, ziplining, brunches, and exclusive after parties.

Do I need tickets for the Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley?

Yes. All official events require advance tickets, and many experiences sell out.