After heavy rains created a muddy mess that canceled last year’s event, the Solvang Christmas Tree Burn returned Friday night, capping the community’s weeks-long Julefest celebration. 

The tree burn held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday took place in the empty field adjacent to Old Mission Santa Inés, 1760 Mission Drive.

Santa Ynez Valley residents dropped off undecorated, unflocked real Christmas trees to create a behemoth pile for what officials dubbed the 32nd annual event. 

The tree burn also serves as a fire safety demonstration conducted by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department. 

Boy Scout Troops 007 and 41 also retired American flags during the event. 

Refreshments were available along with assorted activities organized by the Solvang Parks & Recreation Department.

In 2021, the tree burn did not take place because of COVID-19 concerns. Last year, rainy weather left a muddy mess in the field, leading to cancellation although clear weather was forecast during the event.

City leaders noted that the storm had left very large puddles, excessive mud, terrible footing and giant ruts from various vehicles driving onto the field to drop off trees. 

When the event can’t occur, Solvang and Waste Management recycle the trees to create mulch. 

Solvang Julefest celebrates the Christmas season with various events from late November and into December before culminating with the tree burn in early January. The collection of Julefest events included a tree-lighting ceremony, parade and more.