This summer get tickets to see a show at the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts’ Solvang Festival Theater and make a day out of it.

It’s easy to feel like you’re on vacation as you stroll Solvang’s European-inspired streets, visit its charming bakeries and antique shops.

Stop in one of the town’s local wine shops to taste some of the Central Coast grape harvest for yourself. Or stop by the to-go window at the Solvang Restaurant to sample some aebleskivers, a doughy Danish delight popular throughout town.

If you’re hungry for something more substantial before the show, several local restaurants offer great ambiance and fare. Locals will be quick to recommend their favorites.

Around 7:30 p.m., begin the short walk to the Festival Theater, located at 420 2nd St. From Atterdag, go left on Copenhagen Drive and turn right onto 2nd Street; the theater is on the left.

The 700-seat outdoor amphitheater-style venue is surrounded by a well manicured lawn decorated with sparkling white lights that become more enchanting as evening falls, closer to the 8 p.m. showtime.

Temperatures may push 100 degrees during the day in the summer in Solvang, but as soon as the sun sets, the colder coastal air moves in. Don’t forget to dress warmly and to bring a blanket.

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If you do forget your own blanket, never fear. The venue rents warm, fuzzy throws for $2, and comfortable seat cushions for $1.

Also, to keep you warm, coffee, hot chocolate, wine and other goodies are offered for sale before the show and during intermission. All sales are cash only.

PCPA’s summer series at the Solvang Festival Theater includes:

“Company in Concert,” now through July 15

“The Importance of Being Earnest,” now through July 14

“Kiss Me, Kate,” July 20 through Aug. 12

“The Real Thing,” Aug. 17 through Sept. 14

“Urinetown,” Aug. 31 through Sept. 23

Tickets can be purchased online at www.pcpa .org or by calling the box office at 922-8313.