Santa Claus is Coming to Town!
Illustration by Anna Takahashi
Cambria Christmas Market
The annual Cambria Christmas Market offers a delightful German-inspired holiday experience for guests of all ages, with an illuminating 3 million twinkling lights! Take a merry train ride, hand-deliver your Christmas wish list to Santa and listen to live music on two stages. Enjoy a brew in the family-friendly Biergarten and treat yourself to an array of international cuisines and beverages, including traditional German gluhwein. The German Vendor Market is brimming with local gifts and treasures like handcrafted, imported German goods such as nutcrackers, ornaments and more. It’s a holiday extravaganza that makes this time of the year so special.
2905 Burton Drive in Cambria
Christmas at the Ranch
Join in on the Central Coast’s newest holiday tradition for the whole family: Christmas at the Santa Margarita Ranch! Load up your family and friends and take a ride on the Pacific Coast Railroad’s Jingle Bell Express through an expanded scenic holiday showcase. Visit Santa’s Barn where the kids can meet Santa Claus and the entire family can explore holiday décor, shop craft vendors and take in a magic show by local radio hero, Andy Morris. Indulge in food, drinks, and sweets from local food trucks. It’s a holiday tradition that fills the heart – and one celebration you’ll not want to miss.
900 Yerba Buena Ave in Santa Margarita
Sensorio
Visit Sensorio as the nights light up with dazzling displays, and that is especially true this holiday season. Check out the Holiday Craft Fairs on November 30th and December 21st: Stroll through the whimsical, warmly lit venue, where local vendors will showcase handcrafted treasures—perfect for finding gifts that truly stand out. And get ready for a magical touch as Santa himself will be visiting on December 14th, 15th, and 19th! It’s a beautiful time to bring loved ones together to enjoy a cozy atmosphere filled with holiday cheer.
4380 Hwy 46 East in Paso Robles
Santa's House in Mission Plaza
Opening Thanksgiving weekend: A beloved tradition, Santa flies in from the North Pole to his annual winter residency at the holiday wonderland of Mission Plaza, amidst all the action in downtown San Luis Obispo! Meet Santa, recite your wish list, take photos, snuggle up with loved ones, all while reveling in the dazzling lights and sights of the heart of the city. Come for the lights… stay for the fun!
939 Chorro Street in San Luis Obispo
Salnas River Ranch Christmas Tree Farm
Create lasting family memories as you select the perfect tree to brighten the holiday season! Nestled in a tranquil landscape, the 100-year-owned family property of Salinas River Ranch is dedicated to growing a variety of beautiful trees from hypoallergenic Monterey Cypress to majestic Monterey Pines – each hand pruned and nurtured with love and care. Staff are always on hand to assist in choosing the ideal tree. And spend time with Santa and Mrs. Claus who will be visiting on opening day and every weekend, for complimentary pictures and meet-and-greets, along with festive activities and treats like a campfire, farm animals, hot apple cider, hot cocoa and homemade sweets and crafts.
9555 Santa Barbara Road in Atascadero
Arroyo Grande's Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the holidays with a winter spectacle that stretches across town at the Holiday Parade, Santa’s Village, Elegant Evening in the Village, Tree Lighting and Snow! Community members come together to present an unforgettable show that captures the essence of winter cheer starting on December 1st with the Holiday Parade. On December 8th the holiday spirit will be in full swing at the Elegant Evening in the Village: enjoy live music, shopping, food and drinks – and Santa! If you miss the opportunity to share your wish list, there is still time: visit the Tree Lighting and Snow event at Elm Street Park on December 15. Or visit St. Nick at Santa’s House at Heritage Gardens; stop by December 3rd to 22nd, every Saturday and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM, as well as Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 PM to 6 PM.
In Arroyo Grande
