Things to do in Cambria This Winter

Joyous holiday spirit is alive on the Central Coast! Plan a “winter” getaway to California and make a stop in Cambria, a cute and remote coastal town with boutique shops (no chains in sight), enchanting beaches, historic attractions, wide-open spaces and we can’t forget the mouthwatering pies from Linn’s! This small town makes for the perfect vacation this winter, check out some of our favorite activities to enjoy:

1. Gaze Upon 2 Million Lights at the Cambria Christmas Market. Cue the holiday music! The annual, iconic Cambria Christmas Market is back this season, open now - Dec. 23rd, 2023. This is the ultimate holiday light display on the Central Coast for you, your family, friends, co-workers, dentist… okay you get the point, but jokes aside this is definitely the most joyful display that everyone you know should experience. The Cambria Christmas Market features not only 2 million dazzling lights but also visits from Santa, cozy fire pits, delicious festive food, hot cocoa to keep you snug (or gluhwein for adults) and an authentic German Christmas Market with imported German goods and handcrafted items from local artisans. Plan your visit today! Tickets and overnight stays are almost sold out. 

2. Listen to Live Music at the Cambria Pines Lodge Fireside Lounge. While visiting the traditional light display and market, don’t miss out on live entertainment in the Fireside Lounge. Picture this - a comfortable evening amongst family or friends enjoying steamy adult beverages and festive live music with a stone fireplace blazing to keep you cozy. Sounds pretty amazing, doesn’t it?! The Fireside Lounge is open to hotel guests and the public every day from 2-11pm. Take advantage of their happy hour deals Monday-Thursday from 2-5pm!

3. Explore the Many Art Galleries and Shops in Town. Is holiday shopping on your list? Check! Cambria’s one-of-a-kind art galleries and shops feature handcrafted and locally sourced gifts including accessories, antiques, essential oils, wine and so much more! You name it, you can probably find it at one of the many local shops. Not to mention, you’re supporting small businesses while getting your holiday shopping done. We’d call that a win-win. 

4. Attend the Cambria Art and Wine Festival. Get this, every year the town of Cambria hosts an Art and Wine Festival. Need we say anymore?! The annual event is returning January 27th-29th, 2023. The festival features shopping specials, raffles, wine tasting (yay!) and of course local art. Throughout the event, you’ll even get a glimpse at artists demonstrating their creations live. Don’t forget to purchase a piece to bring back home to remember your time at this fun event! 

*Pro Tip: Complete the experience by attending the Kick-Off Party! Taking place on Friday, January 27th the Kick-Off Party is a must and sells out every year. Limited tickets are available and include sparkling wine, appetizers, a five-course meal, raffle prizes and a silent auction/art show. 

While summer and spring seem like an ideal time of year to visit Cambria, don’t count out the winter season! These activities are a great way to cheer up your winter. Start planning a winter getaway to Cambria today and consider staying at one of our Cambria Properties.