COURTESY PHOTO BY MARK VELASQUEZ
Holiday Guide
HOLIDAY LISTING Special Events ...........................13 Thanksgiving Events ...............13 Parades ....................................13 Tree and Menorah Lightings . 20 Fairs ....................................... 20 Santas .....................................22 New Year’s Events ..................24 Fundraisers...............................24 Stage .........................................24 Nutcrackers ............................26 Music ........................................26 Seasonal Music....................... 27 Writers and Literature .............28 Art ............................................29 Openings and Receptions..... 30 Classes and Workshops......... 30 Kid Stuff ...................................31 The Outdoors ...........................32
SPECIAL EVENTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS AL AMOS CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY: DRIVE-THROUGH LIGHT SHOW Bring your loved ones, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the spirit of the season as you drive through miles of dazzling lights and festive scenes. Fridays, Saturdays, 6 p.m. through Dec. 24 elksrec.com. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria. NAUGHTY OR NICE: A HOLIDAY DRAG BALL Join Mirame Entertainment for a fun one-night only benefit performance to support the Santa Maria Civic Theatre. Register early. VIP seating available. Dec. 6, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria. PROUD FELLOWSHIP Proud Fellowship is a program created for LGBTQIA+ young adults (ages 16-22) to collaborate in a safe and welcoming environment. Registration is required. Nov. 21, 4-5 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. SMCT HOLIDAY HOMICIDE FUNDRAISER A holiday-themed murder mystery party hosted by SMCT. This unique event includes delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a captivating holiday homicide mystery that you and your friends can solve together. Dec. 7, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA Y NE Z VALLE Y BUELLTON WINTER FEST There will be 20 tons of snow, food and drink offerings, arts and crafts vendors for all your holiday shopping needs, and live music to set the festive mood. Dec. 8, 4-7 p.m. buelltonrec.com. River View Park, 151 Sycamore Dr., Buellton. CANDLELIGHT TOURS Traverse the village of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Nov. 30-Dec. 28 solvangusa.com/thingsto-do/solvang-julefest/. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang. A COWBOY CHRISTMAS A family-friendly experience hosted by Old West Events, in conjunction with SYV Horseback Rides. Features a petting zoo, visits with Santa, kids activities, hot cocoa, and more. Fridays, Saturdays. through Dec. 21 River View Park, 151 Sycamore Dr., Buellton. GINGERBREAD WONDERLAND Local artisans and schoolchildren transform the hall into a winter dreamland. Dec. 7, 4 p.m. St. Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos. OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS This beloved small-town celebration invites you to kick off the holiday season with warmth, laughter, and festive cheer. Dec. 7, 2-7 p.m. visitsyv.com. Downtown Los Olivos, Grand Ave., Los Olivos. SOLVANG JULEFEST 2024 Julefest returns with a full slate of holiday events happening across downtown Solvang. Check website for the annual tradition’s lineup. Nov. 29-Jan. 5 solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang. SOLVANG TROLLEY CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOUR Guests will tour the lights of the Santa Ynez Valley, passing through decorated neighborhoods and past illuminated storefronts, all aboard one
BE OUR GUEST
Performances of the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) production of Beauty and the Beast are scheduled to run through Friday, Dec. 22, at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. Adapted from Disney’s beloved animated musical, the show stars Edella Oroz Westerfield (center) as Belle. To find out more or purchase tickets, visit pcpa.org. —Caleb Wiseblood of Solvang’s recognizable Trolleys. Thursdays-Sundays. through Dec. 29 Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
LOMPOC/ VANDENBERG BEST OF THE WEST WRESTLING The Flower City Ballroom presents this wrestling show. Nov. 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25; $30 for VIP; $20 for kids ages 12 and under. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 810-0714, soulfyahband.com/epk. CABRILLO HIGH SCHOOL AQUARIUM OPEN HOUSE: SEASONS GREETINGS The breakout hit of last year’s Open House schedule, this festive event features holiday decorations all over the facility. Dec. 4, 6-8 p.m. Cabrillo High School, 4350 Constellation Rd., Lompoc, lusd.org/chs. CHASE SANTA: TOYS FOR TOTS 5K AND KIDS RUN The first five runners who beat Santa in the 5K win a prize. There is also a 4/10 mile Kids Run. Registration starts at 8 a.m. This event is a benefit for the Toys for Tots program in the Lompoc Valley. Awards will be given in several age categories. Dec. 7, 9 a.m. $5 per person; plus one new, unwrapped toy per family. runlompoc. com/. River Park, Highway 246 and Sweeney Road, Lompoc. FOUNDING DAY MASS Held in the historic main church of La Purísima Mission to celebrate the founding of the mission (Dec. 8, 1787). The public is invited to attend. No reservations are required. Dec. 8, 12-2 p.m. Free to attend. La Purísima Mission, 2295 Purisima Mission, Lompoc. LOMPOC VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY OPEN HOUSE The Lompoc Valley Historical Society offers tours of the Fabing McKay Spanne House. Come learn a little bit about Lompoc’s history. Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Dec. 28, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Fabing McKay Spanne House, 207 N. L St., Lompoc, (805) 735-4626, lompochistory.org.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y ELEGANT EVENING: HISTORIC VILLAGE OF ARROYO GRANDE Celebrate the season while you tour the Village, do some holiday shopping, and enjoy local fare, live music, and spirits. Dec. 8, 5-8 p.m. my805tix.com. Historic Village of Arroyo Grande, Branch and Short St., Arroyo Grande. HOLIDAY MARKET Discover local artists, quality specialty gifts, handcrafted delights, and more. Don’t miss the chance to find that perfect gift. Nov. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 595-7600. avilabayclub.com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach. HOLIDAY PARTY: THE SPA AT THE CLIFFS Visit site for tickets and more info on this annual holiday party. Nov. 21, 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000. THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS: MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET GARDEN Enjoy a screening of the 1993 classic animated film from writer and producer Tim Burton. Dec. 13, 6-9 p.m. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302. PLANES, TRAINS, AND AUTOMOBILES: MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET GARDEN Enjoy a screening of the 1987 classic Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Hotel guests and the public are welcome to attend. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. as it gets chilly. Nov. 29, 6-9 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.
SAN LUIS OBISPO CHRISTMAS CLAY DROP-IN Drop in for some creative holiday clay creation time. Teachers will be present to help you create pieces such as platters, Christmas trees, and ornaments. No experience necessary. Limited to two trees or six ornaments per person. Book a second class to glaze your pieces. Mondays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 16 $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. HO HO HOLIDAYS For ages 18 and over. Get ready for a holidaythemed show filled with big candy canes, sparkling snowflakes, and plenty to unwrap. Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337. HOLIDAY SUCCULENT WREATHS Celebrate the holidays with a beautiful hand-made succulent wreath, to decorate your table or home for the holidays, or to give as a gift. Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-noon $75 with additional $15 materials fee. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org/ event/holiday-succulent-trees/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. LIGHT UP THE PLAZA Free, family-friendly, and open to the public. Join Downtown SLO, the City of SLO, event sponsors, and community partners as we “switch on” the lights in the Plaza, ushering the start of the holiday season. Grab a drink downtown and enjoy the festivities. Nov. 29, 5 p.m. downtownslo.com/ events/holidays. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo. NATURE NIGHTS 2024 Come see what’s going on at Nature Nights, a holiday light festival featuring live music, local food vendors, and beverages like beer and wine. Also features a local artisan marketplace. Nov. 27, 5-8 p.m., Nov. 29, 5-8 p.m., Nov. 30, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 7, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 13, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 14, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 20-23, 5-8 p.m. and Dec. 26-28, 5-8 p.m. $28 adults. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. ORNAMENTS AND OIL WORKSHOP WITH DREW DAVIS Unleash your creativity in a warm Christmas art studio atmosphere. Participants will enjoy a delightful Christmas tree cheese board appetizer paired with seasonal cocktails, all included in the price. No painting experience necessary. Dec. 8, 1-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. REINDEER RUN 5K FUN RUN This December run brings community members together to celebrate the winter season and raise money for SLO County Friday Night Live youth development programming. Dec. 7, 9-11:30 a.m. $25. slofnl.com/reindeer-run. Mitchell Park, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo. WINTER SOLSTICE: DRUM CIRCLE AND CELEBRATION An event to honor the quiet magic of winter and the return of sunlight and longer days. Embrace the warmth of community in a safe, welcoming space, surrounded by winter’s beauty and breathtaking views at the ranch. Dec. 21, 2-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Eagles Landing Ranch, 4615 Prefumo Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo.
NOR TH COAST SLO COUNT Y CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Cambria Christmas Market, a dazzling winter wonderland, open most dates between late November and late December. Stroll through more than 3 million lights, meet Santa, explore an authentic German vendor market, and savor festive food and drink. Nov. 29-Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. $25-$40. (800)
966-6490. cambriachristmasmarket.com/. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. CAMBRIA NURSERY: SUCCULENT CHRISTMAS TREE WORKSHOP Get in the holiday spirit and create your own succulent Christmas tree. After the holidays, you’re able to reuse the succulents and add them to your plant collection. Cost includes all materials to create your masterpiece. Only 10 spots available (sign up today). Nov. 23, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $80. (805) 9274747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria. CHRISTMAS IN CAYUCOS: WONDERLAND WALK A fun and festive yearly tradition in downtown Cayucos, along Ocean Avenue. Enjoy dining, shopping, and merriment. Dec. 14, 5-8 p.m. cayucoschamber.com. Cayucos Beach, The corner of D Street and Ocean Avenue, Cayucos. CLUB DV8: FREE ‘80S PARTY Includes live music from a local ‘80s era dance music group that covers select hits, while combining guitars and synths with a solid rhythm section. Nov. 29, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Free admission. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/. HOLIDAYS IN CAMBRIA VILLAGE This seasonal extravaganza will have open houses at businesses throughout town, a special tree lighting, free hot cocoa, flashmob dancing, holiday music, and more. Dec. 6, 4:30-7:30 p.m. and Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 927-3624. cambriachamber.org/holidays-in-cambria-village/. Cambria (various venues), Citywide, Cambria. ORNAMENT DECORATING WORKSHOP A festive workshop, where you’ll create unique, handmade ornaments to add a personal touch to your holiday décor. Nov. 24, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $25. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria. THE SIREN’S BIG ASS BRASS CHRISTMAS BASH For ages 21 and over. Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s bringing Brass Mash to The Siren for this festive event. Doors open at 7 p.m. Dec. 21, 7-10:30 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.
SPECIAL EVENTS: THANKSGIVING EVENTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS AL AMOS THANKSGIVING BRUNCH Features a carving station, salads, an omelet station, a waffle bar, bottomless mimosas, and more. Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. santamariainn.com. Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.
LOMPOC/ VANDENBERG LOMPOC TURKEY TROT Lompoc Parks and Recreation hosts the Turkey Trot Three-Mile Fun Run (9:30 a.m.) and Kids Turkey Dash (for kids ages 5 to 13, at 9 a.m.). Nov. 24, 9 a.m. $20-$30. cityoflompoc.com/government/departments/recreation. River Park, Highway 246 and Sweeney Road, Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y SLO COUNTY TURKEY TROT Join SLO Food Bank for the annual Turkey Trot at Pismo Beach, a fun run/walk to support holiday meals for those in need. Nov. 28, 8:30-11:30 a.m. $25. (805) 2384664. slofoodbank.org/turkey-trot/. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.
SAN LUIS OBISPO THANKSGIVING DAY SERVICE A festive service with hymns, readings from the Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, and time to share your remarks of gratitude. All are welcome. Child care provided. Nov. 28, 10-11 a.m. (805) 543-5853. First Church of Christ, Scientist, 1326 Garden St., San Luis Obispo.
NOR TH COAST SLO COUNT Y FRIENDSGIVING AT THE SIREN With live music from the Murder Hornets and special guests. Nov. 27, 7-10:30 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/. THANKSGIVING BUFFET AT THE LODGE Gather with family and friends for a delicious Thanksgiving celebration at Cambria Pines Lodge. This bountiful buffet features a delightful spread of traditional holiday dishes. Nov. 28, 12:30-7:30 p.m. $69.95. (805) 924-3353. cambriapineslodge.com/events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. THIRD ANNIVERSARY SALE Enjoy free samples, a raffle, and the opportunity to win a big prize (for the 24th customer). Nov. 30, 10 a.m. Free. (805) 395-9323. plantaeandfungi.com/event/3rdanniversary-event/. Plantae and Fungi, 750 Sheffield St., Cambria.
SPECIAL EVENTS: PARADES SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS AL AMOS OLD TOWN ORCUTT CHRISTMAS PARADE A holiday favorite since 1961. This annual afternoon parade features floats, animals,
SPECIAL EVENTS: PARADES continued page 20
www.santamariasun.com • November 21 - November 28, 2024 • Sun • 13