Holiday events kick off in Atascadero Friday
Two children sit on Santa’s Lap at a past Winter Wonderland event. Photo by Heather Young.
Celebrations will kick off with the annual ‘Light up the Downtown!’
– The City of Atascadero is preparing for a series of festive events this holiday season, offering something for all ages. The celebrations will kick off with the annual “Light up the Downtown!” on Friday, Dec. 6, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Sunken Gardens. This event will feature a countdown to light up Historic City Hall and the debut of the new “Garden Lights & Winter Nights,” a holiday display that will transform the area into a winter wonderland.
Festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. with musical performances by the Fine Arts Academy Honor Choir and the Atascadero Community Band. At 6 p.m., the mayor and councilmembers will lead the traditional countdown, followed by a visit from Santa and his elves. Horse-drawn hayrides and free hot chocolate will also be available.
In addition, the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce will host a Holiday Sip & Shop, where visitors can enjoy adult beverages at over 20 participating businesses in Downtown Atascadero. Tickets are available for purchase at www.atascaderochamber.org. Businesses will also be open for holiday shopping and dining.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., the Musical Holiday Walk Around the Lake will take place at Atascadero Lake. The event will feature caroling, musical performances, and holiday decorations. Santa will visit the Charles Paddock Zoo from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. before heading to the Ranger House next to the Pavilion at 7 p.m. This event is organized by the Atascadero Lake Neighborhood Association.
On Friday, Dec. 13, from 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Atascadero will host Winter Wonderland, featuring over 70 tons of snow. The Sunken Gardens and surrounding areas will be transformed into a magical holiday scene, with activities including a snow slide, obstacle courses, gladiator joust, bounce houses, and a bungy jump. Santa and his elves will also make an appearance. The event is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Atascadero, Cuesta Springs Ice Company, Atascadero Hay & Feed, AJ Excavating, and Coastline Equipment.
The Charles Paddock Zoo will hold its Holiday Magic event on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Zookeepers will serve as Santa’s elves, preparing gifts for the animals, and Santa will be on hand to greet visitors. The event will feature a strolling magician and DJ, Andy Morris, and the zoo will be decorated for the season.
For more information on all the upcoming events, visit www.visitatascadero.com/events.
