The most wonderful time of the year is even better in San Luis Obispo!
December around the Central Coast means mild weather and magical encounters of the jolly kind. Now is the perfect time to visit, stay and join in the festivities: parades, Santa meet-and-greets, shopping and live performances for the whole family.
Here’s our handy guide to holiday happenings around town from now through the end of the month. For even more merrymaking, check out the full event calendar.
Community Events
- 47th Annual Downtown Holiday Parade – Lights, floats and plenty of oohs and ahhs… It could only be SLO’s signature holiday event: the annual Downtown Holiday Parade. This year’s theme is “Out of This World,” so pack your helmet and buckle in for a rocketing trip through the cosmos (and beautiful downtown SLO, of course). Dec. 1
- Santa’s House – Did you know? Santa lives in the North Pole, but he winters in San Luis Obispo. Kids, you can visit the jolliest snowbird around at his vacation home in Mission Plaza. Parents, now’s your chance to snap the perfect souvenir photo/Christmas card in one go. Now through Dec. 24
- Reindeer Run – Join SLO locals for a 5k through Mitchell Park on Saturday, Dec. 9 for the annual Reindeer Run. Runners are encouraged to don their favorite holiday attire. (Because outrunning cookies meant for Santa is more fun when you’re wearing a tacky Christmas sweater, right?) Dec. 9
Holiday Markets
- Holiday Treasure Stroll – MoJo is where the locals go for good vibes. (It’s also one of SLO’s nine unique neighborhoods.) On Saturday, Dec. 2, holiday shoppers who visit businesses along Monterey Street can collect tickets at participating venues for the chance to win a gift basket of prizes. Dec. 2
- Holiday Market – Coastal Peaks Coffee is a SLO favorite for early morning cups o’ joe. On Saturday, Dec. 2, they’ll stay up past closing time to host a holiday market featuring live entertainment, local vendors and a mini Christmas tree lot. (And plenty of warm drinks, of course!) Dec. 2
- Makers at the Market – The SLO Public Market has been a gathering hub for residents and visitors alike since 2021. Eat, drink and shop the best of the Central Coast – especially the weekend of Dec. 2-3, when the market will throw its first Holiday Emporium with workshops, gift wrapping, live music and more. Dec. 2-3
celebrate
Festive Performances
- Big Holiday Show at Madonna Inn – The weekend of Dec. 9-10 is Madonna Inn’s annual holiday celebration. If you’re still shopping for gifts, this is the perfect time to browse goods from 70+ local brands, snack on tasty treats, enjoy live entertainment and make fun seasonal crafts with friends and family. Dec. 9-10
- Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular – Nochebuena means Christmas Eve, traditionally celebrated in Mexico by attending midnight mass followed by an evening of eating and music. Learn more about the origins of this warm, festive holiday occasion, connect with Spanish heritage and see some amazing dance moves in action. Dec. 13
- Master Chorale Holiday Festival – Sing along with the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale at the Harold Miossi Hall at the Performing Arts Center. Director Thomas Davies will conduct traditional carols and seasonal arrangements, so keep your ears open for your favorite tunes. Dec. 16
Why be home for Christmas when you could be in SLO? Explore chic, cool and cozy hotels close to the festivities. And if you manage to snap a picture of Santa (or other magical moments) be sure to share them with us on social media with #ShareSLO.