The Best Family Holiday Experiences on the Central Coast to Celebrate the Season

Wrapping paper and ribbon fly through the air. Shouts of glee fill the room. Watching kids exuberantly tear open holiday gifts fills our hearts with joy. Their excitement is contagious.

Some of the best presents, however, aren’t tucked into festive packages.

The most meaningful gifts aren’t things but rather experiences that create memories—and stories—that will last a lifetime. 

Lucky for you, the Central Coast hosts two can’t miss holiday experiences for the whole family!

The Cambria Christmas Market

Europe is renowned for its charming Christmas markets. 

But did you know that we have an authentic, German-inspired Christmas market right here in our own backyard?

The beloved, annual Cambria Christmas Market brings the festivities to our doorstep. From its decorative displays utilizing more than three million lights to the vendor booths featuring handcrafted goods to German-inspired food and beverages, and let’s not forget a visit with Santa, it’s easy to see why visitors from near and far make this event an annual tradition.  

Little ones will love the train ride while adults will enjoy shopping for whimsical wares, including nutcrackers, glass-blown ornaments, and collectibles. 

After meandering through the winding paths of awe-inspiring decorations and vendor stalls, you’re certain to have worked up an appetite. 

Lean into temptation as the aromas of bratwurst, schnitzel sandwiches, soft pretzels with cheese, kettle corn, and of course, traditional Lebkuchen (gingerbread) cookies waft through the air.

Take the chill off as you warm up with holiday-inspired beverages such as hot chocolate and hot cider alongside sodas and water. Adults 21 and older can enjoy gluhwein (warm, mulled wine), hot cocoa infused with spirits, and craft beers. For an extra touch of holiday cheer, the Cambria Christmas Market offers specially designed mugs each year. Available for purchase, they can be filled with warm drinks at the event and enjoyed as cherished keepsakes for years to come.

The Cambria Christmas Market runs through December 31st (closed on December 24th and 25th). All parking is offsite with free shuttle service. The event is cashless, so be sure to bring your credit or debit cards. Gates open at 5 p.m. and close at 8:30 p.m. 

To purchase tickets (children 5 and under are free) or for further information, including booking Cambria Pines Lodge accommodations or dining reservations, please visit https://cambriachristmasmarket.com, call (800) 966-6490, or email info@CambriaChristmasMarket.com.  

Holidays at Hearst Castle

A short drive from Cambria leads to one of California’s most iconic landmarks—the Hearst Castle. If you haven’t yet visited this spectacular estate during the holiday season, consider it a must-do. 

The Holiday Twilight Tour is 75 minutes of pure seasonal splendor. An abundance of holiday decorations and Christmas trees await your oohs and aahs as you’re led through the grandeur of the stunning grounds, guest house, and grand social rooms. You’ll be transported back in time as your guide regales you with stories of the estate’s holiday revelry during its heyday.

This seasonal tour is available select nights through December 30th. For reservations, visit www.reservecalifornia.com or call (800) 444-4445. Tickets cost $40 for adults and $22 for children ages 5-12. 

The Cambria Christmas Market and Hearst Castle Holiday Tour will infuse your imagination with inspiration as you grab your seasonal décor from storage and whip up some holiday magic of your own. 

Let the joy of the season bring cherished memories—and perhaps new traditions—to last forever.