San Luis Obispo Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in San Luis Obispo and surrounding areas
San Luis Obispo welcomes the festive season with holiday activities and things to do across downtown, including the 48th Annual Holiday Parade and the San Luis Obispo Holiday Plaza. The Great American Melodrama Holiday Extravaganza adds seasonal performances near Mission Plaza and local shops. Discover holiday attractions, winter gatherings, and festive fun that bring lights, music, and markets to the heart of the city.
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Christmas Markets
6 eventsDanish-style holiday celebration with unique traditions
Christmas Activities
12 eventsAnnual holiday parade with community floats and marching bands.
Editor's Picks (6)
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48th Annual Holiday Parade
Annual holiday parade with community floats and marching bands.
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Solvang Julefest
(Solvang)
Danish-style holiday celebration with unique traditions
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Downtown SLO Holiday Plaza
Music-synced light and snow show in Mission Plaza
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Paso Robles Annual Christmas Lights Parade
(Paso Robles)
Annual Christmas Lights Parade through downtown
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Santa Maria Parade of Lights
(Santa Maria)
Hometown holiday parade celebrating the spirit of giving
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Santa Maria Christmas Parade of Lights
(Santa Maria)
Community parade with illuminated floats and cash awards
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Lights Near San Luis Obispo
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in San Luis Obispo.
Downtown SLO Holiday Plaza
Experience the enchantment of the holidays in downtown San Luis Obispo. Wander through...
View full details →Christmas at the Santa Margarita Ranch
Experience the magic of Christmas at the Santa Margarita Ranch, a festive tradition...
View full details →Vine Street Victorian Christmas Showcase
Step back in time at the 39th Annual Vine Street Victorian Christmas Showcase....
View full details →Christmas Shows Near San Luis Obispo
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in San Luis Obispo.
The Great American Melodrama Holiday Extravaganza
Step into a world of holiday magic at The Great American Melodrama's Holiday...
View full details →All-Baroque Holiday Concert
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Santa Maria Philharmonic's 'All-Baroque...
View full details →Rudolph's Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with Rudolph's Winter Wonderland, a special...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near San Luis Obispo
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in San Luis Obispo.
Serial New Year's Eve Salsa Dance Party
Get ready to 'Sip, Sparkle & Sway' at Serial Wines for a New...
View full details →San Luis Obispo Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near San Luis Obispo
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near San Luis Obispo!
San Luis Obispo Christmas FAQ
While specific events vary year to year, the downtown holiday strolls and community tree lighting ceremonies are often highlights. Keep an eye on local listings for major craft fairs and festive markets that draw large crowds.
San Luis Obispo often embraces a laid-back, community-focused holiday spirit, with many residents decorating their homes and participating in local events. The emphasis is often on enjoying the natural beauty of the area alongside festive decorations.
Many residential neighborhoods throughout San Luis Obispo put on impressive Christmas light displays. Areas with mature trees and a strong sense of community often feature the most elaborate and charming light setups.
Christmas markets and artisan fairs are typically held in the downtown area, at community centers, and sometimes in conjunction with local farmers' markets. Check local event calendars for specific dates and locations during the holiday season.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free community events like tree lightings, and exploring decorated public spaces are excellent free options. Many holiday markets also offer free admission.
Families often enjoy visiting neighborhoods with festive light displays, attending Santa meet-and-greets at local venues, and exploring any special holiday-themed events hosted by community centers or parks.