Tickets are now on sale for the magical 2025 Cambria Christmas Market, happening from Nov. 28 – Dec. 31, 2025.

The festive attraction has taken over the small seaside town of Cambria every year since 2011, growing into a holiday phenomenon with over 3 million twinkling lights adorning every part of the grounds.

From festive tree lightings to seasonal markets and family fun, discover the events that make the Central Coast magical this holiday season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year on the Central Coast! San Luis Obispo County transforms into a holiday wonderland filled with twinkling lights, joyful music, and heartwarming community traditions. From seaside parades and snowy downtown celebrations to cozy markets and visits with Santa, every corner of the county is brimming with seasonal cheer. Whether you’re shopping local, sipping hot cocoa under the stars, or watching the lights sparkle on the water, this guide to festive events will help you make the most of this magical season.

With festive light shows, larger-than-life characters, and tons of family fun on the schedule, Cambria Christmas Market is the Golden State’s premier celebration. There’s a large biergarten and dining area, along with live music from carolers. There’s even a train ride for the kids and on-site hotels for anyone who wants to make a whole weekend of the traditional Christmas market experience.

THREE MILLION HOLIDAY LIGHTS... have a way of colorfully captivating us and fully holding our holiday-obsessed attention, it is so very, very true. And that is especially so when all of those brilliant bulbs are lighting up nostalgic winter-inspired displays, oversized ornaments, and the sorts of fetching sights that speak to the season's festive nature. The Cambria Christmas Market has become synonymous with majorly merry sights and bright 'n lovely lights over the last several years, a fact that draws return visitors to the walk-through nighttime experience. But there are tempting diversions and memorable moments beyond all of the bulbs, and they include dining, live music, and the chance to bring your four-footed friend along for the fa, la, fun times.

Cambria concentrates its holiday programming around the Cambria Christmas Market at Cambria Pines Lodge and a village-centered weekend called Holidays in Cambria Village, creating a pair of complementary experiences for visitors. The Cambria Christmas Market runs most nights from late November to Christmas, and features over three million lights across the lodge. The market also hosts nightly live music on a scheduled roster, cozy fire pits for visitors to warm up at, and a children’s holiday train ride that circles the illuminated grounds. On the first weekend of December, the Cambria Chamber of Commerce stages Holidays in Cambria Village, a free community event with a Gingerbread House competition, a formal tree lighting with Santa Claus, flash-mob performances, and a complimentary trolley that shuttles guests between Main Street shops and the market site.

During the summer, Cambria is an underrated coastal destination that makes for a sleepy but charming escape. Come wintertime, and you won't even recognize it after it transforms into a holiday escape: welcome to the Cambria Christmas Market. The annual event transports you to a German-themed wonderland, where the only thing you should worry about is the number of festive treats you're going to have. Held at the Cambria Pines Lodge's grounds, the pet-friendly market runs from November 28 to December 31. Early-bird tickets cost $27.64 and $37.64 when purchased on their official site, while entry is free for five-year-olds and under (at the time of writing). Keep in mind that tickets are in high demand and sell out quickly.

‘Tis the season to indulge in all the festive things. From glittering lights in historic town squares to artisanal gifts from local vendors, mulled wine, and cozy holiday cheer, this year’s nominees for TZR’s Readers’ Choice Best U.S. Christmas Markets capture the magic of the season across the country. Vote for your favorite hot spot and help us crown the ultimate destination that makes this time of year merry and bright.

5. Cambria Christmas Market Cambria, CA

Where to stay: Cambria Pines Lodge
This expansive resort-ish property sits in a pine grove on top of a hill overlooking Cambria’s main stretch, which yields beautiful views and gives the whole place the feel of a pine-scented cabin. The pool and hot tub are lovely, the rooms are spacious, there's an expansive garden, and the free breakfast is way better than it has to be. And if you’re there around the holidays, its stunning Christmas market displays more than 3 million lights.

The Pacific Coast has a diverse topography, encompassing the states of Washington, Oregon, and California. The scenic region is renowned for its stunning ocean views, charming mountain towns, and a diverse range of activities. Many small coastal towns make up the landscape, and the eight stand out for their lovely downtown strips, which are just as worthy of a visit as the natural attractions. Cambria Pines Lodge and Restaurant offers cozy couches and an atmosphere perfect for an extended stay.

Tickets and hotel packages for the 2025 Cambria Christmas Market are now on sale. The annual holiday event will run from Nov. 28 through Dec. 31, with closures on Dec. 1–2, 8–9, and 24–25.

CAMBRIA IS AN ATMOSPHERIC PLACE, all year long, but around the end of November a certain shimmer takes happy hold. As for the sparkling source of this seasonal splendor? It's the Cambria Christmas Market, an annual light-tacular filled with charming displays, yuletide vendors, pop-up concerts, a biergarten, and an array of fa, la, eats that are both holiday-inspired and hearty. The market, which unfurls like a pretty Christmas ribbon near the Cambria Pines Lodge and Cambria Nursery, was founded in 2011, and in the last nearly 15 years it has become a true California classic, with many families returning each November and December to enjoy its nostalgic Noël character. It may only be May, but 2025 tickets are now available for purchase, and overnight packages at a trio of local hotels. Given the popularity of the limited-time event, booking months out is as smart as Santa is jolly.

What defines a perfect getaway? Is the convenience of utmost importance or the quality of pursuits that prevail? There isn't a one-size-fits-all scenario, but California's contrast between the diverse landscapes, its big cities like LA, and all kinds of charming towns makes it easy to find a match. Feeling winded from work in a tight ball of nerves aching to relax? Offering a sought-after change of pace from urban life, take it easy in these top picks in the Golden State.

If plants are your love language, then Cambria is about to steal your heart! Perched along California’s dreamy Central Coast, this tiny seaside town is where misty ocean air meets oak-dotted hills, creating a plant lover’s paradise. Here, succulents spill over weathered fences, native wildflowers paint the hillsides, and every garden—big or small—feels like a well-kept secret. Whether you’re the type to get lost in a nursery for hours, geek out over rare coastal flora, or just want to sip a coffee in a garden courtyard, Cambria’s got you covered.

There is almost no better place to spend a long weekend on the West Coast than in California. Known for its stunning coastline, California is replete with towns such as Pismo Beach and Malibu, where visitors can relish a cozy vacation. Attractions like the Carson Mansion are reminiscent of its 19th-century history, while the Monterey Bay and Green Pleasure Pier add modern elegance to the entire feeling. From San Francisco Bay to the coasts of Catalina Islands, this state has the perfect destinations where adventurers can relax on a long weekend. California is lined with areas like Monterey and Pismo Beach, where travelers can enjoy luxury and comfort.

THE CENTRAL COAST SPECTACULAR... actually returns in late November, if you'd like to be among the earliest seasonal visitors, but whenever you hope to do, do consider this: 2025 Cambria Christmas Market lodging packages are now available, should you have a particular date, or dates, in mind. The stayover destinations are Cambria charmers — Cambria Pines Lodge, Sea Otter Inn, and The J. Patrick House & Inn are on the list — and breakfast is included. As for the merry market, a bundle-up experience full of twinkle, spots for snapshots, and booths selling crafts, Christmassy treats, and warm drinks? It's a heartwarming holidayworld of whimsy and cheer, with over 3,000,000 lights upping the illuminated enchantment. Peruse the packages now, and do keep in mind that weekend overnights can fill up months in advance.

Big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are California’s most well-known destinations for obvious reasons, but the Golden State is also crawling with community-oriented towns that boast a contagious charm. During the holidays, many towns come to life with twinkling lights, curated markets and family-friendly activities that create an uplifting spirit all season long. You’ll also find plenty of Christmas-themed culinary events that will surely delight festive foodies. Since most of these beloved areas are only a couple of hours away from California’s biggest cities, they offer an easy escape for locals and visitors alike. 

FESTIVE FLICKER AND GLADDENING GLOW: We're forever on the merry search for the most scintillating and starlike Christmas displays, those shimmering scenes we can slowly stroll by as we soak in the vibrant visual splendor. But sometimes we don't want to simply saunter by such magical sights while observing from a distance; we want to wade into the whimsy and enjoy light tunnels, twinkly tableaux, and the symbols of the season as they hold Christmassy court in our near vicinity. For well over a decade, coastal visitors have made for Cambria to experience just this lit-up loveliness, a surround-sound adventure that isn't about sound but light (so perhaps "surround-light" is more apt). It's the Cambria Christmas Market, an illuminated realm that will jingle-jingle into its festive 13th season beginning Nov. 29.

Donati Family Vineyards will host a signature wine dinner at Cambria Pines Lodge on Sept. 29 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event will feature a five-course meal paired with hand-selected Donati wines.

Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, will perform a one-man show of “A Christmas Carol” at the Lodge from Nov. 15-17. The event includes both matinee and dinner show performances.

Cambria Pines Lodge is partnering with Opolo Vineyards of Paso Robles to present the Opolo Winemaker’s Dinner on Sunday, June 30, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event will feature a gourmet five-course meal paired with award-winning wines from Opolo’s cellar. An Opolo expert will guide guests through each food and wine pairing.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and no holiday is complete without a visit to your local holiday market to shop for the perfect gifts for your loved ones. You’ll also find special foods, drinks, festivities and a magical time. Grab a hot cocoa and wander through the rows or pick up a new ornament to deck out your tree. A visit to one of these holiday markets is sure to be filled with holiday cheer.

Whether you’re looking for a fun and festive moment or you’re on the hunt for a candle for your new flame, here are the top holiday markets that will take the stress out of shopping.

The Cambria Christmas Market is ranked number five on the list of top holiday markets in the US according to Yelp.

Ashton McIntyre of KSBY features the must-visit Cambria Christmas Market. Tickets and overnight packages are on sale and expected to sell out. The market is a holiday event for all ages to walk through a path packed with more than two million lights. The event also offers a train ride, a picture with Santa, and live music.

Travel + Leisure journalist Stacey Leasca recognizes Cambria as a top California coastal destination. With its proximity to Moonstone Beach and amenities like onsite gardens and dining options, Cambria Pines Lodge is recognized in the list of Best Places to Stay in Cambria.

Roadtrippers Magazine features Cambria, California as a must-see stop on a monarch road trip along California's Central Coast. Cambria Pines Lodge received a lodging recommendation as it is a great spot for families with gardens to explore and pet-friendly rooms. 

Jacob Dizon with KSBY highlights the Cambria Christmas Market and the eventgoers that bring business to local shops in small-town Cambria. Every year, the Market attracts guests to Cambria, where they visit downtown Cambria and support local businesses. 

TravelAwaits features the Cambria Christmas Market as a top holiday event on the Central Coast. Learn how the Cambria Pines Lodge owner is bringing the European Christmas Market spirit to California. Featuring an open-air Vendor Market, over two million lights, German-inspired food and drinks, visits from Santa, live music and more. 

Cambria Pines Lodge was featured on TravelAwaits' list of top places to stay in Cambria. Sister property, Cambria Nursery and Florist, was also featured under places to shop. Learn about what makes Cambria a Central Coast gem!

Highway 1 Discovery Route hosted journalist Sharon McDonnel who featured Cambria Pines Lodge in the story, "Quaint, Quirky Cambria" in Punch Magazine. Cambria Pines Lodge was highlighted in the 5-page feature and is a popular lodging option in Cambria! 

Cambria is a charming seaside town located in the central coast of California in San Luis Obispo County. It’s an artsy town known for its coastal landscape that combines both the ocean and weathered pine forests. Ideal for a relaxing getaway, it’s a unique place with tons of gorgeous, rugged scenery; places to appreciate nature; cycling and hiking trails; art galleries; boutique and antique shopping; and great spots to indulge and imbibe. If you feel like extending your stay, check in at Cambria Pines Lodge, which is a relaxing coastal retreat nestled in the hills of Cambia. Minutes from Moonstone Beach and the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, it also offers 25 acres of grounds, lush gardens to explore and an organic kitchen garden. Cambria Pines Lodge Restaurant also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a range of dishes featuring steak, seafood, and pasta made with organic, hand-picked herbs and produce from their culinary. They also have on property the rustic Fireside Lounge which features nightly entertainment.