Experience the Magic of the Cambria Christmas Market

 

Step into a real-life Christmas Hallmark movie this holiday season with a visit to Cambria’s magical Christmas Market. Featuring more than two million twinkling Christmas lights and artisan vendors, don’t miss this opportunity to create unforgettable holiday memories at this unique event on California’s Central Coast.

The Cambria Christmas Market is based on the Christmas markets that originated in Europe and date back to the late Middle Ages. These open-air holiday markets were typically held in or near the town square, featuring vendors who sold festive food, drinks, and goods, while celebrating with traditional song and dance.

Cambria’s Christmas Market was founded in 2011 and occupies the grounds of Cambria Pines Lodge. The owner of the lodge was inspired to host the first market after a visit to Germany during the holiday season. Like the markets of Germany, the Cambria Christmas Market features open-air stalls selling hot mulled wine, traditional German foods, local vendors, and live entertainment.

This year’s holiday event in Cambria runs from November 24 through December 23 and offers seasonal fun for all ages.

Christmas Lights

Millions of Christmas lights dazzle visitors. More than 30 miles of lights delight onlookers, with the twinkling, colorful “Light Tunnel,” perhaps, being the most famous of all the displays.

Festive Food and Beverage

Take your tastebuds along a culinary journey as you wander through the Market. Enjoy seasonal treats and traditional German cuisines like pretzels, and bratkartoffeln (fires with bacon and onions), along with hometown favorites like pot pies, and more.

Save room for dessert at the Sweets Booths, which features items like traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread hearts), kettle corn, and candied almonds. And if you’re 21 and older, enjoy a cup of cheer by partaking in holiday-inspired (adult) beverages, including Gluhwein (German hot spiced wine), hot cocoa with a shot, and craft beer. The under-21 crowd will enjoy warming up with a cup of hot chocolate or cider.

Artisan Vendors

Shop the rows of vendor booths for unique gifts sold by local crafters and makers. Browse a variety of handmade goods, including wooden puzzles and games, local food products, original artwork, leather goods, candles, jewelry, home décor, and much more. Find the best handmade, imported German Christmas décor at the authentic German booths, including nutcrackers, smokers, and glass-blown ornaments.

Photos with Santa and Train Rides

Guests of all ages will enjoy a magical ride on the Christmas Market Express. The miniature train offers riders a unique view of the Market. Afterward, kids and kids-at-heart can visit with Santa and pose for a photo. All proceeds from photo purchases benefit local charities.

Biergarten and Entertainment

The family-friendly biergarten is fun for all ages. Visitors can enjoy live music, international drinks, beer, and a menu featuring wood-fired pizza, Bratwurst, tri-tip sandwiches, fondue, and warm German potato salad. For dessert, gobble down some bread pudding cinnamon rolls, and brownies, and wash it all down with some hot apple cider, eggnog, or hot buttered rum. The Biergarten is also the spot for live entertainment like artists performing Christmas carols, jazz and acoustic rock, and magic shows.

Get your tickets to this magical winter wonderland early. The event is sure to sell out.

Looking for a place to stay when you visit the Cambria Christmas Market? Book our luxury vacation rental, Cobbo’s Beach House, for you and your traveling companions. Cobbo’s in Avila Beach is just a short drive to Cambria and has room for up to 18 guests.