Explore San Luis Obispo in the Winter

San Luis Obispo in winter

Winter in San Luis Obispo is filled with exciting, festive events, making it a great location for a winter vacation. The weather is incredible and there is so much to do. Rent an RV and go camping in SLO this winter. You can get your RV delivered to a local campground, such as Port San Luis RV Campground, and then spend your time enjoying the beauty of the Central Coast. Here are some of holiday events you can look forward to during your stay in San Luis Obispo:

Downtown SLO Holiday Parade

Every year, there is a holiday parade in Downtown San Luis Obispo. This year, the parade will take place on December 6, and the theme is Holidays Around the World. The parade will begin at 7pm at the intersection of Palm Street and Chorro Street.

Christmas tree in front of ligts

Pismo Pier Holiday Harmony and Tree Lighting

On December 6, Pismo Beach Pier will host a festive event filled with bounce houses, crafts, music, and even snow! Visitors can take pictures with Santa and decorate holiday cookies. The event is free to attend and also includes a tree lighting ceremony.

Cambria Christmas Market

The Cambria Christmas Market is your chance to experience a German-style Christmas market. There are plenty of options for delicious holiday food and drink. You can even try Glühwein, a German warm spiced wine.  Visitors can check out the different vendors and enjoy live music.

close up of a Christmas tree with lights and ornaments

Winter Wonderland in Atascadero

Visit Downtown Atascadero on December 13 to enjoy a Central Coast winter wonderland. This free event takes place from 5pm-9pm and includes rock climbing walls, bounce houses, a train ride, and snow. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be there along with plenty of food and craft vendors.

Lighted Boat Parade

The annual Lighted Boat Parade will take place in Morro Bay on December 7. Gather to watch the boats decked out with lights and holiday décor.

close up of red Christmas ornament

Holidays at the Apple Farm

The Apple Farm Inn is always beautifully decorated for the holidays. The famous San Luis Obispo hotel hosts several special events for the holiday season, making it a great place to visit this time of year.

Santa’s House in Mission Plaza

Visit Mission Plaza in Downtown SLO to get your picture taken with Santa.

four pinecones on top of a wood table

San Luis Obispo’s Classic Carousel

The carousel is located in Mission Plaza, next to Santa’s House. Take a picture with Santa and then visit SLO’s classic Christmas carousel.

The Nutcracker

Attending a holiday show is a fun way to celebrate the season. The Civic Ballet of SLO will perform The Nutcracker on December 13-15 at Cal Poly’s Performing Arts Center. Guests can book their tickets online.


A delivered RV rental is a great way to experience San Luis Obispo in the winter. Go to RVPlusYou.com to book one of our many RVs in the San Luis Obispo area.