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It’s back! Cambria to flip switches on 2 million lights as annual Christmas market returns

The Cambria Christmas Market, which has become a symbol of Central Coast holiday festivities, will flip the switches on its more than 2 million lights and open the gates Friday.

It will run most days through Dec. 23.

At the popular event that began in 2011, festivities held at Cambria Pines Lodge accent all those lights with the meandering path and selfie-worthy attractions including the classic — and now famous — rainbow tunnel, a light display inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge, and festive vignettes.

Artisan vendors, a fun train ride, cozy fire pits, live music and food and drink add to the seasonal atmosphere. Visitors can even meet Santa Claus.

Except for the final week, the event is closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays.

A light display inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge is among the attractions at Cambria Christmas Market on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022.
A light display inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge is among the attractions at Cambria Christmas Market on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022. Laura Dickinson ldickinson@thetribunenews.com

On those nights, the light show is available only for guests of Cambria Pines Lodge and other Moonstone Hotel Properties hotels, plus those who dine at a special Christmas Dinner buffet Mondays and Tuesdays, Nov. 27 through Dec 12.

During the holiday season, special overnight Cambria Christmas Market stays at Cambria Pines Lodge, Sea Otter Inn or J. Patrick House & Inn include admission to the festive show.

Tickets for the Cambria Christmas Market cost $15 to $35 each, depending on the day, and can be purchased via Eventbrite.com. Kids 5 and under are free.

For more information, call 800-966-6490, email info@CambriaChristmasMarket.com or go to cambriachristmasmarket.com, where a map of the event and parking information are available.

CambriaÕs Christmas Market is opened business as usual Dec. 14, 2022. A family piles into SantaÕs Sleigh to take a photo.
CambriaÕs Christmas Market is opened business as usual Dec. 14, 2022. A family piles into SantaÕs Sleigh to take a photo. Laura Dickinson ldickinson@thetribunenews.com
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Kathe Tanner
The Tribune
Kathe Tanner has been writing about the people and places of SLO County’s North Coast since 1981, first as a columnist and then also as a reporter. Her career has included stints as a bakery owner, public relations director, radio host, trail guide and jewelry designer. She has been a resident of Cambria for more than four decades, and if it’s happening in town, Kathe knows about it.
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