Downtown Atascadero comes alive with the Christmas spirit at Winter Wonderland on Friday, Dec. 7 from 5 to 9 p.m. The event centers around Sunken Gardens from Traffic Way to East Mall and from El Camino Real to Lewis Avenue. The event is free and has something for people of all ages.
“Due to living on the Central Coast, it never snows,” Atascadero resident Amy Foster said. “It is always such a joy to watch our boys share in a snowball fight. My husband and I even join in on the
snowy fun too.”
Foster’s children also chimed in with their favorite things at the event.
“My favorite part is going around and checking out all the booths,” said Riley, 6. His brother, Kyle, said his favorite part of the event is “getting to throw the snowballs.”
Deputy City Manager Terrie Banish said that more than 53 tons of snow is brought in for the event, making it “the only winter wonderland event of its kind in the county.” The Kiwanis Club of Atascadero creates a massive snow slide on Palma Avenue at Traffic Way. There are also two snow piles: one for children under 12 and one older than 12.
“My daughter looks forward to playing in real snow,” Atascadero resident Michele Coombs said. “Sometimes it is the only time she sees snow all year. It really gets us in the Christmas spirit.”
Around Sunken Gardens and throughout the downtown, more than 50 food, craft and nonprofit groups will have booths. Banish also said there will be obstacle courses, bounce houses, a rock climbing wall, Santa & Mrs. Claus, A-Town Park Scooter Demonstrations, Joe’s Little Train by the Elks, Atascadero elementary and high school show choirs, and music by Medina Light Show and Designs.
Atascadero resident Sydney Drexler, 9, said her favorite part of Winter Wonderland is “running around having fun and throwing snowballs.”
This event is presented by the City of Atascadero and its many sponsors. Go to VisitAtascadero.com or call 805-470-3360 for more information.
WINTER WONDERLAND ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP:
5-5:35 p.m.: Motion Academy of Dance
5:40-6 p.m.: Atascadero Fine Arts Academy Dance Group
6-6:40 p.m.: Atascadero elementary choir
6:40-7:15 p.m.: Atascadero High School Concert & Show Choir
7:15-9 p.m.: Live D.J. music
* Times are approximate. Entertainment will take place on the steps of the City Administration Building. The North Pole location for Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on the Atascadero Junior High School side of City Hall.
