By Kyla Skinner
Oh December, you are here again. The darkest month on the calendar, but perhaps the brightest in our homes and busiest on the downtown streets. I’ve always had a hard time with the dark evenings of winter, I feel like Cinderella in that I turn into a pumpkin at sundown, just wanting to be home in my bed. But, last year, I felt something switch and I loved the twinkling lights of the holidays and the smell of balsam candles, the crisp cold air of the evening, savoring the magic of the darkness and the brightness and joy we can bring to each other and into our homes. No matter what our spiritual beliefs are, it is a time to acknowledge the shift into the longest nights, saying goodbye to the past year and looking forward to growth.
Atascadero has many events to fill the long dark evenings with joy and cozy!
What’s better on a cold winter night than getting a little crafty? Hosted at The Green Omen, 6280 Palma, December 4, at 6:30 p.m., presented by Peaceful Plants, create your own Faerie Garden with macrame hanger. All materials provided. For tickets, contact info@peacefulplantsca.com.
Another event on the same evening is hosted by Glasshead Studio with artist Lisa Falk, on December 4 from 5 to 7 p.m., create a Holiday Plate with fused glass, a perfect beginner class. Tickets can be purchased at glassheadstudio.com, lots of other fun offerings from a talented glass worker. A bit off the downtown path but I highly recommend visiting this hidden treasure at 8793 Plata Lane, and while you are there, pop into Southern Pueblo, a curated 2nd-hand shop full of quality items for your closet and home. You will be blown away when you walk in the door.
Light up the Downtown, happening on the same night as the Chamber of Commerce Sip and Shop, on December 6. Starting at 5:30 and ending at 8 p.m., the city streets will be hosting community entertainment, dancers, choir performances, Santa, Model-A Firetruck and hayrides in a horse-drawn wagon. Hot chocolate and other treats available, as well as wine tasting at local businesses. To participate in the Sip and Shop wine tasting, head to atascaderochamber.org to purchase tickets.
The next day, December 7, we have the Holiday Musical Walk Around the Lake from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Presented by Atascadero Lake Neighborhood Assoc, enjoy an evening walk around Atascadero Lake with music, carolers, and holiday decorations. I imagine things will be extra sparkly reflecting off of the lake!
December 13, from 5 to 9 p.m., is Winter Wonderland! Over 70 tons of snow will be delivered for sledding and play, such a fun evening for the whole family. Food and craft vendors will line the streets as well as shops staying open late. Remember to shop small and local this holiday season! These gifts are always so much more touching than something purchased on Amazon or Target—and you will be encouraging our sweet little town to thrive as well, by supporting family businesses.
December 21, don’t forget about our cute little animals at the Charles Paddock Zoo! From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the zookeepers will step in as elves and deliver gifts to the animals. Plus the Zoo will be dressed up for the holidays and the enchanting event will be included with the cost of a regular admission ticket.
Stay cozy and warm! Season’s Greetings from both Angela and me as we bring you this monthly column. We’re so grateful for this wonderful community!
ATASCADERO NEWS MAGAZINE
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