Holiday Spirit Shines in Atascadero

By Hayley Mattson · Thu Dec 04 2025

With city meetings on pause for the season, Atascadero lights up December with festive community celebrations and the vital work of nonprofits during the season of giving

ATASCADERO — As the holiday season arrives in Atascadero, the city is taking a brief pause from its regular business. All official city meetings are on hold for the remainder of the year and will resume in January. But while the meeting calendar may be quiet, the community calendar is anything but. From festive celebrations to nonprofit milestones, Atascadero is buzzing with seasonal cheer and meaningful local work.

“Light Up the Downtown” Holiday Celebration – This Friday

Downtown Atascadero will come alive this Friday, Dec. 5, for the beloved “Light Up the Downtown” Holiday Celebration. Running from 5:30 to 8 p.m., the event marks the official start of the holiday season and is one of the city’s most anticipated traditions.

Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Sunken Gardens with performances by the Fine Arts Academy Honor Choir and the Atascadero Community Band. At 6 p.m., residents will join the Mayor and City Council for the annual countdown to light up Historic City Hall. More than 3,000 lights will transform City Hall, Sunken Gardens, and surrounding areas into a glowing holiday display as part of the second annual “Garden Lights & Winter Nights,” which will remain on view through Jan. 11.

Following the lighting, Santa will make a grand entrance around the Sunken Gardens in the Model-A Firetruck before greeting families on the West Mall side of City Hall. Attendees can take part in complimentary horse-drawn hayrides, enjoy free hot chocolate provided by Lighthouse Coffee, and step inside Historic City Hall for guided tours from the Atascadero Historical Society.

The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce will also host its Holiday Sip & Shop that evening, with more than 20 participating downtown businesses offering beverages and extended shopping hours. Advanced tickets are available through the Chamber’s website.

Musical Holiday Walk Around the Lake – Saturday

On Saturday, Dec. 6, the holiday festivities continue with the Musical Holiday Walk Around the Lake from 5:30 to 9 p.m., presented by the Atascadero Lake Neighborhood Association. The evening will feature carolers, live music groups, refreshments, and festive decorations along the lakeside path. The Central Coast Zoo will keep its gift shop open until 6:30 p.m., offering unique local gift ideas, and Santa will be available for visits from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Zoo Garden Event Center.

More information on all city-sponsored events can be found at VisitAtascadero.com/events. Volunteers interested in assisting as event elves can reach out to tbanish@atascadero.org.

Spotlight on Local Nonprofits This Giving Season

In recognition of Giving Tuesday, it’s a fitting time to highlight a few of the exceptional nonprofits serving Atascadero year-round. These organizations play a vital role in strengthening the community, offering resources, support, and a sense of connection.

Atascadero Elks Lodge

Since 1987, the Atascadero Elks Lodge has contributed more than $1 million to local programs, youth sports, veterans, and families in need. The organization upholds the principles of charity, justice, and patriotism while fostering community fellowship. The Elks host a full calendar of events—including fish and shrimp fries, steak nights, charity bingo, weekly cornhole tournaments, an annual car show, and more. To learn about membership or upcoming events, visit elks2733.org or stop by the lodge at 1516 El Camino Real.

Friends of the Atascadero Library

For over 40 years, the Friends of the Atascadero Library (FOAL) has played a key role in supporting programs such as Summer Reading, Children’s Story Time, and adult and teen book groups. They also help fund library materials—from e-books to Chromebooks—and operate Alice’s Bookstore inside the library. As FOAL prepares for the 10-year anniversary of the current library building in June, they invite residents to get involved by attending monthly meetings or visiting friendsoftheatascaderolibrary.org.

Link Family Resource Center

The Link Family Resource Center has been assisting children and families since 2004 by embedding Family Advocates within local schools to build trust and resilience. Their work focuses on strengthening family stability, improving wellness, and connecting families with essential resources. Operated in partnership with Center for Family Strengthening, The Link continues to serve as a vital support system across San Luis Obispo County. Learn more at linkslo.org.

ALF Food Pantry (Atascadero Loaves & Fishes)

Celebrating its 40th year in 2024, ALF Food Pantry serves the Atascadero region with the help of nearly 80 volunteers. The pantry provides food to more than 40 households daily, reaching individuals, families, veterans, seniors, and those experiencing homelessness. In 2022 alone, ALF distributed over 518,000 pounds of food. Volunteers and donors are always needed; visit alffoodpantry.org for more information.

Friends of Atascadero Lake

Formed in 2014 in response to concerns about the declining condition of Atascadero Lake, the Friends of Atascadero Lake have since spearheaded major improvements, including drilling a well, installing an aeration system, and organizing yearly cleanup events. Their efforts have helped restore the lake to a healthier, more vibrant state. Residents can learn more or get involved at friendsofatascaderolake.com.