This was the first Valentine’s Day-themed stroll since Feb. of 2019

ATASCADERO — On Friday, Feb., 11 the streets of Atascadero filled with lovers for 2022s Sweetheart Stroll. This was the first Valentine’s Day-themed stroll since February of 2019, as Atascadero took a break in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID. The event is put on by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and the Atascadero Business Improvement District Committee.

“The chamber of commerce sold out of tickets; around 400 were sold. Whalebone Winery ran out of wine; they were a popular hit with the crowd; everyone loved Ali and Jan, the mother and daughter duo that poured that night. Michelle Watson, our artist, sold many of her art pieces,” said Specs by Kyla owner, Kyla Skinner, who participated in the event. “The evening was delightfully warm for February, no coats required! Music was playing, people were hanging out and talking and laughing in our courtyard, and it was so much fun. We have such a great group in the El Paseo plaza, and we are excited for the addition of the Gedryn family and their new vision for the [Grape Empourium] wine bar.” 

Aside from the wine and art associated with the Sweetheart Stroll, there was also a fantastic turnout of entertainment and bites. Zen Dog, Savina’s Homemade Tamales, and Choco’s Mexican Grill provided food for participants. And there was music by both DJ Rama and a Barbershop Quartet. And for a sweet treat, there were chocolates by Luxury Chocolatier, Shiela Kearns.

“The quartet was such a fun surprise,” added Skinner.

The event included many local wineries who teamed up with favorite Atascadero businesses to pour wine for attendees as they walked along the streets. The wineries also sent knowledgeable staff to pour their wines. Though February is traditionally a slow season for Atascadero, the Sweetheart Stroll had people out and about and filling the local stores. 

“Most folks comment, ‘I’ve never been to many of the stores downtown, and this event has been an opportunity for me to discover them—I’ll definitely be back to shop!'” said president and CEO of the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, Josh Cross.

The next Art and Wine Stroll will take place on Friday, May 6. The May walk will have more wine, food, entertainment, and tickets. Save the date!