Festive trains, Santa’s Village, and family fun await at Santa Margarita Ranch
SANTA MARGARITA — The historic Santa Margarita Ranch has once again transformed into a holiday wonderland for its second annual “Christmas at the Ranch,” welcoming visitors with twinkling lights, festive sights, delicious food, music, and the magic of the season. From the warmth of fire pits and the aroma of holiday treats to the joy of meeting Santa Claus himself, this cherished Central Coast event has something for everyone.
Opening night set the tone for the season, drawing crowds of all ages to celebrate the kickoff of Christmas in a setting that embodies western hospitality. Attendees began their journey aboard the trains of the Pacific Coast Railroad, boarding one of two authentic steam locomotives. One train features open-air cars, while the other pulls historic cars, including one restored to its original 1955 Disneyland condition after an 11-month refurbishment.
“Attendees will get to see what the train car looked like when it was new on Disneyland’s opening day,” said Steve Rossi, co-founder of “Christmas at the Ranch.” “We’ve put in so much more effort this year, starting in February, to createSanta’s Village and expand on the magic we introduced last year.”
The nearly 2-mile train ride immerses passengers in a dazzling holiday display, complete with twinkling lights and life-sized decorations, before arriving at Santa’s Village. Here, guests step off the train into a festive wonderland filled with activities for all ages. Families can enjoy caroling, a visit with Santa, a special Christmas-themed magic show by Central Coast native Andy Morris, face painting, pony rides, and games like cornhole and roping.
Adding to the holiday cheer, a new Christmas Vendor Marketplace offers handcrafted goods from regional artisans, including jewelry, leather items, candles, and more. Attendees can also try their hand at operating an authentic railroad hand car.
No holiday event would be complete without food, and “Christmas at the Ranch” delivers an expanded selection of food trucks and dining options. Favorites include the Pizza Trolley, Buenos Diaz Tacos, Choco’s Mexican, Ricky’s Mexican Food, and Wandering Eats, known for its hearty soups. For dessert, 4-H kids from Mission Prep sell s’mores kits, inviting children to roast marshmallows over the fire pits. Adults can sip on holiday coffees and craft cocktails as they soak in the festive ambiance.
Rossi noted the feedback from last year played a key role in enhancing the event.
“We’ve greatly expanded our food truck offerings and added earlier train times for families with little ones who have early bedtimes,” he said. “My wife and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to create a Central Coast event where families can enjoy a relaxing evening and feel the excitement as the Christmas spirit unfolds.”
Running on nine weekend afternoons and evenings from Nov. 29 to Dec. 22, “Christmas at the Ranch” is more than just a holiday event; it’s also a fundraiser. Proceeds benefit the ranch’s nonprofit partners, AGM Community Partners and Vintage Traditions Foundation, which support local causes.
Located between Atascadero and San Luis Obispo, the historic ranch’s natural beauty is the perfect backdrop for the season’s magic. Families are encouraged to dress warmly, with little ones invited to wear their coziest pajamas. The experience is designed to create lasting memories, whether it’s sending letters to Santa, savoring freshly baked cookies, or simply enjoying the joy of the season together.
Tickets are priced at $40 for general admission, $25 for children aged 3–12, and free for children 2 and younger. They must be purchased in advance, with the event expected to sell out quickly. For more details and to reserve your spot, visit ChristmasattheMargarita.com.
Feature Image: “Christmas at the Ranch” features a nearly 2-mile train ride immerses passengers in a dazzling holiday display, complete with twinkling lights and life-sized decorations. Photo by Slava Narozhnyi
