Seventy tons of snow were brought in to create holiday magic

ATASCADERO — Atascadero’s snow-filled holiday extravaganza Winter Wonderland was back for its 21st year on Friday, Dec. 13. There was entertainment on the steps of City Hall, Sunken Gardens was full of family-friendly activities, and 70 tons of snow was split between two snow piles and the event’s massive snow slide, which looked even bigger this year to the naked eye. 

“This year the snow slide was the same amount of snow, but the ice was not as cold, so it was easier to blow and had more of a “fresh powder” effect so fluffy and more enjoyable,” stated Director of Community Services & Promotions Terrie Banish.

The slide had a steady line of parents and kids waiting for their turn to make their journey down the beautiful snow. Like in past years, the slide was built and manned by the Kiwanis Club of Atascadero, Atascadero Hay & Feed, and Cuesta Springs Ice Company. There were also two snow piles on Entrada and multiple snowball fights could be witnessed if you walked by. 

“I absolutely love seeing everybody and just being back in the community is so nice,” said this year’s Miss California Mid-State Fair Megan Pagnini. “It’s just so huge. I think there’s not a lot of events besides the fair that attract so many people. So, to see this many people all together in the Central Coast is really cool and special.”

Banish said that well over 7,000 people rolled through Winter Wonderland and that it was the largest turnout the city had seen since 2019. 

“It was rewarding to see all of the happy faces and to see such a great turnout,” she added.

Sunken Gardens was also full of fun activities and the streets around City Hall had over 50 food and merchandise vendors keeping the holiday cheer flowing. 

“The addition of the new holiday light display in Sunken Gardens, ‘Garden Lights & Winter Nights’ made the overall look feel more festive, like a holiday paradise,” Banish also said.

Santa and his elves stopped by and said hello to the community’s kiddos. More entertainment was provided by the Atascadero High School Cheer Team, the Fine Arts Academy Monarch Choir, the All District Elementary Choir, 805 Movement & Performing Arts, Atascadero Fine Arts Academy Honors Dancers, Atascadero Middle School Choirs, Atascadero High School Choirs, Atascadero High School Jazz Band, and demonstrations by A-Town Skate Park.

“I think it’s really awesome to see how many people really show up and really want to put their community first and come together and enjoy the Christmas season together,” said 2024 Mid-State Fair Princess Logan Rutherford.

The 22nd Annual Winter Wonderland will return to the wintery streets of Atascadero on Dec. 12, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Featured Image: Joe’s Little Train, with a little passenger, moves along the parade route during Atascadero’s Winter Wonderland on Friday, Dec. 13. Photo by Rick Evans.