Cambria Christmas Market 2024 in California

The Mediterranean-like climate of California can't steal the spirit of Christmas. Visiting a holiday fair is always a great idea, and opting for one off the beaten track might also add to the magic. The village of Cambria, perched on the coastline halfway between the bustling cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles, might surprise you with a stunning local Christmas market.

Activities & Events

Held at Cambria Pines Lodge from late November through late December yearly, Cambria Christmas Market offers a myriad of holiday-themed entertainment. While kiddos have fun aboard a train ride and talk to Santa, adults can enjoy retail therapy at artisan vendors, selling lovely trinkets. Scrumptious foods and warming drinks are a given. Grab some snacks and head straight ahead to the fire pits.

Live music is also one of the Christmas market staples, with Kenny Taylor, The Moonstone Band, Dave Tate, Tom Bethke, and many other musicians performing the best of their own and Christmas hits. The cherry on top must be an impressive Christmas illumination, comprising over three million holiday lights.

Food & Beverages

Inspired by the charming German markets, Cambria Christmas Market offers a variety of delicious meals and tasty drinks, perfect to warm yourself on a cold night. The menu features both the staples of German cuisine and the classics of American fare. Try mouthwatering Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and onions, soft pretzel sticks, or Lebkuchenherz cookies for a taste of German Christmas. Or turn to the familiar flavors of Mac & Cheese, hot dogs, or pot pies. Beverage menu features mulled wine, craft beer, and delicious hot cocoa.

Schedule & Hours

The market is open from 5 pm to 8:30 pm, with the lights on until 9 pm. Visitors are prohibited from entering after 8:30 pm. To fully enjoy the experience at the event, consider coming at least two hours before closing. The market doesn't operate on December 2-3rd, December 9-10th, and December 24-25th, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Santa is available during most of the market but might not be present on some days.

Tickets

It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance since their cost increases by $10 at the door. The cost of admission ranges from $27.64 to $43.48. Five-year-old children and younger can enter the market for free with an adult ticket holder. The event is completely cashless, so be sure to bring your card. Train rides cost $5 per person.

Accommodation & Overnight Packages

One of the most convenient ways to experience Cambria Christmas Market to the fullest is by booking your overnight package at the very Cambria Pines Lodge. Yet, rooms sell out really fast, so alternatively, you can also consider reserving other nearby lodgings, like Sea Otter Inn, and The J. Patrick House & Inn. The packages generally cost from $279 to $689, depending on the hotel.