Scenic Highway 1 Destination Decks Out for Festivities December 1 – December 23

Special Lodging Rates Also Beckon Holiday Visitors

CAMBRIA, CA— Tiny Cambria is readying itself to celebrate in a big way as the picturesque village along Highway 1 decks out with a bevy of lights, festive events, decorations, deals and discounts at “Holiday in the Pines 2005” taking place December 1 through December 23.

Here, where pine-studded knolls unfold along a breathtaking shoreline, a variety of Cambria’s distinctive shops will offer everything from complimentary gift wrapping and refreshments to extended hours and door prizes, while participating local inns and area restaurants will offer discounted rates on lodging and dining.

“Our unique shops, quaint, historic buildings, friendly merchants and enchanting scenery always lend themselves to the holiday season,” said Mary Ann Carson, manager of the Cambria Chamber of Commerce. “This year, continues that ambiance and extraordinary holiday experience.”

As part of the festivities, the village will celebrate a number of events throughout December, including:

-“Hospitality Night” on December 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. along the East and West Village. This is a chance to shop amid an open house atmosphere as the village’s distinctive boutiques offer discounts, drawings, refreshments, décor, music and even photos with Santa.

-“Decorated Tree Auction” on December 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cambria Veterans Hall at 1000 Main Street. Come sit among a forest of beautifully decorated trees and bid on one to take home! The event also features food, wine and a silent auction.

-“Santa’s Workshop and Gift Shoppe” on December 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cambria Veterans Hall at 1000 Main Street. Enjoy workshops that teach wreath making and how to handcraft your very own gifts.

-“’S Wonderful!: A Holiday Bash for George and Ira Gershwin” running December 3 - 18 at the Pewter Plough Playhouse at 824 Main Street. Soak up the outstanding and delightful talent of the Playhouse’s cast and crew. Call 805-927-3877 for tickets and information.

-“Lighting Contest” on December 7 at 5:30 p.m. Local dignitaries will judge holiday lighting throughout Cambria’s East and West Villages and along Moonstone Beach.

-“Sing-A-Long and Old-Fashioned Christmas” on December 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Santa Rosa Chapel at 2353 Main Street. Evening includes music, entertainment, singing and refreshments by flashlight. Space is limited. Call 927-5212 for tickets and information.

-“Cambria Chorale at the Farmers Market” on December 9 at 3 p.m. in the Cambria Veterans Hall parking lot at the corner of Main Street and Cambria Drive. Enjoy the inspiring sounds of the season through these harmonious voices.

-“Garlands, Wreaths and Swags Workshop” on December 10 at 10 a.m. at Cambria Nursery & Florist at the corner of Eton and Burton Drives. Construct beautiful holiday decorations to fill the home with the fragrance and colors of the season. Call 805-927-4747 for registration and information.

-“Lions Club Children’s Christmas Party” on December 10 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Cambria Pinedorado Grounds at 1001 Main Street. Bring the kids to see Santa, play games and enjoy treats!

-“Cambria Village Christmas Show” on December 16 & 17 at 8 p.m. at the Cambria Veterans Hall. Enjoy “Waiting for Santa,” a musical story told through song and dance by the region’s accomplished talent. Call the Cambria Chamber of Commerce for tickets and information, 805-927-3624.

-“Peoples’ Choice” on December 19. This is the public’s chance to vote on the best decorative lighting in town! Ballots are due at the Cambria Chamber of Commerce at 767 Main Street by 5 p.m.

-“Scavenger Hunt” runs from November 28 - Dec 23. The public is invited to pick up a scavenger hunt program at participating Cambria businesses or at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center at 767 Main Street. Participants are tasked with visiting local merchants; finding “the lucky number”; and then exchanging lucky numbers for raffle tickets at the Chamber of Commerce. Consequently, tickets will be entered into a drawing for a “Weekend Cambria Getaway” and other gifts.


-“Scavenger Hunt Grand Prize Announced” on December 23. The grand prize includes an extraordinary Cambria getaway weekend and shopping spree!


Visitors are invited to stop by the Cambria Chamber of Commerce for a list of all participating merchants, hotels, restaurants and attractions. Or contact the Cambria Chamber of Commerce for more information at 805-927-3624, www.cambriaholidays.com.