Fall 2025 Events
Events Calendar
By Misty Hall
Oct. 1 to 31
Cambria Scarecrow Festival
Crows, beware — Cambria’s Scarecrow Festival is here! This monthlong celebration of art and whimsy takes over Cambria and San Simeon, with hundreds of scarecrow creations around every turn. These lively art installations are created by locals, with a goal of getting folks to visit these pretty seaside villages, as well as to raise money to fund scholarships for local high school grads.
For more: cambriascarecrows.com
Oct. 2 to 5
Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley is comprised of six rural towns, and every one of them is chock-full of great food and drink. It’s no wonder, then, that they needed a four-day weekend to celebrate it all. From special dinners and wine tastings to exclusive speakeasy-type events, from farm tours to zipline adventures, and ceramics classes to brunches, this is one of those next-level experiences that tends to sell out quickly.
For more, see our article on PAGE XXX, and visitsyv.com
Oct. 4
SLO Oktoberfest
Can’t get all the way over the pond to the real Oktoberfest? Look no further than SLO Oktoberfest! Located once again at the Alex Madonna Expo Center, this event promises German food, music, games, contests, and, of course, beer. Competitors, come ready — this is a qualifying event for the California State Steinholding Championship! Free shuttles are available and run throughout the day, so you can fill your stein and get home safely.
For more:my805tix.com
Oct. 4 and 5
California International Airshow Salinas
Get ready to turn your eyes to the sky — the Salinas Airshow is back Oct. 4. The Blue Angels are returning to this year’s lineup, but the rest of the show promises to be just as thrilling: you’ll see an F-16 Viper, Vicky Benzing, Ed Hamill, Smoke n Thunder Jet Truck and tons more to keep the excitement up all weekend. Come a day early for the extra-special Danger Zone Bar at Maverick’s Lounge event, featuring a world-class culinary experience, wine tasting, open bar, a mini airshow, and fireworks.
For more: salinasairshow.com
Oct. 11
Los Olivos Day in the Country
Come on out to charming Los Olivos for the 45th annual Day in the Country. Part wine festival, part parade, part vendors market and part “shop local” event, this promises fun for every age. All your autumnal favorites are here — pumpkins, apple pies, and scarecrows, along with live music, food and drink, and old-timey Western fun.
For more: losolivosca.com/dayinthecountry
Oct. 11
A Taste of Old Town Orcutt
Get a taste of this quaint Western town at the A Taste of Old Town Orcutt. Sample a wide variety of fare from more than 20 vendors spread out across Old Town.
For more: my805tix.com
Oct. 18
Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival
Seafood lovers, unite! Timed to coincide with the opening of lobster season, this event features an ocean of edible abundance, as well as a chance to meet the fisherman, take boat rides, participate in activities, dance to live bands, and, of course, shop.
For more:
santabarbaraca.gov/things-do
Oct. 18
Santa Barbara Vintner’s Weekend
The SB Vintners are once again taking over the stunning Vega Vineyard & Farm this fall. The largest tasting event in Santa Barbara County, the festival promises upward of 50 wineries, 30-plus food vendors, live music, and more at the main event. Smaller off-shoot functions will be happening from Thursday through Monday — think winemaker dinners, library tastings, Sunday brunch, and even barrel tastings.
For more: sbvintnersweekend.com
Oct. 23 to 26
Ojai Storytelling Festival
The ancient art of storytelling goes back, as far as we can tell, pretty much to the dawn of humanity. This Ojai-based festival celebrates the spoken word with storytellers from all over the country and world. You’ll find stories for the kids, for families, and even a handful of adults-only tales — along with some workshops and even a Story Slam you can enter yourself!
For more: ojaistoryfest.org
Oct. 24
Witches Paddle
Don your witchy best and paddle out across the Ventura Harbor! Bring your own paddleboard or kayak, or rent one from Ventura Boat Rentals. Last year the coven was more than 60 witches strong. Afterward, stick around for dinner in one of the Ventura Harbor Village restaurants.
For more:venturaharborvillage.com
Oct. 25
46 West “HalloWine” Block Party
Wine lovers in the know, know the 46 West wineries. Set along Highway 46 on the west side of Paso Robles, these wineries offer killer wines and killer views. Head over to Dark Star Cellars for the 46 West’s Halloween themed block party, where you can sample their wines and food truck fare, show off your costume, and groove to DJ tunes.
For more: my805tix.com
Oct. 25
Carmel Pumpkin Roll
What’s better than pumpkins? Maybe … smashing pumpkins? Head up to Carmel for this fun and quirky event, where guests pick pumpkins and roll them down the steep Ocean Avenue. It’s good old-fashioned fun — and no need to steal pumpkins, they’re giving them away for free!
For more: whatsupmonterey.com/events
Oct. 31 to Nov. 2
SLOPOKE Contemporary & Western Art Festival
Coming to the Octagon Barn Center in San Luis Obispo, SLOPOKE’s 15th year promises to be bigger and better than ever. This juried art show “Promotes the culture and spirit of the American West” with 35 artists across a variety of media.
Come on Halloween for the kick-off night, where visitors are encouraged to dress like their favorite Western movie star or historic artist. No matter when you go, you’ll be treated to great art, great wine, and great music.
For more: the-slopoke.com
Nov. 1
Downtown Paso Fall Wine Walk
If you want to sample a ton of great wines in a small area, look no further than the Downtown Paso Robles Wine District. Its annual Wine Walk will bring together 18 wineries for tastings in beautiful downtown Paso. Each wine will be paired with the perfect bite, and perfect fall weather!
For more:
downtownwinedistrictpaso.com/events
Nov. 2
San Luis Obispo Fall Wedding Expo
The Madonna Inn will play host to this awesome expo, featuring a huge variety of vendors, from caterers and event planners to florists and photographers. Stop by the inspiration galleries to gather ideas for your next big event — it doesn’t have to be a wedding, folks! — get special discounts and enter to win prizes.
For more: centralcoastbride.com
Nov. 6 to 8
Big Sur Food & Wine Festival
Experience the best food and wine the Big Sur coast has to offer at this weekend-long event. Multiple venues will host a slew of activities, like fabulous dinners and evening tastings under the stars with the Pacific Ocean spread before you.
For more: bigsurfoodandwine.org
Nov. 7 and 8
Garagiste Wine Festival – Paso Robles
Tired of drinking the same old wines? Want to find something new, and different, and decidedly boutique? Garagiste is the place to be. Featuring dozens of small wineries producing 1,500 cases or less, this is not your mom’s wine festival. Choose from more than 200 ultra-premium wines and several special events throughout the weekend — including rare and reserve tasting and dinner, a tasting seminar, a rockin’ after party, and more.
For more: garagistefestival.com
Nov. 7 to 9
Buellton Fall Fest
Fall in love with fall! Buellton’s Fall Fest will feature carnival rides and games, two stages of live music (featuring headliners The Mad Caddies), vendors and tons of food, and plenty of beer, wine, seltzers, and spirits to boot.
For more: buelltonfallfest.com
Nov. 7 to 10
Ojai Film Festival
Love film? Get yourself to Ojai Nov. 7 to 10 for the Ojai Film Festival. Although film selections were still being made as of press time, the festival has garnered quite the reputation over the last quarter-century, with 15-plus alumni having received Academy Award nominations, along with a slew of other accolades.
For more: ojaifilmfestival.com
Nov. 14 to 16
Atascadero Fall Fest
When the middle of November hits, Atascadero’s Sunken Gardens is the place to be. Like Buellton’s event, the city’s annual fall festival features tons of live music, carnival rides and games, vendors, and tons more. On Saturday, a special festival-within-a-festival takes place with the Suds at Sunken Gardens Beer Tasting.
With exception of the Beer Tasting, admission throughout the weekend is free and a portion of the proceeds raised will go to support the Friends of the Charles Paddock Zoo.
For more: atascaderofallfest.com
Nov. 23
Santa Barbara Fall Wedding Expo
Like its SLO counterpart earlier in the month, this event is organized by Central Coast Bride which specializes in — you guessed it — all things wedding on the Central Coast. The Santa Barbara Women’s Club will play host to dozens of vendors, ideas, and goodies to make your wedding or special event dreams come true.
For more: centralcoastbride.com
Nov. 26 to Dec. 28, select nights
SLO Botanical Garden Nature Lights
Experience the SLO Botanical Garden like you’ve never seen it before! Stroll through more than 8 acres of illuminated gardens at the Nature Lights event. Thousands of lights and artistic decor will get you in a festive mood — as will the live music on two stages, food trucks and holiday market.
For more, see our article on PAGE XX, and slobg.org/naturelights
Nov. 28 to Dec. 31, select dates
Cambria Christmas Market
Millions of lights, train rides, fantastic food and drink, live music, Santa, and all things Christmas come to life in magical Cambria this holiday season! The Market itself is inspired by Germany’s famous Christmas markets, with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and all kinds of treasures. But just walking through the light displays is enough to get your Christmas engine running.
For more:cambriachristmasmarket.com
Dec. 5 to 21 (weekends)
Santa Ynez Valley Holiday Lights Festival
One of the newer Central Coast holiday events, the SYV Holiday Lights Festival returns to the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden on weekends in December. Stroll through the lights and get in the spirit of the season. Along with inspired light installations, visitors will find chances to get photos with Santa, see real live reindeer, hear live music, shop vendors, roast marshmallows, experience falling snow, and even ride a mini Polar Express train! Food and beverages (adult and otherwise) will also be available for purchase.
For more: syvholidaylights.com
Dec. 7
Brighten the Harbor
The Monterey Bay coastline lights up Dec. 7 with the annual Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade. Watch the spectacle from its start at the Monterey Yacht Club, or up your viewing experience with a seat in the parade itself aboard the Princess Monterey.
For more: whatsupmonterey.com/events
Dec. 12 and 13
Ventura Parade of Lights
The 49th annual Parade of Lights returns to the Ventura Harbor Dec. 12 and 13 with a parade of brightly lit vessels, a fireworks show, and lots of family fun across the Ventura Harbor Village. Shop holiday specials, dance to live music, and get in the spirit with this year’s theme Let it Glow!
For more: venturaharborvillage.com
Dec. 13
Channel Islands Parade of Lights
Bundle up for the 59th annual Channel Islands Parade of Lights, floating back to Oxnard Dec. 13. The parade of lit boats begins at 7 pm, but plan to get there early to claim the best viewing spots (including at Sea Fresh Restaurant), and enjoy all the fun at the local shops and restaurants around the harbor.
For more: channelislandsharbor.org
Dec. 14
Santa Barbara Parade of Lights
Find your way to the Santa Barbara waterfront Dec. 14 for an afternoon and evening of holiday fun. It kicks off with human-powered boats and boards looping Stearns Wharf at 3:30 pm, followed by a tree lighting, holiday tunes, 10 tons of snow, visits by Santa, and then, at 5:30 pm, the main event: the parade! Watercraft will begin at Leadbetter Beach down the coast to the Cabrillo Pavilion, then back to Stearns Wharf — meaning pretty much any spot you can find along the water will be a great viewing location. The evening ends with a fireworks display at 7 pm.
For more:
santabarbaraca.gov/things-do