If you are anything like me, the second Halloween is over, it is officially the holiday season. For me, that means holiday sweaters, hot coffee, Christmas candles and Gossip Girl. As much as a girl can wish for snowy nights curled up next to a fireplace with a good book, living in Central California doesn’t quite provide for the winter wonderland of dreams. If you are looking for all the winter vibes, check out these 5 places and activities to get you into the holiday spirit at Cal Poly and in SLO.Â
- SLO’s Holiday ParadeÂ
Every year, downtown SLO hosts its very own holiday parade: complete with almost 90 decorated floats, marching bands, vehicles, and dancers. This event occurs on Friday, December 6th, so grab your friends and put on your cutest matching Christmas sweaters. The bus will be running as per usual that night but parking downtown will also be free from 6pm to midnight. Additionally, several restaurants and shops have late hours to accommodate the event, so get some dinner afterwards and make a whole night out of this adorable event. I know I will be!
- Holiday Concert at the PAC
Christmas is practically coming to your front door with holiday concerts in Cal Poly’s Performing Arts Center all winter long. Specifically, The Cal Poly Choirs will present the eighth annual “Holiday Kaleidoscope” featuring all four choirs — Cantabile, Chamber Choir, PolyPhonics and University Singers — along with other local music groups and other Cal Poly ensembles for the concert. This event is such a fun and easy way to get into the holiday spirit while supporting your fellow Mustangs. The PAC will also host The Nutcracker and Mark O’Connor’s An Appalachian Christmas in mid December, so make sure you’re keeping tabs on the events in the upcoming weeks.
- Holiday Wreath Making Class at Cuesta College
Looking for something a little more hands on? Cuesta Community College is hosting holiday wreath making classes all winter to decorate your doorstep or dorm room. These handmade wreaths can be a great present for a loved one, or just a fun way to spend an evening with some friends. All materials are provided, and you can register here. Have fun creating!
- Apple Picking at SLO Creek Farms
Apple picking is the perfect date night or photoshoot location, with a delicious reward after! SLO Creek Farm is a local, family owned and operated certified organic apple orchard. The farm is open every Thursday through Monday from 11am till 5pm, for their “Upick” apple picking experience. SLO Creek Farm is located off of San Luis Bay Drive, only 15 minutes from campus. So, put on a cute fall outfit and catch the sunset in their beautiful 14 acre apple orchard, while sipping some fresh apple cider.Â
- Christmas Light Walks in SLO
If you are a type B girl who hates coordinating and planning, but you still want to feel the holiday spirit, this idea might be perfect for you. Growing up, my favorite holiday event with my family was making hot cocoa and walking or driving through neighborhoods admiring the decorations and lights. This fun nighttime activity can be perfect for those of you with busy schedules who want something easy (and free!). A travel mug with a yummy drink and a sweat set will go perfectly with this simple activity that will surely get you that cozy holiday feeling you are craving. You can drive and listen to your favorite holiday playlist or walk and enjoy the company of whoever you choose to share this wholesome evening with.Â
No matter how you choose to celebrate, or who you choose to celebrate with, SLO has so much to offer to help you get into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re sipping cider at the orchard or cozying up at a concert, there’s magic in every moment. College can be such a stressful time full of all-nighters and endless study sessions, so this winter, remember to put down the textbook and do something for you in order to make this season one to remember!