It’s Christmastime in Cambria, which means one thing—‘tis the season for the Cambria Christmas Market! A yearly tradition full of decorations, delicious food, and holiday cheer, this event is something everyone will enjoy. While you’re in town, make this a vacation to remember by trying our other fun holiday ideas.
Christmas Market
The most exciting event of the Christmas season has finally arrived! Cambria’s Christmas Market is a beloved tradition that brings holiday cheer to the seaside. Whether you enjoy delicious bites with family members, try traditional German hot spiced wine with friends, browse the booths with small children, or admire the dazzling lights on a romantic date, this is the perfect event for everyone. Get your tickets soon—this event does sell out! The Christmas Market runs from November 25-December 23!
About the Market
The Christmas Market is based on holiday markets that started in the Middle Ages in different areas of Europe. They were usually held in the center of town and featured local vendors selling their wares. The outdoor, festive format of the Cambria Christmas Market pays homage to these traditional markets. Another fun detail is the tempting Glühwein, or traditional German hot spiced wine, that is available to sip on while you make your way through the market!
Lights
The holiday season is a beautiful time with twinkling lights and exquisite decorations, and the Christmas Market does not disappoint. With over two million lights on display, this is a sight you don’t want to miss. These festive decorations are artistically arranged and sure to delight everyone who sees them.
Food
There is nothing like strolling the Christmas Market with delicious food. While vendors sell all kinds of yummy treats, the market also features traditional German food to pay homage to the festival’s European roots. Taste dishes that you already love, but immerse yourself in the Christmas Market experience by trying a few foods that you’ve never heard of!
Shopping
Start your holiday shopping at the Christmas Market! The market is full of booths where vendors sell everything from home goods to toys to handmade crafts. This is a great place to find special gifts while supporting small businesses. As you buy presents for loved ones, don’t forget to find a little something for yourself!
Go Antiquing
After you’ve been inspired by the beautiful Christmas decorations at the Christmas Market, go on a hunt to find more for your own home! One of the best ways to find vintage Christmas decorations is to browse antique shops. We’ve made a list of a few antique stores in Cambria where you can go treasure hunting.
Antiques on Arlington
Located in an old Victorian-style home, Antiques on Arlington is a great place to browse antiques of all kinds. Whether you find something to take home or not, there are always fascinating items on the shelves.
Antiques on Main
Antiques on Main is an antique mall with three stories full of furniture, home décor, and an assortment of items you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy exploring their large space—over 10,000 square feet—and see what catches your eye!
Granny Had One Antiques
Part of the fun of antiquing is discovering things that you remember from your grandparents’ home. Whether that’s dishes or decorations, Granny Had One Antiques has a fun selection to look through. You just might see a nostalgic item that you just can’t leave behind!
Cozy Dining
The food at the Christmas Market is delicious, but if you’re in the mood for more of a sit-down experience, we’ve got you covered! During the winter months, there’s nothing better than enjoying hot comfort food, whether that’s clam chowder, steaming pasta, or a hearty pot pie. Plus, try special seasonal offerings from a few of our favorite restaurants.
Linn’s Restaurant
Linn’s Restaurant, famous for its olallieberry desserts, is always serving hot, cozy dishes. Enjoy their normal selection, and if you’re in Cambria on Christmas Day, you can try their special holiday menu! They will be open for regular hours, but space is limited, so make sure to call and make a reservation.
Sow’s Ear Café
The Sow’s Ear Café serves comfort food in an inviting, fireside atmosphere. Their cuisine includes well-known dishes as well as new things to try, like lobster corn dogs, honey-pecan-crusted catfish, and coffee-crusted American Kobe top sirloin. They will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but you can feast on their regular menu offerings throughout the rest of December!
Black Cat Bistro
If you’re in the mood for fresh, seasonal food, The Black Cat Bistro serves yummy local food that is organically and sustainably produced. They will stay open for normal hours, serving their regular menu, throughout the holidays and on Christmas Day. Since the restaurant is small and intimate, be sure to make a reservation.
Christmas Gift Shopping
If you don’t find the perfect gift for a special someone at the Christmas Market, check out a few of Cambria’s shops! There are no chain stores in Cambria, which means your odds of finding a completely unique gift are very good. Wander Main Street to find even more small businesses that are family-owned, one-of-a-kind, and specialize in local products.
Cinnabar
Selling home décor and gifts, Cinnabar features handmade folk art and décor items from around the world. Their building was once home to Mr. Carrol’s Blacksmith Shop, and their name took inspiration from the cinnabar mining industry in the area. Their products are eco-friendly, recycled, and Fair Trade certified—perfect for someone who is environmentally conscious.
Ebb & Flow
Ebb & Flow is an oceanfront boutique with lovely clothes and gifts. Their space used to house art as the Cambria Coast Gallery, and now it offers all kinds of items and artwork that can only be found in Cambria. Browse their selection of candles, sweaters, books, and accessories to find great gift options.
Slabtown Mercantile
Slabtown Mercantile has heirloom quality home goods, supplies, and sundries, including homesteading supplies and handmade items. Many of their products are locally sourced, and they value sustainability and ethical working standards! Visit their shop for lovely gifts that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
Black Hand Cellars
For that person in your life who doesn’t want a material gift, try a bottle of wine! Black Hand Cellars grows their own grapes in their vineyard, Torie Ranch, and offers tastings on Cambria’s Main Street. Sample their wine during your visit and take home a few bottles for holiday parties and Christmas gifts.