Central Coast Living is keeping the holiday spirit alive despite pandemic restrictions.
The famous Cambria Christmas Market will not be able to welcome as many people this year but KSBY got an inside look at the spectacular light display. Plus, a neighboring tiny town is getting into the Christmas spirit too.
Not even a global pandemic could shut off the two million lights at the Cambria Pines Lodge.
This year, coordinator Mike Arnold has renamed the event the Lights at Cambria Pines.
"The Cambria Christmas Market is such an integral part of the holiday season on the Central Coast that we wanted to be sure we could still offer something for our guests and the locals," Arnold said.
He and his team re-imagined the event, eliminating the bustling market of vendors and instead, highlighting the Christmas lights.
"Everything starts at the tunnel of lights like it has in the past but we've reworked it so it's a one-way path and we space out all the groups as they are going through to allow plenty of room for social distancing," Arnold said.
Keep in mind - there are no general public tickets this year.
"We're open for hotel guests and restaurant guests of the Cambria Pines Lodge, the Sea Otter Inn and the J. Patrick House," he said.
The restaurant at Cambria Pines Lodge is fully booked through December and walk-ins are not allowed. However, hotel rooms are still available.
Natalie Jones enjoyed admiring all the lights without the typical crowds.
"I know in years past there are a lot of people so it's nice to be able to enjoy it safely," Jones said.
Santa Claus and the lights will be on display at the Cambria Pines Lodge every night through Jan. 2.
Just down Highway 1, the Central Coast's tiniest town is all dressed up for its inaugural Harmony Christmas Market.
"It's the first time we're doing it and we wanted to focus on the local vendors around here," said Harmony Christmas Market coordinator Rachel Halen.
This weekend, eleven local businesses will be selling their goods.
"We have ice cream, we have food and a lot of great products for people to buy," Halen said.
From hand-blown ornaments sold by Harmony Glassworks to a Harmony mug at the Harmony Pottery Shop, there's sure to be something at the market for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
"I just want everyone to have a piece of Harmony," said Halen.
Masks are required except for when taking a bite of food or Harmony Valley ice cream - a sweet reminder that there's still lots to celebrate this unusual holiday season.
"Come here during the day, do your holiday shopping, have a little bit of Harmony in your life and then head on up and see the lights [at Cambria Pines]," said Halen.
The Harmony Christmas Market is Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
