The holiday season is just around the corner and that means it’s time to start marking your calendars with all the community events in Pismo Beach. We’ll keep you in the loop so you won’t miss a thing!
From surf contests and 5K turkey trots to seasonal family activities and community get-togethers, keep reading to make the most of this festive season.
SLO Food Bank Turkey Trot
Join the SLO Food Bank on Thanksgiving Day for their annual Turkey Trot!
Participants can choose to trot in person or take part virtually from wherever they are. Whether you walk, trot, or ride, your participation raises funds for holiday meals for those in need, bringing our community together to make a positive impact during this special season.
The trot begins at 8:30 AM on November 28th at the Plaza Pismo Beach letters!
Surfboards & Storefronts Dressed for the Season
Get ready for some local competitive fun with the Pismo Chamber’s Surfboard Decorating Contest and Business Decorating Contest!
Over 40 local businesses deck out surfboards and storefronts with festive designs by November 30th. Judging is set for December 5th and awards will be given for Best Overall, Most Creative, Best Holiday Theme, and Best Pismo Beach Theme.
Stroll through town and make your vote on who deserves the crown this year! Scan the QR code attached to each board to make your vote!
Shop Local, Win Big: Pismo’s Small Business Saturday
Support your local favorites during the Pismo Chamber’s Small Business Saturday on November 30th from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm! Shop at participating businesses and enjoy exclusive promotions that continue through January 2nd.
For every $50 spent, earn a raffle ticket for chances to win $25 gift cards and a special getaway package, with drawings at 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00 p.m. Shop, save, and win while helping our local businesses thrive this holiday season!
Pier into the Holidays
Join the City of Pismo Beach Recreation for the annual tree lighting at the end of the pier! Holiday Harmony will be on Friday, December 6th, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm this year! Enjoy kids’ activities like visits with Santa, snow play, cookie decorating, and bounce houses. Bring the whole family to kick off the holiday season by the sea.
‘Tis the Season for Surf Events!
Pismo Beach will host three major surf events over the next few months. Watch the top talent in North America compete for their chance to surf at the highest level.
SLO CAL Open (January 20th-26th): As one of the larger WSL events on the central coast, the SLO CAL Open is a week to embrace the surf culture of our area. Watch the best surfers in the world surf Pismo Beach waves!
Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic (November 15th – 17th): Longboarders will compete for a coveted spot on the World Surf League world tour. Local nonprofit Surfing for Hope hosts this official WSL qualifier while fundraising throughout the weekend for families experiencing cancer.
USA Surfing (November 25th – 26th): The best under-18 surfers in the country will compete at the Pismo Beach pier as part of a 10-stop competition across the US.
Monarch Magic Returns to the Grove
The Western Monarch Butterflies have returned to the Monarch Butterfly Grove, one of the largest wintering sites in the western U.S. There are thousands of butterflies clustered in the Eucalyptus trees, creating an awe-inspiring natural display as they seek refuge from the northern cold. This iconic grove is one of only five locations in California to host annual counts exceeding 10,000 butterflies. Be sure to stop by and see them in all their glory!
Seasonal Stays: Exclusive Holiday Lodging Deals
As you embrace the holiday season in Pismo Beach, make your stay unforgettable by being at the center of all the festivities! From oceanfront views to charming, cozy retreats, our winter lodging specials offer the perfect reason to book your coastal escape. Don’t miss the joy and magic of the season—plan your stay and experience all that our lively town has to offer.
