Beer, zoo events, tamales, music festivals, and more
—Atascadero has a long history of festivals and events that bring friends and families together from all over for relaxation and fun. The Sunken Gardens, spanning the front of the historic city hall are one of the locations where locals and visitors gather to enjoy good music, food and drink, and original goods from creative vendors. The Charles Paddock Zoo, lakeside events at the Atascadero Lake Park, the Atascadero Veterans Memorial, and other locations throughout the city are regular sites for the various cultural and social events hosted in Atascadero throughout the year. The spring and summer schedules are especially packed with things to do.
Central Coast Craft Beer Fest
This classic beer festival returns for its sixth year with over 50 booths representing wineries, breweries, cideries, and even kombucha producers. Locally-made drinks are available along with food trucks and merchants. Games and live music make this a family-friendly event that people look forward to all year.
March 23 from noon-4 p.m. at the Sunken Gardens, 6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero. Tickets: $50-$60 and can be purchased online at centralcoastbrewersguild.com/beerfest.
Spring at the Charles Paddock Zoo
Spring and summer events at the Charles Paddock Zoo include the Spring Festival and Party for the Planet in April, and the Ice Cream Zoofari in July.
At the two-week-long Spring Festival have the opportunity to see baby animals and chicks, watch animal feedings, and participate in educational tours during regular hours. Daily during regular hours from April 10-24.
Party for the Planet is a great day for education, conservation, and fun for all ages. Daily during regular hours on April 20.
Ice Cream Zoofari on July 13, 5:30-8 p.m. is the time to cool down on a warm summer evening with a relaxing and delicious ice cream-filled event!
Admission to the Spring Festival and Party for the Planet are included in regular daily admission. Admission for the Ice Cream Zoofari is $15/ person 12 and over; $11/ person, 3-11 years old; Free – 2 years and under. Zoo members receive a $2 discount on each ticket. Charles Paddock Zoo is located at 9100 Morro Road, Atascadero. Tickets are available at the kiosk at the entrance or the gift shop. For hours, more information, and upcoming events visit chalespaddockzoo.org or call (805) 461-5080.
Atascadero Citywide Yard Sale
This yard sale, famous among locals and tourists, has over 120 vendors with many quality items for sale. Heading into its seventh year, this event draws those who love finding a good deal.
April 20 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at various locations. Visit sites.google.com/view/atascaderoyardsale for a digital map.
Tamale Festival
The annual Tamale Festival is a free celebration entering its eighth year. Over 30 tamale and other food vendors are present. Awards are given for best overall tamale and best traditional tamale, along with dog costume and tamale eating contests. Be sure to enjoy the dancing and live music.
May 4 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Sunken Gardens Sunken Gardens, 6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero. Free admission.
Memorial Day ceremony
The Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation hosts a Memorial Day ceremony at the Faces of Freedom Memorial.
May 27 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at 8024 Portola Rd, Atascadero.
4th of July Music Festival
The annual Fourth of July celebration has live music, boating, games, food, drink, and artisan vendors for the whole family. Bring low-backed chairs and blankets.
July 4 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave, Atascadero. For more information visit atascadero4thofjuly.org.
Atascadero Farmers Market
The Farmers Market is a weekly occurrence that invites the community to enjoy fresh produce, live entertainment, and local desserts and farm products such as eggs and honey.
Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sunken Gardens, 6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
Saturdays in the Park
A beloved tradition in Atascadero returns this summer at Atascadero Lake Park with local bands performing live. Bring low-backed chairs and blankets. Enjoy the music and many food and artisan vendors.
Weekly starting June 15-Aug 31, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave, Atascadero. For more information visit visitatascadero.com/events.
