TRY TO TELL PEOPLE IN OTHER PLACES... that we Californians like to hold a lot of our December larks outside, and, well... they'd probably believe you. For while the temperatures aren't exactly balmy in most corners of our state, unless a surprise heat wave shimmers through, they are kind of perfect for a sweater, a light jacket, that scarf your aunt made you, and the one pair of heavier boots you miss wearing for like eight months of the year here. This isn't to claim, of course, that other states don't take it outside when it comes to their yuletide gatherings, for major tree lightings and parades are, as a rule, alfresco. It's just that we so often unleash the joy while standing under the moon and stars in the Golden State. And one of the moon-siest and starriest of the holidaytime festivities has been a staple in Paso Robles for over three decades. So if you're doing your Central Coast-type celebrating in the days ahead, from the holiday tour at Hearst Castle in San Simeon to the 12 Days of Christmas in Morro Bay, look to the...
VINE STREET VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS SHOWCASE... in Paso on Saturday, Dec. 9. Many blocks, from 8th to 21st Streets along Vine, will sparkle, but caroling, complimentary cookies, and other ebullient doings will dot the walk. It's the kind of cheerful community-minded merriment that pretty much every town, wee and mega, wishes they had on the calendar. And if you're a Paso-loving person, through and through, and dream of your next visit, this is a festive way to jump into the city's annual yuletide extravaganza. But there are other holiday happenings, too, that same day around the region, like Olive the Holidays on the Creston Wine Trail and a Wreath-Making Party at Broken Earth Winery, so check out all of the spirit-raising events in the area.
