Christmas Markets Near Los Angeles: Why Cambria Is Worth the Drive

About four hours north of Los Angeles on Highway 101, the small town of Cambria runs the largest German-style Christmas market on the West Coast, and it has done it every winter since 2011. Three million lights, an open-air vendor village, and mulled wine, all without the parking-lot feel of most big-city holiday fairs.

How far is Cambria from Los Angeles?

Cambria is about 222 miles from downtown Los Angeles by car, roughly four hours via US-101 through Ventura, Oxnard, and Santa Maria.

What makes Cambria Christmas Market different from an LA holiday fair?

The family behind Cambria Pines Lodge started the market in 2011 after visiting Germany during the holidays, built around the real Weihnachtsmarkt tradition. Glühwein, lebkuchen, roasted nuts, and hand-carved incense smokers from Germany's Erzgebirge Mountains sit alongside candles and ornaments from local vendors. More than 80,000 people show up each season, and the light display has grown from two million lights to three million.

When is the 2026 Cambria Christmas Market, and what does it include?

The 2026 season runs November 27 through December 31, most nights from 5pm-9pm, last entry 8:30pm. Tickets start at $25 (kids 5 and under free), $10 more at the gate, so buy tickets in advance. Enjoy the vendor market, a $5 train ride through the lights, Santa visits, and live music nightly in the Biergarten and amphitheater, with BarrelHouse Brewing Co. pouring alongside wood-fired pizza, tri-tip sandwiches, and bratwurst. It's a cashless event.

Is there a quieter option for families with young kids?

Yes — the 2026 calendar sets aside several Lights Only dates (Nov 30, Dec 1, 7-8, 14-15, 24-25) when the lights stay on, but vendors, food, Santa, music, and train rides are closed.

Where should I stay near the market?

Cambria Pines Lodge sits on the market's grounds and runs a Christmas Market package bundling room, breakfast, tickets, and parking. Sea Otter Inn, near Moonstone Beach, runs a nightly shuttle to the event.

Is Hearst Castle worth adding to the trip?

Hearst Castle sits about 10 miles up Highway 1 in San Simeon and decorates for Christmas. Standard tours run $35-$40 for adults, advance reservations required (up to 60 days out).

What does a full weekend from LA look like?

Friday afternoon drive up, enjoy the market that night; Saturday Hearst Castle in the morning, lunch in Cambria before heading home. Or better yet, make it a two-night stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Cambria from LA, and can I do it as a day trip? 

Technically yes but ~9 hours round trip driving vs. ~4 hours in Cambria — most people stay overnight.

When does the market open for 2026? 

November 27 through December 31, most nights from 5-9pm, last entry 8:30pm.

Do I need tickets in advance? 

Yes — most nights sell out and prices rise $10 at the gate.

Can I visit Hearst Castle the same weekend? 

Yes, ~10 miles away, book tours in advance.

Where should I park? 

VIP parking $65 at Cambria Pines Lodge, $50 at Cambria Nursery (book online), plus a free shuttle from two lots starting 4:30pm.