Your Guide to spending a Labor Day Weekend in San Luis Obispo
Labor Day 2023 is fast approaching! It’s time to start thinking about your Labor Day weekend getaway and where else should it be than in one of the Happiest Cities in America – San Luis Obispo. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or family-friendly fun, SLO has plenty of activities to keep you happy this three-day weekend. Fill your Labor Day weekend in San Luis Obispo with these unforgettable festivities, events and activities. From art shows to village festivals, there’s all sorts of fun for everyone!
Pinedorado Days 2023
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When: September 2-4, 2023
Where: Pinedorado Grounds, 940 Main St, Cambria, CA 93428 | 40 minutes from Sands Inn and Suites
For your first day, head to Cambria for the Pinedorado Days 2023 – a traditional labor day weekend event held each year at this seaside village in San Luis Obispo. Now in its 73rd year, the celebration is held each year on Labor Day weekend at the Pinedorado Grounds.
The weekend of activities kicks off at 9:30 am on September 2nd with a Parade featuring floats, bands, dancers, clown cars, and the Lions Club Calliope along the Cambria’s Main St. After which, you can head to the Pinedorado grounds for food, drinks, live music, dancing, carnival rides, and all sorts of family-friendly fun for everyone to enjoy up to Labor Day itself, September 4.
On Sunday, September 3, from 10 am to 4 pm, catch the 14 Annual Cambria Pinedorado Car Show at the Vets Hall parking lot before heading out to the carnival or maybe the beach this time for some down time. The show draws over 150 cars of all makes and models with classifications and awards for Mustangs, Corvettes, T-Birds, Foreign Cars, and more.
You can also catch the Pinedorado Follies for their annual production. This 2023, the Pinedorado Days Follies happily presents “The Music Man Who Came to Cambria,” a take on the classic musical retold in the village of Cambria. The show will run on September 1, 2 & 3 at the Cambria Vets Hall at 7 pm. Click here to secure tickets.
Pops by the Sea 2022 by the San Luis Obispo Symphony
When: September 3, 2022 | Gates opens at 2:45 pm and music will begin at 4 pm
Where: Avila Beach Gold Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424 |
Make your way to the Avila Beach Golf Resort on September 2, 2023 and join us for the grand return of Pops-by-the-Sea, a cherished annual event hosted by the San Luis Obispo Symphony. The gates swing open at 2:45 PM, and music will start at 4:00 PM. The symphony will be performing a variety of popular and patriotic compositions in the first part of the program, leading up to a spectacular performance by local sensation Damon Castillo and his band in the latter half.
Don’t forget, while parking is completely free, outside beverages are not permitted at the event. Secure your tickets here.
Morro Bay Art in the Park
When: September 2, 3, 4, 2023 from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Morro Bay Park corner of Morro Bay Blvd and Harbor Drive. 1/2 mile off Hwy 1. Use Morro Bay Blvd offramp.
Now in its 67th year, score local arts and crafts such as wood and glass arts, paintings, jewelry, handcrafted bath, and beauty products, and more from over 125 artisan vendors at the Morro Bay Art in the Park. Bring your family and friends or get some solitude and come alone and enjoy food, music, and of course, arts and crafts.
Arroyo Grande Concerts in the Park
When: September 3, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Where: Historic Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Spend a relaxing Sunday enjoying good food, good drinks, and good people while listening to Ras Danny, at Arroyo Grande’s Historic Heritage Square Park. All ages are welcome to attend this free community program. Bring a chair with a low back, some blankets, and sunscreen.
Soak Up the Sun at San Luis Obispo’s Nearby Beaches
Get your dose of Vitamin Sea this Labor Day weekend in San Luis Obispo and go on a sunny beach trip. No summer escapade is complete without getting in the ocean, right? Fortunately, San Luis Obispo is blessed with an array of beautiful beaches just minutes away from downtown. Pop over to Avila Beach for some warm sand, gentle waves, and a buzzing promenade. If surfing’s more your style, Pismo Beach is the place to catch some waves and epic sunsets. Looking for some tranquility? Head to the serene coves of Montaña de Oro State Park. And for a relaxed stroll alongside wildlife spotting, Morro Bay awaits.
The Quintessential Downtown Stroll
Your Labor Day weekend in SLO won’t be complete without taking a leisurely stroll through its charming downtown. Packed with historic charm and a modern buzz, downtown SLO is the heartbeat of the city. Meander along the tree-lined streets and take in the charming boutiques, art galleries, and unique local businesses that give the city its character. Don’t miss the iconic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa for a snapshot of SLO’s rich history before finding your way to Bubblegum Alley, one of SLO’s quirkiest landmarks. Need a caffeine kick or a scrumptious bite? Linnaea’s, Skippers, and Coastal Peak are fantastic choices.
Go on a hike
For a little outdoor adventure, explore SLO’s stunning natural scenery and head out for a hike! SLO is a hiker’s paradise, with awe-inspiring trails for every level of adventurer — each path offering a unique slice of SLO’s beauty, from coastal vistas to lush hilltops. A local favorite is the Bishop Peak Trail, where a moderate climb rewards you with panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. Fancy a leisurely walk among vineyards and oak trees? Try the Bob Jones City to Sea Trail. Read more about SLO’s best hiking trails here.
Find your favorite SLO restaurant
Eat your way through SLO this Labor Day weekend. SLO is a food lover’s paradise, serving up an array of mouth-watering fare that’s as diverse as the city itself. From farm-to-table freshness at Novo Restaurant & Lounge to irresistible Italian at Buona Tavola, your taste buds are in for a treat. Perhaps you’re in the mood for some award-winning BBQ? Then make a beeline for Firestone Grill, a local gem. Need more suggestions? Check out our blog on the best restaurants in San Luis Obispo for an even deeper dive into SLO’s gastronomic scene.
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To make your trip even more unforgettable, make Sands Inn and Suites your home in San Luis Obispo this Labor Day weekend. Just walking distance from downtown SLO, our pet-friendly hotel makes a great “base” for your escapade around the county. Our extra-clean and cozy rooms, outdoor heated pool, and spa are perfect treats after a long day of adventure. For reservations, call us at (800) 441-4657 or click the link below!