—There’s always something going on in downtown Paso Robles, and especially in the fall. October kicks off with the Pioneer Day celebration in the park. From then on, it’s one event and activity after another, all the way through holiday shopping events and the famous Victorian Teddy Bear Tea in the Park Ballroom.

Pioneer Day

Pioneer Day, October 10, is the 96th anniversary of one of Paso Robles’ most cherished events. The first Pioneer Day, on October 12, 1931, was organized to provide a day of community friendship to commemorate the heritage of the region. The event has continued that tradition every year since.

The highlight of this free day is the Pioneer Day Parade that starts at 10 a.m. at 16th and Spring streets. Bring the entire family and enjoy the antique tractors, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, mounted equestrian groups, dancers, floats, fire engines, vintage cars, and more. For more information, visit pasoroblespioneerday.org.

Taste of Downtown & Arte de Tiza

Enjoy gourmet samples from over 35 local restaurants and wineries in Downtown City Park, September 19, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are required for this event and can be purchased at my805tix.com.

On the same day, beginning at 8 a.m., join the Paso Robles Art Association for a free Arte de Tiza youth chalk art festival. Watch the youngsters create chalk art on the sidewalk surrounding the Downtown City Park. Registration is from 8 to 9 a.m. The artwork judging is at 11:30 a.m., and the awards ceremony is at noon at the park gazebo. For more information, visit pasoroblesart.org or call (805) 712-4555.

Golden Oak Honey & Pumpkin Festival and Kids’ Flea Market

Honey, arts, crafts, pie-eating, and vendors, along with the Kids’ Flea Market, fill the Downtown City Park. This annual event celebrates local beekeepers and honey producers and is the perfect place to acquire the best of the pumpkin harvest. Vendor booths are filled with unique gifts, tasty honey, educational experiences, and fun. October 17, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Free admission.

What’s Halloween without a Día de los Muertos festival?

Come downtown and enjoy both. Things are done a little differently here, though Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, complete with an ofrenda altar honoring loved ones, is celebrated a few days ahead of the traditional early November date.

Join the community in Downtown City Park on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for a cultural celebration, educational and children’s activities, food, dance, music, vendors, a special ofrenda altar, and more.

Rest up and come back downtown for Safe & Fun Halloween Downtown on Saturday, October 31, between 4 and 7 p.m. Dress the family in their favorite costumes and trick-or-treat around the park.

Elegant Holiday Evening Downtown

This annual free event kicks off the holiday season, featuring local merchants’ open house specials, live mannequins, refreshments, and entertainment. Saturday, November 14, from 5 to 8 p.m., downtown Paso Robles.

More not-to-be-missed holiday activities

November and December are packed with Paso Robles’ traditional holiday activities.

• The 40th Annual Downtown Lighting Ceremony. Mrs. Claus and her entourage arrive just in time to switch on the holiday lights in the Downtown City Park. Enjoy hot coffee, cocoa, candlelight, caroling, and Christmas characters. Free admission, Friday, November 27, 5:30 p.m.
• Shop Small Saturday. All day, November 28, is the opportunity to explore, browse, and purchase the best unique gifts that downtown merchants have to offer.
  The 65th Annual Christmas Light Parade. Santa officially arrives, along with festively lighted floats, classic cars, and surprises. The parade starts at Spring and 10th streets, and winds around the park. Saturday, December 5 at 7 p.m.
• The 40th Annual Vine Street Victorian Showcase. Enjoy the sights of Christmas decorations adorning Paso Robles’ iconic Victorian homes and businesses. On Vine Street from 8th to 21st streets, Saturday, December 12, 6-9 p.m.
• The 40th Annual Teddy Bear Tea. Santa and Mrs. Claus are holding court along with their company of elves and famous personalities. Tea and tasty snacks are served, and there are a variety of all-age activities for this family-friendly holiday event. Park Ballroom. Saturday, December 19, 2-4 p.m. Tickets at my805tix.com.

The Downtown City Park is located at Spring and 12th streets. For more information about events, visit pasoroblesdowntown.org.