A slice of SLO County.

Whether you’re new to SLO County, a long-time resident, or just visitng for a change of pace, can you really say you’ve experienced the “SLO Life”? You’ve probably gone hiking up Bishop Peak or spent the day at Montana De Oro, played in the waves at Pismo Beach or strolled through the Arroyo Grande Village. You may have even experienced the community at SLO Farmer’s Market, tasted the wine at one of the many local vineyards, or gone water-skiing at Lopez Lake. If so, then you’ve experienced some of the SLO Life. But not all of it… not by a long shot.

Many of these things are what SLO County is known for; relaxation, community, adventure, and a slower life that lets you take things in and truly appreciate them. But have you done it all? Have you watched live theater at the Great American Melodrama, sang karaoke at Mother’s Tavern, or experienced the great food and personal service at Alphy’s Broiler? Have you gone horseback riding on the beach in Oceano or watched movies in the Sunken Gardens park in Atascadero? How about a special getaway at the Lighthouse in Avila Beach or a long, scenic bike ride down Bob Jones trail… have you done that? Ever watched a rodeo at the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles or seen the Monarch butterflies flock to their sactuary in Pismo Beach?

You’ve probably done some of this, and if you’ve lived in SLO County for a long time, then you may have even done most of it. But I’m willing to bet that you haven’t done all of it. And even if you have… have you done all of it lately? There is so much that this county has to offer; many even call it a Dream Town. This New Year, get out there and experience the highly sought after “SLO Life”, even if only to rediscover the things about it that made you fall in love in the first place.

Original post below:
Tomorrow evening, just two hours before the summer sun goes down in Atascadero, hot cars from all over the county will cruise along El Camino Real. Modern hot rods and old favorites mingle together in this 16th annual community event, drawing people in from all around SLO County. Spectators can look forward live entertainment and community camaraderie while they soak up the sights of the custom autos strolling by.

This years theme is “Cruisin’ the Nite Away” and promises to be a night filled with fun, with things kickng off at 6:30pm. The event has been an ongoing success for Atascadero, attracting more visitors each year. Come out and be a part of the fun, and say hi if you see us there! Visit the City of Atascadero website for additional information and pictures of last year’s event.

Also be sure to check the Community Calendar for more upcoming events in SLO County.

Why on earth would anyone NOT want to go to the California Mid-State Fair?

It only happens once a year, so it has the allure of rarity. It’s held in North County, so you’re sure to get a suntan. Heck, you even get to wear ridiculous hats and paint on your face in public with no risk of being pointed at and mocked. Now that all of the obvious reasons are out there, here’s a peak at some of the lesser known attractions:

• Fair Games- Feel young again when you lose your temper watching that ping pong ball bounce around everywhere but in the fish bowl.
• Good ol’ fashioned competition - See the best of the county’s horses, hogs, and goats compete for the blue ribbon.
• Funnel Cakes - No description needed.
• See famous people sing and dance - Where else can you see Toby Keith, Fergie, and Rod Stewart perform on the same stage? Okay, they don’t perform together, but still on the Main Grandstand Stage!
• Rides that turn your stomach - Again, only once a year. Give it a go!
• See not-so-famous people sing and dance- Hey, it’s free. And these are some pretty talented folks!
• Shop in a barn - Browse through locally made crafts and other goodies.
• More free shows- Be entertained with the Miss CMSF Pageant, Paula Cole, Skillet, and more.

Now, if all that’s not enough to convince you, then you’re a party pooper! Do you disagree? Tell me so with your comment below. Hope to see you all at the fair!