The Santa Maria Valley’s relatively new Christmas tradition launched during the pandemic will go dark for the 2025 holiday season.

“Since 2020, Elks Recreation has been proud to host Christmas in the Country — a magical holiday light drive-through experience that quickly became a cherished tradition on the Central Coast,” according to Santa Maria Elks Recreation website. 

The idea arose as pandemic-related restrictions discouraged larger gatherings, leading to cancellations of holiday events including parades.

Instead of people watching colorful floats parade along a route, Christmas in the County involved illuminated entries from various groups filling the sprawling Santa Maria Elks/Unocal Event Center, 4040 S. Highway 101.

Weeks before the inaugural Christmas in the County event in 2021, Elks Rec hosted a similar event focused on Halloween. 

While Haunted Hills ended after 2022, Christmas in the Country has continued.

Carloads of visitors traveled along the route extending more than 2 miles to absorb Christmas spirit after many traditional events were axed due the COVID-19 precautions.

“While Christmas in the Country will take a short break this year, we’ll be back in 2026—brighter and more festive than ever,” Elks Rec said.

Elks Rec worked with the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department, local businesses, and families to create Christmas in the Country.

“We’ll truly miss celebrating with you this holiday season, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for more holiday magic next year.”

Elks Rec also organizes the annual rodeo which will take place May 27-31, 2026 at the Elks/Unocal Event Center.