Imagine walking across plush, green grass with a wine glass in your hand. You reach the pavement and a flash of pink catches your eye. As you look over, you see a flock of flamingos intrigued by the crowd of people that have gathered at the Charles Paddock Zoo in late June. After watching the tall legged creatures for a moment, you begin meandering over to the wine glass painting station. Despite wanting to go try some of the amazing wineries that are present at the event, you want to decorate your glass first, and while you paint, you enjoy the live music echoing around the venue. After finishing your decorations, you begin your wine journey, all the while looking forward to trying some of the amazing birria tacos from the Birria Boyz food booth.

Twenty-five years ago, a small group of people gathered to create something captivating in Atascadero. With the support of the Charles Paddock Zoo, the City of Atascadero, and the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, the team moved forward to create one of the most beloved events in northern San Luis Obispo County. The Atascadero Lakeside Wine Fest is a premier event showcasing wineries from the Central Coast that includes nearly 250 wines from over 80 wineries. In addition, breweries, food purveyors, commercial vendors, and art exhibitors will be spaciously displayed under the majestic oaks at the relaxed and sun-kissed lakeside location.
In 2018, the festival was awarded the New Times Best North County Outdoor Event. This is due to the genuine wine tasting experience, abundance of elbow room, inclusion of beer vendors, zoo admission, and the ability to bring your own lawn chair to relax, enjoy live music, and socialize with friends.

New in 2022, you can elevate your experience with a wild west shooting gallery, wine glass painting, VIP cabanas, cooling stations, two music stages, and a “Roar and Pour” Zoo experience with a live DJ. Live music will be provided by local favorites Erin and the Earthquakes and Déjà vu. These bands book-end the festival grounds to keep the beat going for all to enjoy.
General admission tickets are $70 and day-of tickets are $80. Tickets may be purchased from www.atascaderolakesidewinefestival.com. A VIP experience is available as well for $120. As per tradition, a portion of event proceeds will go toward the Charles Paddock Zoo. What’s better than drinking wine and helping zoo animals?! Mark your calendars and be sure to round-up some friends to enjoy this unforgettable summer experience.

Check atascaderolakesidewinefestival.com for event details including the most up to date list of participating wineries, breweries, artists, commercial vendors, and more.
Event organizers are seeking wine/beer/art vendors, volunteers, and sponsors. To learn more, reach out to Gail Kudlac at atascaderowinefestival@gmail.com or call the Chamber of Commerce at 805-466-2044.