The annual celebration of all things scarecrow is earlier than usual this year — a prelude to the summer solstice. Join the Scarecrow Solstice Soiree at Camp Ocean Pines for an evening of local wines and small bites while enjoying a beautiful sunset. It all takes place on June 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. DJ Ponce will provide music for your listening or dancing pleasure. Come wearing your best sun hat creation, and you may be selected for a prize by anonymous judges quietly circulating among the crowd.
Enjoy wine from these local providers: Absolution Cellars, Cayucos Cellars, Cutruzzola Cellars, Moonstone Cellars and Parr Collective Tasting, Bassetti Vineyard, Harmony Cellers and Hearst Ranch Winery.
Tickets are $60 and are available at my805tix. This event helps fund the annual Cambria Scarecrow Festival.
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Casa Ramos Art Gallery, home to the artwork of John Ramos and others is holding a raffle fundraiser to benefit the Estero Bay Kindness Coalition, a nonprofit organization tackling food insecurity in Estero Bay.
Set to mobilize the community to care for our neighbors, this campaign focuses on raising funds to provide school kids with food to eat on the weekends, when they’re off campus and at risk of going hungry.
The prize is “No Dings” by Jonny Miller, a sustainable art piece that can be used as a bench or table, indoors or out. It’s made with recycled redwood, copper, and a well-loved surfboard. For the cost of a ticket, folks can win a $950 piece of functional artwork, and 100% of ticket sales will go towards feeding our vulnerable neighbors.
The drawing is live until June 14, the day before Father’s Day. Raffel tickets (1/$25, 3/$65, 6/$100) can be purchased in person at Casa Ramos Art Gallery in Los Osos, Tuesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.
“Casa Ramos is trying to find ways to reach the community and do what we can to enhance people’s lives whether it’s through art or through fundraising, we want to make a difference— and benefiting the Kindness Coalition is a no brainer,” said Elena Ramos-Peffly, owner of Casa Ramos Art Gallery. “We’ve been supporting them for a long time, and we love the work they’re doing for local school kids.”
For more information about the Kindness Coalition, go to esterobaykindnesscoalition.org. For more information about Casa Ramos Art Gallery, go to losososart.com. The gallery is located at 1034 Los Osos Valley Rd.
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Local award-winning author Debbie Noble Black is inviting kids and parents to join her at Coalesce Bookstore in Morro Bay on Saturday, June 7, from 1-3 p.m. for a book signing event for her latest release, “The Old Secret at Hotel Oregon.” This second book in her historical fantasy series for kids ages 8-12 finds 10-year-old Sara in the notoriously haunted Hotel Oregon faced with the impossible task of rescuing twelve ghost children from eternal oblivion before the end of a fast-approaching eclipse. She needs help from a mishmash cast of “ghost clothes” worn by real historic characters, but also from her snarky, uncooperative older brother.
Book one in the series, Deetjen’s Closet, recently won First Place in the Gertrude Warner International Middle Grade Fiction Awards. Both books will be available at the signing or can be purchased from local bookstores, Bookshop, Barnes and Noble, and Amazon.
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The Cal Poly Arab Music Ensemble’s Spring concert is at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 31, in Spanos Theatre. Highlights include a set of Syriac love songs, and the world premiere of “here & there” by ensemble director Ken Habib, which he will perform with guest artists Ishmael on qanun; Fathi Aljarrah on kamanja; Rafid Yalda on nay, and Faisal Zedan on riqq, daff, and darabukka. Jenna Mitchell will lead the dance troupe. Tickets are $22 for general admission and $12 for students. They can be purchased at pacslo.org.
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People Helping People, South Bay Seniors, springtime rummage sale takes place
Friday, June 6 from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturday, June 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South Bay Community Center, 2180 Palisades, Los Osos.
The rummage sale offers something for everyone such as household goods, tools, furniture, collectables, toys, books, jewelry and more.
People Helping People distributes food every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. and they
lend medical equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs and more. They also sponsor the Annual Needs & Wishes Holiday Fundraiser and monthly Community Dinners.
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The iconic Classic at Pismo Beach Car Show is set to return for its 39th annual celebration. Recognized as one of the largest classic car shows on the West Coast, the event attracts over 75,000 visitors and showcases vintage and custom vehicles along the streets and pier of downtown Pismo Beach.
This free, family-friendly event is nostalgic and fun for all ages. Parking can be limited during the event, so attendees are encouraged to stay downtown, arrive early, carpool, or use local ride services.
Schedule Overview:
• Thursday, May 29: Vendor and sponsor setup; VIP Cocktail Hour at Vespara Resort Hotel
• Friday, May 30: Registration opens; Gold Class car selection; live music and vendor exhibitions
• Saturday, May 31: Opening ceremony with Color Guard; Show & Shine; charity auction; Sunset Cruise Parade
• Sunday, June 1: Final day of Show & Shine; awards ceremony; live music performances
A live charity auction takes place during the event, offering attendees the chance to bid on unique items and experiences. Proceeds from the auction will benefit meaningful causes, including the Folds of Honor Foundation, the Ronald McDonald House, and the Pismo Beach K-9 Program.
For a detailed schedule and more information, go to www.theclassicatpismobeach.com.
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It’s time for Trans Pride in the Park. On Sunday, June 1, Meadow Park in SLO will be made into a vibrant celebration of trans, nonbinary, intersex, and gender nonconforming joy, resilience, and community. This year’s theme — Then, Now, Forever — is a powerful reminder that queer and trans people have always been here, and always will be.
During an exceptionally difficult year, gatherings that uplift joy and community matter more than ever. It’s a day of celebration for all the love in our community with plenty of opportunities to make art, connect with friends and family and learn more about the affirming resources we have right here in SLO County.
Come support the local vendors, artists, and organizers who make it all possible. All ages welcome and allies are encouraged to attend. Grab your chosen family, a picnic blanket and get ready for a beautiful afternoon in the park from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
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The Cal Poly “The Sacred Veil” choir concert is at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 1, in the Performing Arts Center. Named for Eric Whitacre’s momentous work, the concert focuses on themes of struggle, hope and healing. Cantabile presents Abbie Betinis’ “A Blessing of Cranes” about Hiroshima atomic bomb victim Sadako Sasaki; and PolyPhonics and Chamber Choir will perform “The Sacred Veil,” featuring a student cellist and dancers, and pianist Paul Woodring. Tickets are $17 and $22 for general admission and $12 for students. They are available at pacslo.org.
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Art Center Morro Bay presents the MBAA Illuminations exhibit joined with the Central Coast Artists Collective of Photography and Fine Craft juried exhibit through June 23.
Illuminations: Reflections and Shadows – We see them in a mirror, a pond, or a puddle. It could be your face, the light from the sky, or the silhouette of a scene shining on a surface. Illuminations is an MBAA members-only exhibition that dives into the study of light and the ways it reveals, transforms and inspires. Whether through literal depictions of light sources or metaphorical interpretations of enlightenment and clarity, this exhibit encourages creativity in showcasing how illumination can shift perspectives and bring hidden aspects of life into focus. From radiant bursts of color to subtle shadows, artists are called to interpret how light shapes our world and evokes emotions, offering unique insights into the interplay between light and darkness.
CCAC Photographers and Craft makers: Central Coast Photographic Society and the Craft makers Coalition join forces for an exhibition in the Russell Gallery (upstairs), running concurrently with “Illuminations” downstairs. Member artists display recent works, highlighting variety in technique and subject matter.
For more information, go to www.artcentermorrobay.org or call 805-772-2504.
Photo credit: Golden Flash by Bill Rumbler
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Sing along at a “Shanty-Sing” on Saturday morning, May 24, at the Morro Bay Maritime Museum, from 11 a.m. to noon. This free monthly gathering is hosted by the Morro Bay Shanty Project every 4th Saturday through October. The Shanty Sing brings people together to learn and share sea shanties and other types of maritime music. Bring a song. Learn a song. Sing along. For more information, send an email to morrobayshantyproject@gmail.com or call (805)225-6571.
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Free programs at the Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades Ave., 805-528-6571.
• Summer at the Library! The annual Summer Reading Program “We are SLO Curious!” kicks off on June 7 with programming, incentives and fun. Pick up your guide at the library and start your summer reading challenge. Curiosity Cabinets at each library – you will have to come in to see them! It all ends on August 9 with a huge celebration party at Cuesta College.
• Paws to Read – Wednesdays, 3:15 – 4:15 p.m.
Come and read your favorite book to Berkeley! She’s at the Los Osos Library on Wednesday afternoons. School age.
• Storytime – Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. – 11a.m.
Stories, dance, and music for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Mobile Health Clinic – first and third Wednesdays of each month, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Reproductive health care provided by CAPSLO’s The Center Mobile Health Care Clinic.
• TMHA Van – Fridays, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Transitions Mental Health Association provide services, referrals, supplies to unhoused individuals.
• SLO many questions about the Pismo Preserve – Thursday, June 5, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Join us for an informative presentation about one of the jewels of the Central Coast, the Pismo Preserve.
• Art Party – Friday, June 6, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Unleash your creativity at our monthly art party. Use your imagination to make unique art pieces using beads, paper, pens, pencils, scissors, glue and more. All materials provided, you bring the inspiration. Preschool, school age, and tween.
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Atascadero Pride returns to Atascadero Lake Park for the second year in a row — marking the fourth Atascadero Pride event — on Saturday, June 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Atascadero Pride is a family-friendly event for the entire community to come out and celebrate with the theme “Love Changes Everything.” It’s a chance for the community to come together in a show of unity, joy, and inclusion. Everyone is welcome to join in a day filled with color, compassion, and connection. This free event is all about celebrating love in all its forms and will include: music and dancing; weddings in the gazebo — bring your marriage license; roller skating, skate rentals, and instruction; food vendors and artisan booths; community resources and creative activities; the San Luis Obispo Blood Mobile will be on site; children’s activities; prize drawings throughout the event; and a special musical performance by acclaimed actress and singer Karole Foreman.
Be part of the celebration by becoming a vendor or sponsor, signing up to be a volunteer, or plan your wedding moment in the gazebo. Details and applications available at atascaderopride.org or email atascaderopride@galacc.org.
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This May, Meals That Connects joins the nation in celebrating Older Americans Month recognizing the countless contributions of older adults and reaffirming the
commitment to supporting their health, independence, and engagement in community life.
With the 2025 theme, “Flipping the Script,” this year’s celebration focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. Guest Speaker Michelle Clark will discuss
Healthy Aging on May 27, at 11:30 a.m. at the Los Osos Open House at South Bay Community Center, 2180 Palisades Ave. Admission is free.
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Holy music, Batman. The Cal Poly Music Department has a few shows slated in early June.
Cal Poly’s Jazz Ensembles will present a “Sounds of Harmony” concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 6, in Spanos Theatre. Guest vocalist Inga Swearingen will join the Vocal Jazz Ensemble for its set, including “Centerpiece” by Harry Edison and “Company” by Rosana Eckert. Four Jazz Combos will perform a mix of standards and original student arrangements, and the University Jazz Band will play selections by Les Hooper, Jeff Jarvis, Mike Tomaro and others.
The Cal Poly Symphony will perform the final compositions of Sergei Rachmaninoff, Richard Strauss and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7, in the Performing Arts Center: the first movement from Rachmaninoff’s “Symphonic Dances,” Strauss’ “Im Abendrot” (“At Sunset”) with guest soprano Amy Goymerac, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 in B Minor. David Arrivée will conduct “The Last Works” program.
The Wind Bands’ “Edifice” Concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 8, in the Performing Arts Center will focus on how sound and space interact within architectural constructs. The program will include Peter Meechan’s “James Webb’s Pillars (From A Starry Night),” “Dreams of an Architect” by Joshua Ideo, Frank Ticheli’s “Angels in the Architecture,” and “Cathedrals” by Kathryn Salfelder. Clarinetist Sarra Hey-Folick will be featured on Scott McAllister’s Led Zeppelin-inspired “Black Dog Variations.”
