Ryan ChartrandCongratulations, you’re a graduate! So now what do you do? Why, celebrate, of course!
The Central Coast offers a bounty of options to fit your celebratory needs. The following is a quick list of some ways to commemorate the big day.
Wine tasting: Throughout the county, there are literally hundreds of well-loved wineries, many of which welcome visitors to their tasting rooms. Get some friends together and take a drive along U.S. Highway 46 – the so-called wine trail – and make frequent stops at your favorites. For more information, including profiles of local wineries, and custom-made maps and directions, visit www.pasowine.com.
Barbecues and/or bonfires at nearby beaches: Make the 10- to 15-minute drive to a nearby beach (Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, Grover Beach, etc.) for perhaps the last bonfire or barbecue before you leave the area. It’s a nice way to hang out and relax with friends – not to mention cheap and easy to plan. Check ahead of time for bonfire regulations at the beach of your choice.
Throw a party: Be creative and cater a party to your taste and interests. This is a party focusing on you, after all. Anything that suits your fancy can be used as inspiration.
Go out to dinner at your favorite San Luis Obispo restaurant: Especially for those leaving the Central Coast after graduation, have a farewell dinner with close friends and family at a favorite restaurant. If you’ve spent the last four (or five or six or seven.) years going to a particular restaurant, then why not celebrate there? At least you know you will enjoy the food (and company).
Ultimately, though, as clich‚ as this may sound, a graduation celebration must be catered to you for it to have any meaning. Use these suggestions as starting points (or think of your own) and tailor the celebration to fit your interests. Have fun!