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Art and Wine Faire 2023 – Your Complete Guide to the Festival

Art and Wine Faire 2023 – Your Complete Guide to the Festival

by sancarloslife | Oct 3, 2023 | Headliner, Holiday Blogs

Welcome to the Art and Wine Faire 2023 All eyes are on San Carlos as the Peninsula’s favorite Faire is comes back this weekend! Make most of the two days by planning ahead – here is a complete guide including a list of all the artists and shops with their...
It’s Starting to look a lot like Christmas in Eucalyptus Avenue San Carlos CA

It’s Starting to look a lot like Christmas in Eucalyptus Avenue San Carlos CA

by Mark Martinho | Dec 15, 2022 | Headliner, Attractions Blogs, Holiday Blogs

Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos CA If you’ve lived in San Carlos California for any period of time, then you know that Eucalyptus Ave in San Carlos CA is the place to go to view Christmas lights and decorations and 2022 did not disappoint. The PG&E transformers...
Starting to look a lot like the Holidays in San Carlos CA

Starting to look a lot like the Holidays in San Carlos CA

by Mark Martinho | Dec 4, 2022 | Headliner, Holiday Blogs

Holidays in San Carlos CA San Carlos CA kicked off the holiday season on Dec. 2nd 2022 with its Night of Holiday Lights festival.  The event was a huge success as Laurel Street became packed with people of all ages to take part in the event. There was a stage with...
The Beautiful 12th Annual Night of Holiday Lights in San Carlos CA

The Beautiful 12th Annual Night of Holiday Lights in San Carlos CA

by sancarloslife | Dec 1, 2022 | Holiday Blogs

Night of Holiday Lights 2022 Today we have rain; but tomorrow, the weather man says it’s gonna be a sunny cold Friday as we welcome the 12th Annual Night of Holiday Lights in San Carlos, from 5:00PM to 8:30PM at Laurel Street which will be closed all the way...
Toxic Holiday Lights? That I didn’t Know!

Toxic Holiday Lights? That I didn’t Know!

by Mark Martinho | Nov 30, 2022 | Headliner, Holiday Blogs

Toxic Holiday Lights? The holidays are all about tradition and maybe your tradition is to hang the same old Christmas lights on your tree or home. Well, maybe it’s time to reconsider that this year? First, of course Santa would want you to change over to LED lights,...
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Related Blogs

Highest and Lowest Priced Homes Sold in San Carlos CA, in November 2025

Highest and Lowest Priced Homes Sold in San Carlos CA, in November 2025

Dec 5, 2025

For November 2025, there were a total of 24 homes sold in San Carlos, with sale prices ranging from $4,017,500 to $1,835,000. Here are the highest and lowest priced homes sold last month –

Too Much Stuff? A Local Guide To Prevent Holiday Hoarding

Too Much Stuff? A Local Guide To Prevent Holiday Hoarding

Dec 2, 2025

San Carlos, like the rest of America, is facing an issue more households are reluctant to talk about: too much stuff, and nowhere to put it. According to a recent survey, the average American family is hoarding about 300,000 stuff at any given time. Also, 71% of Americans admit to repurchasing items they already own because clutter keeps them from finding the original. Sounds familiar? If you face the same problem, here are several great options for donating items and giving them a second life –

A Special Thanksgiving Message from Viv & Mark

A Special Thanksgiving Message from Viv & Mark

Nov 21, 2025

When people look for a service they can rely on, they turn to those they trust. The same is true in real estate, and that trust is at the heart of everything we do. Each time you refer a friend, family member, or neighbor to us, it’s a gesture of belief in how we care for our clients. This Thanksgiving, we’re reflecting on that trust with deep gratitude.

Referrals from you are expressions of faith, friendship, and confidence in how we serve our community. Your referrals allow us to do what we love most: help people find the place they’re proud to call home. This is our thanksgiving message to you –

What’s On in San Carlos This Holiday 2024: Exciting Events and Things To Do

What’s On in San Carlos This Holiday 2024: Exciting Events and Things To Do

Dec 5, 2024

San Carlos is buzzing with holiday cheer this December, offering a range of events perfect for celebrating the season. With so many festive opportunities, San Carlos is the ultimate destination for holiday magic this month!

Short-Term Parking Pilot Program by the City Council

Short-Term Parking Pilot Program by the City Council

Nov 11, 2024

Proposed Additional Short-Term Parking Slots in San Carlos The City of San Carlos is launching a pilot program to address the rising need for convenient short-term parking on Laurel Street. Part of the larger Downtown Parking Study, this initiative aims to create...

San Carlos “Sticky Sidewalks” Due to Stressed Out Trees

San Carlos “Sticky Sidewalks” Due to Stressed Out Trees

Nov 6, 2024

Sticky sidewalks at Laurel Street: San Carlos city crews are stepping up efforts to tackle the sticky aftermath of a persistent aphid infestation downtown, as sidewalks at Laurel Street and San Carlos Avenue become increasingly sticky and challenging for pedestrians this time of the year. To settle some questions: the aphid infestation has little (or no relation at all) with the species of trees.

A Story of Homeownership with Brian and Grace of Plantation Coffee

A Story of Homeownership with Brian and Grace of Plantation Coffee

Jun 11, 2025

“Owning a home here was just a dream,” Brian admits. When their baby arrived, Brian and Grace wanted to stay rooted in the community they loved. But like many young families in the Bay Area, they didn’t think owning a home in San Carlos was realistic.

New San Carlos Hotspot Alert, Rouge Lounge

New San Carlos Hotspot Alert, Rouge Lounge

Apr 22, 2025

San Carlos is about to welcome a new wine bar. Rouge Lounge is opening soon at 890 Laurel Street, offering a different kind of experience. It’s not just another wine bar—it’s a relaxed space for people who want something more intentional and low-key in the local food and wine scene.

Exciting Valentines Day Specials in San Carlos 2025

Exciting Valentines Day Specials in San Carlos 2025

Feb 13, 2025

After today’s bout of rain, weather report says San Carlos is set to sparkle under the sun tomorrow—just in time for Valentines Day. Talk about perfect timing! The skies are clearing, and the city’s buzzing with romance, ready to serve up some seriously special treats.

The Active and Safe San Carlos Airport

The Active and Safe San Carlos Airport

Feb 17, 2023

San Carlos airport was built in 1948 by the Cooley family and pretty much looks the same as when it was built. Read on for more facts about the airport…

It’s Starting to look a lot like Christmas in Eucalyptus Avenue San Carlos CA

It’s Starting to look a lot like Christmas in Eucalyptus Avenue San Carlos CA

Dec 15, 2022

If you’ve lived in San Carlos California for any period of time, then you know that Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos CA is the place to go to view Christmas lights and decorations and 2022 did not disappoint.  

Pretend you’re an Airplane?

Pretend you’re an Airplane?

Dec 14, 2022

Ever wanted to pretend you’re an airplane? Well then you need to attend the annual Airport Runway Run at the San Carlos CA local municipal airport.

Cherry Street Commons Breaks Ground, Bringing 33 Affordable Units by 2026

Cherry Street Commons Breaks Ground, Bringing 33 Affordable Units by 2026

Apr 25, 2025

San Carlos officially broke ground this week on Cherry Street Commons, a long-awaited affordable housing project that will deliver 33 income-restricted homes by late 2026; the city’s first 100% affordable, family-focused housing complex —15 years in the making.

Vote for the Water Fountain You Like: Exciting Downtown Updates in San Carlos

Vote for the Water Fountain You Like: Exciting Downtown Updates in San Carlos

Mar 24, 2025

During a public meeting on March 10, the City Council reviewed updates on key design elements, including site furnishings, paving materials, lighting, and a proposed water fountain. The City was presented by Fluidity Designs with three water fountain option: (1) “The Splash Pad” (2) “The Fog” (3) “The Art Rock” – cast your vote here in this blog!

The Beautiful Pedestrian Plaza & Other Downtown Laurel Street Updates

The Beautiful Pedestrian Plaza & Other Downtown Laurel Street Updates

Feb 21, 2025

San Carlos is taking a major step toward revitalizing its downtown district, with new improvements set for the fully closed Pedestrian Plaza, which includes 700 block of Laurel Street and Harrington Park.

Exciting 4th of July Events and Fireworks Near San Carlos this 2025

Exciting 4th of July Events and Fireworks Near San Carlos this 2025

Jun 27, 2025

From dazzling fireworks over the Bay to small-town parades, live music, and family-friendly daytime festivals, there’s a celebration waiting for you near San Carlos this Independence Day. We’ve highlighted the nearest 4th of July events in 2025, sorted by distance to make planning your perfect day easy. Each listing includes drive times, event times, and fireworks near San Carlos (when applicable):

Exciting Valentines Day Specials in San Carlos 2025

Exciting Valentines Day Specials in San Carlos 2025

Feb 13, 2025

After today’s bout of rain, weather report says San Carlos is set to sparkle under the sun tomorrow—just in time for Valentines Day. Talk about perfect timing! The skies are clearing, and the city’s buzzing with romance, ready to serve up some seriously special treats.

Holiday Drinks and Happy Hour in San Carlos, CA

Holiday Drinks and Happy Hour in San Carlos, CA

Dec 19, 2024

We’ve put together a special guide to help you discover the best holiday-inspired drinks and happy hour spots. Note: Happy hour deals often come and go, so its best to call the restaurant first before going. Thanks!

Four Years of White Sage: Looking Back on Beautiful Memories

Four Years of White Sage: Looking Back on Beautiful Memories

Jul 25, 2025

As White Sage Boutique prepares to close its doors this Sunday, July 27, longtime customers and new friends alike are invited to stop in one last time to celebrate all the memories this shop has created.

Art Bias Leads Creation of Centennial Mural, The Largest Mural in City History

Art Bias Leads Creation of Centennial Mural, The Largest Mural in City History

Jul 10, 2025

This summer, the heart of Laurel Street will come alive with color and stories. As part of the San Carlos Centennial celebrations, Art Bias, San Carlos’ very own nonprofit arts organization, is leading the creation of a 6,000-square-foot pavement mural, the largest in city history: the Centennial Mural.

Lark San Carlos Voted Best Gift Shop in San Mateo Area

Lark San Carlos Voted Best Gift Shop in San Mateo Area

Jul 2, 2025

In the 2025 Best of San Mateo Awards, launched just last year by the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce with over 22,000 participants, Lark was named Best Gift Shop in San Mateo Area. San Carlos Life had an interview with owner of Lark, Eilish Lancaster…

Other Restaurants

My Breakfast House: Serving Delicious Local Favorites

My Breakfast House: Serving Delicious Local Favorites

My Breakfast House is more than just a breakfast spot—it’s a local institution. With a casual, friendly atmosphere and a reputation for serving up delicious, no-frills breakfast classics, it’s become a go-to destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Nothing Bundt Cakes: Where Pure Joy is Baked Fresh Daily

Nothing Bundt Cakes: Where Pure Joy is Baked Fresh Daily

Nothing Bundt Cakes in San Carlos is your go-to destination for delicious, handcrafted Bundt cakes that bring joy to any occasion.

Sunshine HK Cafe: Delicious Taste of Hong Kong in San Carlos

Sunshine HK Cafe: Delicious Taste of Hong Kong in San Carlos

Sunshine HK Cafe is the newest gem on Laurel Street in San Carlos, bringing the comforting flavors of Hong Kong-style cuisine to the Bay Area.

ABOUT VIV AND MARK

Vabrato Real Estate

Vabrato is a locally based, top-rated real estate team led by Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin. Together, they bring over 30 years of combined experience helping home buyers and sellers throughout San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. With expert negotiation skills, in-depth market knowledge, precise pricing strategies and marketing tactics, they consistently deliver exceptional results. Through their Design-to-Sell Service, they provide strategic property upgrades, cover upfront improvement costs, and manage the entire process from start to finish.

Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. Viv is also a Broker, expert Negotiator, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader.

Thinking about buying or selling in San Carlos?

As long time residents in San Carlos, Viv and Mark know every street, school, and local market shift, so you get strategic pricing, standout marketing, and negotiations that deliver. Get a complimentary market snapshot or home valuation and a no-pressure plan tailored to your goals. Contact us today: your next move starts here.

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Welcome to San Carlos Life, a site about all things San Carlos, California. This is meant to be a guide about this beautiful town, its many amenities and activities plus all life has to offer its residents and visitors. Come and have a look around and let us know if anything is missing from this site.

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ABOUT MARK & VIV

Viv and Mark are the owners of Vabrato Real Estate, a local brokerage serving home buyers and sellers for over 15 years. They are intimately familiar with all of San Carlos, from its flats to its rolling hills and canyons. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in San Carlos, they are your local experts.

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