December 12, 2023 / Author: the Railyards
Discover eleven of the best things to do in Sacramento for the holidays.
As the air gets chillier and holiday lights start twinkling, it’s time to dust off our favorite wintertime traditions here in Sacramento. From Christmas light displays to ice skating and more, discover the best things to do in Sacramento for the holidays.
11 Best Spots for Christmas Lights & Holiday Cheer in Sacramento
Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
Nov 8, 2023 - Jan 15, 2024 in Ali Youssefi Square
A beloved Downtown tradition, the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink is open for the holiday season. Enjoy an afternoon of ice skating – tickets are available when you arrive at the rink. For extra holiday magic, use your ice rink wristband to unlock discounts at local shops and restaurants.
Photos with Santa
November 10, 2023 - December 24, 2023 at Arden Fair Mall
Arden Fair Mall is bringing a little holiday magic to the Sacramento area. Celebrate a holiday tradition by taking your kids to get their picture taken with Santa. Photos with Santa are free, and photo packages are available for purchase.
Theatre of Lights
November 22, 2023 through December 30th, 2023 at Old Sacramento Waterfront
Sacramento residents can discover some of the city’s most breathtaking Christmas lights in Old Sacramento along the waterfront. This free holiday lighting extravaganza will be held nightly from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve.
Imaginarium Holiday Light Festival
November 17, 2023 - January 7, 2023 at Cal Expo
Sacramento’s largest holiday light festival, Imaginarium “Holiday Lights, Fairytale Delights," returns to Cal Expo this holiday season. Enjoy the glow of 5 million lights in this festive display that brings your most beloved fairy tales to life, synchronized music and light shows, circus shows, ice skating, carnival rides, games, live entertainment, and more.
Get Tickets Before They’re Gone
Holiday Makers Market
Saturday, December 16, 2023 at DOCO
Give unforgettable gifts when you shop at the Makers Market pop-up in DOCO’s West Plaza. Support local artisans, crafters, and makers showcasing handmade jewelry, candles, art, bath & body, and other specialty items in time for the holiday shopping season. The Holiday Makers Market begins at 11AM and ends at 4PM on Saturday, December 16.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
December 1, 2023 at Golden 1 Center
Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” tour is coming to Sacramento this December. Enjoy the holiday hits of this multi-platinum, progressive rock group when they come to the Golden 1 Center.
Rock Around the Christmas Tree
Festive Ornaments and Sparkling Delights Food Tour
December 8, 2023 - December 22, 2023 at Old Sacramento Waterfront
Savor small bites and bubbly delights as you make your own keepsake holiday ornament at the Festive Ornaments and Sparkling Delights Food Tour. Indulge in small plates and decadent desserts and your choice of champagne, sparkling wine, or non-alcoholic beverage. Paint a ceramic ornament and take a tour of the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront. This walking (and eating) tour lasts about 2.5 hours.
Home for the Holidays Concert 2023
December 9, 2023 at Memorial Auditorium
The Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra is partnering with KVIE, Sacramento’s PBS station, to present “Home for the Holidays 2022”. Enjoy this matinee presentation of new and familiar choral holiday songs, complete with an audience singalong.
Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
December 27, 2023 - December 31, 2023 at SAFE Credit Union Performing Art Center
You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch… but you do enjoy a holiday musical performance. Enjoy the mean green schemes of the Grinch with the record-setting Broadway holiday sensation. A family-friendly performance that will make your heart grow two sizes this holiday season.
See the Meanest Greenest Show in Town
The Nutcracker
December 2, 2023 - December 23, 2023 at SAFE Credit Union Performing Art Center
The Sacramento Ballet is continuing its beloved holiday tradition this December with this performance of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. Enjoy the choreography of local Sacramento dancers. Tickets are available online or by calling the box office.
Santa Hustle Run
December 10, 2023 at Vernon Street Town Square
Santa is cruising through town, and you can join him with Roseville’s Santa Hustle Fun Run! This run has different lengths available – 10K, 5K, and a Kid’s Dash – so you can choose the best option for you. Participants will receive a cozy hoodie, an embroidered beanie, and a medal that jingles and spins!
Which Sacramento Holiday Tradition is on your list this year? Share your favorite festivities with us on social media.
