Sacramento summers can't be beat. When the temperatures heat up, Sacramento offers the coolest activities and events, from music festivals to ball games, fairs, fun on the river, and more. Check out our list of the top 10 must-do summer activities in and around Sacramento.
Check out a Sacramento River Cats or Sacramento Republic FC Game
You might hear Sacramentans recently cheering, "The A's are coming! The A's are coming!" but while we wait, you can still check out some riveting games played by our local teams, the Sacramento River Cats and Sacramento Republic FC.
You can find the River Cats stealing plates and taking names at Sutter Health Park, or head over to Heart Health Park and check out a gripping Sacramento Republic FC match. Oh, and we, of course, can't forget Toyota Family Value Tuesdays at the River Cats games, which feature $2 hot dogs and $2 ice cream.
Dip Your Toes in a New Water Activity
Although Sacramento is an inland city, there are many opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy the various rivers and lakes surrounding us. If you're into whitewater rafting, companies like American Whitewater Expeditions and OARS American River Outpost offer guided tours down the South, Middle, and North forks of the American River.
On the other hand, if you want to learn some new skills on the water, you can check out the Sacramento State Aquatic Center on Lake Natoma. They offer lessons, camps, and equipment rentals for everything ranging from sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, waterskiing, and more.
Hark! Concerts in the Park
As California's largest, longest-running free music festival, there was no doubt that we'd see them back in Downtown Sacramento this year. Concerts are packed with full lineups of Grammy-winning artists, DJs, and local Sacramento legends. Enjoy live music every Friday from 5-9 PM, live artists, photo ops, food trucks, and beverages starting in May and going through July (except July 5).
Oh, and did we mention it's FREE?
Check out their FAQ here for more information.
Spend Your Second Saturdays in Midtown
Starting in May and going all the way through October, you can head to Midtown and experience Sacramento's art scene with galleries and theaters hosting Second Saturday shows and pop-ups. They have everything for all ages and interests from block parties to gallery shows that you can immerse yourself in.
Read more about Second Saturdays in Midtown here.
Visit Your Local Farmer's Markets
Put meaning behind Sacramento's Farm-to-Fork title by visiting the countless farmer's markets you can find all around Sacramento. Hosting one of the largest farmer's market scenes in the nation, you should have no trouble finding a pop-up near you.
If you're a foodie looking for a goodie this summer, check out our list of tasty treat events happening in Sac.
Ride and Run Around the California State Fair
As one of the most popular and anticipated events during the summer, the California State Fair is always a staple for a great summer in Sacramento. They have everything you'd expect at a grand fair, including amusement rides, food and beer competitions, and food trucks as far as the eye can see.
Check out what they have to offer this year.
Walk the Sacramento Waterfront
The Old Sac Waterfront District is Sacramento's living history book, spanning 28 acres along the Sacramento River. This historic area gives a glimpse into the 1800s and is home to 53 preserved 19th-century buildings.
While you're walking, you can check out the Old Sac and walk around the California State Railroad Museum, shop at Evangeline's Costume Mansion, and dine at the Firehouse Restaurant.
Take to the Skies at the Sacramento Airshow
The California Capital Airshow is a family-favorite summer event that takes place at Mather Airport. Established in 2004, the California Capital Airshow is an exciting, family-friendly annual event designed to honor the Sacramento region's rich aviation heritage and veterans while using the power and magic of flight to inspire the young—and the young at heart. Tickets must be purchased online.
Book a Ticket for a Future Air Show
Catch a Concert at Toyota Ampitheater
The Toyota Amphitheater is a must on warm summer nights, hosting tons of shows and seating up to 18,500 fans. They're known for their loud rock and country concerts and have seen performances from icons like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Aerosmith, Iron Maiden, No Doubt, Linkin Park, Post Malone, Chris Stapleton, Luke Bryon, and more.
Find a line-up of upcoming shows, buy tickets, and get season passes.
Visit Folsom Lake
On a hot and sunny afternoon, Folsom Lake is the place to be. Whether you're into water activities like swimming, windsurfing, jet-skiing, and paddleboarding or prefer exploring on land through miles of some top-notch hiking trails, there's something for everyone. Then, after an active day, relax at a picnic site or extend your adventure with an overnight stay at one of the campgrounds.
Check out what else they have to offer.
Peruse and Take A Cruise Around Sac
Typically departing from Old Sac, there are many river cruises that offer unique views of the city. You can choose a romantic sunset dinner cruise, a history-filled journey through California's capital transformation, or a lively Sunday brunch cruise with cocktails.
Some of our favorites include the River City Queen; great if you want to have a private get-together. The Sacramento River Cruise with fun tastings and great food, and City Cruises Sacramento offering a relaxing, informative, and gorgeous view of Sacramento.
Explore Sacramento's Beer Scene at CA Brewers Festival
Wrap up your summer at the annual CA Brewers Festival, which takes place every September at Discovery Park. For three decades, CA Brewers Festival has brought beer aficionados together to taste the best beer, cider, and wine of the region. Enjoy great eats from food trucks, participate in the crowd-favorite Beer Relay Race, and have a blast in the adult Fun Zone! Bring the entire family: kids aged 11 and under are free.
Get tickets and more information.
Taste the Region at Sacramento's Farm-to-Fork Festival
The best way to wrap up the summer season is to savor the flavors of the region at Sacramento's annual Farm-to-Fork Festival in September. As part of Farm-to-Fork week, the festival is the West Coast's top food and music destination. This celebration of food and music attracts more than 100,000 people from all across the country each year. Since 2013, the Farm-to-Fork events have become some of the country's most anticipated food and music festivals and culinary experiences and an impressive music line-up that will leave you dancing in the street.
Discover this year's line-up and plan your Farm-to-Fork Festival itinerary.
Sacramento's summers have a lineup that is a mix of high-energy sports, refreshing water activities, and live music that hits the right notes. From catching a game to riding the river waves or exploring the local scene, there's plenty to keep you entertained. It's a straightforward choice for anyone looking to mix up their summer with a bit of everything.