The holiday season has arrived in Sacramento, and the city is glowing with lights, music and festive cheer. Whether you want a fun night out with friends, a family tradition or a heartwarming date idea, there are plenty of events to enjoy this winter.
From bright light displays to ice skating and classic holiday shows, this guide will help you find the perfect way to celebrate. Bundle up, grab some hot cocoa and get ready to make the most of the season around Sacramento.
Sacramento Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Ready to kick off the holiday season with light, music and a crowd gathered under the Capitol dome? The Sacramento Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony returns on Wednesday, Dec. 10, bringing families, community groups and visitors to 10th Street for the annual celebration.
The event is free to attend, and the governor traditionally leads the countdown before flipping the switch to light the tree. The State Capitol becomes the heart of the celebration, as crowds enjoy holiday music, community performances and the shared anticipation of the tree light that marks the start of Sacramento’s holiday season.
Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink at Ali Youssefi Square opens for the season from Nov. 5 to Jan.19, bringing a classic winter activity right to 7th and K Street. The rink sits just steps from the Golden One Center, making it a perfect spot to swing by for a skate while exploring holiday events in the downtown area.
Admission is $15 for general skating and $8 for kids 6 years old and under, with skate rentals included. Whether you’re wobbling your way around the ice or racing your friends in circles, the rink offers an easy, festive escape without leaving the city.
“Theatre of Lights” Show
This holiday show turns Old Sacramento into a giant outdoor stage, with performers on balconies, dramatic lighting effects and a booming narration that echoes through the historic district. The event runs on Friday through Sunday from now until Dec. 24. The 60-foot Christmas tree in the main courtyard lights up just before the show begins.
The show is free, making it an easy holiday outing for families, students and anyone wandering the Old Sacramento Waterfront. The 20-minute show blends storytelling, music and festive energy that turns a simple visit to Old Sacramento into a lively December tradition.
Imaginarium at Cal Expo
This event features a massive light festival from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4, filling the grounds with more than 15 million lights, themed tunnels, glowing sculptures and interactive displays. It also includes carnival rides, a covered ice rink and live performers scattered throughout the space.
Tickets start around $21 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors and military families, making it an easy pick for a full evening out. Whether you are going with friends, family or a date, Imaginarium offers a mix of visual spectacle and holiday charm that’s hard to find anywhere else in Sacramento.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Looking for a holiday ride with hot cocoa, Christmas magic and a nostalgic twist? The California State Railroad Museum is bringing back its Polar Express Train Ride at the Old Sacramento Waterfront, running now until Dec. 21. With costumed chefs, glowing lights and the iconic moment when guests receive the golden ticket, the show creates a magical atmosphere. The experience brings the storybook to life as the train rolls towards the North Pole.
Families can choose between $80-$85 coach seats or $100-$110 first-class tickets. Guests may show up in pajamas to match the theme. Once the train stops, Santa Claus hops aboard to hand out the classic silver sleigh bell before everyone heads back to Old Sac, where the waterfront’s holiday lights keep the festive mood going.
Fab 40s Christmas Lights
The Fab 40s, a neighborhood known for its historic homes, transforms into a winter wonderland every December. The homes along the streets numbered “40”, especially around 45th Street and 46th Street, deck out their lawns, roofs and trees with classic lights, themed displays and plenty of holiday charm. As December reaches its peak,the streets get crowded a week before Christmas.
This outing is completely free, and you can experience it anytime during the holiday season. The streets typically have their holiday decorations up by the beginning of December. Some homes sync their lights to music or build elaborate scenes, while others keep things more simple and traditional. This festive outing feels like a neighborhood-sized Christmas card.
Sacramento’s “The Nutcracker” Ballet
The Sacramento Ballet takes the stage at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center from Dec. 12 through Dec. 21 to perform “The Nutcracker,” bringing Clara’s Christmas Eve adventure to life with iconic music, twirling dancers and an unforgettable journey through the Land of Sweets.
Tickets start at a base price of $66 and vary by seat, making it easy for yourself, your family or a group of friends to have a holiday night out. Whether it is your first time seeing “The Nutcracker” or a beloved seasonal tradition, you’ll enjoy a performance filled with charm, sparkle and a classic Christmas spirit to fill the air.
