Experience the joy of the holidays in Elk Grove! Our guide has all the exciting festive events. From Elk Grove aficionados to first-time visitors, our guide showcases the best of the season.
Kick off your holiday festivities with the much-anticipated Sacramento Christmas Tree Lighting, where the city's centerpiece is illuminated in a dazzling display of lights. Feel the magic of the season by exploring the breathtaking displays and international delights at Global Winter Wonderland, a truly unique festivity. And the Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a trip back in time with its charming Victorian-themed market. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Elk Grove
See these and even more events listed below!Elk Grove Holiday Markets and Shopping
Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire
What to Expect:
Victorian-era themed holiday street fair
Description:
Elk Grove's historic district leaps back in time, transforming into a lively Victorian-era street scene. Costumed characters straight out of Charles Dickens' novels roam the streets, bringing literary classics to life. Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts like candle-making or watch skilled artisans demonstrate forgotten trades. The air fills with the aroma of roasted chestnuts, a nod to 19th-century holiday traditions. This event, inspired by Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 1988.
Website:
Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire
Nearby Events
Sacramento Christmas Tree Lighting (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Ceremonial lighting of a massive tree in the heart of California's capital
Description:
Sacramento's skyline transforms as the towering Christmas tree illuminates the city center. This annual tradition dates back to 1931, marking nearly a century of holiday cheer in California's capital. Visitors can join in caroling led by local choirs, their voices rising into the crisp winter air. The tree itself, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, serves as a beacon of community spirit throughout the holiday season. You'll witness the moment when the switch is flipped, bathing the surrounding area in a warm glow.
Website:
Sacramento Christmas Tree Lighting
Global Winter Wonderland (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Multicultural holiday celebration with international-themed light displays
Description:
Global Winter Wonderland transforms Cal Expo into a vibrant tapestry of international holiday traditions. Towering lantern displays showcase iconic landmarks from around the world, offering a unique twist on typical holiday light shows. Visitors can embark on a "world tour," exploring illuminated recreations of the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal, and other global wonders. This event, inspired by Chinese lantern festivals, blends cultural education with holiday cheer. Guests savor diverse cuisines from international food stalls, expanding their palates while celebrating the season.
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Old Sacramento Theatre of Lights (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Projection mapping light show on historic buildings
Description:
Old Sacramento's Gold Rush-era architecture springs to life with a dazzling light spectacle. Advanced projection mapping technology transforms the facades of historic buildings into animated canvases, telling the story of Sacramento's holiday traditions. Visitors stand in awe as familiar landmarks morph and dance with light. You'll be transported through time, witnessing the evolution of local holiday celebrations from the 1800s to today. This innovative show, blending history and technology, has become a modern tradition in California's capital since its inception in 2009.
Website:
Old Sacramento Theatre of Lights
California State Railroad Museum Polar Express (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Immersive train ride experience based on the popular children's book
Description:
The California State Railroad Museum breathes life into the beloved story "The Polar Express." Vintage train cars rumble to life, whisking passengers on a journey to the North Pole. Visitors don cozy pajamas and sip hot chocolate while listening to the classic tale read aloud. The museum's rich railroad history provides an authentic backdrop for this literary adventure. You'll feel the excitement build as the train chugs along, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a magical railway journey. This event has been captivating Sacramento families since 2011.
Website:
California State Railroad Museum Polar Express
Fairytale Town Winter Wonderland (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Storybook-themed holiday experience for children
Description:
Fairytale Town's whimsical play sets transform into a winter storybook come to life. Beloved fairy tale characters don their winter attire, ready to interact with wide-eyed visitors. Children can help decorate Mother Goose's Christmas tree or join in Cinderella's winter ball. The park's 26 playsets, each based on a different nursery rhyme or fairy tale, receive holiday makeovers. You'll see Jack and Jill's hill dusted with (faux) snow and the Old Woman's Shoe decked out in twinkling lights. This event has been nurturing children's imaginations during the holidays since 1959.
Website:
Fairytale Town Winter Wonderland
Sacramento Ballet’s The Nutcracker (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Professional ballet performance of the classic holiday tale
Description:
The Sacramento Ballet brings Tchaikovsky's timeless masterpiece to life with grace and precision. Dancers leap and twirl across the stage, their movements telling the fantastical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. Elaborate costumes and sets transport the audience to a world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers. Visitors can attend a pre-show talk to learn about the ballet's history and the intricate choreography. The Sacramento Ballet has been performing The Nutcracker annually since 1954, making it a cherished local tradition.
Website:
Sacramento Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Sacramento Holiday Craft Fair (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Showcase of locally-made artisanal gifts and crafts
Description:
Sacramento's creative spirit shines at this expansive holiday craft fair. Local artisans display their handcrafted wares, offering unique gifts that can't be found in any big box store. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of various crafting techniques, from glass blowing to woodworking. The event highlights Sacramento's thriving maker community, which has roots dating back to the city's Gold Rush era. You'll discover one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local artists and craftspeople. This fair has been connecting Sacramento's creators with holiday shoppers for over two decades.