Plan your holiday adventure in Folsom with our detailed event guide.
Experience the magic of the season at the annual Folsom Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, a heartwarming tradition that brings the community together. Delight in the charming Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour, showcasing beautifully decorated homes that embody festive spirit. And the Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring local artisans and unique holiday gifts. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Folsom
- Folsom Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour
- Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair
- Santa's Workshop at Palladio
- Folsom Holiday Lights Tour
- Santa's Sleigh Rides
Folsom Holiday Light Displays
Folsom Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
What to Expect:
Community-wide countdown to tree lighting
Description:
Folsom's historic district transforms as thousands gather for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The air buzzes with anticipation as the community unites for a synchronized countdown. This cherished tradition dates back to 1950, marking the official start of the holiday season in Folsom. Visitors can join in caroling led by local choirs, warming their voices and spirits. The towering tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, serves as a beacon of joy throughout December.
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Folsom Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Folsom Holiday Lights Tour
What to Expect:
Guided tour of Folsom's best holiday light displays
Description:
Folsom's Holiday Lights Tour illuminates the city's most spectacular residential and commercial light displays. Knowledgeable guides lead small groups through carefully curated routes, sharing stories behind the most elaborate setups. This tour showcases Folsom's community spirit, as neighbors compete in friendly rivalry to create the most dazzling displays. Participants can vote for their favorite houses, contributing to the annual "Best of Folsom Lights" awards. The tour also highlights the city's efforts in promoting energy-efficient LED lighting, blending holiday cheer with environmental consciousness.
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Folsom Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair
What to Expect:
Showcases handmade items by local artisans
Description:
Folsom's Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair celebrates the creativity of local artisans and craftspeople. The event transforms the community center into a bustling marketplace, brimming with unique, handcrafted gifts. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of traditional crafting techniques, gaining insight into the skill and dedication behind each item. The fair has been a staple of Folsom's holiday season for over three decades, supporting local artists and fostering community connections. Shoppers delight in discovering one-of-a-kind treasures, from hand-blown glass ornaments to artisanal food products.
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Folsom Other Holiday Activities
Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour
What to Expect:
Self-guided tour of historic homes decorated for the holidays
Description:
Step back in time as Folsom's historic district opens its doors for a unique holiday home tour. Lovingly preserved Victorian and Craftsman-style houses showcase period-appropriate decorations, blending history with holiday cheer. This self-guided journey allows you to explore at your own pace, marveling at the intricate details of these architectural gems. Docents at each location share fascinating stories about the homes' past residents and Folsom's gold rush era. Visitors can also admire the handiwork of local artisans who contribute to the homes' festive ambiance.
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Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour
Santa's Workshop at Palladio
What to Expect:
Interactive Santa's workshop experience
Description:
Palladio at Broadstone hosts an immersive Santa's Workshop experience, bringing the North Pole to Folsom. Children and adults alike marvel at the lifelike animatronic elves busily crafting toys. The workshop's design draws inspiration from traditional Scandinavian architecture, adding an authentic touch to the experience. Visitors can participate in hands-on toy-making sessions, creating keepsakes to take home. The air fills with the scent of freshly baked gingerbread, adding to the sensory experience. This unique attraction offers a fresh take on meeting Santa, combining education and entertainment.
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Santa's Sleigh Rides
What to Expect:
Horse-drawn sleigh rides through historic Folsom
Description:
Folsom's historic district echoes with the clip-clop of hooves as horse-drawn sleighs glide through the streets. These charming rides offer a nostalgic journey through time, reminiscent of 19th-century holiday traditions. Blanket-covered passengers can admire the twinkling lights of Historic Folsom while learning about the area's gold rush history from knowledgeable drivers. The sleighs, meticulously restored to their original glory, provide a unique vantage point for appreciating the district's Victorian architecture. This beloved attraction has become a cornerstone of Folsom's holiday celebrations, delighting visitors for over two decades.
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Nearby Events
Sacramento Santa Run (Sacramento)
What to Expect:
Charity run with participants dressed as Santa
Description:
Sacramento's streets come alive with a sea of red as thousands of Santas dash through the city. This unique charity run combines fitness, fun, and philanthropy, raising funds for local children's organizations. Participants receive a complete Santa suit with their registration, creating a visually striking event. The run passes by Sacramento's iconic landmarks, offering a novel way to explore the city. Spectators line the streets, cheering on the Santas and adding to the lively atmosphere. This event has grown from a small local run to a major regional attraction since its inception in 2012.