Sacramento Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Sacramento and nearby
The holiday season transforms neighborhoods around Sacramento into twinkling landscapes, with streets like the Fab 40s and Dovewood Court becoming destinations for dazzling light displays. Throughout the region, communities embrace the season with traditional tree lightings, lively parades winding through historic downtowns, and the warm glow of holiday markets.
Visitors can find themselves aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train’s Santa Train for a unique experience, or enjoying the festive atmosphere of the Historic Folsom Community Christmas Tree Lighting. The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink offers a classic winter pastime, while the River Fox Train in West Sacramento presents its Magical Christmas Train journey.
Browse Christmas Near Sacramento by Category
Christmas Shows
Live accompaniment by the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera.
Christmas Markets
Juried market featuring over 100 regional artisans and family entertainment.
Christmas Lights
Holiday celebration with Santa visits, stage performances, and tree lighting ceremony.
Christmas Parties
An evening of dancing in festive holiday sweaters.
Christmas Giving Opportunities
Holiday dancing open house with admission by toy donation.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Celebrates the 60th anniversary of Kwanzaa and ancient harvest traditions.
Editor's Picks
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Sacramento Ballet's The Nutcracker
Live accompaniment by the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera.
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Magical train journey to the North Pole with Santa.
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Crocker Holiday Artisan Market
Juried market featuring over 100 regional artisans and family entertainment.
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26th Annual Christkindlmarkt
Traditional German Christkindlmarkt with charity benefit
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Irving Berlin's White Christmas
Stage adaptation of the classic Irving Berlin film 'White Christmas'.
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Sacramento Gay Men's Chorus: Holiday Hits with a Splash of Sass!
Holiday choral concert featuring Rudolph the Gay Reindeer and high-kicking elves.
Events Happening Soon
Sacramento Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Sacramento Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Sacramento?
The Old Sacramento Waterfront tree lighting, Theatre of Lights, and the annual holiday market are among the largest and most popular Christmas events in the city.
What holiday traditions are unique to Sacramento?
Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights on K Street and the East Sacramento Fab Forties light displays are beloved local traditions that bring the community together each year.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Sacramento?
The East Sacramento Fab Forties is the most famous neighborhood for Christmas lights, but other areas also feature festive displays each holiday season.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Sacramento?
Old Sacramento is a central spot for holiday markets and local makers, with seasonal events and vendor stalls throughout the district.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Sacramento?
Free activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, the Old Sacramento Waterfront tree lighting, and exploring seasonal markets with no admission fee.
What are good picks for families with kids in Sacramento?
Families enjoy the Theatre of Lights, holiday markets with kid-friendly activities, and walking tours of the Fab Forties light displays.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Indiana Ballet Conservatory's The Nutcracker
📍 Carmel , IN , United States
Classic holiday ballet performance
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