The holiday season is just around the corner, and Sacramento is getting ready to celebrate! From artisan markets and fresh Christmas trees to outdoor ice skating and festive performances, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season with family and friends.
To help you make the most of the season, we've created a local guide to holiday markets, Christmas tree farms, and festive events to add to your calendar for 2026. Grab your favorite holiday drink and get ready to enjoy the best of the season right here in the Sacramento community.
Holiday Markets in Sacramento
Holiday markets are a great way to find one-of-a-kind gifts, support local makers, and enjoy a little festive atmosphere. Here are a few places to explore as you check off your holiday shopping list.
Crocker Holiday Artisan Market
November 27–29, 2026 | Scottish Rite Center, Sacramento
If handmade gifts are on your shopping list, the Crocker Holiday Artisan Market is a great place to start. This Thanksgiving weekend tradition brings together more than 100 artists and artisans selling everything from ceramics and jewelry to textiles, photography, paintings, and home décor. You'll also find holiday activities for children, including opportunities to visit Santa. It's a wonderful
Christkindlmarkt
December 5–6, 2026 | Sacramento Turn Verein
Experience the charm of a traditional European Christmas market at the Sacramento Turn Verein Christkindlmarkt. This annual event features local vendors, handmade crafts, Christmas ornaments, baked treats, and traditional German food. Visitors can also enjoy holiday music and appearances by Santa Claus and the German Christkind. With its festive atmosphere and European-inspired traditions, Christkindlmarkt is a fun way to shop for gifts and enjoy something a little different this holiday season.
Midtown Holiday Market
Midtown Sacramento | Seasonal market dates and special events vary
Midtown is a great destination for discovering local makers, small businesses, and neighborhood favorites. The Midtown Markets program includes the popular Midtown Farmers Market, where shoppers can browse local produce, prepared foods, artisan goods, and handmade items from a wide range of vendors. During the holiday season, keep an eye out for announcements about special markets, seasonal pop-ups, and festive shopping events. It's an easy way to support local businesses while enjoying the energy of one of Sacramento's most vibrant neighborhoods.
Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair in Historic Folsom
December 6, 2026 | Historic Folsom
Make a day of holiday shopping at the Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair in Historic Folsom. Celebrating 57 years of handmade holiday tradition, this popular event brings more than 200 artisan crafters to Sutter Street and the Public Plaza. Browse handcrafted jewelry, art, seasonal decorations, specialty foods, clothing, and other unique finds while enjoying live entertainment and local food vendors. With the charm of Historic Folsom as its backdrop, this market is a great place to find thoughtful gifts and enjoy a festive day out.
Where to Find Christmas Trees Near Sacramento
For many families, finding the perfect Christmas tree is one of the best traditions of the season. Whether you prefer to cut your own tree at a local farm or pick out a fresh-cut tree closer to home, Sacramento and the surrounding foothills offer several options worth exploring.
Here are a few places to start your search for a real Christmas tree in 2026:
- Davis Ranch | Sloughhouse: Davis Ranch offers a choose-and-cut Christmas tree experience with varieties that have included Douglas fir, incense cedar, and Monterey pine. It's a good option for families who want to select their own tree and enjoy a little time out in the country. The farm typically opens its Christmas tree season around Thanksgiving, so check its website for current hours and availability.
- Harris Family Farm | Pollock Pines: If you're up for a scenic drive into the foothills, Harris Family Farm offers a choose-and-cut Christmas tree experience in a beautiful forest setting. Reservations are required, and the farm also offers seasonal treats and other farm experiences.
- Silveyville Christmas Tree Farm | Dixon: This family-run farm has been a holiday tradition since 1979. Visitors can browse a variety of tree species, including trees grown on the property and fresh-cut trees brought in from Oregon. The farm also offers wreaths, holiday gifts, and seasonal activities that make tree shopping a fun outing for the whole family.
- Bambi's Christmas Tree Land | Roseville: For a tree-shopping option closer to Sacramento, Bambi's Christmas Tree Land in Roseville is worth checking out.
Want more options for a fresh tree? Check out our blog highlighting more farm-fresh destinations.
Holiday Events Around Sacramento
Once the shopping is underway and the tree is ready to decorate, it's time to enjoy the festivities! Sacramento offers plenty of ways to celebrate, from magical train rides and live performances to ice skating and dazzling holiday lights.
Magical Christmas Train
West Sacramento | Seasonal departures in November and December
All aboard for a holiday adventure with the Magical Christmas Train from River Fox Train! This family-friendly experience takes passengers on a festive train ride filled with holiday music, cheerful elves, and a visit from Santa. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and a cookie before exploring Santa's Village, complete with seasonal decorations and opportunities for holiday photos. It's a memorable outing for families with young children and anyone who loves a little Christmas magic.
Sacramento Ballet: The Nutcracker
December 12–24, 2026 | SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center
A Sacramento holiday tradition, The Nutcracker returns to the stage with the Sacramento Ballet for another season of music, dancing, and holiday magic. Follow Clara on her unforgettable Christmas Eve adventure, brought to life through Tchaikovsky's iconic score, elaborate costumes, and beautiful choreography. The production features the Sacramento Ballet's professional company alongside more than 250 young dancers, with live music performed by the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera. Whether it's your family's annual tradition or your first time attending, it's a wonderful way to celebrate the season.
Go Ice Skating Around Sacramento
Looking for a fun way to get into the holiday spirit? Lace up your skates and visit one of the area's seasonal outdoor ice rinks. The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink returns to Ali Youssefi Square near Golden 1 Center, with its 2026–2027 season scheduled for November 4 through January 18. It's a convenient stop for a festive outing downtown, with restaurants and shops nearby.
You can also visit the Historic Folsom Ice Rink, which opens November 7 and runs through January 18. After skating, take a stroll along Sutter Street to enjoy the historic district's seasonal atmosphere. Check each rink's website for ticket prices, session times, special events, and weather-related updates.
Celebrate the Season with 12 Days of Midtown
Midtown Sacramento | December holiday activities
The 12 Days of Midtown celebration brings local businesses and the community together for a series of holiday-themed events throughout Sacramento's Midtown neighborhood. Last year, the celebration ran from December 1–12 and featured a mix of local shopping, holiday markets, seasonal drinks, entertainment, and community fundraisers. The annual program encourages residents and visitors to discover neighborhood businesses while enjoying something festive each day. It's a great opportunity to explore Midtown, support local businesses, and find a few new holiday favorites along the way.
*For 2026, keep an eye on Midtown Association announcements for the latest event calendar and activity details.
Sacramento's Largest Holiday Lights Display: Imaginarium
Cal Expo Center
If your family loves dazzling light displays, keep Imaginarium at Cal Expo on your holiday radar. This large-scale holiday attraction features millions of lights, immersive themed displays, carnival rides, and entertainment designed for visitors of all ages. Guests can wander through glowing installations, take festive photos, and enjoy a full evening of seasonal fun.
Make the Most of the Holiday Season in Sacramento
The holidays are a wonderful time to explore Sacramento and the surrounding communities. Whether you're browsing a local artisan market, choosing a Christmas tree, or enjoying a night of ice skating and holiday lights, there are plenty of ways to make lasting memories close to home.
From all of us at The Sherri Patterson Team, we hope your holiday season is filled with meaningful traditions, time with loved ones, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Sacramento community. And if a move is on your wish list, we're here to help you find a place to call home. Happy holidays!
