By Thanksgiving, Sacramento is already flipping the switch to holiday mode. From parades to tree lightings, the city and surrounding towns host festive events that mark the start of Christmas season.
Here are the top Sacramento holiday festivals and parades for the 2026 season.
Downtown Sacramento Holiday Tree Lighting & Theatre of Lights
- When: Theatre of Lights returns in 2026 starting Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, Nov 25, then Fri–Sun nights (no show on Thanksgiving). In 2025 the tree lighting was on opening night, Nov 26, from 5:30 p.m.; the 2026 ceremony time isn’t posted yet.
- Where: K Street, Old Sacramento Waterfront
- Why Go: The 60-foot Holiday Tree lights up, then a free 20-minute show plays on the K Street balconies (6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri–Sat, 6:30 p.m. Sun). See our Santa Parade & Theatre of Lights guide.
- Bonus: The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink at 7th & K runs Nov 4, 2026–Jan 18, 2027. The State Capitol has its own tree lighting; in 2025 it was Wednesday, Dec 10 at 7 p.m.
Folsom Historic District Tree Lighting & Festival
- When: In 2025 it was Friday, Dec 5, 6–9 p.m., with the tree lit around 7:30 p.m. The 2026 date isn’t posted yet.
- Where: Sutter Street, Historic Folsom
- Highlights: Santa’s arrival on Sutter Street, choirs and dance groups, the tree-lighting countdown with the mayor and Santa, vendors, hot cocoa, and kids’ crafts.
- Why Go: Combines small-town charm with big holiday energy.
Sacramento Santa Parade
- When: In 2025 it ran Saturday, Dec 13 at 10 a.m. No 2026 date has been announced yet.
- Where: Downtown Sacramento, circling Capitol Park.
- Why Go: Floats, marching bands, and Santa himself. Presented by Mix 96.
- More: See our Sacramento Santa Parade guide.
Imaginarium (formerly Global Winter Wonderland)
- When: In 2025 it opened Nov 26 (after a delayed start) and ran through Jan 4, 2026. 2026 dates aren’t posted yet.
- Where: Cal Expo
- What: Holiday light festival with millions of lights, an ice rink, carnival rides, and live performances. Ticketed.
- Vibe: Family-friendly, Instagram-perfect.
Polar Express Train Ride (California State Railroad Museum)
- When: Nov 13–Dec 21, 2026: select days in November, then Wednesdays through Mondays after Thanksgiving. Departures 3:30, 5, 6:30, and 8 p.m.
- Where: Central Pacific Passenger Station, 930 Front Street, Old Sacramento
- Why Go: Ride the historic train with cocoa, cookies, and Santa visits.
- Tickets: On sale since Sept 18, 2026: Coach $80–$85, First Class $100–$110. Popular dates sell out early.
Midtown Farmers Market (Holiday Season)
- When: Every Saturday, 8 a.m.–1 p.m., year-round. In 2025 the Midtown Association’s 12 Days of Midtown (Dec 1–12) added free gift wrapping at the market.
- Where: 20th & J Street (1050 20th Street), Midtown
- Why Go: 200+ vendors for local food, crafts, and gifts.
Sacramento Holiday Kick-Off Events 2026 Summary
| Event | Date(s) | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tree Lighting & Theatre of Lights | From Nov 25, 2026 (Fri–Sun) | Old Sacramento | 60-ft tree + free show |
| Folsom Tree Lighting | Dec 5 in 2025; 2026 TBA | Historic Folsom | Santa + live performances |
| Santa Parade | Dec 13 in 2025; 2026 TBA | Capitol Park | Floats + Santa |
| Imaginarium | Nov 26–Jan 4 in 2025; 2026 TBA | Cal Expo | Lights + rides |
| Polar Express Train Ride | Nov 13–Dec 21, 2026 | Old Sacramento | Train ride with Santa |
| Midtown Farmers Market (holiday markets) | Saturdays | Midtown Sac | Gifts + food |
FAQs: Sacramento Holiday Festivals & Parades
When does Sacramento’s big tree lighting happen?
Downtown’s Holiday Tree lighting opens Theatre of Lights season on K Street in Old Sacramento. In 2025 that was Thanksgiving Eve, Nov 26; the 2026 season starts Thanksgiving Eve, Nov 25. The State Capitol tree lighting is separate; in 2025 it was Dec 10 at 7 p.m.
Is the Santa Parade happening in 2026?
No 2026 date has been announced yet. In 2025 the parade ran Saturday, Dec 13 at 10 a.m., circling Capitol Park.
Where can I take kids for holiday fun in Sacramento?
The Polar Express Train Ride, Theatre of Lights, and Imaginarium at Cal Expo are family favorites.
Which tree lighting has the most charm?
Historic Folsom’s Sutter Street festival feels straight out of a holiday movie.
Do I need tickets for these events?
Most are free. The Polar Express, Imaginarium, and the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink are ticketed.
Final Thoughts
From Old Sacramento’s 60-foot Holiday Tree to Folsom’s charming festival and the magical Polar Express ride, Sacramento starts the holiday season strong. Thanksgiving weekend is a good time to step outside, sip some cocoa, and dive straight into the lights, parades, and celebrations.
👉 Circle the dates now: Polar Express tickets are already on sale, and the rest of the 2026 schedule fills in through the fall.
Related Resources:
Dovewood Court Christmas Lights
The Best Wineries Near Sacramento for Holiday Tastings
The Best Holiday Craft Fairs & Artisan Markets In Sacramento 2026
The Best Holiday Light Installation In Sacramento With Santa’s Lights
Holiday-Themed Food Pairings: Delight Your Guests with Unique Food and Drink Combos
How to Host a Memorable Christmas Party: Tips and Tricks for Planning a Festive Holiday Gathering
Holiday Photo Booth: Capture Memorable Moments with Fun Props
Festive Home Decor: Brighten Your Home with Lights, Garlands, and Wreaths
Related: Sacramento Christmas lights guide
