When the air turns crisp and Downtown Sacramento strings up its lights, the city transforms into a holiday playground. From world-class ballet and symphonies to neighborhood parades and free community shows, Sacramento has a way of turning December into something magical.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic holiday night out, a fun event for the kids, or a festive community tradition, here’s your ultimate guide to the best Sacramento Christmas events in 2025.
Holiday Concerts: From Pops to Candlelight
Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera — Holiday Pops
- Where: SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center (Downtown)
- When: Mid-December, exact date TBA
- Why Go: Big, bold, and brimming with holiday cheer. The Holiday Pops concert mixes traditional carols, contemporary holiday hits, and even a few sing-alongs. It’s a staple for families who want the soundtrack of the season performed live.
- Insider Tip: Tickets sell out fast, so buy in November. Balcony seats are affordable and still offer excellent views.
Sacramento Master Singers — Candlelight Christmas
- Where: Various churches around Sacramento
- When: Throughout December
- Why Go: Intimate, moving, and goosebump-worthy. Their harmonies fill candlelit sanctuaries with everything from “O Holy Night” to contemporary holiday pieces.
- Insider Tip: Great if you want a quieter, reflective holiday event away from the crowds.
Fever Candlelight Concerts — Holiday Edition
- Where: Secret locations in Sacramento (often churches or historic venues)
- When: December weekends
- Why Go: A string quartet plays holiday classics by candlelight. Romantic, cozy, and Instagram-perfect.
- Best For: Date night or a friends’ night out with cocktails before/after.
Holiday Theater: Nutcrackers, Carols, and Community Charm
The Nutcracker — Sacramento Ballet
- Where: SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center
- When: Dec 12–22, 2025 (multiple shows)
- Why Go: No Sacramento Christmas is complete without this ballet. The production has been updated in recent years but still carries all the holiday magic — toy soldiers, sugar plum fairies, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score.
- Insider Tip: Afternoon matinees are more affordable and great for kids.
A Christmas Carol — Chautauqua Playhouse (Carmichael)
- Why Go: A charming local version of Dickens’ classic. Smaller than Broadway-scale productions, but packed with heart and community feel.
- Insider Tip: Perfect for families who want a holiday show without the downtown crowds.
B Street Theatre Holiday Show
- Where: Sofia Tsakopoulos Center for the Arts
- Why Go: Known for quirky, creative storytelling, B Street often stages fun, modern holiday shows that mix comedy with seasonal themes.
Family-Friendly Holiday Fun
Polar Express Train Ride — California State Railroad Museum
- Where: Old Sacramento
- When: Runs Nov 28 – Dec 23, 2025
- Why Go: Cookies, cocoa, and Santa himself aboard a historic train. Kids wear pajamas, the train follows the story, and it’s pure magic.
- Insider Tip: Tickets sell out months in advance — but keep checking resale or local parent groups if you missed the first release.
Old Sacramento Theatre of Lights
- Where: Old Sacramento Waterfront
- When: Thursday–Sunday evenings in December
- Why Go: Free outdoor storytelling show projected on Old Sac’s historic buildings. Narrated by Mark Twain and a live cast, it mixes lights, sound, and drama.
- Insider Tip: Bundle up — the waterfront gets chilly at night.
ZooLights at Sacramento Zoo
- When: Mid-December through early January
- Why Go: The zoo gets decked out with glowing displays, plus hot chocolate and seasonal snacks. Perfect for younger kids who can’t stay up late for other events.
Global Winter Wonderland — Cal Expo
- When: Nov 28 – Jan 5, 2026
- Why Go: A massive holiday festival with lantern displays, carnival rides, live entertainment, and food stalls. Think of it as a “holiday Disneyland” without leaving Sacramento.
- Insider Tip: Go on a weekday to avoid long lines at rides.
Parades, Markets & Community Traditions
Sacramento Santa Parade
- Where: Capitol Mall, Downtown Sacramento
- When: Dec 6, 2025
- Why Go: Floats, marching bands, dance troupes, and Santa make their way down Capitol Mall. It’s the city’s longest-running Christmas parade.
- Best For: Families, especially younger kids who want the “wow” of floats.
Historic Folsom Holiday Home Tour
- Where: Folsom Historic District
- When: Early December weekend
- Why Go: Tour historic homes decorated for Christmas, paired with wine tastings and shopping in Folsom’s charming district.
Midtown Holiday Market
- Where: Midtown, 20th & J
- When: Saturdays in December
- Why Go: Shop small while enjoying live music, hot cider, and local art. Great place for stocking stuffers.
Bonus: Newer Holiday Hits
- Holiday Candlelight Yoga (local studios): A cozy twist on seasonal wellness.
- Sacramento Kings Holiday Nights: Themed game nights at Golden 1 Center.
- Breweries’ Holiday Pop-Ups: Track 7 and Oak Park Brewing host rotating holiday markets.
Table: Sacramento Christmas Events at a Glance
| Event | Location | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nutcracker (Sac Ballet) | SAFE Credit Union PAC | Theater | Tradition & families |
| Holiday Pops Concert | SAFE Credit Union PAC | Concert | Families, date nights |
| Candlelight Holiday Concerts | Historic churches/venues | Concert | Romantic evenings |
| Polar Express Train Ride | Old Sacramento | Family Event | Kids + parents |
| Theatre of Lights | Old Sacramento Waterfront | Free Show | Families + budget |
| ZooLights | Sacramento Zoo | Light Show | Kids + animal lovers |
| Santa Parade | Capitol Mall (Downtown) | Parade | Family tradition |
| Global Winter Wonderland | Cal Expo | Festival | All ages, big night out |
| Historic Folsom Holiday Tour | Folsom Historic District | Tour/Event | Couples, history buffs |
FAQs: Sacramento Christmas Events
What’s the most iconic Sacramento Christmas event?
The Nutcracker Ballet and Polar Express Train Ride are top traditions.
What’s free to do at Christmas in Sacramento?
The Theatre of Lights in Old Sacramento and many local choir concerts.
Is Sacramento family-friendly for the holidays?
Yes — ZooLights, Polar Express, and Santa Parade are designed for kids.
Where can I see live holiday music?
Sacramento Philharmonic, Crocker concerts, and candlelight quartets.
Should I book tickets early?
Yes — The Nutcracker, Polar Express, and Global Winter Wonderland all sell out or fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Sacramento has no shortage of ways to celebrate Christmas in 2025. You can go grand with The Nutcracker and Philharmonic concerts, cozy with candlelight shows, or keep it family-focused with ZooLights, parades, and Old Sac traditions.
👉 Whether you’re a longtime Sacramentan or new to the area, these events bring the city alive with lights, music, and memories. Mark your calendar early — the best seats and tickets disappear fast.
Related Resources:
The Best Wineries Near Sacramento for Holiday Tastings
The Best Holiday Craft Fairs & Artisan Markets In Sacramento 2025
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
