DECEMBER
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Old Sacramento Waterfront!
There’s a special kind of magic that fills the cobblestone streets of Old Sacramento once the holiday season arrives, and this year, we’ve wrapped it up with even more sparkle, music, joy, and warm memories waiting to be made! Whether you’re planning a family outing, a cozy date night, or a day filled with holiday cheer, here’s your guide to all the festive fun waiting for you in our historic waterfront district.
Theatre of Lights
One of the most magical parts of the season is Theatre of Lights, a free, family-friendly performance that brings “T’was the Night Before Christmas” to life across the rooftops of Old Sacramento. With historic buildings lit up in dazzling color, a live dramatization featuring Jack Frost, and a unique Sacramento history-focused twist on the classic tale, this rooftop show is a holiday must-see!
The Polar Express Train Ride
Step into your favorite holiday story as you board The Polar Express Train Ride at the Central Pacific Passenger Station. Sing carols, sip hot cocoa, and journey to the North Pole, where Santa himself greets you with your very own silver sleigh bell. It’s unforgettable fun for kids (and the kids-at-heart)!
Sustainable Santa: Crafting and Photography
Looking for something unique and creative? Sustainable Santa invites you to an immersive winter wonderland where you can take cinematic family portraits, sculpt and paint ornaments, and savor cozy seasonal drinks like mulled wine and hot apple cider. It’s the perfect blend of holiday cheer and mindful sustainability, making it a great place to create lasting memories.
Holidays on K
On weekends, K Street transforms into a car-free wonderland, complete with comfortable seating, live music, holiday activities, and a Letters to Santa station, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon of strolling, shopping, snapping photos, making core memories, and soaking up the festive vibes.
Third Thursdays
Old Sacramento’s Third Thursdays continue with a holiday twist! 16 of our local businesses will host live demonstrations and artistic experiences, from ceramic ornament crafting to lace-making and more. This is your chance to make something beautiful, meet your favorite merchants, and support local talent in a fun, interactive way.
Holiday Cheer with Living History
Step back in time with Sacramento Living History’s Holiday Cheer! This free, family-friendly event explores how Christmas was celebrated in the mid-1800s, complete with historic crafts, period games, hot drinks, and hearty laughs, a celebration that bridges the past and present with old-fashioned fun.
Countdown in Old Sacramento
Ring in the New Year with us in a car-free Old Sacramento Waterfront! Featuring live music, interactive activities, and an early-evening pyrotechnic display, this celebration is perfect for families and friends looking to welcome 2026 under dazzling lights and joyful cheers.
So, whether you’re exploring holiday traditions, riding the rails to the North Pole, crafting special keepsakes, or just sipping something warm beneath the festive lights, Old Sacramento Waterfront is your one-stop destination for joyful seasonal experiences!