Sacramento residents can welcome the new year at “Countdown in Old Sacramento,” an event bringing music and festivities to the Old Sacramento Waterfront on New Year’s Eve. The event will feature live music, interactive activities, and a 9 p.m. fireworks light show, providing a family-friendly alternative to midnight festivities.

The celebration will run from 5 to 10 p.m. on Dec. 31, with entertainment and activities stretching across K Street and Front Street. Attendees can enjoy performances by local favorites, including Lab Rats, DJ Epik, Element Brass Band, and Rituals of Mine.

“Countdown in Old Sacramento is free and open to the public, making it an accessible way for families and friends to come together and celebrate the arrival of 2026,” said City spokesperson Jennifer Singer.

Entertainment and activities – 5 – 10 p.m.

Organizers have lined up a variety of offerings to make the evening special:

• Intention Stations will allow attendees to reflect on their goals for the new year by writing down intentions to take home.
• Selfie booths and lounge areas will be scattered throughout the event, providing opportunities for photo ops and relaxation.

Countdown and light show – 9 p.m.

The evening will culminate in a 9 p.m. countdown at the intersection of Front and K streets. A light and pyrotechnic show, produced by Pyro Spectaculars, Inc. in collaboration with Stage Nine Exhibits, will illuminate the Holiday Tree and the historic buildings of Old Sacramento. The show will feature fireworks launched from three locations, including the Delta King, reaching up to 250 feet. Live music will follow the display.

*Organizers emphasized that no vehicle traffic will be permitted within Old Sacramento Waterfront. There will be no midnight show, with all festivities concluding by 10 p.m.*

Parking/RT/Transit Info

Parking

*Please note, due to road closures for the event, it is recommended to park in one of the neighboring garages in Old Sacramento Waterfront.*

Surface lot parking is available at Front & L Street, accessible from Firehouse Alley, and two public parking garages are available: Old Sacramento Garage, entrance on I Street between 3rd and 2nd.

Pre-pay at Old Sacramento Garage and Tower Bridge Garage is  $15. Pre-pay on NYE will begin at 3:00 p.m.

Visit SacPark.org for rates and more public parking information.

Ride Share

Suggested drop off locations – these locations will include a short 5 min walk to Old Sacramento

• On the east side of 4th between L Street and Capitol Mall
• On the north side of J Street between 3rd and 5th Street
• On I Street between 7th and 8th Street

By Bus

Check sacrt.com/schedules or call 916-321- BUSS (2877) to plan your trip before riding. Please check the schedules to ensure that you board your return bus or train before the last trip of the evening.  

Sacramento Regional Transit bus routes 11, 30, 31, 62, 86 and 88

Stop on 3rd St. between I and L only a one block walk from Old Sacramento Waterfront. Other Downtown routes are no more than a half-mile walk from the historic district. More information at www.sacrt.com.