Theatre of Lights is a free holiday lighting extravaganza at the Old Sacramento Waterfront produced by the Downtown Sacramento Partnership. The nightly performances are Thursday through Sunday from Thanksgiving Eve – Christmas Eve (no show on Thanksgiving) featuring a live-action retelling of Moore’s 1823 poem — “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” more popularly known as “’ Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

The highlight of the 20-minute production is a live dramatization on the balconies above K Street, complete with a special appearance by Jack Frost, and the lighting of the 60-foot Christmas tree by St. Nick himself. Discover how early pioneers experienced the calamities — and revelry — that befell the new city in the 1850s, the sounds of the fires, floods, and parties will surround the audience as the 150-year-old building facades light up with color.

Conceived and created by Stage Nine Exhibitions’ Troy Carlson, Theatre of Lights brings together some of California’s finest talents in the field of light and sound: BP Productions, Associated Sound, and Emmy-nominated voice actor Bill Farmer, the voice of Disney’s Goofy.

Seasons Schedule:

Happening November 23rd through December 24th

Wed. Nov. 23rd
5 p.m. Pre-show performances followed by Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. with the first Theatre of Lights Show at 6:30 p.m.

Fri. Dec. 16th, shows at 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sat. Dec. 17th, shows at 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sun. Dec. 18th, shows at 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Thurs. Dec. 22nd, shows at 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Fri. Dec. 23rd, shows at 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sat. Dec. 24th, show at 6 p.m.

Plan ahead!

Visit our directory for nearby family-friendly dining options, shopping, attractions, and entertainment. Consider coming into the district early (3 PM) to enjoy lunch to avoid high traffic times in the district. Check out these businesses that validate parking! 

Parking

Convenient nearby garage parking is available at:

Tower Garage – 1289 Front Street, at Capitol Mall

Old Sacramento Garage – 274 I Street, between 2nd & 3rd streets

On Nov. 23rd – Dec. 24., limited street parking is free after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and free all day Saturdays and Sundays.

*Weekend (Fri-Sun after 3 p.m.) Garage Pre-Pay Rate is $10. Visit SacPark.org for more details.

Bus/Light Rail

Let SacRT make planning your trip easy! The Old Sacramento Waterfront is steps away from the Sacramento Valley Station. Plan your trip here.

Thank you to our generous 2022 sponsors for supporting this free event.