12 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays

Overview

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and Elk Grove is filled with holiday spirit around every corner.

From twinkling tree lightings and festive events to cozy coffee spots and one-of-a-kind gift shops, there's no shortage of ways to make memories this holiday season. Whether you’re a visitor on a winter getaway or a local looking for new traditions, here are 12 ways to celebrate the season in Elk Grove!

1. Kick off the Holiday Season at the Dickens Street Faire

The Yuletide season officially begins in Elk Grove on Saturday, November 28, at the Dickens Street Faire! Beginning at 10 a.m., Elk Grove Blvd is lined with over 100 arts and crafts vendors, perfect for finding gifts for loved ones. Old Town Plaza comes alive with food trucks, "Tiny Tim's Alley" for children, live music, and professional photos with Santa. Stick around after sunset for the Holiday Parade of Lights, followed by the Christmas Tree Lighting on Walnut Street at 6 p.m. It is truly the perfect day on Historic Main Street.

2. Skate & Shop at the Illumination Festival

Unwrap the magic of the season on Saturday, December 5, at Elk Grove’s Illumination Festival at District56. From 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., lace up your skates for a spin on the ice rink, shop for unique gifts in the Americana Vintage Vendor Village, and let the kids play carnival games and share their wish lists with Santa. As night falls, gather for the grand tree lighting ceremony and a magical snowfall finale!

3. An Old Fashioned Christmas Awaits

Take a trip back in time this December at the Elk Grove Historical Society's Old Fashioned Christmas, where the Elk Grove House and Stage Stop and its surrounding grounds are beautifully decked out in Victorian-era holiday décor. Wander through the decorated historic buildings, while the kids decorate cookies, and craft ornaments.

4. Find Handmade Gifts at the Holiday Fair

Shop holiday gifts while supporting local makers on Saturday, December 19, at The Creative Space's Holiday Food & Craft Fair at the Sacramento Asian Sports Foundation. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., discover more than 100 local food and craft vendors, making it easy to find something for everyone on your list. Fuel your shopping with delicious global eats from food trucks and keep the holiday vibes going with a live DJ.

Credit >> The Creative Space

5. Shop for Vintage Treasures on Historic Main Street

There’s something special about holiday shopping on Main Street, where local vintage shops and boutiques make it impossible to leave empty-handed. Each year, The Red Door closes its doors for a few days to transform the shop into a full-on holiday wonderland, so when it reopens, every corner is filled with festive finds.

Or pop into the Main Street Marketplace inside the Explore Elk Grove Visitor Center for one-of-a-kind ornaments, cozy winter apparel, handmade goods and local brands, with something new to discover every visit.

6. Make Merry Memories at a Holiday Workshop

Turn your visit into a hands-on memory by joining one of the festive workshops hosted by Elk Grove's local businesses. At Pinot's Palette, paint a holiday masterpiece or try candle making while sipping from the full bar. No art experience is needed!

For a botanical twist, The Secret Garden hosts seasonal craft workshops such as wreath making, terrariums and mosaics. These one-of-a-kind experiences are perfect for a girls' day, a date night or a fun family outing.

7. Savor the Season at Local Restaurants

Leave the cooking to Elk Grove's local chefs this season. Round up the crew for tacos, margaritas and mezcal on the fire pit patio at Pig Latin or treat loved ones to seafood creations and handcrafted cocktails at Station 16.

For an elevated holiday dinner, reserve a table at Interlude Kitchen & Bar, where wood-fired, farm-to-table dishes are paired with a curated wine list.

8. Warm Up with Seasonal Sips at Local Cafes

Warm up between holiday outings with festive drinks from Elk Grove’s local coffee shops. At Haru, try the Goguma Latte, a creamy, lightly sweet sip made with Korean sweet potato that tastes like winter in a cup.

Over at Rescate Coffee, the Pumpkin Spice Chai blends warm chai spices with seasonal pumpkin flavor for the ultimate comfort drink. Whether you're catching up with friends or fueling up for a day of holiday shopping, a cozy cup from a local café makes every moment merrier.

Credit >> Haru

9. Toast to the New Year at Local Wineries

Toast to the season at Elk Grove's local wineries, like Adkins Family Vineyards, where you can sample award-winning, estate-grown wines in a tasting room that shares its grounds with the historic Sheldon Inn. Cap off your visit with an intimate dinner at this century-old landmark.

Flatland Wine Company pours Rhône-style wines crafted from Lodi-grown grapes alongside a lineup of award-winning craft beers, making it the perfect stop for groups to taste all types of varietals.

Credit >> Adkins Family Vineyards

10. Give the Gift of Supporting Local

Finish your holiday shopping while supporting local small businesses. The Elk Grove Local eGift Card can be used at over 120 shops, restaurants and attractions across the city, making it the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone!

11. Explore Winter Wonders

Bundle up for a bike ride at Elk Grove Park, or head to Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge for an afternoon stroll. The winter season brings migrating birds to the wetlands, making the Refuge a peaceful escape for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

12. Ring in the New Year at Sky River Casino

Countdown to midnight at Sky River Casino, Elk Grove's premier gaming, dining and entertainment destination. With 18 restaurants and bars on-site, there's no shortage of ways to toast the year ahead. Pair your night out with a staycation at a local hotel so you can celebrate without worrying about the drive home.

Book Your Stay this Holiday Season!

From festive fairs to cozy nights, Elk Grove is the perfect place to make lasting holiday memories. Book your stay at one of our welcoming hotels, explore even more ways to celebrate across the city, and make this the season your family remembers for years to come!

Book Now!

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