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Your 2023 Holiday Activity Guide is Here!

December 8, 2023 by tgilland Leave a Comment

The most wonderful time of the year is finally here! To help you make the most of this magical season, we’ve put together a “Holiday Activity Guide” that’s jam-packed with amazing light displays, festive happenings, and so much more! We’re also sharing some helpful tips on how to spruce up your home decor and deck the halls in style this holiday season. Check out our Holiday Activity Guide and let the celebrations unfold!

Looking for some holiday cheer? Make this season a magical one by attending one of the below holiday happenings! We’ve carefully curated this month’s events into categories to ensure there’s something for everyone, including holiday lights, ways to give back this season, family-friendly activities, festive food and drink celebrations, arts and theatre performances, and more!

Holiday Events & Happenings:

Holiday Lights –

Imaginarium – Light up the Night – Presented by Sacramento’s Global Winter Wonderland
When: Open Now – January 7th (Select Days)
Where: Cal Expo Fairgrounds | 1600 Exposition Boulevard, Sacramento
What: Discover a world where fantasy meets reality at Imaginarium – Sacramento’s largest Holiday Light Festival of the Year! Dive into a mesmerizing experience tailored for all ages. Wander through our radiant rose garden, or lose yourself in the infinite mirror rooms. Venture deeper into the enchanted forest and marvel at over 25 majestic, larger-than-life storybook creatures, each bathed in a cascade of lights. Take the kids to meet Santa followed by an evening on the ice with our very own Ice Skating Rink!
Learn More Here

Theatre of Lights in Old Sacramento
When: Now – December 30th (Select Days)
Where: Old Sacramento Waterfront District | 1014 2nd St #200, Sacramento
What: Located blocks from the renowned Golden 1 Center, the Old Sacramento Waterfront district transforms into a 19th-century winter wonderland. Watch the light show spectacular and unique retelling of the American classic “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
See The Complete Schedule Here

Check out our Neighborhood Lights Guide Below!

Arts/Theatre –

Tis the Season Around the World – B Street Theatre
When: Now – December 24th (Select Days)
Where: B Street Theatre at the Sofia | 2700 Capital Avenue, Sacramento
What: B Street Theatre is back with ‘TIS THE SEASON, this time focusing on kids from around the world and the different holiday traditions that they take part in. Based on the very first B Street Theatre Holiday comedy, join the fun and learn all about how different people enjoy the holidays in different parts of the world!
Get Your Tickets Here

Sacramento Ballet Presents – The Nutcracker with Sacramento Philharmonic
When: Now – December 23rd (Select Days)
Where: Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center | 1301 L Street, Sacramento
What: Experience Nutcracker magic again — or for the first time! Bring everyone on your list to SacBallet’s breathtaking, beloved, annual holiday tradition set to Tchaikovsky’s acclaimed score performed by a live orchestra at every show. This year SacBallet presents its newest production of Nutcracker with 200+ local youth taking to the stage with the professionals, and choreography by Sacramento’s own artists Colby Damon, Julia Feldman and Nicole Haskins.
Get Your Tickets Here

Capital Stage: Georgiana & Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley
When: Now through December 23rd (select days)
Where: Capital Stage | 2215 J Street, Sacramento
What: Georgiana Darcy is an accomplished pianist but wary of romance. Kitty Bennet is a bright-eyed optimist and a perfect best friend. These two younger sisters are ready for their own adventures in life and love, starting with the arrival of an admirer and secret correspondent. Meddlesome families and outmoded expectations won’t stop these determined friends from forging their own way in a holiday tale filled with music, ambition, sisterhood, and forgiveness in the third and final play in the Christmas at Pemberley trilogy.
Purchase Your Tickets Here

King + Country “A Drummer Boy Christmas” at Golden 1 Center
When: December 10th
Where: Golden 1 Center | 500 David J Stern Walk Sacramento
What: Multi-GRAMMY® Award winning duo and Curb | Word Entertainment recording artist for KING + COUNTRY announces its “A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS | THE 2023 TOUR EXPERIENCE,” will be returning to Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, CA on December 10. The highly-anticipated annual holiday spectacle will feature an extraordinary production, blending festive visuals and stunning lighting and staging effects, for a high-octane show that the brother duo (made up of Joel and Luke Smallbone) have become known for.
Get Your Tickets Here

Broadway Sacramento – Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
When: December 27th – 31st
Where: SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center | 1301 L Street, Sacramento
What: Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical is the record-setting Broadway holiday sensation which features the hit songs “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated special. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Holiday loving Whos. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and help remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season. Don’t miss what The New York Times calls “AN EXTRAORDINARY PERFORMANCE! 100 times better than any bed time story.”
Get Your Tickets Here

Family Fun –

Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
When: Open select days – Now until January 15th
Where: 701 K Street, Sacramento
What: Sharpen your skates and perfect your triple axel—the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink returns to the heart of the city! Feel a chill blow down K street as you approach Ali Youssefi Square and be teleported into a winter wonderland at the ice rink.
Click Here for Pricing and Special Events

Magical Christmas Train in West Sacramento (SELLING OUT FAST)
When: December 2-27th (select days)
Where: Sacramento River Train | 400 N Harbor Blvd, West Sacramento
What: Make timeless memories with Santa and his elves aboard the Magical Christmas Train! Tickets include a train ride in a winter wonderland, cookies, hot chocolate, a souvenir mug, and a personal visit with Santa Claus himself. Come dressed in your Christmas morning pajamas for adorable family photo ops. Join us in carols and reindeer games. One thing is certain, there is never a dull moment aboard the Magical Christmas Train!
Get Your Limited Tickets Here

40th Annual Santa Parade Around the State Capitol
When: December 9th
Where: 14th & N Streets along Capitol Park
What: This December 9th at 10:00 am, in the heart of California’s Capital City and freshly redesigned Downtown District near Capitol Park, we’re celebrating 40 years since the parade began in 1983. You and your family will get to enjoy marching bands, fancy vehicles, youth groups, super-heroes, dog clubs, dance & cheer squads, and fabulous sponsors as our Grand Marshall welcomes over 10,000 moms, dads, and children to one of Sacramento’s largest annual family events.
Learn More Here

Winter Wonderland at Fairytale Town
When: December 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th
Where: Fairytale Town | 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento
What: Celebrate the holidays together at Fairytale Town’s annual Winter Wonderland! Enjoy a visit with Santa Claus, play in nightly snowfall at 6 pm, and enjoy festive decorations. Join in games and crafts while making magical memories December 9, 10, 16, and 17 from 1-7 pm.
Learn More Here

Special Needs Evening with Santa in Historic Folsom (SPACE IS LIMITED)
When: December 11th
Where: Historic Folsom | Location revealed once time slot is reserved
What: Special Needs Children meet with Santa on this afternoon in a quiet but fabulous location within the Historic District. Schedule your time (times are rough estimates – we know how it goes) and join us on this fun evening. Kids will also meet Mrs. Claus and a few elves too! Full details on location will be received upon scheduling your child’s visit with Santa. This event will be held indoors in a private, quiet setting. Free reserved close parking is available.
Learn More Here

Food & Drinks –

12 Days of Midtown
When: Now – December 12th
Where: Midtown Sacramento (Various Locations)
What: It’s another year of holiday magic in Midtown Sacramento! The 12 Days of Midtown are a curated a delightful list of activities for you to enjoy each day from December 1st to December 12th.
Learn More Here

Miracle Pop-Up Bar – The Snug
When: Now – December 31st
Where: Old Sacramento Waterfront District | 1014 2nd St #200, Sacramento
What: Santa Claus is coming to town and he is bringing the Miracle Pop-up with him!
Get ready for “Miracle On R Street” at The Snug. The halls will be DECKED. The stockings will be HUNG. The plums will be SUGARED. The official Miracle cocktails will be POURED. The collectible mugs will be YOURS.
Learn More Here

Holiday Weekends at Old Sugar Mill
When: December 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th
Where: Old Sugar Mill | 35265 Willow Avenue, Clarksburg
What: Join the Old Sugar Mill as we kick off a month-long celebration of “Holiday Weekends at the Wineries” with live music, food trucks, and vendors!
Purchase Your Tickets Here

Giving Back –

Sacramento SPCA’s 6th Annual Jingle Bell Pup Crawl
When: December 9th
Where: Truitt Bark Park | 19th and Q Streets
What: Join the Sacramento SPCA and partnering Midtown businesses to celebrate the Pawlidays by giving back to the animals while you sip, savor, and shop this holiday season! On Saturday, December 9th, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. check in at Truitt Bark Park for your map, jingle bells for your pup(s), photos with Santa Paws and other holiday giveaways. Enjoy drink & food specials, shopping discounts, and holiday activity stations at each Pup Crawl stop.
Get Your Tickets Here

Santa Hustle in Roseville
When: December 10th
Where: Vernon Street Town Square | 311 Vernon Street, Roseville
What: Thousands of Santas will hit the streets of Roseville during the Santa Hustle 5K, Half Marathon, and Kids Dash. Runners and walkers alike are warmly invited to join this magical event, which begins and ends at Vernon Street Town Square.
Register Here

Wondering where you can catch a dazzling neighborhood light display this year? Check out some of our favorite, over-the-top holiday light displays in and around the Sacramento area!

Holiday Light Displays: Neighborhood Edition
East Sacramento’s Fab 40s Christmas Lights (Neighborhood Lights Display): Grab your hot cocoa and bundle up while you admire this classic, established East Sacramento neighborhood (from 40th to 49th, between J and Folsom) for its beautiful homes and brilliant light displays. This neighborhood is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with lights and garlands draped around the tree-lined streets. You can even hire Top Hand Ranch Carriage Company and take a carriage through the Fab 40s with up to 20 people or peddle through the streets with Sac Peddle Brew Bikes Fab 40’s Light Tours.

Dovewood Court in Orangevale (Neighborhood Lights Display): Talk about going all out! For over 35 years, thousands of people have flocked to Dovewood Court to experience the extravagant holiday lights and decorations each year. As if this iconic cul-de-sac couldn’t get any more recognition from residents and visitors, it even gained the attention of Mariah Carey, the Queen of Christmas herself. If Mariah Carey talked about it, you know it must be worth checking out! Bundle up and take a stroll through the court on foot or enjoy the decked-out halls from the warmth of your vehicle. Consider bringing a few non-perishable food items with you to donate as the Food for Families charities will be collecting donations.

Pebble Creek Christmas Lights in Rocklin (Neighborhood Lights Display): Visitors trek from miles around to see this very fun and family-oriented Christmas light extravaganza that includes hundreds of handcrafted characters from your favorite shows, both old and new. A popular and classic Rocklin holiday tradition. Stroll through the neighborhood on foot or bundle up in the car and roll down the windows for an impressive display of lights! Note: Weekdays are best as weekends are extremely crowded.

Want to wrap up the year in style? Here are some of the top ways to deck your halls for the holidays according to expert designers.

Glass Ornaments:
One big trend designers are “cozying” up to this year is glass. As Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors explains, “Glass inherently is a demonstration of effortless elegance. As an art form, it plays with reflection more than any other medium—enhancing and refracting the light produced from Christmas tree lights and warm taper candles, which are mainstays of traditional holiday decor.”

“The transparency of glass provides a weightless contrast to the heaviness of more ornate decor often used to adorn coffee tables and banisters. We also love the delicate shapes, translucent colors, and handmade textures of artfully created glass ornaments…adding touches of magic to anywhere that it is placed,” says Macuga. In addition to your Christmas tree, consider placing glass ornaments in bowls for effortless decor. Also, think glass candle holders and decorative bowls.

Mixed Metallics for a Modern Twist:
Move over traditional red and green! This year, we’re seeing a surge in popularity for mixed metallics like gold, silver, and copper. Incorporating these modern metallic tones into your decor can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your festive space. Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors embraces the glitz and glam of the holidays with these metallics. “Brass and chrome decor will have staying power beyond the holiday season—simply change up the styling. A spray of holly in a brass vase can easily be swapped out for cherry blossoms come spring,” says Adams. In need of some inspiration? Check out these Starburst Taper Holders from West Elm or these String lights from Anthropologie.

Warm Colors:
Add instant warmth to your home by incorporating warm tones and colors. “The use of color…like blush, which is undoubtedly warm and looks beautiful when combined with the traditional gold, silver, and jeweled tones of the season,” says Macuga. “It’s a stark contrast to the cool, chilly temperatures of the outdoors.” Think rustic glam ornaments and blush glass vases.

Minimalist Winter Wonderland:
Embrace a minimalist approach to holiday decor by opting for a winter wonderland theme. Keep things simple with white and silver accents, focusing on clean lines and a clutter-free aesthetic. This trend is perfect for those who prefer a sleek and contemporary look for the holidays. “This year I foresee a more understated use of decor. Less bold ‘green and red’ combos and more muted greenery along with moody neutrals,” says Laura Williams of ATX Interior Design. This linen runner from Crate & Barrel and Clemente bowl from Lulu and Georgia tie in nicely with the minimalist trend.

Wishing you and your loved ones joy, good health, and holiday cheer this Christmas season!

Your Guide to Celebrating Thanksgiving in Sacramento is Here!

November 15, 2023 by tgilland Leave a Comment

As Thanksgiving week approaches, it’s time to bring out the fall decor, finalize your Thanksgiving invites, and start planning your delicious feast! Sacramento also has festive holiday happenings and volunteer opportunities taking place during this season of gratitude and togetherness. That’s why this month’s newsletter is dedicated to all things Thanksgiving – from events and ways that you can give back to your community to holiday decor and classic dishes, we’ve got you covered. Read on for your complete guide to celebrating Thanksgiving in Sacramento!

Are you staying in town this year to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family? Explore local events, happenings, and volunteer opportunities this holiday season!

Local Events & Happenings:

Now through January 15th (select days): Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
Now through January 16th (select days): Historic Folsom Ice Rink
November 15-24th: Tis the Season: Around the World – B Street Theatre
November 15-24th: Snow Fever – B Street Theatre
November 18th: Brahms’s Symphony No. 4 – Sacramento Philharmonic
November 18th: 62nd Annual Sylvia Besana Parade in Roseville
November 22nd through December 30th (select days): Theater of Lights at Old Sacramento Waterfront
November 23rd: Run to Feed the Hungry 10K/5K in Sacramento
November 24-26th: Crocker Holiday Artisan Market

Volunteer Opportunities:

November 23rd: Serve Warm Meals to Those in Need with The Salvation Army
Volunteer at the: Sacramento Food Bank
Donate to those less fortunate: Loaves of Fishes
Serve Sacramento Seniors: Volunteer for Meals on Wheels
Help Animals During the Holiday & Winter Months: Sacramento SPCA or Front Street Animal Shelter
Share the Gift of Warmth this Holiday Season: Volunteers of America

Are you responsible for preparing this year’s Thanksgiving or “Friendsgiving” feast? Don’t stress… From tender turkey to savory sides with a fun twist, we’re sharing some of our favorite dishes that your guests will be gobbling up at the dinner table this year.

Thanksgiving Apps: Need something to snack on before the main feast? These tasty appetizers will keep your guests hunger at bay and take the pressure off you – and your timer!

Delicious Mains: Pull off a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with these classic mains and side dishes that everyone will be thankful for.

Let’s Talk Mains:

Pass the Sides:

Festive Libations & Mocktails: From holiday cocktails and punches to delicious mocktails, we have a drink recipe for everyone to enjoy!

Thanksgiving Cider Punch
Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned
Spicy Pomegranate Ginger Paloma
Harvest Apple Cider Margarita
Thanksgiving Pomegranate Punch
Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
Pomegranate Mimosa
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Hot Buttered Rum
Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule
Cranberry Lime Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
Ginger Orange Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)

Delectable Desserts: Give your guests pumpkin’ to talk about with these decadent Thanksgiving pies and desserts.

Set the Scene for a Feast: It’s time to break out the good china, polish up that silverware, and find a seasonal centerpiece. Check out our tried-and-true tips for setting up a Thanksgiving table worthy of hosting your holiday recipes, festive libations, and decadent desserts.

Incorporate Natural Elements: This year, natural is in! You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a beautiful table setting. Bring outdoor elements inside by garnishing your table with leafy stems, fresh produce, structural berry branches for an added pop of color, and basic dinnerware. This creates a natural yet dreamy table-setting vibe. Get the look here.
Keep It Simple: If you can’t decide what aesthetic route to take, you can always keep it minimal. Think draper candles and a faux garland down the length of the table. If you want the wintery smells though, go for a real garland.
Take It Outside: Do you want to take advantage of the beautiful weather? Take your Thanksgiving feast outside this year with a table that embraces the outdoors. Think tree-inspired chargers and candle holders. Shop outdoor table decor here.
Provide Drinkware: Color is in this year! You can easily elevate your table setting by incorporating some colorful water and wine glasses. Shop colored glassware here.

Sending warm, heartfelt wishes from my home to yours this Thanksgiving!

Your June Newsletter Is Here

June 13, 2023 by tgilland Leave a Comment

Hello June! Summer is just around the corner and Sacramento is making a big splash with an impressive line-up of outdoor activities, family-friendly events, and celebrations. We’re also serving up some great recommendations on where to catch a “dad-approved” meal this Father’s Day, along with family-friendly activities that everyone including Dad will enjoy. Last but not least, we take a look at the local real estate market. Read on for the full scoop!

Click on the below links for a round-up of exciting ways to spend time in and around the Greater Sacramento area through the end of June!
Sacramento Events:

River Cats Schedule: Click Here For June Games
Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For J une Matches
Concerts in the Park (Every Friday): Click Here For This Year’s Schedule
Twilight Concert Series in Old Folsom (Every Thursday): Click Here for the Complete Schedule
Downtown Tuesday Nights in Roseville (Every Tuesday): Click Here for the Schedule
June 15th: Family Bike Night at Sutter’s Fort
June 15th: Happy Hour at the Sacramento Zoo
June 16th – June 18th: Sacramento Juneteenth Festival 2023
June 16th: Earth, Wind & Fire at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
June 17th: Car Show & Concert at Cal Expo
June 17th: Diana Ross at Hard Rock Ross at the Hard Rock Hotel
June 17th: Concerts on the Square in Roseville
June 17th: Father’s Day at the Old Sugar Mill
June 18th (Select Times): Father’s Day Sights & Sips Cruise
June 18th: F ather’s Day Alive After 5 Cocktail Cruise
June 18th: Waterfront Yoga in Old Sacramento
June 21st: Vibes in the Village at Old Fair Oaks
June 22nd – 25th: Cal Expo RV Show USA
June 23rd: Blink-182 at Golden 1 Center
June 24th: Historic Folsom’s Hometown Parade
June 30th- July 2nd: J urassic World Live Tour

Father’s Day is just around the corner… on June 18th to be exact! And what better way to celebrate Dad than with a delicious meal in his honor? Below are our three favorite “Father’s Day Approved” restaurants.

J Wild’s Burgers & BBQ: Father’s Day and barbecuing seem to go hand in hand. But don’t let Dad do all of the work on his special day. Instead, head on over to J Wild’s Burgers & BBQ in Historic Folsom for some insanely good old-fashioned, authentic BBQ with classics including prime brisket, pork spare ribs, and mouth-watering burgers. Oh, and don’t forget their mac & cheese wheels and cowboy cornbread. They also have over 20 HD screens and a great selection of fine whiskeys and cocktails. Check out their website here to make a reservation.

Dad’s Kitchen: Looking for a great brunch or lunch spot to take Dad? Pay a visit to Dad’s Kitchen, which has two locations – one in Land Park and a second location in Fair Oaks. As its name suggests, Dad’s Kitchen has all of Dad’s favorites including sliders, burgers, wings, sandwiches…you name it! They also have 28 beers on tap and a spacious (and dog-friendly) outdoor patio at both locations. Plan your visit here.

Masullo Pizza: Show Dad that he has a “pizza” your heart with some delicious pizza at Massullo Pizza in Sacramento. This charming establishment features lovingly crafted and fresh out of the oven Napoli-inspired pizza, salads, appetizers, beer, and wine. It’s also a local favorite among Yelpers. You can’t go wrong with any of their pizzas, however, Masullo Pizza is well known for their mouth-watering Margarita pizza for all of the red sauce lovers out there or their Eileen pizza for those who prefer a more creamy-based white sauce. This establishment offers both indoor and outdoor dining. Check out the full menu here!

In need of some inspiration for this year’s Father’s Day outing? Check out our top five picks below!

Plan a Visit to Top Golf: Help Dad perfect his swing by planning a visit to Top Golf in Roseville! Reserve a climate-controlled hitting bay, and enjoy HD screens in every bay and also throughout their sports bar and restaurant. Munch on pizza, burgers, salads, and their delicious injectable donut holes while you choose from a dozen Top Golf games. Reservations are not required but are highly encouraged. Plan your visit here.

Hit Folsom Lake & Plan a Picnic Lunch: Head out to Folsom Lake so Dad can spend quality time on the water. Hit the water and enjoy aquatic sports or soak in the sun on the shore and plan a family picnic. Just be sure to lather on that SPF beforehand!

Treat Him to Ice Cream: Who doesn’t love ice cream? Treat Dad to his favorite flavor or grab a pint for him to enjoy at home from Gunther’s Quality Ice Cream, which has been a Sacramento landmark for over 80 years! Gunther’s owes its reputation to its use of high-quality ingredients and a slow-churn process that produces their signature Gunther’s Ice Cream experience. Favorites include their Banana Rocky Road, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Mocha Almond Fudge ice cream. Browse their other flavors here.

Go Bowling: Bowling always brings the family together. Split up into teams — parents against kids — to see who has the best form. Check out FLB Entertainment Center in Folsom or Capitol Bowl in West Sacramento for some good old-fashioned family fun!

Solve a Mystery in an Escape Room: Have Dad channel his inner detective by taking him to an escape room. Red Door Escape Room in Sacramento is a friendly-family immersive experience for 2-8 players with adventures including Once Upon a Time, Prison Break, Taken, and more. Once inside the room you must think outside the box and work with Dad to solve the mystery. Every wall, every picture, every drawer could contain hints, clues, keys, and parts of the puzzle that will help you escape and complete the room objectives….but the clock is ticking and you have only 60 minutes which means one thing…some great bonding time with Dad! Book your experience here.

According to a recent news article by KCRA3, Sacramento’s home prices are down, but with ultra-low supply, it looks like it may not stay that way for long – and local realtors are already seeing this play out in recent bidding wars, open house activity, and a spike in buying activity.

Click here to read the full article. You can also click here to see the latest available stats from the Sacramento Association of Realtors.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Sacramento

March 14, 2023 by tgilland Leave a Comment

Hello March! Although we continue to see a projected forecast of rain in the weeks ahead, Sacramento’s impressive lineup of events and activities is anything but gloomy! Lucky for us, Sacramento has lots of Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations in store for residents and visitors alike. Are you celebrating this holiday in the comfort of your own home? We’re sharing some fun and festive activities that the whole family can partake in. Finally, we take a look at the local real estate market as well as expert predictions for the months ahead. Read on for the full scoop!

Will you be celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day in Sacramento? Check out our top picks in and around the area!

Friday, March 17th from 10 am – 2 pm
Fairytale Town
3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento
Weather Permitting

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Fairytale Town! We’ll have crafts and send you on a scavenger hunt to find a pot of gold! You might even meet a leprechaun along the way. Have your child wear green when you visit Fairytale Town and receive half off one child admission with one paid adult admission! Learn more here.

Friday, March 17th from 3 pm to 10 pm
Fox & Goose Public House
1001 R Street, Sacramento

Join us on Friday, March 17th for our 48th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration! Traditional Irish and English fare will be available from 3-10 pm with your returning holiday favorites, including tasty Irish Lamb Stew served in a sourdough bread bowl and our hearty Corned Beef and Cabbage. Raise a pint to family, friends, and co-workers with Guinness, Harp, and Smithwick’s on draft.

Our beloved Irish folk singer patronage will pass out song sheets and lead the traditional group sing-along at 6:00 pm and traditional Irish bagpipe music will fill our cozy pub with celebratory cheer. Stout Rebellion will take the stage at 7:00 pm and keep the party going until 10:00 pm. This event is all ages until 12 pm and 21 y/o+ with I.D. from 10 pm-12 am.

Friday, March 17th – Starts at 3 pm
Limelight Bar & Cafe – Irish Social
1014 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento

Celebrate the essence of Sacramento at The Irish Social! Embrace the rich history, vibrant community, and diverse culture of the city that has welcomed Irish men and women with open arms since the 1850s. This year, join us in paying homage to the late Frank “Mugs” McNamara, a shining example of the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with his love of Ireland and his selfless dedication to education, charity, and service. Experience an unforgettable evening of entertainment, with an exciting lineup of musicians and dancers at the historic Limelight, a venue loved by many of Sacramento’s celebrated characters. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Ireland, as you revel in the spirit of St. Patricks Day.

And the best part? Your presence and support at this special event will directly contribute to the McNamara Brothers’ Scholarship Fund at Christian Brothers High School, keeping Mugs’ legacy alive for generations to come. So, grab your tickets today and be a part of the celebration!

Live Music Provided By: Clemon, Rattlin Boys Ceili Band & LVVS
Special Performance by The McKeever School of Irish Dance

Friday, March 17th at 8 pm
Crest Theatre
1013 K Street, Sacramento

Watch a featured Saint Patrick’s Day film, “The Boondocks Saints” at Crest Theater. In this classic, two Irish Catholic brothers become vigilantes and wipe out Boston’s criminal underworld in the name of God.

Friday, March 17th – 18th from 4 pm to 10 pm
Saint Patrick’s Day in the Park 2023
Ali Youssefi Square
701 K Street, Sacramento

Outdoor block party festival with live music, food, and a beer garden. Cover on both days is $15 at the gate.

– Outdoor stage
– Guinness Garden & Roe and Co Bar
– Bands and DJs
– Food by Beach Hut Deli
– 21 and over only
– FREE entry to after party (both nights) at Social Nightclub with your wristband from the festival

Friday, March 17th from 8:30 pm to 10 pm
Saint Patrick’s Day Rock the Yacht Cruise
City Cruises Sacramento
1206 Front Street, Sacramento

Step aboard City Cruise’s St. Patrick’s Day Rock the Yacht! This 21 and over cruise features local DJs rocking top 40s and all your favorite throwbacks. Sip on drinks from the cash bar and take in the fresh river breezes as you cruise under the Tower Bridge and past the Sacramento city lights. Grab your friends and head down to the only St. Patrick’s Day party you can’t find on land!

Saturday, March 18th from 12 pm to 5 pm
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
Old Sacramento Waterfront

If it’s the Luck of the Irish you’re looking for, come find it at Old Sacramento Waterfront in March! Enjoy a parade, live musical entertainment, outdoor beer gardens, and a chance to find Leprechauns hiding throughout the charming historic district.

Parade Time: 1:00 pm
Beer Garden and Vendor Village: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Event Location: Old Sacramento Waterfront

Now through March 20th
Leprechaun Hunt
Old Sacramento Waterfront

The St. Patrick’s Day leprechauns have once again visited the Old Sacramento Waterfront in search of their favorite thing…gold!

However, after their arrival, they learned the Gold Rush Era ended long ago. After thinking this was the end of their rainbow, they fled! Help us find the leprechauns who are hidden all over our historic district so they can celebrate their beloved Irish holiday on time. They have each hidden themselves with a secret word…collect all the secret words to unlock the final secret message at the end of your activity book, and help restore Irish luck and good cheer.

Instructions: Using the clues, go to each stop to find the mystery words. Each word is a different color. Once you find all the secret words, fill in the blanks with the words you find based on their corresponding color. There are also 4 optional bonus activities sprinkled throughout this hunt where you will receive bonus secret words! If you want some real-life leprechaun treasure, complete the bonus activities for a chance to win a gift basket!

Email your bonus answers to events@downtownsac.org before Monday, March 20th at 5 PM. Download the activity book HERE!

You can have just as much fun celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day from home! Try one or more of these activities with your loved ones.

Prepare a St. Patrick’s Day Feast

Whether it’s classic corned beef and cabbage or another traditional Irish dish, such as Bangers and Mash, there is no shortage of tasty recipes that will get you in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit. Check out some inspiration before preparing your Irish feast here.

Bake Some Magically Delicious Desserts

Decorating your favorite desserts with green frosting and edible gold flakes can put a lucky twist on any classic treat. If you’re looking to whip up something new, try out these rainbow-topped cupcakes dusted with gold or this easy-to-make Leprechaun Bait. You can find some other yummy dessert recipes here.

Enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day Movie

Bring Ireland to your home with “Leap Year,” starring Amy Adams. This adorable romantic comedy takes viewers on her journey to and through Dublin to propose to her boyfriend on Leap Day! As Irish tradition states, a man who is proposed to on Leap Day in Ireland must accept. This PG-rated romantic comedy is suitable for the whole family and is now available on Netflix. Make this Saint Patrick’s Day Popcorn ahead of time for the ultimate holiday movie night.

Bring the Bar To Your Backyard

Avoid crowded bars and make a festive beverage at home such as this Chocolate Martini recipe with one-part Bailey’s cream or this creative Guinness Float concoction with Irish Beer and Ice Cream. Impress guests with the “Irish Maid”: another great cocktail option with whiskey, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint and cucumber for garnish. Opting for a non-alcoholic option? This Shamrock shake (yes, it’s a copycat McDonald’s shake) is the perfect drink/sweet treat for people of all ages!

Go on St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt

Bring the magic of the holiday to your own home by creating a scavenger hunt! Use these free printable treasure hunt sheets and watch as your little leprechauns solve the clues. Hide their favorite treat or a new toy in a pot of gold at the last stop.

Try Your Luck with St. Patrick’s Game Night

Gather the whole family into the living room for a Saint Patrick’s Day themed trivia game night! Find a printable trivia sheet here.

According to a recent article by US News, despite the US real estate market cooling, Sacramento remains a top destination for homebuyers, and for good reason. There also appears to be a step back in home prices, which may give Sacramento-area buyers some much-needed relief. Click here to learn more.

Sit, Stay or Play: Your Labor Day Weekend Guide Is Here!

September 2, 2022 by tgilland Leave a Comment

Labor Day Weekend has arrived! That’s why this month’s newsletter is dedicated to weekend events, getaways, and local happenings in and around Northern California. So whether you feel like kicking back and relaxing at home or treating yourself to an epic day trip with family and friends, we have some fun ideas on how you can “live your best life” this Labor Day Weekend!

You don’t have to leave town to enjoy the weekend… Below are some fun ways to kick off this holiday weekend in and around the Sacramento area!

32nd Annual Chalk It Up! Chalk Art and Music Festival: The Chalk It Up! Chalk Art and Music Festival is a three-day celebration of local artists and the arts community in Sacramento. In this family-friendly event, artists turn the sidewalks around Fremont Park into works of art with chalk. The event also features live music and local food vendors along with a 21-and-over beer garden at the park on Q Street in midtown Sacramento. The event is free and takes place from September 3rd through the 5th from 10 am to 6 pm.

Van Gogh Exhibit in West Sacramento: The Immersive Experience: Have you ever dreamt of stepping into a painting? Take an awe-inspiring journey into the incomparable universe of Van Gogh, one of the greatest artistic geniuses of the 19th century. Explore his life, his work, and his secrets as never before through cutting-edge 360-degree digital projections, a one-of-a-kind VR experience, and a uniquely atmospheric light and sound show. The Sacramento exhibit even offers Yoga classes so that you can relax and unwind one breath at a time while admiring Van Gogh’s best work. Book your experience here.

National Cinema Day: Movie theaters across the country and the Sacramento area are participating in the newly launched “National Cinema Day.” Moviegoers will be able to watch a movie at participating theaters for just $3 for every showing in every format throughout the day. Click here to see which Sacramento-area movie are offering $3 movie tickets.

FoodieLand Night Market: FoodieLand Night Market is another family-friendly event that takes place over four days at Cal Expo. This event features 150 vendors with a variety of foods, arts, crafts, games and entertainment. Admission for this event is $5 and children 5 and under are admitted for free. The event begins on September 2nd at 3 pm until 10 pm. From September 3rd through the 5th, the event’s hours are from 1 pm to 8 pm. Click here to purchase tickets.

Sac Anime: The SAFE Credit Union Convention Center will host the annual Sac Anime event from Friday, September 2nd to Sunday, September 4th. This event will feature panels, video game exhibits, and an array of vendors on site selling clothing, books videos and more. The hours of the convention’s first day is 12 pm to 11 pm, followed by 10 am to 11 pm the next day and 10 am and 6 pm on the final day. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at sacanime.com.

Wanna get away? This Labor Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity to venture out and take a fun day (or weekend) trip. The great thing about Sacramento is its close proximity to places including the foothills, Lake Tahoe, and the Napa Valley Wine Region. So if you’ve found yourself daydreaming about getting away, consider escaping the heat and treating yourself to an exciting outing!

Apple Hill: Apple Hill is officially open for business! Founded in 1964 with just 16 apple ranches, Apple Hill has grown to include over 50 unique fruit and veggie farms, wineries, B&Bs, flower gardens, Christmas tree farms, and even a day spa. Get your first taste of fall by relaxing at Ponderosa Bed & Breakfast and going apple picking, visiting High Hill Ranch for fishing, pony rides and a delicious slice of pie, or grabbing an award-winning hard cider at North Canyon Cider Company. The best part? September is known to be less crowded so it’s a great time to visit. Check out the remaining Apple Hill destinations here!

Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe is the perfect escape from the summer heat with its wide array of recreational activities including boating, water sports and hiking in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. They also have fantastic restaurants, concert venues, and shopping! Take a look at some of the local events taking place this weekend by checking out their “Labor Day Lake Tahoe Guide”. This local guide is also a helpful resource when planning your weekend.

Napa Valley: What better way to celebrate the long weekend than by taking a quick trip to Napa and enjoying a nice cold glass of wine, exceptional cuisine and mesmerizing views of vineyards…because “wine not”? Take a ride on the Napa Valley wine train and soak in breathtaking landscapes, soar above the clouds (and heat) in a hot air balloon, enjoy a culinary experience at one of their many award-winning restaurants or visit one of their 460+ wineries. Click here for a list of weekend events and here for lodging accommodations.

Summer isn’t over just yet…and this weekend is the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and cook up some summer favorites! Savor the end of summer by trying one of these classics to make this your best cookout yet.

Labor Day Burger: Dubbed “The Labor Day Burger”, this mouth-watering burger is packed with extra flavor and punch! A juicy patty, crispy bacon, avocado, pepper flakes, and melted cheddar cheese all come together to create this delicious main. Get the recipe here.
Goat Cheese & Cherry Caprese: Make your summer plate a little lighter (and more colorful) with this gorgeous and easy to assemble salad packed with heirloom tomatoes and fresh goat cheese, and drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Learn how to make it here.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries: A burger is not complete without some crispy fries to accompany the meal. Up your fry game with these unbelievably crispy low carb zucchini fries! Try out the recipe here.
Ice Cream S’mores: Believe us when we say this recipe will have you asking for “s’more”… Putting its own unique twist on traditional s’mores, this recipe adds a little something extra with melted chocolate and ice cream creating a cookie-like s’more. The best part? You won’t have to stand around a hot campfire…Get the recipe here.

While the temperatures may be soaring, the Sacramento housing market continues to cool off. According to the Sacramento Association of Realtors, July sales in Sacramento dropped 31% compared to 2021. When compared to June of last month, sales marked 1,081, a 17.5% decrease (1,310). The median sales price also decreased 1.8% from $560,000 to $549,000 when compared to June, while listing inventory increased 12%, from 2,237 units to 2,505 units. Moreover, the months of available inventory continue to creep up from 1.7 months in June to 2.3 months in July. Median days on market increased from 8 to 11, and average days on market increased from 14 to 19.

So what does this mean for buyers? While rates are still adjusting, we are seeing more opportunities for qualified buyers due to a steady rise in both inventory and average days on market.

Your August Newsletter is Here

August 10, 2022 by tgilland Leave a Comment

School is back in session…and this month, we’re offering a crash course on all things Sacramento. Get ready to fill up your social calendar for the rest of August with an exciting lineup of concerts, festivals, River Cats games, and more! We also take a look at the shifting real estate market and some of the recent changes that will affect buyers and sellers in the coming months. Last but certainly not least, we look ahead to this year’s top fall decor trends that you can incorporate into your home to create a cozy space and earn some extra points with family, friends, and peers. Read on for the full scoop!

Click on the below links to see what local events and activities are taking place now through the end of August!

Sacramento:

River Cats Schedule
Sac Republic FC Schedule
Now-August 28th (Every Weekend): Live Music at Crawdads on the River
Now-August 28th (Select Days): Alegria by Cirque Du Soleil
Now-August 31st: Front Street Water Carousel & Waterfront Wheel in Old Sacramento
Now-August 31st (Select Days): Old Sacramento Underground Tours
Now-End of Year: Van Gogh Exhibit in West Sacramento: The Immersive Experience
August 9th-14th: The Secret Garden Broadway At Music Circus
August 10th: BarnFlix at Drake’s the Barn: The Breakfast Club
August 12th: Trucks & Such at Land Park Amphitheatre
August 13th: Celebrate Oak Park
August 13th: Festival Del Mole
August 14th: Sacramento Antique Faire
August 14th: Second Sunday Brunch Market
August 16th: Sunset Yoga Sessions at Drake’s The Barn
August 18th: Summer Soiree Series at California Museum
August 18th: 2022 Best of Sacramento Party
August 18th: Daddy Yankee at Golden 1
August 19th-21st: FoodieLand Night Market at Cal Expo
August 19th: Back to School BBQ at McClatchy Park
August 20th-21st: 11th Annual Banana Festival at William Land Park
August 20th: Art on the Spectrum at The Crocker
August 20th: Legendary Sacramento Mile @ Cal Expo
August 23rd-28th: The Color Purple at Broadway Music Circus
August 24th: BarnFlix at Drake’s The Barn: Madagascar
August 25th: Latin & Funk Night at Drake’s The Barn
August 28th: 23rd Annual Race for the Arts 5K, Kids Fun Run & Arts Fest
August 30th: Kendrick Lamar at Golden 1

Carmichael:

Every Sunday: Carmichael Farmers’ Market
August 13th, 20th & 27th: Concerts in the Park

Fair Oaks:

August 25th: Concerts in the Park
August 26th: Comedy Under the Stars

Rancho Cordova/Gold River:

August 12th (Every Friday): Friday Night Concerts
August 13th (Every Saturday): Sunrise Light Rail Station Farmers Market
August 12th (And Select Days): Nunsense Musical Comedy at the MACC
August 19th: Beatles & Brew

Folsom:

Every Saturday: Farmers Market on the Plaza
Now-October: Palladio Presents Free Yoga in the Piazza
August 11th, 18th & 25th: Twilight Concert Series in Historic Folsom
August 27th: Cars and Coffee Show at Folsom Palladio
August 19th: Folsom Americana Fest

El Dorado Hills:

Every Saturday: Deer Creek Hills Preserve Saturdays
Every Sunday: El Dorado Hills Certified Farmers’ Market
Every Thursday: Live on the Boulevard at El Dorado Hills Town Center
Every 1st & 2nd Saturday: Cars & Coffee at El Dorado Hills Town Center

Elk Grove:

Every Thursday: Neighborhood Market
Every Saturday: Farmers Market
August 16th: Mini MOO Family Night
August 27th: Multi-Cultural Festival

Roseville:

August 11th: Food Truck Mania
August 13th: Fitness in the Park
August 19th: Friday Night Flicks: Spiderman – No Way Home
August 20th: Concerts on the Square at Vernon Street in Roseville

Rocklin:

August 19th, 20th & 27th: Concerts at the Quarry
August 26th: FREE Farmers Markets at Johnson-Springview Park

Things are starting to look up for buyers. According to a recent Redfin report, the city of Sacramento’s housing market is cooling at the second fastest rate in the nation, just behind the Bay Area. This marks a reversal from the height of the pandemic when it attracted scores of remote workers moving in from the Bay Area and other expensive parts of the country.
The latest housing statistics available from the Sacramento Association of Realtors also reveal that most of the Sacramento Region saw price drops in June. The median sales price decreased 2.6% from $575,000 to $560,000. This figure is up 7.7% from June 2021 ($520,000). The active listing inventory increased 21.6% from May to June, from 1,840 units to 2,237 units. Compared with June 2021 (1,297), inventory is up 72.5%. Moreover, the months of inventory increased from 1.4 months to 1.7 months. Median days on market increased from 7 to 8 and average days on market increased from 13 to 14.
So what’s causing this cooldown? For starters, mortgage rates have played an instrumental role — they nearly doubled in the first half of the year, reaching almost 6% in June. That caused the monthly mortgage payment for a typical homebuyer to surge 45% year-over-year to $2,459 in June and priced many buyers out of the market — therefore, increasing inventory and days on market.
However, we are now seeing mortgage rates fall close to 5%. The recent drop in mortgage rates from the June peak cuts about $400 a month from the monthly mortgage payment of a homebuyer looking at purchasing the median-priced home of $417,000. This opens the door for millions of homebuyers who were once priced out when mortgage rates soared in the first months of the year and are now able to get back into the game.
This recent drop in rates, coupled with increased inventory and a spike in average days on market should give buyers more leverage in the home buying process.

Fall may seem a long ways away, but with the kids back to school, September 22nd will be here before we know it! If you’re thinking about doing a bit of re-decorating to get your home ready for the new season, now is a great time to find on-trend items that will create a comforting space and help you fall for your home all over again. Here are some of this year’s most anticipated fall decor trends.

Earth Tones: Earth tones are making a big comeback this year and for good reason. “The ‘color of the year’ selections correlate with where we are as a society,” Ginger Curtis, owner and principal designer at Urbanology Designs, says. “People need healing spaces that are restorative and calming.” She expects these earthy greens to be paired with other nature-inspired colors—like sky blues, warm browns, and soft grays.

The great thing about this trend is that earth tones pair well with almost every style of decor. If your home already has warmer hues and neutrals, you can easily add a touch of fall by layering in some richer accent colors like this warm-toned pillow arrangement or these amber glass vases from Crate & Barrel. You can also create a cozier space in your living room or bedroom by adding these cotton waffle throws that are now on sale at West Elm.

Natural Wood: Incorporating natural wood and warm wood tones is another great way to create a welcoming and relaxed environment for fall — and experts agree. “Manufacturers have developed a happy medium between ultra-dark furniture and super washed-out gray tones,” Kristin Bartone, creative director and principal designer at Bartone Interiors says. Warm, medium-tone woods are already popular in flooring, but she says we should see more “lightly stained wood oak” furniture and décor in the coming year. And Mary Beth Christopher, principal designer at MBC Interior Design, agrees. “I’m very ready to say goodbye to overly bleached-out wood,” she says. “We are nesting right now. We need comfort, coziness, and warmth.”
However, don’t panic if you have gray-toned wood flooring or other elements in your home. You can still easily incorporate warmer wood tones through furniture like this reclaimed coffee table from West Elm, or these gorgeous dining room chairs from Wayfair. Free-floating storage shelves are another budget-friendly way to instantly add warmth to your kitchen or living room.

Cozy Textures: Bring on the cozy textures – think chunky cotton, wool throws, and luscious velvet accents to instantly elevate your space and add an element of warmth. “If it’s not comfortable, forget it,” Caroline Brackett, owner and principal designer at Caroline Brackett Studio of Design, says. “For textures, that means anything furry, nubby, or cozy.” And Kim Gordon, principal designer at Kim Gordon Designs, agrees. “We’re going to see a huge wave of shapely, soft upholstered pieces that are slung lower to the ground,” she says. “This is all about letting your home envelop you.”

Not sure where to start? Make your home irresistibly cozy with these faux fur throws or these gorgeous knit pillows.

Candles: While they aren’t technically a trend, nothing screams fall like candles. Not only will a candle bring that warm and inviting feeling into your home – but it also serves as a signature fall staple piece that instantly infuses the home with comforting scents. Place these gorgeous votives on the fireplace, entryway, table, or outdoor patio to illuminate your home and add a touch of elegance. On a budget? You can stock up on signature fall scents here.

Mix Vintage & Modern: Traditional touches and antique accents are coming back in a big way — and Mary Beth Christopher, principal designer at MBC Interior Design, agrees. “Here in California, the T-word (traditional) has been banished. But, traditional design is coming out of the woodwork in a new way.” She also notes that people are gravitating toward “pieces that have richness and history”— like ornate mirrors, velvet chairs, and fringe-lined couches. But that doesn’t mean getting rid of your modern pieces. “Mixing and matching current furniture pieces with family heirlooms or antiques helps to keep the room feeling timeless,” adds Mary Maloney, owner and interior designer at Bee’s Knees Interior Design.

If you’d like to add a few vintage pieces to your home, start with a vintage rug, velvet chair, or timeless mirror.

Teresa Gilland