What’s Happening Opening Night 

November 26, 2025  

5:30 PM – Live performances by local favorites, like Sac Dance Lab and Sacramento’s Gay Men’s Chorus. 

6:00 PM – The 60-foot holiday tree lights up the waterfront. 

6:15 PM – The first Theatre of Lights show begins a 20-minute immersive retelling of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas with Jack Frost and St. Nick. 

The magic doesn’t stop after opening night. Theatre of Lights continues with two shows every Friday and Saturday at 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM, and Sunday showings at 6:30 PM plus special performances on December 23 and 24. Always free, always unforgettable. 

The season-long festivities make downtown Sacramento a holiday playground. Take the kids on a North Pole Safari, a free AR scavenger hunt running through December 31. On weekends from 11 AM to 5 PM, Holidays on K Street transforms into a pedestrian-only zone with live music, Letters to Santa activity, and festive pop-ups.

Shop Small, Win Big: Holiday Bingo Card  

This season, make your holiday shopping a game! Pick up your Small Business Spree Bingo Card at the Old Sacramento Waterfront Visitors Center and explore more than 150 locally owned businesses. Each square on your card is a chance to discover unique gifts, festive treats, and seasonal surprises while supporting small businesses that keep our community thriving. 

Complete your Bingo card for a chance to win the exciting grand prize, a family four-pack tickets to Polar Express Train Ride in 2026. From handcrafted jewelry and artisan décor to nostalgic sweets and Sacramento-themed treasures, every stop brings you closer to a win and adds a little extra magic to your holiday outing. 

Here are some stores you can visit: 

Atrium 916 – Explore eco-friendly gifts, local artwork, and join festive experiences like Sustainable Santa, where you can craft your own holiday keepsake. A perfect activity before a Theatre of Lights showing. 

Copper Forged – Handcrafted copper jewelry and artisan accessories.  

Ecojoyous – Eco-friendly goods and sustainable home essentials with artisan flair.  

Hello Sunshine Sac Collective – A vibrant mix of handmade, vintage, and local creations.  

Ink and Image – Custom photo printing and unique art pieces for personalized gifts. 

Old City Kites – Fun toys, puzzles, and colorful kites for all ages.  

Peruvian Crafts – Authentic alpaca clothing and handcrafted Peruvian gifts.  

Sac Boss Shop – best Vapor Shop in Sacramento, great location, and great prices.

Super Silver Sacramento – Sterling silver jewelry in endless styles and designs. 

Sock City – A playful collection of socks for every personality and occasion.  

Threadeco – Stylish, sustainable fashion finds at unbeatable prices. 

Where to Eat, Sip & Treat Yourself 

Treat yourself to the flavors of the season. The Old Sacramento Waterfront is packed with cozy cafés, sweet shops, and delicious dining spots to enjoy while soaking in the holiday cheer. 

The Firehouse Restaurant – Indulge in upscale dining inside a historic firehouse, perfect for a festive night out. 

Railroad Fish & Chips – Grab classic comfort food with a side of Old Sac charm. 

Fanny Ann’s Saloon – A quirky, multi-level bar packed with character and casual bites. 

Bear & Crown – Cozy pub vibes with hearty plates and seasonal cocktails. 

The Parliament Wine Lounge– Sip local wines in a chic, intimate setting. 

Honey and The Trapcat – Trendy spot for craft cocktails and late-night bites. 

The Delta King – Dine aboard a historic riverboat for a truly unique experience. 

Cafes 

Steamers Bakery & Café – A boardwalk favorite for coffee, pastries, and casual bites. 

Pittador Brews – Bold specialty teas and coffees in a fresh, modern space. 

Blueprint Coffee – Expertly crafted brews that pair perfectly with a crisp evening stroll. 

Sweet Spots  

Munchies Salt Water Taffy – Nostalgic treats that make perfect stocking stuffers. 

Mad Hatter Donuts – Whimsical, handcrafted donuts for a sweet holiday indulgence. 

The post Light Up Your Holidays Downtown  appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

Downtown Sacramento Partnership (DSP) supports business owners shaping the future of downtown through our Calling All Dreamers program. This program helps entrepreneurs grow and foster their business concepts and prepares them to open brick-and-mortar storefronts downtown. We pair business owners with expert mentors, host hands-on workshops, and strengthen their business plans. Those who complete the program and sign a lease downtown within a year earn cash prizes from the Downtown Sacramento Foundation.

Pittador Brews Specialty Teas & Coffees

The most recent winners, Pittador Brews Specialty Teas & Coffees, won the $20,000 prize and will be opening their doors in Old Sacramento Waterfront soon, so drop by to say “hello”! 

Haus of Comedy

Another standout from last year’s Calling All Dreamers program is Haus of Comedy, which earned a $15,000 cash prize after signing a lease downtown! This fun-loving company offers improv classes, live comedy shows, and team-building sessions, and will soon open a dedicated theater space to spark creativity and connection in the central city.

You don’t need to join Calling All Dreamers to open a storefront downtown, but it definitely helps! This year alone, four former Calling All Dreamers will open storefronts downtown. Below you’ll find the 29 businesses who have opened in 2025. Find your new favorite coffee shop, experience, or service provider who’s helping build our city.    

The post 2025 New Businesses in the Neighborhood appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

Here’s what you need to know to be the best gift giver this year without having to stress about shipping times or generic gifts.

Where to Find the Best Gifts

Downtown Sacramento is home to a wealth of independently owned shops where you’ll find handcrafted items, local art, vintage finds, and goods you just can’t get anywhere else. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind gifts, start at places like:

Capital Books: Give the gift of new worlds, forbidden love, education, or improvement in the form of a great book. Book stores are the places places to find stocking stuffers too! Cute notebooks, or pens, book lights, fun pins, stickers, the options are endless.

Stage Nine: You’d be surprised at how many people you can check off you list at Stage Nine, they have games for any age or occasion, character plushies, key chains, clothing, authentic Disney gear, and more.

PLA: PLA is a skateboarders haven, they sell cool clothes, shoes, hats, and apparel. They also have everything you’d need for your board, decks, trucks, wheels, and hardware.

Pregame Vintage: For the sports lovers in your life. This awesome store specializes in vintage sports apparel and memorabilia. Pregame Vintage is a fun store to look through because each piece is unique and feels one-of-a-kind.

The Market: Another great vintage store in Old Sacramento. The Market has a lot of jackets and sweatshirts from your favorite brands of the past, when clothes were made to last. They also sell records, record players and accessories, and beautiful houseplants.

Threadeco: This boutique offers clothing from high end brands for affordable prices. If you have a fashionista in your life, think about getting a gift card to Threadeco! This eco friendly store offers styling appointments to learn your colors, what cuts fit your body best, and can pull the items your closet is missing.

Give the Gift of an Experience

Shopping small doesn’t just have to mean “stuff.” Sacramento is packed with amazing small businesses that offer classes, workshops, and experiences that make unforgettable gifts. Consider giving the gift of a dance class from Tango By the River, a painting workshop at Atrium 916, or even tickets to a show at The Crest or Golden 1 Center. Not only will you be giving something memorable, but you’ll also be helping these venues thrive as part of Sacramento’s cultural fabric.

Why You Should Support Small

Make an Impact with Every Dollar

Did you know that for every dollar spent at a local business, more than half stays within our community? Shopping small means helping to fund local jobs, keep storefronts alive, and invest in Sacramento’s growth. By choosing to buy from local shops, you’re doing more than checking items off your gift list—you’re contributing to the heartbeat of the city.

Personalized Service That Makes a Difference

When you shop local, you’re more likely to experience customer service that is genuinely focused on you. Many small business owners and employees go out of their way to make your shopping experience memorable, whether by sharing stories about the products or helping you find exactly what you need. These interactions don’t just make shopping more fun—they create connections that ingrain you in the community.

Make This Season Meaningful with Small Choices

Shopping small doesn’t have to mean buying more or feeling pressured to spend beyond your means. It’s about making mindful choices and supporting businesses that make Sacramento unique. Whether you’re purchasing a gift card, exploring holiday markets, or simply grabbing a coffee from a local café instead of a chain, every small choice can make a big impact.

This holiday season, let’s celebrate Sacramento’s vibrant local scene and the people who make it all possible. From discovering special finds to experiencing the warmth of community, there are so many ways to make your holiday shopping feel both special and impactful.

The post Support Small This Holiday Season: Where to Find Unique, Local Gifts appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

Clothes & Shoes

While “school is not a fashion show,” everyone wants to feel their best. These stores have a mix of basics and luxury items that will last you the whole school year. 

Pregame Vintage

Pregame Vintage is a thrift store that specializes in curated sports, vintage, and retro clothing, offering a wide selection of unique, pre-loved items. Get your gear to support the Kings, Rivercats, 49ers, Giants, A’s, or whoever your favorite team is.

Address: 2419 K St, Sacramento, CA 95816

PLA

PLA is Sacramento’s favorite skate shop, focusing on streetwear, sneakers, and limited-edition apparel. They have all your favorite skate and streetwear brands. 

Address: 930 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814 

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters is where current fashion trends live. Whether you’re looking for graphic tees, fun pants and jackets, or cute accessories, they’ll be at Urban. They also carry fun notebooks, bags, and pens, so you could grab a few items while you’re there.

Address: 930 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (Located in Downtown Commons – DOCO)

Macy’s

Macy’s is the go-to for back-to-school. They’re a department store, so you could get clothes, shoes, and your backpack all in one place.

Address: 414 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (Located in Downtown Commons – DOCO)

Fun Notebooks and Stationary

If you want notebooks and pens with more pizazz, check out these shops. 

Capital Books

Capital Books is an independent bookstore where you can find your next favorite book, along with games, notebooks, stationary, and more. The store also hosts author events and book signings, making it a hub for book lovers.

Address: 1011 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Evangeline’s

Evangeline’s is a unique and eclectic store located in Old Sacramento, known for its wide array of costumes, novelty items, and quirky gifts. The store is especially popular around Halloween, but it’s a fun destination year-round for those looking for unique gifts. I feel like they’d have cool pens, pencils, and erasers.

Address: 113 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814 

Stage Nine

Stage Nine is a specialty store that offers a mix of pop culture memorabilia, collectibles, and gifts. It’s a haven for fans of classic and contemporary pop culture, with a wide selection of toys, art, and unique merchandise related to movies, TV shows, and more. If you’re looking for a notebook or pen with your favorite character on it, check there!

Address: 102 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814

The post Back to School Shopping appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

Sacramento summer is hot beyond measure but the perfect time to explore our vibrant city. From cultural experiences to culinary delights, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate summer bucket list for making the most of what downtown Sacramento has to offer.

Indoors

Catch a movie at the Crest Theatre

• Address: 1013 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Website: Crest Theatre

Bring friends to a comedy show at Laughs Unlimited 

• Address: 1207 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Website: Laughs Unlimited

Hit up a museum

Sacramento History Museum

• Address: 101 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Website: Sacramento History Museum

California State Railroad Museum

• Address: 125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Website: California State Railroad Museum

Outdoors

Explore the river with City Cruises

• Address: 1206 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Website: City Cruises Sacramento

Enjoy a gallery show at Atrium

• Address: 1020 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Website: Atrium 916

Have a blast on the Sac Brew Boat

• Address: Departs from the L Street Dock
• Website: Sac Brew Boat

Tours

Check Out Sunset Sips

• Multiple Locations
• Website: Sunset Sips

Experience the Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour

• Address: Meeting location provided upon booking
• Website: Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour

Learn about the city at Old Sac After Hours Tour

• Address: Meeting location provided upon booking
• Website: Old Sac After Hours Tour

The post Sacramento Summer Bucket List appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

Restaurants near Golden 1 Center

Butcher and Barrel

A beautiful restaurant with a unique dining experience – an upscale menu including mouth-watering, dry-aged steaks, burgers, and expertly crafted cocktails – all in an elevated casual atmosphere!

Polanco Cantina

Right outside of G1C, Polanco has indoor and outdoor seating options with a fun vibe! They serve Mexican-inspired familiar favorites and celebrates the bounty of central California.

Prelude Kitchen & Bar

Near both graduation sites, Prelude Kitchen & Bar chefs work directly with local farmers to source fresh, local ingredients for their restaurant.

Bear & Crown

A British Pub in Old Sac with a full bar, lounge seating space, cozy booths, a watch room for sports, pool tables, and a large outdoor patio with a fire pit.

Restaurants near Memorial Auditorium

Mayahuel

At Mayahuel, every detail embraces art – cuisine, drinks, murals, music, and artisanal tequila and mezcals. The restaurant is beautiful and the food is great, then even have a dedicated vegan menu.

Prelude Kitchen & Bar

Near both graduation sites, Prelude Kitchen & Bar chefs work directly with local farmers to source fresh, local ingredients for their restaurant.

Brasserie du Monde

Straight out of Ratatouille, this French Fine Dining restaurant is sure to impress! A unique dining experience that showcases their commitment to superior quality food, drinks, and exceptional service.

Capitol Garage

Capitol Garage is an underrated celebration spot! Their food always hits, they have unique menu items and their staff is incredible.

Gifts

Bloem Decor Florist

If your graduation is on a weekday, pick up a bouquet to say congrats!

Lids DOCO

Get some new Kings gear to commemorate the day.

Super Silver Sacramento

Treat your grad to new bling!

Capital Books

For the book loving graduates, Capital Books will have the perfect book to say, “Congrats!”

Congrats, grads! My aunt always liked to tell me, “The tassel is worth the hassle.” We here at Downtown Sac wish you the best of luck in your new chapters and hope you always remember your graduation as a fun day spent celebrating your accomplishments. Come back and visit us!

Featured photo courtesy of Sacramento State

The post Celebrate your Graduate appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

PLA Skateboard Supply is a skateboard shop that opened in 2006, selling apparel, boards, and tools. They’re known for having the sickest gear and apparel, but also connection. Skaters from all over meet at PLA to hang out, shop, and even do their homework. PLA isn’t just a skate shop, but the center of the skate community here in Sacramento.

Since PLA is located on J & 10th Streets, it’s central to so many people. You have skaters coming from Power Inn, South Sac, and Natomas who all start their skateboarding mission at PLA. It’s accessible by public transportation, it’s central, and downtown Sacramento is home to all kinds of skate architecture, so it’s desirable!

PLA is known for being a home to skateboarders and they are dedicated to helping people not only find their physical skateboarding needs, but also financial and emotional. James Wright, Sacramento local, “was once unfortunate, and they (PLA) helped me from the start. They helped me with sponsors, needing anything, and they always supported anything I wanted to do.”

If you’re into skateboarding or want to be, PLA is the place. Their community-driven passion has impacted the community and downtown Sac.

The post Found Downtown: PLA appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

The driving force behind the inaugural observance and celebration of Black history was pioneered by Carter Godwin Woodson. In 1926, Woodson helped create the first Negro History Week, which was established “to popularize and promote among Negroes the study of their national history.” In 1976, Negro History Week was expanded to a month-long observance and February would become Black History Month.

2024 Black History Month Theme

To give guidance on how to celebrate, Wilson decided the time should be themed. The intention has never been to dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience, but to bring to the public’s attention important developments that merit emphasis. This year’s theme is “African Americans and the arts.” Even now, we have seen Black and Brown people’s contributions to the arts denied or minimized, even as their artistry in many genres was appropriated and/or stolen.  Take this time to embrace and surround yourself with Black artists of all kinds.

Support Black-owned Businesses

Art

Faith J. McKinnie Gallery
1020 16th Street

Dipped N Color Splat Studio
121 I Street

Beauty and Fashion

Sanctuary of Sacred Crowns
621 Capitol Mall Studio 22

Her Wax Box
717 K Street

California Glam Co.
106 L Street

Shawn Reginald Clothing Company
810 K Street, Suite 105

Bohemian Aesthetic Atelier
106 L Street

Sage Braid Bar
1115 Front Street

Lounge and Event Spaces

Tiger
722 K Street

Darling Aviary
712 K Street

Our Place Event Space
1107 Firehouse Alley

Steampunk Cigar Co
431 I Street

Dining

Nash & Proper
1023 K Street

Café Connection
1007 L Street

Cakes by Jeff the Chef
405 K Street #210

Cerealism
128 K Street

Retail

LiBush International Connection Africa
1014 2nd Street, Unit B

Impound Comics
500 J Street

Capital Agenda
405 K Street

Note: This is a listing of businesses that are in the downtown district from Front Street to 16th Street and H to N Streets. Please email us at marketing@downtownsac.org if we’re missing anyone on the list!

The post Black-Owned Businesses 2024 appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

Every shop in Old Sac is unique and has it’s own small business owner whose dream was to open a strorefront.

In favor of a new year and new beginnings, we’re re-introducing 10 unique shops that you can visit this new year.

American Legacy

American Legacy is an authentic retail store that sells Native American Items. Shop for jewelry (both natural and manmade), clothing, figurines, and other souvenir items.

Garden of Enchantment

Garden of Enchantment is a locally-owned and internationally-supported esoteric gift store, with an outstanding selection of gifts from around the world. When you walk inside, you’ll find cards, a fabulous book selection, and gorgeous jewelry for all occasions. There is also an exceptional selection of incense, candles, and unique soulful cards.

Kolores

Kolores offers a wide variety of Mexican imports, gifts, and tin products.  All of the beautiful home decor that you will find at Kolores was meticulously hand-crafted by artisans and hand selected for this shop.

LiBush International

LiBush is your community spot for art, apparel, jewelry, gifts, skincare items, and much much more. It is an African store providing African imports And traditional African clothing.

NEO Escape Rooms

NEO Escape Rooms is in the Old Sacramento Waterfront district with unique and immersive Sacramento-Themed escape adventures for you and your friends, family and colleagues!

Old City Kites

Kites, kites, and MORE kites! This store is one of the largest kite stores in Northern California. You can also find games and other goodies inside.

Peruvian Crafts

Unique Marmolina figurines and Peruvian dolls, finger puppets, and Peruvian musical instruments are scattered around like treasures to be discovered.

Sock City

Sock City is Old Sacramento Waterfront’s original sock store. With the best brands on the market and an unparalleled selection, you’re sure to find something for everyone!

Stage Nine

The Stage Nine Family of Fine Stores located in the What Cheer House in the Old Sacramento Waterfront is home to Stage Nine Entertainment Store, G.Willikers! Toy Emporium, The Vault, and The Old Fashioned Candy and Confectionery.

Stage Nine Entertainment Store is the ultimate destination for everything pop culture, movies, television, toys, art, and animation. There are over 30,000 unique and nostalgic collectibles and memorabilia items. Also, be sure to visit the Vault- Northern California’s only fully authorized Walt Disney, Warner Bros., and Fox Studios art gallery.

Visions of Eden

Since 1997, Visions of Eden has specialized in offering our customers unique gifts and accessories at surprisingly affordable prices. Enjoy an eclectic mix of gifts for the home, garden, body, and soul!

Adventure is HERE!

Take a day out of your busy schedule to explore the Old Sacramento Waterfront and all the hidden gems here! We hope you enjoy walking along the river and seeing all the different small businesses here.

The post 10 Unique Stores at the Old Sacramento Waterfront appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.

PLA Skateboarding

Specialty skate shop, clothing and sneaker retail store located in downtown Sacramento!

1006 J Street
916.508.9537
Open daily | 11am – 7pm

All Spicery

Sacramento’s spice sanctuary! As the first and only stop for all things spicy and delightful, we’re here to ignite your taste buds with our top-notch spices, herbs, and blends. Whether you’re a pro chef or just starting your gastronomic adventure, we’ve got all the ingredients for your kitchen conquest!

1125 11th Street
916.389.7828
Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Holiday Hours November through Christmas: Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. (Closing early 12/24 at 1 p.m.)

Capital Books

We sell brand-new books, games, puzzles, Pokemon cards, and Magic the Gathering cards. We provide a local alternative to ordering books online or having to drive to one of the malls to find a chain store.

1011 K Street
916.492.6657
Mon-Sat: 10 am – 6 pm
Sun: 11 am – 4 pm

The Blue Ox

The Blue Ox is your one stop shop for quality workwear and apparel!

923 K Street
916.228.4036
Open daily | 11am – 6pm

Pregame Vintage

Your downtown home for vintage finds! Check out their TikTok and Instagram to see what they carry.

1111 7th St
Tuesday–Friday 2PM – 8PM
Saturday–Sunday 12PM – 8PM

Macy’s Sacramento Downtown Commons

Shop Shoes, Jewelry & More At Macy’s. Find Great Deals & A Large Selection Online Today. 2 days Left To Save Up To 20% Off During Macy’s Great Gift Sale. Unwrap The Savings Now!

414 K St
916-444-3333
Open until 10 PM

Impound Comics

Explore our amazing journey in the Impound Universe by following our Superheroes and Villains in our Digital & Physical Comic Books and Children’s Books.

414 K Street Suite 220
916-840-5345
Tuesday – Saturday 11AM –7PM
Sunday – Monday 11AM – 6PM

Urban Outfitters

Find the trendiest piece of decor, clothing, and more!

500 J Street
(916) 701-5920

Monday | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Lids

Get your hats and other sports gear here!

405 K Street Suite 145
(916) 248-4244

The post Holiday Shopping Downtown appeared first on Downtown Sacramento Partnership.