If you ask us, every season is the best season to visit Sacramento. From food festivals and outdoor concerts to pro sports and seasonal celebrations, Sacramento has something to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning your next big trip, here’s what makes each season in California’s capital city worth experiencing.
Image Courtesy of: Francisco Chavira
Spring
As the weather gets warmer and flowers start to bloom, Sacramento comes alive with outdoor fun and fresh flavors.
Baseball season begins at Sutter Health Park, where you can cheer on the Sacramento River Cats or experience MLB baseball at an Athletics game when they’re in town. Meanwhile, Sac Republic FC brings soccer fans together at Heart Health Park for fast-paced action.
Spring is also one of the best times to explore the Midtown Farmers Market, ranked the #1 farmers market in California, featuring local produce, artisan goods, and handmade treats. Be sure to take advantage of the sunshine by exploring the city’s walkable neighborhoods, biking along the American River Parkway, or enjoying outdoor dining at local favorites throughout Midtown and the Old Sacramento Waterfront.
Image Courtesy of: OARS American River Rafting Outpost
Summer
Summer in Sacramento brings warm weather and plenty of reasons to be outside. Downtown Sacramento comes alive with Concerts In the Park, a free outdoor concert series that showcases local and national acts. Summer is also the perfect time to try out a new water adventure, from whitewater rafting on the American River to paddleboarding and kayaking at Lake Natoma. And, of course, nothing says summer quite like cheering on the Sacramento River Cats at Sutter Health Park with a Dinger Dog and an ice-cold beer in hand.
After a full day in the sun, don’t miss grabbing a drink at one of Sacramento’s many rooftop bars, where you can enjoy stunning city views and farm-to-fork bites.
Image Courtesy of: Francisco Chavira
Fall
Fall in Sacramento is one you won’t want to miss, when the air turns crisp and the city comes alive with color. September is Farm-to-Fork Month, a citywide celebration of local food, wine, and agriculture that includes signature events like Legends of Wine, the Tower Bridge Dinner, The Grand Tasting, and Terra Madre Americas (in odd-numbered years).
Fall is also festival season, with major music events like Aftershock and Holo Holo Music Festival drawing fans from across the country. For a quintessential fall day, head to Apple Hill for cider and fresh pies, or enjoy wine tasting in Clarksburg, home to Bogle Family Vineyards, Heringer Estates, and the Old Sugar Mill — all just a short drive from downtown.
Image Courtesy of: Downtown Sacramento Partnership
Winter
Winter is when Sacramento shines, literally. The Fab 40s holiday lights transform East Sacramento into a glowing winter wonderland, while the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink offers festive fun for all ages. Local restaurants and bars go all out during the holidays with themed pop-up bars, seasonal cocktails, and cozy menus perfect for chilly evenings. For an extra touch of holiday magic, stroll through the Old Sacramento Waterfront, where the gigantic Christmas tree, decorated storefronts, and festive events make it feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark holiday movie.
It’s also basketball season, and there’s nothing like watching the Sacramento Kings light the beam after a home game win at Golden 1 Center. With plenty of cozy restaurants and bars, and seasonal events throughout the city, Sacramento stays lively, even when the temperatures dip.
