We know that our tour operator clients plan their itineraries several months to a year in advance. Sacramento has several events that happen around the same time every year. We have compiled a list of 12 annual events that your groups will love. All of these events are group-friendly and are sure to be a hit with your group tours. From food and film festivals to special events at our museums, these 12 annual Sacramento events fit easily into your itinerary and happen the same time every year. Note: Web links may feature schedules/information for previous year. Email us for the most current information.
Sacramento Museum Day, First Saturday in February
More than 30 local museums, including the California State Railroad Museum, California Museum and Crocker Art Museum, open their doors with free of charge or heavily discounted admission.
Sacramento Music Festival, Memorial Day Weekend
The world-famous Sacramento Music Festival, previously known as the Jazz Jubilee, celebrates several genres of music, from jazz to pop to rock, as it fills the streets of Old Sacramento and local hotel venues with music lovers and more than 100 bands.
Grape Escape, June
Featuring more than 100 of the Sacramento Region’s award-winning wineries and restaurants, the annual Grape Escape celebrates the best of Sacramento’s culinary world.
Sacramento Pride, June
Sacramento’s LGBT community throws its biggest party of the year with this entertainment-filled parade and celebration.
Juneteenth, Third Weekend in June
Juneteenth celebrates the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation with a full weekend of music, entertainment and family fun.
French Film Festival, June
Sacramento puts a little “oh la la” into its summer each year with this two-week celebration of French films and culture.
California State Fair, July
Folks come from near and far for the memorable delights of this more than 150-year-old extravaganza that includes exciting exhibits, amazing attractions, live entertainment and the magnificent Midway.
Gold Rush Days, Labor Day Weekend
The Old Sacramento historic district covers its streets with dirt, hides all things modern and transforms into a legitimate Old West town every Labor Day weekend. Costumed re-enactors, gunfights, musicians, buffalo soldiers and Pony Express riders highlight this popular festival.
Farm-to-Fork Week, September
This annual weeklong celebration includes events at local farms and at restaurants across the region and is anchored by a major festival (Farm-to-Fork Festival) on Capitol Mall.
California Capital Airshow, October
See the best pilots in the world show their stuff as they converge in Sacramento for this thrilling annual show.
California International Marathon, December
This popular qualifier for the Boston Marathon stretches from Folsom through Sacramento’s famous tree-lined streets on up to the steps of the California State Capitol.
New Year’s Eve Sky Spectacular
Ring in the new year in Old Sacramento with live music, food and drink vendors, street entertainment and two fireworks shows.
The Tourism team at the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to help you plan your group’s itinerary. We can help you add any of these events into your group’s visit to Sacramento. Click here to contact the Tourism team.
