There’s never been a better time to visit America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital

If you’ve been anywhere near Sacramento lately, you know California’s capital city is in the midst of an exciting transformation. From our new Golden 1 Center arena to delicious restaurants, craft beer and an explosive public art scene, there’s never been a better time to explore our region.

While there are many things to look forward to this year in Sacramento, we’ve made a quick list of some of the things we’re circling on our calendars.

Working Up an Appetite –The food scene in America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital is on fire, offering delicious options no matter what you’re craving. The new year promises to add even more exciting eateries to the mix, from a taco favorite to new fine dining, and two mouth-watering delis. The bottom line – if you’re planning to visit Sacramento, come hungry. 

Hitting the Court – After a long hiatus, NCAA basketball returns to Sacramento this spring when March Madness hits the court at Golden 1 Center. College basketball fans will get to see their favorite team play in the NBA’s most technologically advanced arena as well as revisit a city that offers even more excitement off the court.

Taking it all In - Public art in Sacramento saw a major renaissance in 2016, and that trend is expected to continue in the new year. The creators of the insanely popular Art Hotel project have teased a new, larger installation coming in February. The new “Art Street” promises to be even bigger than the hotel project and is being billed as the region’s “most ambitious art event ever.” Also expanding in 2017 is the Sacramento Mural Festival project, which saw the sides of buildings throughout the city transform into massive canvases. Organizers are planning to add even more murals in the months ahead, promising to make a tour through the region even more breathtaking than before.

Pedaling to the Finish – California’s capital city will play host to the opening stage of the Amgen Tour of California once again as the race begins where it finished last year. Cycling fans from all over will come to check out the early leaders in the race with the excitement of kicking off North America’s largest cycling race.

Heading Downtown - The completion of Downtown Commons (or “DOCO”) is easily one of the most anticipated construction projects of 2017. The three-acre plaza is taking shape on the site of the city’s former Downtown Plaza mall and will feature entertainment, innovative restaurants, clothing stores, the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel and a place for people to enjoy outdoor concerts, fresh markets and other activities, all near Sacramento’s new Golden 1 Center. DOCO is slated to be fully opened later this year.

Raising a Pint – The California Craft Brewers Association will bring its annual Craft Beer Summit back to Sacramento this September, and beer fans are already excited. The three-day event includes seminars with the pros, a packed exhibit floor and culminates in the incredible California Craft Beer Festival along Sacramento’s famed Capitol Mall. With the Sacramento region boasting more than 60 craft breweries, there’s no better place to raise a pint!

Checking In – Construction of Golden 1 Center spurred redevelopment across the city, including the Kimpton Sawyer hotel, set to open this summer. A joint venture between Kimpton and the Sacramento Kings organization, this boutique property will be right next to the arena and steps away from new shops, restaurants, bars and more in the new Downtown Commons center.

Celebrating Farm-to-Fork – While Sacramento may be farm-to-fork every day of the year, September is definitely the biggest fresh-food party of the year. Throughout the month-long Farm-to-Fork Celebration, nearly every day is packed with regional farm tours, restaurant specials, delicious dinners and much more. And of course, the fun hits fever-pitch at the annual Farm-to-Fork Festival on Capitol Mall, with more than a half-mile of food, beer and wine, interactive booths, live music and much more! Details on the 2017 Celebration are coming soon to farmtofork.com.