Discover the Best Christmas Markets in Sacramento

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Best Christmas Markets in Sacramento

Sacramento transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season, offering a variety of Christmas markets that capture the spirit of the season. From traditional German-inspired festivities to local artisan fairs, these markets provide unique shopping experiences, delicious treats, and family-friendly entertainment. Explore five of Sacramento’s most popular Christmas markets to make your holiday season truly special. Continue your holiday adventure with a visit to the Christmas Markets in Orlando.

1. Sacramento Christkindlmarkt

Sacramento Christkindlmarkt

The Sacramento Christkindlmarkt is one of the most popular events that has been established as a holiday must in California. This market is a real treat for everyone who wants to feel the magic of the German Christmas market in Sacramento Turn Verein. This market offers the real German crafts, music, and flavors of food in a lively and most appealing manner. The first visitors are met with the aromas of roasted pretzels, grilled sausages and mulled wine, which creates a feeling of a Christmas time in Germany. There are more than 30 booths where one can find unique gifts such as chocolate, nutcrackers and hand made decorations, so it is a great place to shop for Christmas gifts. The event is more enriched with the live music which features German folk bands and dancers in visit the from Bavarian Santa tradition. Everyone finds these storytime event sessions to be exciting. Families may have a fantastic time throughout the holiday season by participating in the Christkindlmarkt craft activities, which focus on authentic German customs. It becomes a unique event that embodies the spirit of Christmas since it is situated in a well-known area, is exquisitely adorned, and exudes a welcoming sense of community. This market is a great place to find presents, candies, or simply a sense of Christmas.

Address:

Sacramento Turn Verein
3349 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95816

Dates:

December 8, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

$5 per person; free for children under 12

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Sacramento Light Rail Station (29th Street)
  • Sacramento Light Rail Station (23rd Street)

Events

  • Live German Music: Enjoy traditional German bands performing festive tunes.
  • Dance Performances: Witness traditional German folk dances.
  • Children’s Crafts: Kids can participate in holiday-themed craft activities.
  • Santa Claus Visits: Meet and take photos with Santa.
  • German Food Demonstrations: Learn how to prepare traditional German holiday dishes.
  • For more details: Visit Here

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Handcrafted Ornaments: Unique, handmade decorations to adorn your tree.
  • Artisanal Chocolates: Gourmet chocolates perfect for gifting.
  • Local Art Prints: Artwork from Sacramento-based artists.
  • Eco-Friendly Gifts: Sustainable products for the environmentally conscious.
  • Jewelry Designers: One-of-a-kind pieces crafted by local jewelers.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Central Atrium Tree: A towering Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments.
  • Interactive Light Displays: Engaging installations that delight visitors of all ages.
  • Holiday Photo Booth: Capture festive photos with themed props.
  • Live Music Stage: Enjoy performances by local musicians and bands.
  • Gourmet Food Court: Savor seasonal dishes and beverages from various cuisines.

Parking and Fees

Limited street parking is available; however, several nearby parking garages offer hourly rates ranging from $2 to $5.

Nearby Hotels

  • Hotel Med Park: Modern accommodations with easy access to the market.
  • The Fort Sutter Hotel Sacramento: Boutique hotel offering comfortable stays.
  • Hyatt House Sacramento/Midtown: Contemporary hotel with excellent amenities.

Nearby Restaurants

  • The Red Rabbit Kitchen and Bar: Eclectic menu with a lively atmosphere.
  • Paragary’s: Farm-to-fork dining experience with seasonal dishes.
  • Burgers and Brew: Casual spot offering gourmet burgers and craft beers.

2. Makers Mart: A Holiday Craft Fair

Makers Mart: A Holiday Craft Fair

The Makers Mart Holiday Craft Fair is Sacramento’s best place to get one-of- a-kind, handmade gifts and support local artists. Hosted at the Scottish Rite Masonic Centre, this market presents a well selected collection of more than 100 businesses specialising in handmade jewellery, pottery, clothing, artwork, and home décor.It’s celebration of Sacramento’s thriving creative community, enhanced by local musicians, not just a shopping event. Every taste sense may be satisfied with the variety of gourmet tacos to sweet sweets that food trucks provide to patrons. The interactive workshops at Makers Mart, where attendees may learn to create their own Christmas decorations, including wreaths and ornaments, make the event a fun excursion for family and friends. Children are welcome to join in festive activities as parents buy from their own craft stations. The concentration on sustainability shown by the great number of stores offering goods from ethically and sustainably obtained sources shows Makers Mart is a community-building event honouring local artists, not just a place to purchase. Sacramento’s event is must-see because of its vibrant atmosphere and outstanding craftsmanship.

Address:

Scottish Rite Masonic Center
6151 H Street, Sacramento, CA 95819

Dates:

December 7, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

$3 per person; children under 12 free

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Sacramento Light Rail Station (University/65th Street)
  • Sacramento Light Rail Station (59th Street)

Events

  • Live Music Performances: Local bands and musicians perform throughout the day.
  • Food Trucks: A variety of gourmet food options available on-site.
  • Artisan Workshops: Interactive sessions where visitors can create their own crafts.
  • Kids’ Craft Area: Designated space for children to engage in creative activities.
  • Raffle Drawings: Opportunities to win handmade items from vendors.
  • For more details: Visit Here

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Handmade Jewelry: Unique pieces crafted by local artisans.
  • Art Prints: Original artwork and prints from Sacramento artists.
  • Organic Skincare: Natural beauty products made locally.
  • Ceramic Goods: Hand-thrown pottery and ceramics.
  • Custom Apparel: Locally designed clothing and accessories.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Live Music Stage: Central area featuring performances by local talent.
  • Food Truck Alley: A lineup of diverse food options to satisfy any palate.
  • Photo Wall: Festive backdrop for capturing holiday memories.
  • Art Installation Corner: Showcase of large-scale works by local artists.
  • Community Booths: Information and activities from local organizations.

Parking and Fees

On-site parking is available at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center parking lot; parking is free for event attendees.

Nearby Hotels

  • Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Midtown: Comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and a central location.
  • Larkspur Landing Sacramento: All-suite hotel offering a home-like atmosphere and great service.
  • Hyatt Regency Sacramento: Upscale hotel with excellent dining and proximity to downtown attractions.

Nearby Restaurants

  • Selland’s Market Café: A cozy spot offering fresh salads, sandwiches, and baked goods.
  • The Kitchen Restaurant: A fine dining experience featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Ramen House Raijin: A casual eatery known for its flavorful ramen and appetizers.

3. Downtown Sacramento Holiday Market

Downtown Sacramento Holiday Market

The Downtown Sacramento Holiday Market transforms the city’s historic Old Sacramento Waterfront into a festive haven. This market combines the charm of Sacramento’s rich history with the excitement of holiday celebrations. Visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with beautifully decorated wooden stalls offering an array of handmade goods, gourmet treats, and holiday gifts. A soaring Christmas tree becomes the focal point of the market and provides the background for the great tree lighting celebration starting the season. The Christmas mood is enhanced with live music, carolling choirs, and outdoor movie screenings, therefore guaranteeing entertainment suitable for all age. Santa’s Village offers kid-friendly Christmas activities and photo opportunities for families. The many gourmet choices available in the market—hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, and flavourful street foods from area businesses—will appeal to foodies. Sample booths advertising surrounding vineyards for wine consumers abound around the market. Holiday lights and decorations along with the breathtaking views of the Sacramento River offer the wonderful scene for an evening out with friends or family. Celebrating the season at the Downtown Sacramento Holiday Market is ideal given free entrance and a vast array of events.

Address:

Old Sacramento Waterfront, 1014 2nd St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Dates:

December 1 – December 23, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

  • Monday to Friday: 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

Free admission

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Sacramento Valley Station (Amtrak)
  • 8th & K Light Rail Station

Events

  • Tree Lighting Ceremony: Celebrate the season with a grand tree lighting event.
  • Live Caroling: Enjoy performances by local choirs.
  • Outdoor Movie Screenings: Watch holiday classics under the stars.
  • Wine Tasting Booths: Sample local wines.
  • Holiday Parade: A festive parade featuring holiday-themed floats and performers.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Handmade Gifts: Unique items crafted by local artisans.
  • Gourmet Food Stalls: Offering seasonal delicacies like roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate.
  • Vintage Holiday Decor: Antique ornaments and decorations.
  • Local Art Gallery: Artworks from Sacramento-based artists.
  • Eco-Friendly Products: Sustainable holiday goods.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Santa’s Village: Perfect for kids to meet Santa.
  • Riverside Walk: Beautifully lit pathways along the Sacramento River.
  • Photo Booths: Capture festive memories with themed backdrops.
  • Holiday Market Stage: Live music and performances.
  • Ferris Wheel Rides: A bird’s-eye view of the festive market.

Parking and Fees

Street parking and nearby garages available; hourly rates start at $2.

Nearby Hotels

  • Delta King Hotel
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento
  • The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection

Nearby Restaurants

  • Rio City Café
  • Firehouse Restaurant
  • Pilothouse Restaurant

4. Midtown Holiday Art Market

Celebrating Sacramento’s thriving art scene, the Midtown Holiday Art Market gives guests an opportunity to buy distinctive, handmade presents while helping local artists. Surrounded by the vibrant murals in the neighbourhood and modern restaurants, this market is in the middle of Midtown.Consumers may browse an incredible range of artisan goods like pottery, jewellery, bespoke clothes, and artwork. Live art events, wherein guests may see local artists bringing their works to life in real-time, also abound at the market. Holiday music performances and food trucks offering seasonal favourites add to the festive mood, thus making this a fun trip for friends and family. Young children may bring their own Christmas creations home by participating in artistic projects. Sacramento’s Christmas calendar includes the market as a unique element as it highlights supporting local artists and community participation. Whether your quest is for one-of- a-kind presents or just wish to enjoy the holiday mood, the Midtown Holiday Art Market is a vivid and interesting event. Its central location and free access make Sacramento a must-visit destination for everyone hoping to find her artistic side over the Christmas season.

Address:

Midtown Farmers Market, 2020 J St, Sacramento, CA 95811

Dates:

December 2 – December 17, 2025 (Saturdays only)

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

  • Saturday: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

Free admission

Nearest Transit Stations

  • 16th Street Light Rail Station
  • 29th Street Light Rail Station

Events

  • Live Painting Demonstrations: Watch artists create masterpieces in real time.
  • Holiday Music Performances: Enjoy acoustic sets and festive tunes.
  • Interactive Crafting Workshops: Create your own holiday gifts.
  • Art Installations: Explore unique displays from local artists.
  • Raffle Prizes: Win artwork and products from participating vendors.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Local Pottery Vendors: Hand-thrown ceramic pieces.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Unique designs crafted by Sacramento artisans.
  • Custom Apparel: Screen-printed shirts and accessories.
  • Home Décor: Rustic and modern holiday decorations.
  • Organic Bath Products: Soaps and lotions made with natural ingredients.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Live Art Wall: Collaborative art piece created during the event.
  • Kids’ Craft Zone: Fun and creative activities for children.
  • Food Truck Alley: Tasty options from local vendors.
  • Music Corner: Live performances in an intimate setting.
  • Photo Opportunities: Holiday-themed setups for memorable snapshots.

Parking and Fees

Street parking available; hourly rates start at $1.50.

Nearby Hotels

  • Inn Off Capitol Park
  • Hyatt Regency Sacramento
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Sacramento

Nearby Restaurants

  • The Porch Restaurant & Bar
  • Midtown’s Cantina Alley
  • Magpie Café

5. Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire

 Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire

Only a short drive from Sacramento, the Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire is a joyful celebration bringing guests back to the Victorian era. Featuring costumed vendors, themed décor, and cobblestone-style walks, this market offers a unique and interesting experience. Along with enjoying the sights and sounds of the 1800s, consumers may peruse an assortment of handcrafted goods, vintage-style décor, and colourful wreaths. Revival of the Victorian appeal by horse-drawn carriages, singing groups, and street performers creates an enchanted environment for visitors of all ages. Foodies may enjoy traditional English treats such mince pies, scones, and mulled cider; tea tents provide a cosy haven from the busy market.Families will have chances to visit Santa Claus, puppets, and programs like story-telling. Its main draw is the Victorian Costume Parade, which emphasises the authenticity of the event and features outstanding period clothing. Excellent celebration with plenty of activities fit for everyone and free admission is the Elk Grove Dickens Street Faire. Creating lifelong memories with loved ones at this amazing site mixes history and culture with happy attitude.

Address:

Old Town Elk Grove, Elk Grove Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624

Dates:

December 9, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

  • Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

Free admission

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Elk Grove Transit Center

Events

  • Victorian Costume Parade: A lively procession featuring Victorian-style costumes.
  • Street Performers: Enjoy magicians, carolers, and other entertainers.
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Scenic rides through Old Town Elk Grove.
  • Tea and Scones Tent: Experience traditional English teatime.
  • Kids’ Puppet Shows: Engaging holiday-themed stories for children.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Victorian-Inspired Crafts: Handcrafted ornaments and gifts.
  • British Treats Booth: Scones, mince pies, and other festive delicacies.
  • Handmade Toys: Wooden toys and vintage-inspired games.
  • Antique Collectibles: Unique finds from a bygone era.
  • Holiday Wreaths: Beautifully crafted wreaths and floral arrangements.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Dickens Village Display: A miniature recreation of a Victorian Christmas town.
  • Photo Booths: Themed setups perfect for family photos.
  • Victorian Bandstand: Live music and caroling.
  • Central Christmas Tree: Decorated with Victorian-era ornaments.
  • Horse Carriage Rides: A magical experience for families and couples.

Parking and Fees

Free street parking and designated event lots available.

Nearby Hotels

  • Hilton Garden Inn Elk Grove
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Elk Grove
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Elk Grove Laguna

Nearby Restaurants

  • Boulevard Bistro
  • The Brickhouse Restaurant
  • Sheldon Inn Restaurant and Bar

Conclusion

Sacramento’s Christmas markets provide a diverse range of festive experiences, from traditional German celebrations to artisan craft fairs and Victorian-era recreations. Whether you’re seeking unique gifts, holiday entertainment, or delicious treats, these markets offer something for everyone. With their vibrant atmospheres, family-friendly activities, and community-driven spirit, Sacramento’s holiday markets are the perfect way to celebrate the season.

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