As the weather cools and the leaves change colors, Sacramento comes alive with a variety of exciting activities and events. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's no shortage of things to do this fall in Sacramento. From vibrant festivals to invigorating outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, and delectable food and drink, you'll find something for everyone to enjoy.
Fall Events and Festivals in Sacramento
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Sacramento - it’s called the City of Trees for a reason! Take in the changing landscape and enjoy milder temperatures during the Fall months at many of the events that take place throughout the region, from harvest festivals to 5k runs. Here are just a few worth checking out:
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Local Farmers Markets. Experience the season's bountiful harvest by visiting local farmers markets and craft fairs in Sacramento. Browse through fresh, locally grown produce, including pumpkins, squash, and apples, and see why Sacramento is the “Farm To Fork Capital” of the world. Here’s
our list of the best farmers markets in Sacramento.
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Sacramento Harvest Festival. Shop hundreds of booths offering handmade and artisan crafts at the Sacramento Harvest Festival. The three-day event, running from November 15-17, will feature artist demonstrations, on-stage performances, live music, and a Kid's Zone offering fun arts and crafts activities for children. Admission is $9 for adults, kids under 12 receive FREE admission.
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Run to Feed the Hungry. Lace up your running shoes for a great cause this Thanksgiving. As the largest Thanksgiving Day Fun Run in the country, Run to Feed the Hungry helps raise money for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping Sacramentans in need. Runners can choose between a 5k or 10k race that will take them from Sacramento's famous J Street to the entrance of the Sacramento State Campus and down the stunning tree-lined streets of East Sacramento. Visit
raceroster.com to register.
Outdoor Activities for Fall
As the vibrant colors of fall paint the landscape, Sacramento offers a plethora of outdoor activities to embrace the season. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the crisp autumn air, there are plenty of options to explore.
If you prefer exploring on wheels, Sacramento boasts an extensive network of biking trails and parks. Hop on your bike and pedal through stunning fall scenery. The
Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, also known as the American River Bike Trail, offers picturesque river views perfect for a leisurely ride. Other notable biking destinations include the
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area and the Sacramento Northern Bike Trail.
For a more laid-back outdoor experience, pack a picnic and head to one of Sacramento's charming spots with beautiful fall scenery.
McKinley Park, with its towering trees and vibrant foliage, provides an idyllic setting for a relaxing picnic. Another fantastic option is
Capitol Park, located in downtown Sacramento, where you can enjoy your meal amidst stunning fall colors.
Whether you choose to hike, bike, or picnic, the city offers a wealth of opportunities to embrace the season's magic.
Family-Friendly Fall Fun in Sacramento
Fall is a wonderful season to spend quality time with your family and create lasting memories. Sacramento offers a range of family-friendly activities perfect for the autumn season. Here are a few ideas to make the most of this fall in Sacramento:
Plan a day trip to Apple Hill. Nestled in the Sierra Foothills, the town of Camino becomes an apple-lover's paradise every fall. Known as Apple Hill, this agricultural community is home to dozens of apple farms, wineries, cider houses, bakeshops, and bed & breakfasts.
The largest of the apple farms is
High Hill Ranch, a must-see destination for Sacramentans seeking those perfect fall vibes. Visitors can enjoy a hayride, cast a lure in the fishing pond, or treat themselves to a hand-dipped caramel apple. High Hill Ranch has attractions for the whole family.
If you are interested in trying farm-fresh apple wine,
Boa Vista Orchards offers daily tastings of their apple, red, and dessert wines. A trip to Apple Hill wouldn't be complete without enjoying an apple cider donut or a delicious slice of homemade apple pie. The bakeshop at
Rainbow Orchards prepares these delightful treats and more fresh daily. No matter what stops you make during your visit to Apple Hill, you're sure to find all the quintessential fall experiences in just a short drive - apple picking, pumpkin patches, petting zoos, fall crafts, and of course, all the delicious fall treats you can eat.
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Midtown. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping in Sacramento’s Midtown. Find the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone on your list. After checking off everyone on your shopping list, relax with lunch at one of Midtown’s many locally owned restaurants or unwind with a cocktail at one of the happy hour spots in Midtown’s Handle District.
Fall in Sacramento is a beautiful season, filled with culinary delights, outdoor adventures, and holiday shopping experiences. Whether you're running through the tree-lined streets of East Sacramento for good cause, exploring the culinary delights of Apple Hill, or selecting that perfect holiday gift from a locally owned small business, you'll find that fall in Sacramento is filled with incredible experiences for all ages.