Hometown for the Holidays in Rancho Cordova

From tree lightings to cozy vineyard views, Rancho Cordova and the Gold Country region puts you right in the middle of Northern California’s most magical holiday experiences.

Cordova Community Christmas Tree Lighting

Kick off the season at the beloved Cordova Community Christmas Tree Lighting the Sunday after Thanksgiving, where neighbors and holiday travelers gather to mark the start of the holiday season. Enjoy a live nativity scene, festive food trucks, and a joyful countdown as the tree lights up the night against a backdrop of fireworks. It’s one of Rancho Cordova’s most cherished hometown traditions, perfect for families and visitors alike, and regional neighbors say it's the best Christmas tree lighting event in the Sacramento area.

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Apple Hill

Just a short and scenic drive east, Apple Hill becomes a winter wonderland each December. Choose and cut your own Christmas tree surrounded by mountain air and misty pine forests, then stop by some open produce orchards for hot cocoa, hard cider flights, donuts, and delicious baked goods. Don't forget to check to see what Apple Hill orchards are open during your stay.

Holiday Wine Tasting in Placerville

Cheers to the season with a glass (or two) at nearby Placerville vineyards, where cozy tasting rooms and winter wine flights are waiting for you. Many wineries offer special holiday pours, local gifts, and fireside seating, making it the perfect way to unwind during your holiday getaway. These vineyards are also close to Apple Hill tree farms, making for an easy stop on the mountain.

Skip the mall crowds this year and find thoughtful, handmade gifts from local artisans and small businesses right here in Rancho Cordova.

Holiday Craft Faire at Rancho Cordova City Hall

Every year in late November, the Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce hosts a one-night Holiday Craft Faire at City Hall. At this beloved community event, local makers showcase handcrafted ornaments, home décor, jewelry, and gifts. It’s the perfect place to find the perfect present while supporting small business. Check our event calendar to find exact dates.

Winter Fest at The MACC

Craving something more curated? Find unique artisanal goods and artwork at Winter Fest, hosted at Rancho Cordova's Mills Station Arts & Culture Center. This festive event at The MACC allows you to get up close to the art and have great conversations with local artists, making it a one-stop shop for beautiful gifts and creative inspiration. You might just leave with a piece from the world's next Picasso! Check our event calendar to find exact dates.

Bliss Vintage Marketplace

For those who love gifts with character, Bliss Vintage Marketplace is pure holiday magic. Explore festive aisles brimming with vintage treasures, cozy home décor, and whimsical holiday finds that will make every name on your gift list special. Bliss is the perfect spot for shoppers who love the thrill of the hunt, with vendors rotating their seasonal inventory every few weeks to ensure the best Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years items are on display. Bliss is open year-round, but please check their weekly hours online.

Amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Rancho Cordova offers plenty of peaceful ways to unwind and reconnect with what matters most.

Stroll the American River Parkway

Bundle up and take a scenic walk along the American River Parkway, one of the most beautiful natural escapes in the Sacramento region. The gentle sounds of the river and the changing colors of the trees create the perfect backdrop for a tranquil morning.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Hagan Community Park

Bring the whole family for some outdoor fun at Hagan Community Park, where you can stretch your legs, let the kids play, or simply enjoy a crisp winter afternoon surrounded by nature.

Warm Up in the Rancho Cordova Barrel District

End the day on a cozy note in the Rancho Cordova Barrel District, home to a collection of local breweries, a distillery, and a meadery. Seasonal craft beers, mead (honey wine), and creative cocktails make this the perfect place to toast to the holidays and the year ahead. You might find food trucks, live music, comedy performances, and trivia competitions! Check our event calendar to discover upcoming events in the Barrel District.

Skip the air mattress and crowded guest rooms. Make Rancho Cordova your home base for the holidays! Our hotels offer comfortable, affordable, and peaceful lodging options just minutes from Sacramento, Folsom, and Apple Hill.

Whether you’re in town visiting family, planning a holiday shopping weekend, or simply looking for a restful getaway, Rancho Cordova has everything you need for a joyful and stress-free stay.

This season, find your hometown for the holidays, and let Rancho Cordova welcome you home.