One of the region’s most treasured holiday traditions returns Friday night as the Historic Folsom Christmas Tree Lighting brings thousands of families to the heart of the Folsom Historic District for an evening of music, performances, festive food, and a dazzling countdown to the moment the community tree comes alive with lights.
The celebration takes place from just before 6 all the way to 9 p.m. in the Historic Folsom Plaza, transforming the district into a bustling holiday village buzzing with excitement and old-fashioned charm.
The night begins with a moment children wait for all year as Santa Claus makes a magical pass through the district just before 6 p.m. His route from Riley Street to Sutter Street and down to Decatur Street signals the official start of the festivities. He is joined along the way by a lively procession featuring classic Volkswagens, the Folsom High School Marching Band, and the Painted Ladies on Horseback, creating a spirited welcome that sets the tone for the celebration ahead. Once Santa arrives at the plaza, he settles into his Christmas Cottage, where families can stop for photos throughout the evening using their own cameras.
As the celebration unfolds, the Historic District comes alive with continuous entertainment in every corner. Vendors and local businesses offer hot cocoa, cider, warm treats, and holiday bites as crowds explore the decorated streets.
Characters and performers mingle with visitors, from princess story-time hosts greeting children to musicians filling the corridor near Ruby’s Books with the sounds of violin and cello. Roving dance troupes, including Theory Dance and the Painted Ladies on Horseback, add movement and color while multiple businesses offer hot drinks to keep visitors warm as the evening temperatures drop.
The Zittel Family Amphitheater will host a full hour of performances beginning at 6 p.m., showcasing an array of local talent. The lineup includes FLC Dance, JAA Drama Productions, Vista Guitar, Theory Dance, the Beauty Queens from Cynthia’s Dance, the JAA Cantoris Choir, Arthur Murray Dance, Leighton Dance, Bayside performers, and a rendition of Nutcracker Reimagined, giving families plenty to enjoy as anticipation builds toward the tree lighting.
Across the plaza at Decatur and Sutter streets, the Mainstage will feature additional entertainment from 7 to 9 p.m., including a holiday presentation by Sutter Street Theatre’s “Holiday in the Hills” cast, remarks by Lisa Hausmann of Dignity Health, musical performances from Cynthia Renee and the John Adams Academy Cantoris Choir, and remarks from Historic District Executive Board President Jim Snook, all leading up to the big moment of the night.
At 7:30 p.m., Mayor Sarah Aquino and Santa Claus will lead the ceremonial countdown as the towering Historic Folsom Christmas Tree bursts into light, drawing cheers from the thousands gathered in the plaza. The celebration continues immediately afterward with more music from the John Adams Academy Cantoris Choir, a special performance at the Folsom Historic District Ice Rink, and festive mixes from DJ and emcee Bryan Greenwalt of Music & More Entertainment, keeping the energy high throughout the evening.
Families can then explore the plaza, where sponsor booths, crafts, bounce houses, raffles, and seasonal food vendors add to the holiday atmosphere. From warm drinks to holiday treats, the district’s shops and eateries will remain open, offering one of the most memorable nights of the season for locals and visitors alike.
The Historic Folsom Christmas Tree Lighting remains one of the area’s most anticipated holiday gatherings, drawing crowds from across the Sacramento region to experience the magic, tradition, and community spirit that define the annual celebration.
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