Things To Do During The Thanksgiving Weekend In Sacramento

Editor's Note: This article is from 2015. While some events are still active, check before making plans.

Imagine that it's the day after Thanksgiving. The big dinner is over. And you don't feel like battling the crowds to shop on Black Friday. But if you have family members visiting, you'll have to find activities to keep them entertained.

Capital Public Radio has a list of suggestions for family-friendly activities and events happening in the Sacramento area during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Cut down a tree at Apple Hill:

Apple Hill isn’t all about apples. There’s wine and beer tasting for the grown ups and the whole family can get into picking out Christmas tree from one of the many tree farms in the area.

Ice Skate in downtown: 

The ice rink in downtown Sacramento is located near the corner of 7th and K streets. Open hours for Thanksgiving Week are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It's also open on Thanksgiving Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Cycle through town to see Christmas lights:

See the lights of the city from the seat of a 15-person bicycle.

Take a hike:

There are dozens of gorgeous hikes in our region. Drive out to Tahoe National Forest or walk around Folsom Lake. LocalHikes.com has a number of trails to check out. CapRadio's Ed Joyce talks about a new movement #OptOutside, which encourages people to enjoy the outdoors as opposed to partaking in the Black Friday holiday shopping madness.

Attend New Helvetia’s Anniversary Party:

This neighborhood micro-brewery celebrates its anniversary every Black Friday with a big party. To celebrate their third year in business New Helvetia is releasing some special brews and bringing in food trucks and live music. The tap room is kid-friendly and there are games to play with the family, like giant jenga and ping-pong.

Movies released during Thanksgiving Weekend:

There are always new movie releases during the holiday weekends. If the weather isn't cooperating and your relatives want to stay indoors, going to the movies might be a good idea. Insight with Beth Ruyak has a preview of upcoming holiday movies. There are several big films slated for release during the Thanksgiving Weekend.

Global Winter Wonderland at Cal Expo:

Global Winter Wonderland returns to Cal Expo this year with new exhibits. CapRadio's Bob Moffitt's story from earlier this year gave an idea of what to expect.

Amador Flower Farm:

Located in Amador County, the Amador Flower Farm and Nursery has over four acres of Demonstration Gardens showcasing daylilies. The farm is closed Thanksgiving Day, but will be open during the rest of the weekend.

More events in the Sacramento area:

What activities do you do or places do you visit when you have family members visiting? Tell us in the comments below. 

-Capital Public Radio Staff