It’s almost 2024. But in Sacramento, one tradition will be missing as the 2023 clock runs out: fireworks in Old Sacramento.
It’s been four years since revelers saw fireworks reflecting off the waters of the Sacramento River near the Tower Bridge. Now, there’s growing concern that 2019 might have been the grand finale — though no one knew it at the time.
In an email to CapRadio on Thursday, Sacramento city spokesperson Jennifer Singer said the city would not be putting on its annual fireworks show over the Sacramento River this year, citing “logistical challenges.”
“In the past, this event has required extensive staff time and financial resources which are no longer available,” Singer said, and added that the city is “exploring other types of activations in the district throughout the year.”
The New Year’s Eve display was canceled due to COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021, and again in 2022 due to what the city of Sacramento called “operational issues.” When pressed for specifics, spokespersons cited lack of parking and a place from which to launch the fireworks.
Where else to celebrate the new year in Sacramento
If you’re still looking for free ways to ring in the new year in Sacramento, here are some other events:
Karaoke Game Night: Early New Year’s Edition
As described by event organizers, this celebration — held at Roscoe’s Bar & Burgers — is “not just for singers but for people who don’t sing.” It’ll feature music trivia, lip sync contests and dance battles. *Note: This event is on Dec. 30, not on New Year’s Eve.
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2024 New Year's Stuffie Storytime Party
Kids and adults can grab their favorite stuffed animal and head down to A Seat at the Table Books in Elk Grove for a storybook reading and countdown to the new year. The event will also feature a build-your-own hot cocoa bar for $5.
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Quietly Entering the New Year
Join in a two-hour long meditation session at the Sacramento Dharma Center. Non-alcoholic drinks will be provided, but event organizers recommend bringing a treat to share.
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Tipsy Putt NYE Party
Unlike most other bars in Sacramento, Tipsy Putt — a mini golf themed-bar in the DOCO shopping center — is not charging a cover fee and will feature a live DJ, photo booth and games. And you can watch the Kings take the Grizzlies while you’re there (if you make it early enough).
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Look for The Beam at the Golden 1 Center
If you’re adamant about both seeing light move through the sky in Sacramento proper AND the Kings continued success, you could just park yourself outside of the Golden 1 Center and wait for The Beam to appear. The Kings just have to beat the Grizzlies for this to happen! Tipoff is at 5 p.m.
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