Must Attend Events

Elk Grove is known for its great community events. When planning, please refer to each event’s website for the most up-to-date information, as events are subject to change.

January

Elk Grove Restaurant Week - Various Restaurants 
This week-long event gives you the opportunity to experience the culinary expertise of Elk Grove where different restaurants offer specials. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveRestaurantWeek.com.

MLK Community Breakfast - District 56
Honor Dr. King's legacy and recommit to creating a more equitable and inclusive world. The event includes guest speakers, musical performances, a scrumptious breakfast, and additional activities.
For more info, visit NanSacramento.org.


February

Wine & Chocolate at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery  
Celebrate the season of love with wine, chocolate, and live music at this beloved annual event, traditionally held the first Saturday in February. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, but please note - no outside alcohol is permitted. 
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.

Creative Space Market: Lunar New Year - Old Town Plaza
Celebrate Lunar New Year at this festive, family-friendly market featuring lion dance performances, lucky red envelopes for kids, free arts and crafts, and 50+ local food and craft vendors, all in a free, pet-friendly event open to all ages.
For more info, visit TheCreativeSpaceSac.com.

Lunar New Year Festival - Elk Grove Park
Join the Nor Cal Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the Lunar New Year with a spectacular parade featuring colorful floats, traditional music, and captivating performances along with the Mrs. Vietnam Sacramento pageant. 
For more info, visit NorCalChamber.org.

Butterfly Ball - Laguna Town Hall
Enjoy an evening of dancing at this dressy-casual affair that includes a DJ, dancing, professional portraits available for purchase, and special activities for each child.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.


March

Shamrockin' Saturday Night Family Dance - Wackford Aquatic Complex
Bring the entire family to this dance party featuring a DJ playing upbeat, family-friendly, dance tempo songs. 
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov.

Giant Pumpkin Growers Spring Social - Elk Grove Park Pavilion
Learn and share in the ‘art’ of growing giant pumpkins from the world’s best growers. With a few special seeds and tips from those who know best, you could grow a giant pumpkin just like the pros! Lunch catered by the Pride of Laguna Creek Lions. 
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Creative Space Market: Cherry Blossom Festival - Old Town Plaza
Step into spring with a vibrant celebration of food, culture, and community, featuring delicious bites, shopping from amazing local businesses, and captivating traditional Japanese performances that bring the spirit of sakura to life.
For more info, visit TheCreativeSpaceSac.com.

Sammy's Spring Splash - Wackford Aquatic Complex
Enjoy the pools and other fun spring-themed activities as Sammy the Duck hides eggs all around the Wackford Aquatic Complex! Event proceeds will benefit the Cosumnes CSD Making Waves Swim Scholarship Fund.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

State of the City - District56
The annual State of the City Address provides a platform for the current mayor of Elk Grove to outline the City’s goals and objectives and provide an overview of city accomplishments and issues of importance to the community. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveCA.com.

Running of the Elk - District56
Bring your running shoes and join the community in supporting the Elk Grove Youth Sports Foundation. 
For more info, visit RunningoftheElk.com.

Elk Grove Lions Drive-Thru Tri-Tip - Gil Albiani Recreation Center
Order ahead and pick up your dinner for 4 people that includes a smoked tri-tip, salad,
rolls, ranch beans and cookies. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveLionsFoundation.org.


April

Easter at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery 
Spend Easter Sunday with family at the winery, where little ones can join an egg hunt and meet the Easter Bunny. Enjoy mimosas made with estate-grown oranges and live music throughout the day. 
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.

Breakfast with the Bunny - Laguna Town Hall
Start the day with breakfast with the Easter Bunny. Don’t forget to bring your camera for a picture with the Bunny! 
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Dia de la Concha - District56
Celebrate the traditional Mexican sweet bread, Pan Dulce, at this vibrant event featuring Bueno Cafe's treats, Agua Frescas, coffee, themed art, live music, food, local artisans, entertainment, raffles, and interactive activities like Concha art painting, balloon twisting, and face painting.
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Magnet Fishing Derby - Elk Grove Park Lake
This free event for children ages 5 to 13 combines traditional fishing with treasure hunting. Participants cast their magnet into Elk Grove Park Lake, hoping for a bite from the submerged treasure beneath! Equipment will be provided free of charge, courtesy of Laguna-Elk Grove Kiwanis. 
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Taste of Elk Grove - Sacramento Asian Sports Foundation
If you love food, wine, craft beer, and live music, you don't want to miss this event! The best restaurants in Elk Grove will be there offering samples of their menu. You never know, you might discover your new favorite place! 
For more info, visit Portal.ClubRunner.CA/9112.

Elk Grove Lions Brewfest: Burgers & Brews 
This annual favorite serves up gourmet burgers, bacon mac and cheese, a tater-tot bar, and pours from local breweries (plus nonalcoholic options), all included with admission.
For more info, visit ElkGroveLionsFoundation.org.

Soroptimist Martinis and Merriment - District 56
Enjoy an evening of comedy, music, and fun while sampling mini-martinis, hors d’oeuvres, and dessert, all in support of Soroptimist’s work with women and girls.
For more info, SoroptimistElkGrove.org.

Youth Commission: Family Fun Day - Old Town Plaza
Gather the family and enjoy an afternoon of fun at this free event featuring carnival games, music, activities, and more! Food is available for purchase. 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Elk Grove Brewfest - Elk Grove Park
This must-attend event features over seventy breweries and cideries along with gourmet food trucks, vendors, and music stages. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveBrewfest.com.

Festival of the Arts - Old Town Plaza
The City of Elk Grove, Elk Grove Fine Arts Center, and the Elk Grove Arts Commission brings together fine artists, musical performers, creative students, and the community to enjoy the visual and performing arts. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveFineArtsCenter.org.

RAD Games - Laguna Community Park
Cosumnes CSD’s RAD (Recreation ADventures) program hosts this event with Special Olympics to provide an opportunity for kids with disabilities to try a variety of sports and fun activities.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.


May

Music on Main - Old Town Plaza
Held on the first three Saturdays of May, Music on Main brings live music to Old Town Plaza for an easygoing evening of local sounds and community vibes, featuring pop, country, and reggae on different nights.
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Elk Grove Spring Palooza - Elk Grove Regional Park
This Elk Grove spring tradition, dating back to 1957 as the Western Festival, brings multiple days of carnival rides and games, food trucks, a car show, and a must-see parade that remains the highlight of the celebration.
For more info, visit ElkGroveSpringPalooza.com.

Mother’s Day at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery
Treat mom to a relaxing afternoon with live music, mimosas crafted with
estate-grown oranges, and local eats from a featured food truck.
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.

Kiwanis Carnitas Feed - District56
Features an all-you-can-eat carnitas dinner with all the fixings, margaritas (of course), beer, sangria, a huge raffle and silent auction.
For more info, visit LagunaElkGroveKiwanis.org.

Post 55 American Legion Annual Fundraiser Dinner - District56
Celebrate and support your local veterans at their annual fundraising
dinner. 
For more info, visit Post55.AmericanLegionElkGrove.com.

Movies in the Park - Lichtenberger South Park
Cosumnes Parks & Recreation invites families to enjoy free outdoor movie nights, so bring your snacks, picnic blanket, and low-back chairs for a relaxed evening under the stars.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Asian Pacific CultureFest - District56
This vibrant celebration uplifts the arts, culture, heritage, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities across the region, kicking off Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month with vendors, food trucks, art installations, and dynamic cultural performances.
For more info, visit Instagram.com/AsianPacificcCultureFest.

Big Truck Day - District56 (Aquatics Parking Lot)
Honk the horn on the bus, get behind the wheel of a semi-truck, and learn about the vehicles involved in maintaining a city. 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Memorial Day Service & Walk for Veterans - Elk Grove Historical Cemetery
Join the Elk Grove Cemetery District and Cosumnes CSD for a special tribute to fallen American military with a ceremony and walk.
For more info, visit Egccd.com.


June

Regional Safety Day - Elk Grove Park
A free, family-friendly day of fun, education, and excitement presented by Cosumnes CSD and the Elk Grove Police Department that includes emergency response vehicles, K-9 demonstrations, and more. 
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov.

Bounty on the Blvd - District56
Enjoy a four-course dinner attended by over 300 residents benefiting The Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the college and career plans of students in the EGUSD. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveRegionalScholarship.com.

Fridays in the Grove: Wag n Walk - District56 Preserve
Grab your four-legged friends and take a Stroll around the 0.6-mile Preserve walk with pet stops and informational booths along the way. 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Dive-in Movie Night - Elk Grove Aquatic Center
Make a splash this summer at Dive-in Movie Night, where the pool becomes the ultimate place to watch a popular film while you relax in the water or unwind poolside for a fun and refreshing evening with friends and family.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Elk Grove Pride - Laguna Town Hall
Celebrate love and diversity and show your support for the LGBTQ+ community at Elk Grove Pride. 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Father’s Day at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery 
Celebrate dad with live music, fruit slushies made from estate-grown produce, and food truck fare. Past years have featured activities such as classic cars, cigars, and even mini golf! 
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.

Elk Grove Historical Society Yard Sale - Elk Grove Stage Stop Museum at Heritage Park
This huge yard sale is assembled from donations and estate sales throughout the year and is the number one fundraiser for the Elk Grove Historical Society. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveHistoricalSociety.com.


July

Run 4 Independence - District56
Celebrate our nation and support the community at the Annual Run 4 Hunger. This event is open to all ages and abilities, and participants can run or walk a 5K or 10K in support of Elk Grove Food Bank Services. 
For more info, visit Run4Independence.org.

Salute to the Red, White & Blue - Elk Grove Park
Elk Grove’s premier patriotic celebration marking the nation’s Independence Day features vendors, food trucks, a pie-eating contest, bike and stroller parade, live entertainment, and fireworks show! 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Dive-in Movie Night (Winter in July, Frozen) - Elk Grove Aquatic Center
Make a splash this summer at Dive-in Movie Night, where the pool becomes the ultimate place to watch a popular film while you relax in the water or unwind poolside for a fun and refreshing evening with friends and family.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Creative Space Market: Aloha Saturday - Old Town Plaza
Inspired by Hawaiian pop-up markets, Aloha Saturday brings friends and families together to celebrate community, island culture, and Hawaiian-inspired makers in the spirit of aloha—love, peace, and connection.
For more info, visit TheCreativeSpaceSac.com.

Diversity Month: Global Fest Fest - District56
Celebrate Diversity Month all September with this vibrant festival bringing global cuisines, live DJ music, a beer and wine garden, and a cultural marketplace together for a lively celebration of food, heritage, and community from around the world.
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Pitch Elk Grove - District56
Pitch Elk Grove brings together the region’s most promising tech-driven startups to compete for $20,000 in prize money while showcasing their businesses live to judges and an engaged audience as part of the City of Elk Grove’s ongoing effort to spotlight local entrepreneurship and innovation.
For more info, visit StartUpSac.com/Pitch-Elk-Grove.

Fridays in the Grove: Christmas in July - District56
Celebrate holiday cheer in the middle of summer at this free, no-registration-needed event featuring a pop-up ice skating rink, live DJ, festive vibes, and provided skate equipment for a fun and merry night with friends and family.
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Strauss Festival - Elk Grove Park
A beloved local tradition for 36+ years, this free summer festival takes place over four nights the last full weekend in July and features a 40-piece orchestra, volunteer performers, stunning costumes, classical music by Johann Strauss II, a prelude stroll, lawn seating under the evening skies, and food and beverages available for purchase.
For more info, visit StraussFestival.com.


August

Fridays in the Grove: Silent Disco - Old Town Plaza
Put on a pair of headphones and dance to the music of your choice with a live DJ on site. 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Dive-in Movie Night - Elk Grove Aquatic Center
Make a splash this summer at Dive-in Movie Night, where the pool becomes the ultimate place to watch a popular film while you relax in the water or unwind poolside for a fun and refreshing evening with friends and family.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Sammy's Star Search & Hot Summer Nights Concerts - Laguna Town Hall
Warm summer nights come alive with this free outdoor concert series featuring live music, community performances from Sammy’s Star Search, and family-friendly fun as local talent of all ages takes the stage in partnership with the City of Elk Grove.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.


September

Sangria Showdown - 32 Brews Street at Sky River Casino
The annual Sangria Showdown is a friendly competition amongst Elk Grove’s wineries, bars, and restaurants as they create the most exquisite, tasty sangria recipe for event guests. 
For more info, visit ExploreElkGrove.com/Events/Annual-Events/
Sangria-Showdown.

Healthy Kids Extravaganza - Wackford Aquatic Complex
Learn fun ways to make healthy changes in your lifestyle. Events include arts, craft, fitness challenges, and interactive demonstrations.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Uncorked & Uncapped - Old Town Plaza
The annual Elk Grove Uncorked and Uncapped unites wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, giving an evening filled with the delightful experience of tasting the finest and latest drinks from nearby breweries and wineries. 
For more info, visit CorksandCaps.org.


October

Elk Grove GIANT Pumpkin Festival - Elk Grove Park
This festival attracts an estimated 65,000 guests each year and has the Elk Grove World Pumpkin Eating Championship, a pumpkin derby, pumpkin recipe contest, scarecrow-making contest, kids’ zone, an art walk, crafts, live entertainment, and a race across the lake between giant pumpkin boats!
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Family at the Farmtable - McConnell Estates Winery
Enjoy a five-course dinner prepared by acclaimed chefs with the winemaker’s family while seated within the sprawling estate’s vineyard. Tickets required. 
For more info, visit McconnellEstates.com.

Halloween Costume Party at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery
This festive celebration, held the Saturday before Halloween, includes live music, food trucks, and a costume contest for all ages. 
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.

Creative Space Market: Matcha vs Ube - Old Town Plaza
Pick a side and indulge at this playful market celebrating all things matcha and ube, featuring themed food and drink vendors, baked goods, fun activities, and unique merchandise inspired by these two beloved flavors.
For more info, visit TheCreativeSpaceSac.com.

Elk Grove Lions Day of the Dead Carnitas Festival – Elk Grove Park Pavilion
An October tradition for more than 10 years, this beloved community festival features the original and best carnitas in Elk Grove, prepared by the Elk Grove Lions Club, along with great food and plenty of fun for all.
For more info, visit ElkGroveLionsFoundation.org/Fundraisers.

Rock ’N Ribs at the Ranch! – Lent Ranch
This annual October fundraiser brings friends and neighbors together for a lively evening of great food and entertainment in support of Teen Center USA
For more info, visit TeenCenterofElkGrove.org.

Family at the Farmtable - McConnell Estates Winery 
Enjoy a five-course dinner prepared by acclaimed chefs with the winemaker’s family while seated within the sprawling estate’s vineyard. Tickets required.
For more info, visit McconnellEstates.com.

Pool of Pumpkins - Wackford Aquatic Complex
Pick a pumpkin and jump in as Adventure Bay is turned into a floating pumpkin patch. Don’t forget your camera with all the fun carnival games and decorating stations for your pumpkin. 
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Dia De Los Miles 5K, Fun Run & Mercado - District56
Celebrate Hispanic heritage with 4th annual Dia de los Miles 5K and kids’ fun runs. The course is packed with fun for everyone. Strollers and well-behaved dogs are welcome to join.
For more info, visit DiaDeLosmiles.com.

Hallo-Palooza & Trunk or Treat - District56
Get your little ones dressed up in their costumes and enjoy an evening of Halloween-themed family fun. 
For more info, visit ExploreElkGrove.com.


November

Veterans Day Parade - Elk Grove-Florin Road
Join the tradition of honoring those who have selflessly served our nation during Elk Grove’s annual Veterans Day parade. Thank you, Veterans, for your service and welcome home! 
For more info, visit ElkGrovePost233.com.

Elk Grove Gobble Wobble  5K, 10K, & Kids’ Fun Run - Longleaf Drive
Start your Thanksgiving with a family-friendly race benefitting Chicks in Crisis. 
For more info, visit ChicksinCrisis.org.

Dickens Street Faire - Old Town Elk Grove
Stroll through Old Town and explore local shops while enjoying holiday music, craft and vendor booths, and delicious food from local vendors. Make sure to stick around until the evening when Santa flips the switch to light the Old Town Christmas tree. 
For more info, visit DickensStreetFaire.com.

Sip & Stroll - McConnell Estates Winery
Sip McConnell Estates’ 100% locally crafted wines while enjoying a holiday marketplace with plenty of local vendors over several weekends in both November and December. It’s a great place to purchase your holiday gifts! 
For more info, visit McconnellEstates.com.

Black Friday at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery
Sip while you shop at this post-Thanksgiving event featuring case wine specials, live music, local vendor booths, and food trucks. 
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.


December

Breakfast with Santa & Friends -  Laguna Town Hall
Celebrate the season at this festive community breakfast where families visit with Santa and his friends, Sammy the Duck and Peter Pumpkin, while supporting the Pride of Laguna Creek Lions’ annual fundraiser.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov/384/Special-Events.

Old Fashioned Christmas - Elk Grove Historical Society 
Experience an old-fashioned Christmas at the Elk Grove House and Stage Stop, where all nine rooms are decked out with Victorian-themed holiday decor. Kids will enjoy decorating cookies and visiting Santa. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveHistoricalSociety.com.

Light Up Elk Grove - Old Town Plaza
Hosted by Chabad of Elk Grove, this free community celebration features live entertainment, food vendors and trucks, and a meaningful menorah lighting to close out the evening.
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Illumination Holiday Festival - District56
The Illumination Festival promises an evening of free, family-friendly fun. Explore global holiday traditions, shop for gifts, and witness the grand tree lighting ceremony that ushers in the official start of the holiday season. 
For more info, visit ElkGrove.gov.

Holiday of Lights Parade - District56
Celebrate the Parade of Lights with the Elk Grove Lions Club as a part of Elk Grove’s Illumination Holiday Festival. Cap off the night with a photo in front of the City’s Ribbon Tree, lit immediately following the end of the Holiday of Lights Parade. 
For more info, visit ElkGroveLionsFoundation.org.

Santa and Sirens Parade - Various Neighborhoods
Santa and his elves team up with the Cosumnes Fire Department and the Elk Grove Police Department to spread holiday cheer as a festive convoy of emergency vehicles, firefighters, police officers, and volunteers escorts Santa through neighborhood streets around town.
For more info, visit CosumnesCSD.gov.

Elk Grove Lions Club Annual Crab Feed - SES Hall
Enjoy a classic crab feed and shrimp dinner fundraiser supporting the Elk Grove Lions Club
For more info, visit ElkGroveLionsFoundation.org.

Santa Claus at the Winery - Miner’s Leap Winery
Held on the second Saturday of December, this family-friendly event includes cookie decorating, hot cocoa, live music, and a special appearance by Santa himself. 
For more info, visit MinersLeap.com.