2007 Non Traditional Holiday Events for Sacramento, California

Sacramento, California loves to go all out when it comes to the holiday season. There are several events that break out of the traditional gift box when it comes to experiencing the season of giving and all the joy that comes with it. Here is a list of the not-so-normal activities you and your family can participate in if you are in Sacramento during the holiday season.

1. A Polar Express Train Ride! Just like the movie, the Polar Express is a specially designed train ride that takes you through the North Pole. You can enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and listen to the story being told. Each ride is an hour long and you get complimentary access to the train museum after the trip!

This ride takes place in the Old Sacramento State Historic Park (downtown off of "I" Street) which you can access through local public transportation or even Amtrak. Tickets are $24 for adults, $16 for children. It is recommended you get them ahead of time and schedule your ride! The Polar Express will ride Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays four times a day from November 30 through December 16. If you have any further questions, feel free to call.

2. Come See A Boat Parade! The Capitol City Yacht Club gets all dazzled up and hosts a boat parade once a year. This year it will be on December 1^st at 6:30pm. The cost is free, which is a pretty good price to see a lot of big yachts decorated with Christmas lights from stern to bow. Take a look here to see an example. Your best view is along the waterfront, and boats will be judged for creativity.

3. Watch A Pony Express Christmas Card Delivery! The Gold Rush History Center gives visitors an insight into the life and times during the California Gold Rush. Part of those times was the Pony Express, a mail delivery that was done by horseback. On the 8^th of December, the National Pony Express Association will deliver greeting cards with authentic "Pony Express" stamps on them and head for Folsom, California for delivery. They leave at 10:00 am, and the event is free!

4. Mix Winter, Wine, Surf and Sand! If you're a surfer and you love the holidays but not the cold, the California Christmas Party is for you. For $15 per person, you can participate in a wine tasting dressed in your favorite combination of surf and holiday décor. Santa will be there with his sunglasses and surf shorts. The party takes place on December 13^th from 5pm to 8pm. Go to the discovercal.com website for more details. Hang Ten, dude!