Sacramento Gold Rush Days is Great Family Fun

Every year on Labor Day Weekend, people flock to Sacramento from all over California to attend Gold Rush Days. The historic section of Sacramento known as "Old Sacramento" is a restored old west town with a variety of shops, restaurants and museums that huddle together along wooden boardwalks. It is the perfect setting to reenact a little history that is still alive and well in the Sacramento area.

Gold Rush Days Vendors and Exhibitions

Although part of the fun of Gold Rush Days is having an excuse to walk around Old Sacramento, during this weekend visitors are treated to several special treats. Vendors in canvas tents sell all manner of old timey clothes, toys and other goods, and a tent city provides a chance to learn what life was like during the original Gold Rush days. Kids can do crafts and play old-fashioned games.

Historic reenactment groups add fun and authenticity to the event, whether by strolling about town in costume or staging shoot-outs in the streets. The Pony Express makes an appearance, and guests can visit the Ethnic Village to learn about the different peoples who lived in the area during the Gold Rush and how they lived. Even the streets are covered with dirt to turn back the clock to the way things were over 150 years ago.

While at Gold Rush Days, visitors might take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage to tour the town, take a gold panning lesson or relax at the stage to listen to old timey music. They might even happen across a street musician playing a hurdy gurdy!

Gold Rush Days Visitor Information

Gold Rush Days runs from Friday through Monday on Labor Day weekend and admission is free. Most of the events are outside, so it is a good idea to bring water, sunscreen and hats. Period dress is encouraged but not required, but keep in mind that Sacramento is quite hot at this time of year so dress accordingly.

To get to Old Sacramento and Gold Rush Days, take I-5 toward Sacramento. Get off at the J Street exit toward Downtown and turn right on J. Turn Left onto 5TH Street, then left onto I Street. There is a parking garage on I Street right next to the Old Sacramento district, as well as at the corner of Front Street and Neasham Circle. If you get reservations early enough, the Embassy Suites is right on the edge of Old Sacramento and guests can walk to Gold Rush Days events.

Sacramento Gold Rush Days is a fun family event that should not be missed!