Nevada City’s Victorian Christmas event is officially coming back for the 2026 holiday season, marking its 48th annual celebration that turns the tiny Gold Rush town into a living Christmas card.
The free, old-timey street fair runs on just five select days in December: Sundays, December 6, 13, and 20; and Wednesdays, December 9 and 16.
If you’re planning a holiday excursion from the Bay Area, here’s what to expect.
Gas lamps, carolers, and roasted chestnuts
The annual tradition is nearly fifty years in the making, with an impressive lineup of activities and entertainment against a backdrop of historic Gold Rush-era buildings.
Streets are adorned with real gas lamps, glowing decorative lights, fresh cedar garlands, and vintage decor. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Victorian attire to fit right in with live street performers, roaming carolers, Father Christmas, and even a walking Christmas tree.
More than 100 vendors and market stalls offer unique holiday gifts, crafts, and treats, in addition to the area’s existing local boutiques and restaurants. Bustling booths serve hot mulled wine, buttered rum, apple toddies, and even free hot roasted chestnuts.
Nevada City Victorian Christmas 2026 at a glance
📍 Location: Downtown Nevada City, centered on Broad St., Nevada City, CA 95959. The drive from San Francisco takes about 3 hours.
📅 Dates: Sundays, Dec. 6, 13 and 20, and Wednesdays, Dec. 9 and 16, 2026.
⏰ Hours: Sundays 1:30–6 p.m. and Wednesdays 5–9 p.m.
🎟️ Tickets: Admission is free
🅿️ Parking: Downtown parking is extremely limited, but shuttles are available from Bodhi Hive and Eric Rood Government Center
🌐 Website: Nevada City Chamber of Commerce