Holidays on the homefront

Certain clues hint toward the holiday season in Sacramento. The state Christmas Tree stands tall on the Capitol lawn waiting to be decorated. The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink opens as little kids sturdy their ice legs.

But most of all, the city is filled with many traditions that make this time of year something special: artisan markets selling unique gift ideas, the annual Santa Parade floats roll through the streets and even Bill Farmer, the Emmy-nominated voice of Disney’s Goofy, stops by to star in “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” in Old Sacramento. While home for the holidays, consider some of these events to ring in the spirit of the season.

For the culture

An artisan market that brings together culture, music, food and one-of-a-kind vendors is Sol Collective’s Global Local Mercado: Holiday Edition. Local makers sell body and health products, handmade jewelry and headwraps from Mexico and Ghana, silk-screen clothing and artwork, toys and more.

“Because it is so diverse, there is something here for everybody. The energy, the vibe is very family friendly and fun,” said programs director Dea Montelongo. “It brings together people from all different backgrounds. I like to see the community support each other, especially in a time that can be a little intense.” Every hour, new DJs will spin a mix of world music and everything from tamales, lumpia, Mediterranean and soul food have been served during past markets. Saturday, Dec. 21, 10 am-5 pm; 2574 21st St., solcollective.org.

First dates and family fun on ice

Grab a cup of piping hot chocolate and watch little ones wrapped in multiple layers of warm clothing glide across the Downtown Ice Rink. Or, better yet, get out there and skate with the best of them. From now until Jan. 20, take the family (or a first date) to enjoy some ice time with special events scheduled throughout the season such as Rock with Santa on Dec. 4 or free skate Grinch Day on Dec. 14. Admission is $6-$15, not including skate and scooter rentals. Various dates and times, 2701 K St; godowntownsac.com/events/signature-events/ice-rink.

Lights, camera, Goofy

What began a decade ago has turned into a true holiday tradition in Old Sacramento. Macy’s Theatre of Lights presents the classic poem known more commonly as “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” with a live, 20-minute theater-style performance on the balconies above K Street, with a special appearance by Jack Frost. There’s also a performance scheduled right after this year’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thanksgiving Eve at 6 p.m. Various dates and times, 1002 2nd St. and 106 K St.; oldsacramento.com.

Little Bavaria

Sacramento’s Turn Verein, a historic German club, opens its hall to the public a few times a year. One of those is for its Christkindlmarkt, modeled after the Christmas markets found in town squares throughout Germany and Austria. “We have attendees that come from hours away to attend,” said director Emily Vie. “This event is the beginning of the Christmas season for me, and I think it is for others as well. The music, foods and smells create an atmosphere that is nostalgic and festive.” Twenty-eight vendor booths will sell goods such as glazed German sweets and candied, toasted almonds and spiced Glühwein (mulled wine). And there are daily appearances by Santa Claus and the German Christkind. Saturday, Dec. 7-Sunday, Dec. 8; 3349 J St.; sacramentoturnverein.com.

Soul Santa

Founded in 1983, the Santa Parade is a hometown tradition expected to draw an estimated 20,000 people to catch a glimpse of Old St. Nick. The fun starts on 14th and N streets alongside Capitol Park and travels west to N Street toward 9th and beyond. See homemade floats followed by music from local marching bands while antique vehicles, horses and clowns highlight the moving festivities. This family-friendly event is free to the public. Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 am-12 pm; sacsantaparade.com.