Illustration of a family gazing at houses and trees covered in string lights on a snowy street at dusk (Imaginarium Holiday Light Festival)

Imaginarium Holiday Light Festival

Guests walk through thirteen themed worlds illuminated by more than 15 million LED lights, exploring illuminated rose gardens, infinity mirror rooms, and fantasy lands filled with storybook characters. The festival features three daily circus performances with live acrobatics included with general admission. Visitors can also skate on an outdoor ice rink and take rides at the family-friendly carnival.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Child/Senior General Admission (guests aged 3–12 and 62+): starting at $16; ages 2 and under free. Adult General Admission (guests aged 13+): starting at $21. Military General Admission: starting at $16 with Military ID. A $3 service fee applies. Three circus performances are included with admission.

Hours

Sunday–Thursday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM; Friday–Saturday: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM.

Ages

All ages (youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21+)

Accessibility

The venue is fully accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent at the box office for $15 on a first-come basis.

Pets

Pets and Emotional Support Animals are prohibited at Cal Expo.

Going?

Location

Cal Expo · 1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95815 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday-light fans of all ages

Vibe

Immersive and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets online before visiting because the event says some operating dates can sell out.
  • Bring a clear bag no larger than 12×12×2 inches, a one-gallon clear bag, or a small clutch to meet screening rules.
  • Visitors under 18 need a parent or guardian aged 21 or older; organized, ticketed group outings are exempt under the stated policy.
  • You may arrive anytime on your ticket day, and allow about two hours to explore the displays and activities.
  • For rain or unusually high winds, watch for closure emails; weather-affected tickets remain valid for another operating day.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Children aged 2 and under receive free admission.
  • Discounted admission is available for children and seniors.
  • Discounted admission is available to US military with Military ID.
  • Friday and Saturday sessions run later than Sunday–Thursday sessions.
  • An All-in-One Fun Pass offers unlimited carnival rides.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Imaginarium suitable for children, and are there age rules?

The festival is for all ages. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian aged 21 or older, with an exception for organized, ticketed group outings.

What can visitors see and do inside?

Explore illuminated themed worlds, rose gardens, mirror rooms, fantasy characters, circus performances, an outdoor ice rink, and carnival rides.

Should I buy tickets ahead, or can I buy them at the gate?

Tickets are available at the gate, but the event can sell out, so online purchase is encouraged. Guests may arrive anytime on their ticket day.

What food and drink options are available?

Outside food and beverages are not allowed except for special dietary needs. Food options range from meals to snacks and beverages.

What should I know about accessibility and bringing a wheelchair?

The venue is described as fully accessible. Wheelchairs are available to rent on a first-come basis; strollers are not rented.

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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