One of the best and longest-standing traditions in Placerville is bringing the whole family down to the Festival of Lights on Historic Main Street the Friday after Thanksgiving (November 23 this year).

The big holiday welcoming ceremony will begin around 5:30 p.m. and end at approximately 8 p.m. There will be a street closure between the courthouse and Sacramento Street to host performers in several different locations on Main Street, including the Bell Tower and courthouse. Performers at this year’s festival will include The Placerville Gold Rush Chorus, El Dorado High School Band, Jammin’ Fitness Dance Group, and Cantare Chorale, as well as several other talented groups and individuals sharing holiday cheer.   

In addition to the entertainment, stagecoach rides will be offered from Davy “Doc” Wiser and his crew (4-6 p.m.); as well, it will be the first day of the Merchants’ Open House. The Placerville Downtown Association Holiday Committee is working to include children’s games and hot beverages for sale on the street.

Best of all, the tree lighting (across from the courthouse) will feature a countdown at 6 p.m., followed by a visit from a jolly fellow in a red suit who will set up at River City Bank from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Photos will be available (for a fee), but are not required to visit with Santa and discuss the important wish list! Western Sign Company generously donates the installation of lights on the big sequoia tree (near the courthouse) each year. Trees along the freeway – which are part of the Chamber of Commerce’s Adopt a Tree program and are donated by the El Dorado County Christmas Tree Growers Association – will be lit that night, too.

Shops and restaurants will stay open late for the festivities and the Merchants’ Open House. Parking is free in public lots, including the Center Street Garage and the Ivy House lot at Main and Cedar Ravine; please do not park in private lots that are posted.  

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For more information, visit placervilledowntown.com or call 530-672-3436.