Colfax Winterfest 2025: A Free Holiday Celebration in Historic Downtown Colfax
When: Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Historic Downtown Colfax, California
Admission: FREE
Mark your calendars for Colfax Winterfest 2025, the beloved annual holiday celebration returning to Historic Downtown Colfax, California on the second Saturday in December. This free, family-friendly event transforms our charming Gold Rush-era downtown into a winter wonderland filled with Santa, a dazzling light parade, live entertainment, local vendors, and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Hosted by the City of Colfax, Winterfest has become a treasured tradition for families throughout Placer County and the Sierra Foothills. Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting our historic railroad town for the first time, Colfax Winterfest offers something magical for everyone.
Colfax Winterfest 2025 Schedule of Events
2:00 PM – 5:30 PM — Free Photos with Santa at the Historic Colfax Theater (photography by Jana Johnson Photography)
2:00 PM – 8:00 PM — Craft and food vendors throughout downtown, plus a beer garden for adults
5:00 PM — Christmas Carols at Roy Tom Plaza, presented by the Colfax Ministerial Association
6:00 PM — Annual Light Parade through Historic Downtown Colfax
7:30 PM — Fireworks Grand Finale
Free Photos with Santa at the Historic Colfax Theater
One of Winterfest’s most popular attractions is free photos with Santa, held inside the beautifully restored Historic Colfax Theater. Professional photographer Jana Johnson captures the magic as children and families visit with Santa Claus from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. This cherished tradition gives families professional-quality holiday photos at no cost—a perfect keepsake of your Colfax Winterfest experience. This activity is generously supported by sponsors including the Colfax Bunco Babes.
Christmas Carols and Live Entertainment
At 5:00 PM, gather at Roy Tom Plaza for heartwarming Christmas carols led by the Colfax Ministerial Association, with participation from Colfax Baptist Church and other local congregations. Carolers and bands perform throughout the evening, filling downtown with the sounds of the season.
Light Parade and Fireworks
As darkness falls over the Sierra Foothills, Colfax’s annual Light Parade winds through Historic Downtown at 6:00 PM. Decorated floats, classic cars, community groups, and glittering displays create a festive procession that delights spectators of all ages. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks show at 7:30 PM—a stunning finale visible throughout downtown.
Vendors, Food, and Beer Garden
Colfax Winterfest features a curated selection of craft and food vendors offering unique gifts, handmade goods, and delicious seasonal treats. Adults can warm up at the beer garden while children enjoy the family-friendly activities throughout downtown.
Getting to Colfax Winterfest
Colfax is located in the heart of the Sierra Foothills, just 50 miles northeast of Sacramento along Interstate 80. Our historic downtown is easily accessible from Auburn, Grass Valley, Nevada City, and the greater Sacramento area. Free street parking is available throughout town, with additional parking near the downtown core.
About Colfax, California
Nestled at 2,400 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Colfax is a historic railroad town with roots stretching back to the Gold Rush era. Known for its well-preserved downtown, community spirit, and stunning mountain setting, Colfax offers visitors a glimpse of authentic small-town California. Winterfest showcases the best of our community—neighbors coming together to celebrate the holiday season in the place we proudly call home.
Stay Connected
For updates on Colfax Winterfest 2025 and other downtown events, make sure to sign up for the Historic Colfax Downtown Association Newsletter!