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Tag: Downtown Colfax Events

International guitarist Richard Smith performing live on stage with acoustic guitar

Celebrating Colfax Arts Month with Richard Smith at the Historic Colfax Theatre

A Night of World-Class Music for a Meaningful Cause

As part of Colfax Arts Month, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) is proud to highlight a very special event happening right in the heart of our city—inside the beautifully restored Historic Colfax Theatre. Don’t miss the Colfax Arts Month Richard Smith Concert, an event sure to impress.

“An Evening with Richard Smith”, a benefit concert presented by Care Sphere, brings internationally renowned guitar virtuoso Richard Smith to our Main Street stage for an unforgettable night of music, wine, and community. While this event is being organized by Care Sphere, HCDA is honored to be a major contributor and proud supporter of this effort—an inspiring example of what happens when local nonprofits, artists, and community leaders come together to uplift both the arts and those in need.

Bringing vibrant, high-quality events to downtown Colfax is one of our core initiatives, and we are especially grateful to Jason and the Care Sphere team for choosing our historic theater as the setting for this incredible evening. Their mission to support autism caregivers is one we deeply admire, and we are thrilled to see their passion and purpose come to life on Main Street.

🎸 An Evening with Richard Smith

A Fundraising Event for Autism Caregivers
Presented by Care Sphere

📍 Location: Colfax Historic Theatre– 49 S. Main Street, Colfax, CA
📅 Date: 4/26/25
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Wine Tasting, Hors d’Oeuvres, and Silent Auction
7:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Live Performance by Richard Smith

🎟 Tickets:

  • $75 per person
  • Only 120 tickets available
  • Open seating – arrive early for the best spots 🎫 Get your tickets here

🎶 Spotlight on Richard Smith

Few guitarists in the world possess the extraordinary range, technique, and musicality of Richard Smith. Richard began playing guitar at just five years old. By eleven, he had already performed on stage with Chet Atkins, the legendary country guitarist who would later call Richard “the most amazing guy I know on the guitar.”

Smith is the 2001 National Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and a world-touring virtuoso known for blending classical, jazz, country, pop, gypsy, and ragtime styles seamlessly in a single performance. His unique ability to sound like an entire band—playing rhythm, melody, and bass simultaneously—has captivated audiences across the globe.

He has shared the stage with iconic musicians such as:

  • Tommy Emmanuel
  • Les Paul
  • Suzy Bogguss
  • John Jorgenson
  • Martin Taylor

Richard Smith’s live shows are a masterclass in musical brilliance and storytelling, equally touching, funny, and jaw-droppingly impressive.

“He can play anything I know—only better.” – Chet Atkins
“If you like my playing, you should hear Richard Smith.” – Tommy Emmanuel

This performance at the Colfax Theater offers a rare opportunity to see a guitarist of this caliber up close in a beautifully restored venue.

💙 About CareSphere: Supporting the Unsung Heroes

CareSphere, based right here on Main Street in Colfax, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for severely developmentally disabled adults by providing comprehensive support to their caregivers and support networks.

Their mission is rooted in compassion and connection—acknowledging that those who provide care often do so under enormous stress, with limited resources, and little recognition. Care Sphere works to fill that gap.

Their cornerstone programs include:

  • The GiveABreak™ Program – providing critical respite care and relief for caregivers.
  • Targeted funding for caregiver essentials, training, and tools.
  • Guidance and access to specialized products to support complex care needs.
  • Emotional support and community building for care providers under ongoing pressure.

By investing in those who care for our most vulnerable, Care Sphere improves lives from the ground up—ensuring the caregivers are not forgotten and those they support receive better, more sustainable care.

🍷 What to Expect

This evening is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the arts, all within the historic heart of Colfax.

🍷 Wine Tasting
Enjoy a specially curated wine tasting from Montoliva Vineyard & Winery, a local favorite known for crafting rare Southern Italian varietals in the Sierra Foothills

🍽 Hors d’Oeuvres
Savor a variety of small bites and appetizers from The Wrecking Crew and Bakery.

🎁 Silent Auction
Place your bids on exclusive items from local artisans and businesses through a fully digital silent auction on Zeffy—easy, accessible, and for a great cause.

🎭 The Historic Colfax Theatre

Originally built in 1939, the Colfax Theatre is one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. Following a fire that destroyed the previous theater, the current art deco building rose in its place and has been lovingly restored in recent decades. Its classic Streamline Moderne architecture, warm acoustics, and cozy atmosphere make it an ideal venue for music, storytelling, and cultural events.

Bringing world-class performances like this one to the Colfax Theater is a key part of the Historic Colfax Downtown Association’s mission to revitalize Main Street and create a thriving arts and culture scene in our town.

✨ A Heartfelt Thanks to Jason and the CareSphere Team

We want to sincerely thank Jason, the driving force behind this event and founder of CareSphere. His vision for caregiver support is deeply needed, and his choice to invest that vision in downtown Colfax makes a meaningful impact not only on local families but on our entire community’s cultural life.

🎫 Get Your Tickets Now >>
Tickets are limited and moving fast. Be part of something truly special—support local caregivers, experience a once-in-a-lifetime performance, and celebrate what makes Colfax such a beautiful place to call home.
💬 Share the word. Invite a friend. Join us downtown.

Let the music play. Let the arts rise. Let Colfax shine.

As we celebrate Arts, Culture & Creativity Month, a statewide initiative led by the California Arts Council and supported locally by the Placer County Arts Council, events like “An Evening with Richard Smith” embody the spirit of this movement—bringing world-class art to rural communities, activating historic spaces, and supporting important local causes. Here in Colfax, we launched Colfax Arts Month to stand alongside and amplify these efforts, aligning with the statewide initiative to spotlight the transformative power of the arts and their role in shaping our identity, preserving our history, and strengthening our future.

At the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, we are committed to supporting and promoting artistic experiences that elevate our town and honor the cultural legacy of places like the Historic Colfax Theatre. We are proud to be a contributing partner in this event and in the broader effort to keep the arts alive in Colfax. Together—with local leaders, artists, nonprofits, and residents—we are creating a thriving, creative future for our community, one event at a time.

🎨 Celebrate Colfax Arts Month – A Creative Journey Through April!

In April we are celebrating Colfax Arts Month, and we’re proud to announce that this celebration is part of a broader initiative led by the Placer County Arts Council and the California Arts Council.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is honored to be part of this statewide movement. We’re incredibly proud of the work being done right here in Colfax to uplift local artists, support cultural experiences, and breathe new life into our historic downtown.

👇 Here’s what’s happening in Historic Downtown Colfax:

🖼️ Art Night at Snapdragon Provisions
📅 Friday, April 4 | 6:30–8:30 PM
📍 38 N Main St, Colfax
Celebrate the vibrant creative community of Colfax with artist showcases, a build-your-own flower bar, mocktails, multiple musical performances and plated desserts. A cozy and inspiring night to connect, collaborate, and uplift the arts!
Learn More about this event >>

🎨 Paint & Brunch at The Wrecking Crew Bakery
📅
Sunday, April 13 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
📍 30 N Main Street, Downtown Colfax
Start your Sunday with creativity! Enjoy a step-by-step painting session (no experience required), delicious brunch bites, and coffee in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
💰 Tickets: $35 (includes painting supplies)
Learn More about this event and get tickets >>

🎓 Colfax High School Student Art Showcase & Congressional Art Competition
The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is proud to partner with Congressman Kevin Kiley to uplift young artists in our community. Together, we’re offering two exciting opportunities for Colfax High School students to shine through their artwork:

🎨 Local Colfax High School Art Showcase – Presented by HCDA
✅ All student submissions will be displayed in downtown storefront windows
✅ Art will be featured throughout April as part of Arts Month
✅ A local winner will be selected by a panel of artists and community leaders
Reception and Winner Announcement: April 19th, 2025

🏛 2025 Congressional Art Competition – Hosted by Congressman Kevin Kiley
✅ One winning piece from our district will hang in the U.S. Capitol for a full year
✅ 2nd & 3rd place entries will be displayed in Congressman Kiley’s local offices
✅ All participants will receive official Congressional Honors
📬 Submission Deadline: April 25, 2025

🖌️ Who Can Enter:
Open to all current Colfax High School students in grades 9–12. Artwork must be original, two-dimensional, and follow accepted mediums.

📅 Entry Deadline for Local Showcase: Monday, April 14, 2025
Learn more about this contest >>

🎸 An Evening with Richard Smith – Live Performance & Fundraiser
📅 Saturday, April 26 | 5:00–9:30 PM
📍 Colfax Theatre, 49 S. Main St.
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of world class music, wine, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction—benefiting Care Sphere’s mission to support families affected by autism.
💰 Tickets: $75 – No service fees, limited seating!
Learn more about this event >>

Colfax is celebrating the Arts in April – it’s a movement to uplift creativity, foster community connection, and showcase the incredible talent rooted in our historic Sierra Foothills town. From interactive art nights and brunch painting sessions to student showcases and live performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Proudly supported by the Placer County Arts Council, California Arts Council, and Congressman Kevin Kiley, this initiative highlights Colfax as a growing hub for arts and culture in Northern California. Join us downtown this April and experience the magic of Colfax Arts Month for yourself.

Downtown Colfax CA during an arts and culture event with local artists and community members gathered.

Colfax Art Month: 5 Reasons Not to Miss Art Night at Snapdragon Provisions


Welcome to the creative heart of California’s Sierra Foothills — where historic charm meets artistic passion, and spring brings more than wildflowers. This April, Colfax proudly takes part in the statewide Arts Month initiative led by the Placer County Arts Council and the California Arts Council, celebrating the power of creativity in communities just like ours. As part of this cultural movement, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association is thrilled to support one of the season’s most inspiring events: Art Night at Snapdragon Provisions.

Happening on Friday, April 4th, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the ever-inviting Snapdragon Provisions, this special evening goes beyond a traditional art show. It’s a cozy, colorful gathering designed to uplift local artists, spark connection, and spotlight Colfax’s growing recognition as a vibrant arts destination.

Whether you’re a passionate creator, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who loves supporting local culture, this is your invitation to experience the joy, depth, and creativity of Colfax Art Month firsthand.

A Local Art Showcase Like No Other

Colfax and the Sierra Foothills are brimming with hidden gems — artists whose work pulses with passion, personality, and purpose. At Art Night, you’ll discover painters, illustrators, mixed-media mavens, and handcrafted makers who bring authenticity to every piece they display.

What makes this different from a typical exhibit? The intimacy. The casual, welcoming historic atmosphere strips away the pretension sometimes found in galleries. Here, you can chat directly with creators, hear the stories behind their work, and maybe even walk away with a new piece that speaks to your soul.

The Interactive Flower Bar: Bloom Your Own Beauty

Here’s a delightful twist: in the middle of all the visual art, you get to make some of your own. Enter the Interactive Flower Bar — a whimsical station provided by Bloomin’ Mountain Flowers, located right inside Snapdragon Provisions. Guests can handpick fresh, seasonal stems and design their own custom floral bundle.

It’s sensory, meditative, and yes, highly Instagrammable. Whether you’re crafting a bouquet for yourself, a friend, or a little Friday-night joy, this flower bar is a blooming good time and a perfect way to add a hands-on creative touch to your Art Night experience.

Crafted Mocktails That Stir the Soul

Don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtfully crafted drink. While Art Night is alcohol-free, it certainly doesn’t lack flair. Expect a menu of crafted mocktails — artfully mixed to match the mood, colors, and themes of the night.

These aren’t your basic lemonades. Think botanical infusions, refreshing herbs, and sparkling surprises that elevate your sip into a whole experience. It’s yet another layer of creativity woven into the evening.

Sweet Bites for a Sweet Night

Let’s be real — no art event is complete without dessert. At Art Night, expect beautifully plated sweets that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Each dessert is crafted to be a tiny work of edible art — perfect for pairing with your mocktail and lingering conversation.

Whether you’re a dessert connoisseur or just there for the vibes, these sweet bites will leave you smiling.

A Community-Centered Celebration of Colfax Art Month

Perhaps the most beautiful aspect of Art Night is its purpose. This isn’t just an event; it’s a movement to connect local creatives, celebrate the culture of the Sierra Foothills, and bring neighbors together through shared inspiration.

Born from the heart of Bloomin’ Mountain Flowers and Snapdragon Provisions, the event is meant to spark relationships and encourage collaboration. It’s grassroots in the best way — organic, genuine, and growing stronger with each new gathering.

Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or someone who’s just art-curious, you’re invited.

Colfax Art Month

Art Night at Snapdragon Provisions beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Colfax Art Month — a vibrant, community-centered celebration that highlights the creativity blooming throughout our foothill town. As the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, we are proud to support this event and contribute to the growing recognition of Colfax as a hub for the arts. This evening is part of a broader effort, aligned with both the Placer County Arts Council and the California Arts Council’s statewide Arts Month initiative — a movement dedicated to uplifting the arts in every corner of California. From our converted cafés to our scenic streets and heartfelt gatherings, Colfax is proving that great art doesn’t just live in museums — it lives in our people, our places, and our shared passion for creativity.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) invites you to our next community meeting

The Future of Historic Colfax: Join Us for Exciting Community Updates on March 27!

Colfax, CA is a town rich in history, community spirit, and opportunity. As we move forward with revitalization efforts, arts initiatives, and historic preservation projects, there has never been a better time to get involved with the Historic Colfax Downtown Association in shaping the future of our beloved downtown.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) invites you to our next community meeting on Wednesday, March 27, at 6:00 PM at the Sierra Vista Community Center. This gathering will provide exciting updates on downtown growth, upcoming events, and opportunities for residents and businesses to get involved.

Why This Meeting Matters

Colfax is at a turning point. With new businesses coming in, preservation projects gaining momentum, and arts and culture initiatives expanding, we need your voice and participation to make these plans a reality.

Whether you’re a business owner, property owner, artist, history enthusiast, or community advocate, your input is essential as we:

✅ Work toward recognizing Colfax as a National Historic District, opening doors to grant funding and tax incentives.
✅ Expand public events and cultural programming to attract visitors and enrich local life.
✅ Enhance economic development opportunities for businesses and property owners.
✅ Strengthen community partnerships to ensure Colfax thrives as a destination, not just a stop on the map.


Meeting Highlights: What’s Ahead for Colfax?

🎭 Arts & Culture: Bringing More Live Events to Colfax

Live music, murals, and cultural experiences are essential to revitalizing a small town.

Our new Arts & Culture Committee is working on:
🎨 Mural projects to beautify downtown and celebrate our history.
🎶 Live music events that bring people together and create a vibrant downtown.
🎭 Theater and performance opportunities that highlight local talent.

📢 Want to get involved in our arts initiatives? Attend the meeting to sign up for the committee!


🏛️ Historic Preservation: Why It’s Time to Get Colfax Nationally Recognized

Colfax  ca Downtown Revitalization Meeting - March 27 at Sierra Vista Community Center

Colfax’s historic buildings tell a story of Gold Rush resilience, railroad innovation, and small-town charm. However, only 17 buildings in Colfax are currently registered as historic sites.

We are working with historic preservation experts to:
📜 Expand Colfax’s recognition as a National Historic District, similar to Auburn and Grass Valley.
🏗️ Help building owners access grants and tax incentives for restoration projects.
💰 Encourage investors and businesses to revitalize historic properties without losing their charm.

Did you know? Buildings within a recognized historic district may qualify for:
✔️ Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits (20% back on qualified renovations)
✔️ California State Historic Tax Credits (20% back, residential & commercial eligible)
✔️ Mills Act Property Tax Reduction (if a local program is established)

We will be discussing the process of historic district nomination and what it means for property owners, businesses, and the entire Colfax community.Register for our upcoming Preservation Workshop!


🚪 Doors Open California: A Major Tourism Opportunity for Colfax

Doors Open California is a statewide event celebrating historic sites by offering the public exclusive access to places that are normally closed.

📍 Colfax has been invited to participate!

This event, hosted by the California Preservation Foundation, is expected to bring hundreds of visitors to our town in September. Participating cities benefit from:

🚶 Walking tours & open-door access to historic sites
📰 Statewide marketing & tourism promotion
🏛️ A chance to highlight Colfax’s unique history & preservation efforts

Join us at the meeting to help shape this incredible opportunity for Colfax!


🚂 Railroad Heritage Park: Updates & Progress

The Colfax Railroad Heritage Park is a long-anticipated project that will create a heritage site dedicated to our railroad history. This initiative will not only preserve Colfax’s identity but also serve as a tourism attraction that brings visitors downtown.

At the meeting, we’ll hear from project organizers about:
✔️ Next steps for development
✔️ How the community can support the effort
✔️ What this means for downtown businesses & tourism


🌱 Community Garden Grant: Farm-to-Fork Dinner Coming to Colfax!

We’re thrilled to announce that the Sierra Vista Community Center’s Community Garden has been awarded a $500 grant for the City of Colfax to support their Farm-to-Fork Dinner in July!

🍽️ This event will showcase locally grown produce, sustainable food practices, and community-driven agriculture. It’s a great example of how local efforts are gaining support and funding to enrich life in Colfax.

📢 Want to get involved? Attend the meeting to learn how to support or participate!


🏢 Downtown Business News: The Old Scoops Building Has Sold!

Big changes are coming to Main Street! The old Scoops building has been sold to an investment group that is actively looking for a new tenant.

📈 We hope to see a thriving business take its place, bringing new energy to downtown. If you have ideas or connections, this is a great time to get involved!


📢 Leadership Opportunities – Join the HCDA Board!

We are seeking new board members who are passionate about shaping the future of Colfax. If you’re interested in:
✔️ Helping drive revitalization projects
✔️ Connecting with city officials & businesses
✔️ Bringing events & funding to Colfax

📢 Attend the meeting or reach out to us directly to learn how you can be part of the leadership team!


📅 Meeting Details

📍 Location: Sierra Vista Community Center, Colfax, CA
🗓️ Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
REGISTER NOW!


Join Us & Be Part of Colfax’s Future!

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is committed to revitalizing our town, preserving its history, and making it a place where people want to visit, invest, and live.

💬 RSVP by Registering online!
📩 Have questions or want to get involved before the meeting? Let’s connect!

Colfax Connections: Celebrating Our Feature & Community Growth

Honoring Community Collaboration: HCDA & Colfax Chamber of Commerce

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) is thrilled and deeply honored to be featured this month in Colfax Connections produced by the City of Colfax! We are incredibly grateful to the Colfax Chamber of Commerce for highlighting our efforts in fostering a thriving, historic downtown. Their unwavering commitment to supporting businesses from Meadow Vista to Alta is something we fully support and admire. This collaboration between organizations is what makes our small-town community strong, resilient, and vibrant.

HCDA is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing Downtown Colfax—a place rich in history, charm, and potential. Our work aligns closely with the Chamber’s mission to help local businesses and entrepreneurs thrive, and we are proud to be part of this shared vision.

Stronger Together: Supporting Local Businesses

We recognize the hard work of the Colfax Chamber of Commerce in advocating for local businesses, providing resources, and fostering networking opportunities. From retail shops to restaurants, every small business contributes to the charm and economic health of Colfax. As HCDA, we stand in full support of these efforts.

Just as the Chamber extends its support beyond Colfax to communities in Meadow Vista and Alta, we also believe in strengthening the ties that connect all of our neighboring towns. A thriving business district benefits everyone, and we encourage residents to shop local, eat local, and support the businesses that make our community unique.

Community Engagement: Your Voice Matters!

Building a stronger Colfax isn’t a one-person job—it takes a community. That’s why we’re inviting everyone to our next community brainstorming event on February 27th at 6 PM at the Sierra Vista Community Center. This is an opportunity for residents, business owners, and anyone passionate about Colfax to come together and shape the future of our historic downtown.

Topics of Discussion for the 2/27 Meeting

  • Promoting the Arts Month in April – We will discuss ways to expand arts-focused initiatives in Downtown Colfax.
  • Murals Project Initiative – Looking for creative minds to help beautify our town with new public art projects.
  • Ongoing Event Planning & Promotion – We need your ideas to help create and support community-centered events throughout the year.

📌 Why Attend? ✔️ Share your creative ideas to help shape Colfax
✔️ Collaborate on events that celebrate local talent
✔️ Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about arts, history, and community growth

Let us know you are coming and register for the event!

Get Involved: The Future of Colfax Starts With You

If you care about Colfax and want to see it flourish, we need your input! Whether you’re an artist, a business owner, a historian, or simply a passionate resident, your voice matters. The best ideas come from those who live, work, and play here.

Mark your calendars and join us for an evening of meaningful discussion and action at Sierra Vista Community Center on February 27th at 6 PM. Let’s build a better, more vibrant Colfax together!

Register for the event!

In closing, we want to extend our deepest appreciation to the Colfax Chamber of Commerce for their unwavering support and dedication to fostering a thriving business community. Their commitment to uplifting local businesses, connecting residents, and strengthening the economic vitality of Colfax and its neighboring areas is truly inspiring. Collaboration is at the heart of growth, and we are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a passionate organization. Together, we are not only preserving the rich history of Colfax, CA but also paving the way for a vibrant, connected, and prosperous future. We look forward to continuing this partnership, building new opportunities, and celebrating the incredible spirit of our town.

Festive celebrations at Colfax Winterfest 2024 with Santa, parade, and fireworks in Historic Downtown Colfax

Historic Downtown Colfax: Ready to Welcome Thousands for Winterfest 2024

🎄 Historic Downtown Colfax is thrilled to host Colfax Winterfest 2024 this Saturday, December 14, 2024! Mark your calendars, grab your loved ones, and join us for a full day of holiday joy and festive fun. From enchanting family activities to the evening’s dazzling fireworks display, this event has something for everyone! Thanks to funds generated by the City and entrusted to the Colfax Chamber of Commerce, the fireworks show will cap off the day with a breathtaking spectacle.

We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to local organizations like the Colfax Lions Club, the Sacramento Valley Garden Railroad Society, and the dedicated Colfax Bunco Babes, whose efforts help make Winterfest unforgettable.

Here’s what’s in store for this magical holiday event:

✅Shopping, Dining, and Holiday Fun starts at Noon
Starting at Noon explore craft vendors, grab a bite from local restaurants or food trucks, and pick up unique gifts for everyone on your list. It’s the perfect chance to shop small and support the community!

✅ Pictures with Santa 📸
When: 12:00 PM – 5:15 PM
Where: Historic Colfax Theater
Create cherished holiday memories with Santa Claus! Jana Johnston Photography will be on-site to capture your perfect holiday photo. Bring your wish lists, smiles, and loved ones to join the festive fun! Organized by the Colfax Bunco Babes!

✅ Model Train Display in the Historic Colfax Theater 🚂
Marvel at the intricate and magical Model Train Display by the Sacramento Valley Garden Railroad Society, located alongside Santa’s workshop. Perfect for kids and adults alike!

✅ Lions Club Holiday Parade at 6:00 PM 🎉
As the sun sets, the holiday magic comes alive with the beloved Colfax CA Lions Club Holiday Parade! Festive floats, twinkling lights, holiday music, and a grand appearance by Santa himself will light up the night. Don’t miss this heartwarming community tradition!

✅ Fireworks Show After the Parade 🎆
Cap off the day with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the skies over Historic Downtown Colfax. A breathtaking end to a day filled with holiday cheer!

This event wouldn’t be possible without the collaborative efforts of our local organizations, including:

A big thank you also goes to the City of Colfax for its support in funding this year’s spectacular fireworks display.

See You at Winterfest!

Come experience the magic of Colfax Winterfest 2024 and make memories that will last a lifetime. Share this post with your friends and family, and let’s make this Saturday one to remember!

Holiday celebrations and activities in Colfax, CA.

5 Fun Things to Do This Holiday Season in Colfax, CA

In the Sierra Nevada foothills, Colfax, CA, transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season, offering charm, festivities, and community spirit. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Colfax is packed with unique activities perfect for creating lasting memories. From heartwarming parades to cozy pancake breakfasts, here are five fun things to do this holiday season in Colfax.

1. Attend Winterfest in Downtown Colfax

Winterfest is a cornerstone of the Colfax holiday season, filling the downtown area with festive lights, live music, and a jubilant atmosphere. This annual celebration features a tree-lighting ceremony, holiday markets, and fun activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy delicious food from local vendors while children immerse themselves in crafts and games.

One of the highlights of Winterfest is its sense of community. Residents and visitors alike gather to celebrate the magic of the season, making it a must-attend event. Check out Winterfest details here.

2. Watch the 6th Annual Santa Tour Parade

Nothing says holiday cheer like the Santa Tour Parade in Colfax. This annual event is a delightful display of festively decorated floats, cheerful music, and, of course, Santa himself! The streets come alive with colorful lights and holiday joy, captivating attendees of all ages.

Perfect for families, the Santa Tour Parade ensures that everyone leaves with a smile. Stake out your spot early to get the best view of the procession. To learn more about the event schedule click here.

3. Pick the Perfect Tree at Little Bear Christmas Tree Farm

Located a short drive from Colfax in Alta, CA, the Little Bear Christmas Tree Farm is a hidden gem for those seeking a classic holiday experience. Wander through rows of fresh, fragrant trees to find the one that will light up your living room this season.

The farm offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, complete with hot cocoa and friendly staff to help you with your selection. It’s an enchanting outing that sets the tone for holiday decorating. Plan your visit by checking out their offerings at Little Bear Tree Farm.

4. Shop Local in Downtown Colfax

Colfax’s downtown area is brimming with charming local shops and boutiques, perfect for holiday shopping. From handcrafted goods to unique antiques, you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures for everyone on your list.

Supporting small businesses not only adds a personal touch to your gift-giving but also strengthens the local economy. Plus, downtown Colfax’s picturesque streets, decked out in holiday decorations, make shopping an enjoyable and festive experience.

5. Enjoy Pancakes with Santa at the VFW Hall

What could be better than starting your morning with pancakes and Santa Claus? Hosted at the VFW Hall, this family-friendly event combines a delicious breakfast with the excitement of meeting Santa himself.

Children can share their holiday wish lists while parents enjoy a warm, hearty meal in a festive setting. The casual, community-focused event is a great way to kick off a day of holiday adventures in Colfax. Find our more >>

Colfax, CA, offers an array of festive activities that capture the magic of the holiday season. From the enchanting Winterfest to the wholesome tradition of cutting your Christmas tree, there’s something for everyone in this charming foothill town. Whether you’re exploring downtown shops or waving to Santa in the parade, these experiences will leave you with cherished memories and a hearty dose of holiday spirit.

AL FIRE firefighters preparing the Colfax Christmas tree in Yuba Gap forest.

The Colfax Christmas Tree: Lighting Up Winterfest Traditions

Every winter, the town of Colfax, CA transforms into a festive wonderland during its beloved Winterfest celebration. At the heart of this cherished event is the lighting of the Colfax Christmas tree, a tradition that brings families, friends, and neighbors together in a shared moment of holiday joy.

This year, the Colfax Christmas tree, selected with care by CAL FIRE and the Placer County Fire Department, takes center stage once again. From its origins in the Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit’s Demonstration Forest to its grand lighting ceremony downtown, the tree represents more than holiday décor—it’s a beacon of community, hope, and togetherness.

The Role of CAL FIRE in Preserving Tradition

Each year, CAL FIRE plays a critical role in the Christmas tree tradition. This year’s tree was sourced from the Nevada-Yuba-Placer Demonstration Forest, where CAL FIRE ensures sustainable forestry practices. Selecting the perfect tree isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also a way to highlight the importance of environmental care and stewardship.

The partnership between CAL FIRE and the community of Colfax underscores how local traditions can coexist with sustainability. Their work ensures that while holiday memories are created, the surrounding forests remain healthy for future generations.

The Winterfest Celebration and Tree Lighting

The lighting of the Colfax Christmas tree is the cornerstone of the town’s Winterfest celebration. This joyous occasion begins with festive activities such as live music, holiday markets, and visits from Santa Claus, culminating in the moment everyone eagerly awaits—the illumination of the Christmas tree.

As the countdown ends and the tree lights up the night, a wave of cheer spreads through the crowd. The lights are more than decorations; they symbolize the warmth of the holiday season and the spirit of unity that Winterfest fosters.

Why the Colfax Christmas Tree Matters

The Colfax Christmas tree represents more than just holiday cheer. Here’s why it holds a special place in the hearts of the community:

  • A Sustainable Tradition: By sourcing the tree from CAL FIRE’s demonstration forest, the event supports sustainable forestry while showcasing natural beauty.
  • Community Engagement: The lighting ceremony is a gathering point where locals connect and celebrate together.
  • Winterfest’s Centerpiece: As the focal point of Winterfest, the tree becomes a backdrop for countless holiday memories.



Behind the Scenes: Preparing the Christmas Tree

The journey of the Colfax Christmas tree begins in Yuba Gap, where CAL FIRE and the Placer County Fire Department carefully select a tree that embodies the season’s magic. Transporting and setting up the tree downtown requires precision and teamwork, ensuring that it arrives in perfect condition for the festivities.

Once in place, the tree is decorated with sparkling lights and ornaments, ready to dazzle the town. The lighting ceremony itself is a magical moment, bringing the community together in shared awe and celebration.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 14th, and join us in Colfax for the much-anticipated Winterfest celebration! Witness the magic as the Colfax Christmas tree comes to life in a dazzling display of lights and festive cheer. Bring your family, friends, and holiday spirit to downtown Colfax to enjoy an evening of community, celebration, and joy. Don’t miss this unforgettable event that will kick off your holiday season in the most heartwarming way—see you on December 14th!