Perfect Activities in the Sacramento Region for After-Dark Adventures

Late summer in Sacramento isn’t exactly known for its moderate climate. Afternoon temperatures can hit the triple digits, but locals know once the sun goes down and that Delta breeze kicks in, there’s nothing better than a summer night in Sacramento. Sure, most of us hide out in the air conditioning during the hottest part of the day, but after hours is the time to get out and have some fun! Luckily, there’s no shortage of things to do in the greater Sacramento area after dark. There are restaurants and bars, of course, and also spots to catch movies and live music.
But there are also other options for evening entertainment as well, from night markets to outdoor adventures. Following are some ideas.

Night Golf

Aug. 5, 8 p.m.
Think golf is just a daytime sport? Think again! Foothill Golf Course in Citrus Heights hosts glow-in-the-dark golf on select dates throughout the summer, the last one of the season being Aug. 5. Can’t make the date? Bradshaw Ranch Golf Course also offers 9-hole night golf, and the driving range at Haggin Oaks is open until midnight April through October.

Nite Slide

Daily through Aug. 5, 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m.
The mercury may drop once the sun sets, but that doesn’t mean the residual heat doesn’t warrant a cooldown. Golfland Sunsplash in Roseville is running its waterslides late through Aug. 5, so you can splish and splash under the stars. Shoot through a twisty tube, launch down a tube, or wind through a vortex. Or, just relax on the lazy river.

Folk on the Farm

Photo courtesy Delfino Farms

Aug. 5, 12, 26, and Sept. 2,  6–10 p.m.
An old-fashioned farm atmosphere is the vibe at this weekly gathering at Delfino Farms in Camino. Live music includes local grassroots, bluegrass and folk performers, and food trucks keep those bellies full. You can also purchase wine and cider produced onsite — all surrounded by the rolling landscape of the bucolic farm estate in Apple Hill.

Vintage Vino and Vinyl Night Market

Aug. 5 and Sept. 30, 6–9 p.m.
What’s old is new again at this vintage-inspired summer series at Lone Buffalo Vineyards in Auburn. Not only will they be pouring vintage wines, they will also have local vendors selling vintage clothing and accessories, vintage cars on display, and a DJ spinning retro tunes.

Art Mix at the Crocker

Aug. 10, 6 p.m.
The Crocker Art Museum is known for its preeminent collection of California art. But it also hosts special events, including its adults-only Art Mix series, with live performances, activities, food and drinks. Aug. 10, the theme is “Grotto,” with pirates and mermaids and gravity-defying aerial artists. The Crocker will also host a jazz night featuring American cabaret singer Paula West on Aug. 24 beginning at 7 p.m.

Auburn Cruise Night

Aug. 11 and Sept. 8, 5–9 p.m.
Classic car lovers have been descending on downtown Auburn for the past 39 years for this annual community event held on the second Friday of the month. More than 300 classic cars (built prior to 1972) roll through town, with fans admiring them from the sidelines. Vintage firetrucks, ambulances and military vehicles have also been known to make an appearance.

Wakamatsu Farm Stargazing

Aug. 12, 9–11 p.m.
Located in Placerville, Wakamatsu Farm is the original site of a historic Japanese tea and silk colony established in 1869. Today, it hosts open farm days and special events, such as a stargazing night hosted by local volunteers. Telescopes will be provided. As a bonus, Perseid meteors are expected. Wakamatsu Farm will also host an Obon Celebration/Open Farm Night on Sept. 16.

Friday Night Market at The Barn

Photo courtesy Drakes at the Barn

Aug. 18, 7 p.m.–11 p.m.
Held at the Barn in West Sacramento, this kid- and dog-friendly event features dozens of local makers in one convenient spot. There’ll be live music, food, and of course craft beer, wine and other beverages for purchase. Barnflix is another nighttime event hosted by the Barn, showing outdoor movies every other Wednesday and select Sundays through October.

Full Moon/Sunset Paddle

Aug. 28, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Sept. 29, 4:40–7:50 p.m.
There’s something magical about watching the moon rise while kayaking on the calm waters of Lake Natoma near Gold River. These guided trips let you explore the stillness as you explore the lake and its shoreline. It includes all equipment and a brief lesson on paddling techniques. You can also enjoy sunset paddling via the Sac State Aquatic Center at Lake Natoma Aug. 4 and 25, Sept. 1 and 29, and Oct. 6.

Evening Climbs at Treetop Sacramento

Sept. 1, 5:30–9:30 (depending on sunset)
Prefer the treetops to the water? Head to West Sacramento for the evening climbs offered by Treetop Sacramento. The aerial adventure course takes you across tight wires, slacklines, wobbly bridges and ziplines at varying heights in the trees.

Foodieland Night Market

Sept. 1–4 and Sept. 29–Oct. 1
Fridays 3 p.m.–10 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays 1 p.m.–10 p.m.
Hungry? This multi-cultural food bonanza at Cal Expo is sure to satisfy your craving. It features more than 175 vendors specializing in cuisine from every corner of the globe, from crepes to yakitori, boba to pupusas and everything in between. They also have retail vendors and live entertainment.

Our Street Night Market

Sept. 9, 5 p.m.–12 a.m.
Modeled after traditional night markets of Asia, Our Street Night Market is another food-focused market held along the R Street corridor in Downtown Sacramento. In addition to dozens of food vendors, the event will also feature local vendors, live art, a record swap, and a silent disco.

Girl’s Night Out

Sept. 23, 5–9 p.m.
It’s all about flower power during this popular event along historic Main Street in Placerville! This retro-themed night offers after-hours shopping, dining, food and drink specials, and in-store events hosted by local merchants. There’ll even be a hula hooping contest, fashion show, and costume contest, so dig out your grooviest bellbottoms for your chance to win.