If you love food — not just eating it, but understanding where it comes from and who makes it — you’ll want to mark your calendar for Terra Madre Americas, coming to Sacramento September 26–28.

When Slow Food announced in May 2025 that their flagship Terra Madre Salone del Gusto would land in the U.S.—the first satellite edition ever—it turned heads. The host city? Sacramento, California—America’s self-declared “Farm‑to‑Fork Capital.” Slow Food’s international director Paolo Di Croce said the city’s multicultural food scene—with over 120 nationalities represented—is what made it feel like “California is the world” in miniature.

Sacramento is proud to host Terra Madre Americas — a celebration of sustainable food, culture, and community! Taste, learn, and connect with changemakers shaping the future of food.
September 26-28, 2025
Downtown Sacramento | Don’t miss it!https://t.co/Jk2RQt2rPD… pic.twitter.com/g6wwr5lrrD

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) September 4, 2025

So why Sacramento? Visit Sacramento President & CEO Mike Testa explained: the region’s agricultural heritage, booming culinary reputation, and award-winning restaurants convinced Slow Food it was the perfect partner to merge their global festival with the local Farm‑to‑Fork Festival.

Expect September 26–28, 2025 to light up July heat: three days inside and around the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center will bring the tastes of all Americas—cheese, coffee, wine, olive oil, cocktails, and more—with demonstrations by culinary icons like Alice Waters, Jeremiah Tower, Andrew Zimmern, Elizabeth Falkner, and others.

Live music from The War on Drugs, Spoon, Jade Bird, Passion Pit, and headlining concerts outdoors add a sonic spice to the menu

Beyond flavors, Terra Madre Americas is rooted in sustainability, biodiversity, and cultural celebration—a natural extension of Sacramento’s agricultural strengths and community ethos. Admission is free thanks to Visit Sacramento, with selected workshops and pop‑up dining experiences offered à la carte.

In short: Sacramento didn’t just win a food festival. It earned its place as America’s official stage for global food traditions—and we’re all invited to the table.

Safe Credit Union Community Center
1301 L Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

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Country hits, perfect fairways, and Sacramento’s favorite feel-good festival—Golf & Guitars returns with a three-day swing September 28–30, 2025. The party kicks off Sunday, Sept 28 at Silt Winery in Clarksburg (“Wine & Guitars”), then rolls to Haggin Oaks for two nights of music under the pines on Monday and Tuesday. Expect food-included VIP evenings, an artists’ charity golf tournament you can watch for free, and a Tuesday mainstage stacked with Nashville names.

Here’s the game plan. Sunday at Silt Winery opens at 5 pm (food/drink available for purchase). Monday at Haggin Oaks: doors 5 pm, music from 6 pm, with food and non-alcoholic drinks included in your ticket. Tuesday is the big finish: charity tourney check-in at 7:30 am, shotgun at 9 am (spectating is free), then gates at 4 pm and music from 6 pm—again with food and non-alcoholic drinks included.

The Tuesday lineup? George Birge, Jackson Dean, Chase Matthew, Love & Theft, Runaway June, and Jason Michael Carroll—one roof (well, stars), one night. Pro tip: VIP Tuesday is limited; it sells fast.

Why we love it: every note supports kids and community through the Morton Golf Foundation. Since its start, the event has raised nearly $2M—turning good times into real impact. Bring a jacket for the evening breeze, comfy shoes for lawn dancing, and your appetite (dinner is handled with VIP). See you at Haggin Oaks!

Golf & Guitars is not just a tournament; it’s a celebration where community, charity, and music intersect. Attendees can enjoy watching celebrity pro-am golf during the day and wind down with exceptional live performances in the evening. This event offers a perfect blend of sport and entertainment, all while contributing to a noble cause. Whether you’re a golfer, a music enthusiast, or someone looking to support local charities, Golf & Guitars provides an unforgettable experience that makes a difference.

Haggin Oaks Golf Complex is renowned for its two championship golf courses, including the Alister MacKenzie Course, designed by the same legendary architect behind Augusta National. This course is celebrated for its strategic design, with a more open front nine that transitions into a back nine distinguished by majestic oaks lining the fairways. The greens are smaller than what is typically seen today and are known for their speedy play. Notably, the course features minimal water hazards, though Arcade Creek makes a strategic appearance on five holes, adding an element of challenge. The course is particularly demanding due to its heavily bunkered greens which require precise shot-making skills. The signature hole, the par-3 16th, is famed for its daunting layout where a massive oak tree and the creek guard the green, dramatically increasing the risk of a challenging putt should one not land in the correct section of the green.

Haggin Oaks Golf Course

3645 Fulton Ave
Sacramento, CA 95821

Listed in: Sacramento Events, Things to do in Sacramento

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Oktoberfest is coming to Midtown Sacramento, and it’s not just any celebration—it’s Der Biergarten’s 8th Annual Oktoberfest Street Party, transforming 24th and K Street into a slice of Bavaria on September 27th, 2025. From 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the streets will echo with the sound of German music, the clinking of steins, and the laughter of revelers.

This isn’t just an event; it’s an experience. Imagine the heart of Midtown decked out in the colors of Germany, with the aroma of bratwurst and pretzels wafting through the air. The Gruber Family Band will be there to serenade you with authentic German tunes, while DJ Brian G keeps the party atmosphere alive with a mix of music that’ll have you dancing in your lederhosen or dirndl.

The street party is a six-hour extravaganza where you can indulge in traditional German cuisine, play games, and enjoy the camaraderie that Oktoberfest is famous for. Whether you’re a seasoned Oktoberfest-goer or a first-timer, this event promises to immerse you in the rich culture and festive spirit of Germany, right in the heart of Sacramento.

Explore our midtown Sacramento dining and things to do in Sacramento.

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Tee Off for a Cause: Aging Up’s Top Golf Fundraiser

On Sunday, September 21, the air at Topgolf will be filled with more than just the sound of golf balls hitting targets; it will resonate with the spirit of community, support, and empowerment. Aging Up is hosting its annual “Play to Empower FUNdraiser,” an event that’s not just about hitting the perfect shot but about making a significant impact on the lives of youth transitioning from foster care.

Whether you’re a golf pro or someone who thinks a birdie is just a type of bird, this event welcomes everyone with open arms. The day starts with a happy hour where you can mingle with fellow attendees, followed by a BBQ dinner that promises to delight your taste buds. But the real fun begins when you take to the Topgolf bays, where every swing could win you prizes or just the sheer joy of the game.

Tomorrow!
Aging Up's annual fundraiser to support foster youth at Top Golf in Roseville. Incredible raffle, good times, great cause, super nice people.https://t.co/HkM5MCZqLL pic.twitter.com/y9sf3QN9UY

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) September 20, 2025

The venue is a win even if you’re not a golfer. Topgolf Roseville (1700 Freedom Way) has climate-controlled bays, TVs everywhere, and an easy on-ramp for first-timers—no pressure, just points, laughs, and big targets. Translation: this is a fundraiser where fun is guaranteed and mulligans are a love language.

The evening is packed with activities including on-site golf pros to help you improve your swing, contests that could see you walking away with some fantastic loot, and raffles that add an extra layer of excitement. But the heart of the event lies in its purpose: all proceeds will support Aging Up’s mission to connect youth from foster care with mentors and resources they need to thrive.

For those interested in more than just playing, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available. Remember, this event is for those 21 and older, and with space being limited, early registration is recommended.

Topgolf Roseville
1700 Freedom Wy
Roseville, CA 95678

Find Sacramento Golf Courses

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Imagine stepping into the Sacramento Children’s Museum at dusk, little explorers dressed as pirates, mermaids, princes, and princesses flooding the galleries for an evening of make‑believe and laughter. That’s exactly what happens each year at the Buccaneer Ball, a beloved special event held at SCM. The most recent edition is set for Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5:00–6:30 p.m., and while general admission is $10, museum members enjoy complimentary entry, and Museums for All pricing ($3) is also honored.

In years past the Ball has embraced a magical pirate‑inspired twist that feels like stepping into a storybook. Back on August 10, 2024, families packed the museum from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with kids navigating interactive play stations, dancing with mascot Leo, and engaging in a treasure hunt around the exhibits.

One parent shared that their child spent the entire event declaring “I’m Captain Sparklebeard!” while leading a brigade of stuffed‑animal pirate companions from station to station. At every exhibit corner, mini‑adventures awaited: crafting pirate hats, waving foam swords, and even mermaid themed sensory tables where beads became “sea pearls.” Songs and a DJ tied the show together as littles boogied beneath softly glowing lanterns.

Every year, organizers invite families to let imagination run wild. Princesses mingle with pirates; toddlers wield foam cutlasses beside their siblings in princely attire. These playful interactions—where fantastical dress meets museum‑scale learning—inspire smiles and lasting memories. The Buccaneer Ball isn’t just a party—it’s a community celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and museum magic.

Sacramento Children’s Museum
2701 Prospect Park Dr
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670

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There’s something magical about watching a butterfly flutter by — but at Butterfly Fest in The Secret Garden, you can experience their full life cycle up close and personal.

This beloved annual tradition is back for two beautiful weekends: September 13–14 and 20–21, and it’s one of the most joyful, educational, and photo-worthy family events in the Sacramento region.

Today & Tomorrow
Bring the kids to the Secret Garden Butterfly Festival in Elk Grove. Special presentation at 11am Sunday.https://t.co/d6hL9vrwSD pic.twitter.com/dXdoEjs3WU

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) September 20, 2025

Each year, the Gulf Fritillary butterflies return to lay their eggs on the passionvine plants that thrive in the garden’s lush, lovingly maintained habitat. During Life Cycle Tours at 11 AM, guests are invited to explore the transformation from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly — a real-time look at metamorphosis that feels like stepping into a living science book.
But the event isn’t just for bug lovers and budding entomologists. The garden will be buzzing with face painting, a local coffee cart, plant discounts (15% off all perennials!), and expert advice on how to start your own pollinator-friendly garden.

Admission is free — all you need is curiosity, a camera, and maybe a sunhat.

Secret Garden
8450 W Stockton Blvd
Elk Grove, CA 95758
(916) 682-6839

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Mark your calendars for September 20, 2025, when Sac‑Town Rodeo rolls into Cal Expo in Sacramento for an electrifying evening honoring local heroes and rodeo tradition. Produced by Diamond Productions, it’s the opening stop on the NBC National Bull Riding Championship Tour—a full night of adrenaline, cowboy grit, and community spirit. Gates open at 5:30 PM, with the pre-rodeo at 6:30 PM followed by the main show shortly after.

The centerpiece events—bull riding, bronco riding, and the crowd-pleasing mutton busting—bring together top-tier competitors for a fast-paced, family-friendly rodeo spectacle. In true Sac‑Town style, it’s more than a show: it’s also a fundraiser supporting the Fire Fighters Burn Institute, bridging entertainment with community gratitude.

Tonight!!
Sactown Rodeo benefitting the Fire Fighters Institute
Cal Expo, Gates open at 5:30pmhttps://t.co/p9j25hcS5k pic.twitter.com/7c6EIXpMSV

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) September 20, 2025

With local partnership and NBC backing, Sac‑Town Rodeo offers something special: a glimpse into elite bull-riding competition framed within a beloved, accessible hometown setting. Riders are competing not just for heat-of-the-moment glory, but tour points on this official NBC circuit, adding a new layer of national prestige and stakes to Sacramento’s rodeo night.

Add pre-rodeo shopping booths, food stalls, music, and a festive atmosphere, and the night becomes an immersive Western experience. Kids under six attend free, making this a community event inclusive from toddlers to grandparents.

From cowboys wrestling broncs to little ones braving mutton, Sac‑Town Rodeo delivers tradition, fun, and purpose—now championed as part of NBC’s championship circuit.

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Tour hours run from 10 AM to 4 PM. Attendees begin at the street fair at Reichmuth Park, 1155 Silver Lake Drive, where they receive guides and enjoy vendors, food trucks, local crafts, nonprofits, and vintage cars parked alongside tour homes. Includes self‑guided walkable access to homes, bike corral provided by SABA, and live music at the fair.

Tickets go on sale June 1, priced at $30 for Preservation Sacramento members and $40 for the public for advance or day-of purchase. Proceeds fund historic preservation efforts across Sacramento, including district nominations, surveys, and community education programs.

This year’s tour celebrates Sacramento’s embrace of Mid‑Century Modern design within a historic context and honors Eichler’s legacy of inclusive housing and innovative architecture. Preservation Sacramento invites architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, and the curious public to explore the airy openness, indoor‑outdoor flow, and post‑and‑beam details found only in Eichler’s California modern homes.

Tomorrow – see the best Mid Mod Homes in Sac
Preservation Sacramento Annual Home Tour
Eichler Homes – South Land Parkhttps://t.co/Eijx90aW5I pic.twitter.com/lRlYcmsmfa

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) September 20, 2025

Stepping Back in Time: The 48th Annual Historic Home Tour

Every year, Sacramento’s history comes alive in a way that’s both educational and enchanting, and 2024 is no exception. On Sunday, September 22, Preservation Sacramento invites you to their 48th Annual Historic Home Tour, set in the picturesque Boulevard Park neighborhood, which includes the Boulevard Park Historic District.

This tour isn’t just a walk through homes; it’s a journey through time. Each house tells a story, from the architectural styles of yesteryear to the modern infill projects that blend seamlessly with the historic charm of the area. Imagine strolling through homes where history whispers from the walls, where the craftsmanship of another era is preserved for us to admire and learn from.

The event celebrates not only the preservation of these architectural gems but also the community’s commitment to maintaining the rich tapestry of Sacramento’s urban landscape. Volunteers open their doors, sharing their passion for history, architecture, and community with all who attend. It’s a rare opportunity to peek into the past while appreciating the present.

The post Preservation Sacramento appeared first on Sacramento Top 10.

Chalk It Up Festival 2025: Sacramento’s Ultimate Free Arts Experience Returns.
Quick Answer: The Chalk It Up Festival 2025 takes place August 30-September 1 at Fremont Park in Sacramento. This free, three-day celebration features hundreds of chalk artists, live music, local vendors, and family activities, making it one of Sacramento’s premier Labor Day weekend destinations for art lovers and families.

Have you ever been to Chalk it Up – it's free, it's fun, it's arty, it's this weekend!https://t.co/T15uCFfDDL pic.twitter.com/9nVZj99bKj

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) August 30, 2025

Picture this: you’re strolling through Midtown Sacramento on a perfect Labor Day weekend, surrounded by vibrant chalk masterpieces that transform ordinary sidewalks into an outdoor art gallery. The 35th annual Chalk It Up Festival returns Saturday, August 30 through Monday, September 1, 2025, at Fremont Park, offering exactly what cash-strapped families and art enthusiasts have been craving—world-class entertainment that costs absolutely nothing.

What Makes Chalk It Up Festival Unmissable

Here’s where it gets exciting: Chalk It Up is a free annual chalk art and music festival that raises money for Sacramento area youth arts, taking place over 3 days every Labor Day weekend in Fremont Park. Since 1991, this beloved community tradition has grown into something truly spectacular.

The festival addresses every parent’s dilemma of finding enriching activities that don’t require a second mortgage. You can see and hear live local musicians, patronize local craft, maker, and food vendors in the marketplace, and watch local artists turn the sidewalks around Fremont Park into colorful masterpieces.

The Art That Will Leave You Speechless

But here’s what truly sets this festival apart: Hundreds of volunteer artists create incredible chalk art masterpieces right before your eyes. These aren’t simple hopscotch squares—we’re talking about intricate, museum-quality reproductions of famous paintings, stunning original designs, and 3D optical illusions that will have you questioning reality.

Artists spend hours meticulously crafting their temporary masterpieces, using nothing but chalk and incredible skill. You’ll witness everything from Renaissance reproductions to modern abstract pieces, all created on the very ground beneath your feet.

Live Music That Amplifies the Experience

The artistic magic doesn’t stop with visual arts. Local musicians provide the perfect soundtrack to your chalk art adventure, featuring diverse genres that reflect Sacramento’s rich musical landscape. From indie rock to jazz, folk to electronic, the festival showcases the incredible talent that calls our city home.

The music creates an atmosphere where art appreciation meets community celebration—exactly what Sacramento’s cultural scene needed.

Supporting Local While Having Fun

Beyond the entertainment value, every dollar you spend at vendor booths directly supports local artisans, food creators, and small businesses. The marketplace features handcrafted jewelry, unique art pieces, gourmet treats, and specialty foods that you won’t find anywhere else.

This Sacramento-based non-profit empowers the next generation of artists through grants and programs, ensuring equitable arts access for all. Your participation literally helps fund future artists and arts education programs throughout the region.

Julie Gallaher from SacramentoTop10.com perfectly captures the festival’s magic:
“Chalk It Up represents everything beautiful about Sacramento’s community spirit—world-class artistry, incredible music, and genuine connection, all wrapped up in a completely free experience that reminds you why this city is so special.”

Planning Your Perfect Festival Weekend

Here’s your insider strategy: Arrive early on Saturday morning to watch artists begin their creations from scratch. Return Sunday afternoon to see works in progress, then make your final visit Monday for the completed masterpieces before they disappear forever.

The festival operates from 10 AM to 6 PM each day, giving you plenty of flexibility to work around other Labor Day weekend plans. This three-day celebration of local artists and the arts community is one of the last of the free, family-friendly festivals in Midtown Sacramento.

Ready to Experience Sacramento’s Most Beloved Arts Festival?

Mark your calendar now for August 30-September 1, 2025. Follow ChalkItUp.org and their social media for artist announcements, music lineups, and insider tips. Share this post with fellow art lovers and start planning your perfect weekend of free, family-friendly entertainment that showcases the absolute best of Sacramento’s creative community.

Event Information

Chalk It Up Festival 2025
Dates: August 30 – September 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Location:
Fremont Park
16th & 17th Streets between P & Q Streets
Sacramento, CA
Admission: FREE
Website: chalkitup.org
Description: A free three-day celebration featuring hundreds of chalk artists, live music, local vendors, and family activities in Sacramento’s historic Fremont Park.

Find more at Sacramento Arts

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Rugby is crashing back into Sacramento this fall — and this time, it’s international.

On September 6th, Heart Health Park hosts a must-see showdown in the Pacific Nations Cup as Team USA faces off against Japan. Known for its high-speed pace, hard tackles, and edge-of-your-seat intensity, this match is expected to be a true clash of styles and strength.

Japan’s Brave Blossoms stunned the world in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, while the USA Eagles are eager to prove they belong in the global top tier. In the 2019 Rugby World Cup hosted in Japan, the host nation achieved a historic run, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. Japan secured a top spot in Pool A, defeating both Ireland and Scotland in surprise victories, and captivated the world with their attacking style of play. While they lost to eventual champions South Africa in the quarter-finals, Japan’s performance significantly boosted national pride and left a lasting legacy for the sport in Japan. 

5 Things to Know Before the USA vs. Japan Rugby Match in Sacramento

Date and Time: Friday, September 6th at 7:30 PM,
Location: Heart Health Park
The Stakes: It’s part of the Pacific Nations Cup — a key lead-up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The Teams: Japan = speed and tactics. USA = power and passion.
The Atmosphere: Expect fireworks — literally and figuratively. Heart Health Park knows how to host.
The Experience: Fan zones, food trucks, and flags everywhere.

It’s more than a match — it’s a rugby party.

Grab your tickets early and don’t forget to check Sacramento Top 10 for all the lead-up coverage!

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