California storm | Winds disrupt holiday events in Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A strong storm expected to sweep across Northern California is causing disruptions to popular holiday events in Sacramento. While some organizers have decided to cancel their celebrations, others remain confident that celebrations will go ahead as planned despite the stormy conditions.

One of the most notable cancellations is the Sacramento Santa Parade. Event organizers announced on social media that forecast weather made it unsafe to hold the event this year.

Meanwhile, organizers of Cal Expo’s Imaginarium Sacramento, which features 5 million LED lights, are determined to keep the lights on for visitors.

Despite the challenges posed by the wind, the event remains open this weekend. Operations Manager Gina Freschi said the event’s anchoring system helps secure the displays even in high winds, which is why she was confident the lights would shine Saturday.

“We have some anchoring systems that hold our displays to the ground,” Freschi said. “The wind will be a bit unpleasant for us, but we are prepared for it.”

Freschi also expressed her excitement that people were able to enjoy the holiday spectacle. “I just love seeing everyone’s faces and watching them have fun,” she added.

Some attendees, like Timothy Smith, were undeterred by the gusty winds and were eager to experience the holiday spirit Friday night at the Imaginarium. “I came dressed appropriately,” Smith said, noting that his family enjoyed the event despite the cold weather.

At other events, however, precautionary measures are being taken due to the storm. Fairytale Town’s Winter Wonderland, scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday, is still hoping for progress. General manager Kevin Smith-Fagan said they are monitoring the weather closely but are prepared to accommodate participants who may not want to brave the winds on Saturday.

“If people have tickets for Saturday and for some reason it doesn’t work out, they are welcome on Sunday and those tickets will be honored,” Smith-Fagan said. “You can’t miss coming to Winter Wonderland in Fairytale Town.”

As the storm continues, some local events, such as the Midtown Sacramento Farmers Market and other farmers markets, have already announced closures for the day.

While the weather causes some holiday events to be put on hold, others prevail, providing a warm and festive atmosphere for those who head out to enjoy the season.

For those planning to attend, organizers recommend dressing warmly as cold temperatures are expected to continue throughout the weekend.

“Stay warm and we have some space heaters you can use to warm yourself up,” Freschi said.

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