Nevada City, CA — The magic of the holiday season returns as Nevada City’s beloved Victorian Christmas transforms our historic downtown into a festive wonderland. This annual family tradition, held since 1978, invites visitors to step back in time and experience the charm of a Victorian‑era holiday celebration. With glowing Christmas lights and fresh boughs of greenery, Nevada City is transformed into a winter wonderland reminiscent of years past.
The 47th annual Victorian Christmas is a family tradition that takes place on three Sundays and two Wednesdays throughout the month of December. Enjoy a hot buttered rum or mulled wine as you browse the 120 artisan vendors with handmade goods, unique wares, and delicious seasonal treats.
Entertainment fills the streets with Victorian‑inspired performers, including brass bands, carolers, bagpipers, fiddlers, handbell ensembles, jugglers, and more. Visitors can warm themselves by the open fire while enjoying free roasted chestnuts, and children will delight in meeting Santa at the Winter Wonderland inside the Masonic Hall on Pine Street. This year, the event footprint expands to include Union Street, offering even more space to enjoy the festivities.
Adding to the holiday cheer, Father Christmas, the Famous Walking Christmas Tree, and other costumed characters will stroll the streets with good tidings for all. Victorian Christmas offers activities and treats for all ages, making it a magical experience you won’t forget—and the perfect place to find one‑of‑a‑kind gifts for loved ones. Downtown shops and restaurants will stay open late, inviting visitors to explore local treasures. Highlights include the Alpha Building’s enchanting Department 56 Dickens Village display and the towering 25‑foot locally sourced Christmas tree in Robinson Plaza.
The Nevada City Chamber of Commerce welcomes everyone to join the festivities. We encourage you to add to the fun by wearing your own Victorian costume. New this year, we will be offering two shuttle locations, the County of Nevada Rood Center, located at 950 Maidu Avenue, and Bodhi Hive 420 Providence Mine Rd, for a $8 fee. More information can be found at nevadacitychamber.com.
Event Dates & Times:
- Sundays: December 7, 14, & 21, 2025 — 1:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Wednesdays: December 10 & 17, 2025 — 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
About the Nevada City Chamber
Quaint, scenic & historic – Nevada City is an exuberant Victorian era city amid mountains, rivers, and forest. Known as the “Queen of the Mining Towns,” Nevada City is a true gem who lives up to her reputation, by brimming with beauty, culture, and history. The Nevada City Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit membership organization formed in 1937 to support small businesses in Nevada City and the surrounding region by providing technical, business, and tourism support. The chamber operates the Nevada City Visitors Center and organizes popular community events such as Victorian Christmas, Summer Nights Markets, and Mardi Gras.