Christmas in El Dorado Hills: Where to Go, What to See

El Dorado Hills at Christmas has a particular kind of quiet luxury — lights reflected on the water, neighbors out strolling after dinner, and Town Center dressed for the season. If you are new to the area, or thinking about making it home, December is a lovely time to see it at its best.

Start at Town Center. The annual Holiday Tree Lighting is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at El Dorado Hills Town Center — an evening gathering, with the tree lighting at its heart. Arrive a little early, wander the shops and restaurants, and make an evening of it.

The night before, on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, Historic Folsom lights its Community Christmas Tree in the Folsom Ice Rink Plaza on Sutter Street (tree lights up at 7:30 pm) — an easy two-night weekend with Town Center the following evening.

The Santa Run kicks off at that same tree lighting on December 5, then visits El Dorado Hills neighborhoods December 8-11, 2026, collecting new, unwrapped toys for Shriners Children's Northern California and non-perishable food for the El Dorado County Food Bank.

Beyond Town Center, keep it simple and local: drive the neighborhood light displays in the evening, and head up to Apple Hill for Christmas tree farms and seasonal shopping (check individual farms for their 2026 hours before you go — they vary). Nearby, Placerville runs its own seasonal celebration; check its organizer page for this year's date before planning a trip, rather than relying on last year's calendar.

For buyers and sellers, December has its own advantage. A home shown well in winter — warm lighting, a tidy entry, the fireplace on — photographs beautifully and feels inviting in person. If you are considering a move in the new year, December showings are often calmer, and more serious.

If El Dorado Hills is on your list for 2027, I would love to show you around — at Christmas, or any time of year. Call 916-990-8731 or email Sell@GeriMudrova.com.

— Geri Mudrova, Broker / Realtor®, Founder, EstateAir Properties, Inc., DRE #02087117