Maybe because it’s fleeting or that there are so many traditions that go along with it, but fall might be the greatest season of the year especially in Nevada County. It’s still warm during the day for outdoor fun, but at the same time there’s a bit of crispness at night. To help celebrate this great time of year, here’s a list of fun things to do in November in Nevada County.
Downtown Holiday Market & Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 9th
In keeping with the time-honored tradition of Holiday Markets that trace their roots back to the Middle Ages in Europe, downtown Grass Valley launches the holiday season with its annual Downtown Holiday Market & Tree Lighting Ceremony. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season by exploring five tasting rooms representing eight local wineries. Enjoy sales, raffles, giveaways, and more from local merchants, all culminating in the festive tree lighting at 7 PM.
Soroptishop Holiday Artisan & Craft Faire
November 21st
Looking for that one-of-a-kind gift for friends or family? Or maybe you just want to get into the holiday spirit. For over two decades, the Soroptimist of Truckee Donner has hosted the Soroptishop Holiday Artisan Faire, giving you the perfect opportunity to start your Christmas shopping early.
Inside, you’ll discover over 50 local artisans showcasing unique artwork, jewelry, pottery, clothing, cosmetics, herbal products, handcrafted items, hand-blown glass, and much more!
Admission is just $18, and each ticket includes a complimentary glass of Truckee River wine to enjoy while you shop. Plus, all ticket sales support the local community through the Soroptimist of Truckee Donner.
Downtown Holiday Festival and Bud Fish Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 22nd
On the third Friday in November just before Thanksgiving, the community comes together to kick off the holiday season. The festivities begin as elementary school children help decorate over 600 Christmas trees that line Donner Pass Road. The celebration then shifts to the Train Depot Courtyard when Santa Claus arrives to oversee the lighting of the Bud Fish tree, along with all of downtown Truckee, precisely at 5:15 pm. While taking in all the wonderful events, you can enjoy sipping on hot chocolate and nibbling on Christmas cookies. Listen to the joyful carolers’ tunes, and feel free to join in and sing along. It’s no surprise that this beloved Christmas tradition has been going strong for over 45 years.
Michael Bratton II Turkey Trot
November 28th
If there’s one thing that screams things to do in November, it’s a Turkey Trot. An opportunity to band together with your friends or household to join in on this favorite, seasonal experience. For Nevada County, the annual shindig is the Michael Bratton II Turkey Trot. Featuring 5K and 10K runs, thousands of like-minded individuals show up to share in the positive mood of Thanksgiving. One highlight of the event is a tree display with leaf-shaped messages, each one with a note of thanks written by a runner.
Country Christmas Faire
November 29th,30th, & December 1st
Begin your holiday season with the magic of the Country Christmas Faire at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Celebrated as one of Northern California’s top handcrafted shows, this cherished event features unique gifts from over 100 talented artisans. Enjoy live entertainment, indulge in festive foods, and share joyful moments with Santa and his elves. As the evening unfolds, gather around the community bonfire, where the warmth of the season brings friends and families together.
That’s Not All!
Don’t forget that Cornish Christmas kicks off on November 29th in Grass Valley. This five decade old annual tradition recaptures the spirit of Cornish miners that migrated here during the Gold Rush by singing Christmas songs sung in Cornwall England at the turn of the 19th century. In summary, don’t let autumn pass you by without one more pumpkin spice latte and a visit to Nevada County.
