Christmas in Coloma

Throw away the cares of the 21st century and join us for an old-fashioned Christmas in the heart of the Gold Country! There's no better way to ring in the holidays.

In this annual family celebration, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park and local volunteers recreate an 1850s country Christmas. Pick up a freshly-made wreath to decorate your home, or go to the wreath-making booth and build your own. Enjoy the Park's many historic trade demonstrations, including the blacksmith creating ironware. Costumed volunteers will be happy to share the art of cornhusk dollmaking or ropemaking with you and your children. Try your hand at gold panning at Bekeart's Gun Shop or the Park museum trough, or pick up a pan and dip it in the South Fork of the American River at the spot where gold was first discovered in California in 1848. The Park's historic buildings will be opened for the your exploration.

Of course our old-fashioned Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there to talk with your children. Photographs with Santa will be available. Your kids can enjoy trying out old-fashioned children's games, including our pioneer bowling lane. You can tackle your shopping list, too, at the booths featuring beautiful hand-made crafts.

Music is woven throughout the festival. You'll find musicians strolling through the park and playing old-time music on unique and fascinating instruments at many of the festival venues. You can also enjoy 19th century Christmas programs and plays. When you get hungry, visit the food vendors for pioneer cooking or old-fashioned goodies, or try some fresh, hot roasted chestnuts.

The Nature Center of the American River Conservancy, located on Hwy 49 in the Park, will have hot apple cider available, along with music and crafts activities for young people. Call them at 530-621-1224 for more information.

For more information about the event or the Park, call 530-295-2170 or 530-622-3470. If you'd like to volunteer for decorating or the event, or inquire about vendor spots, call the Gold Discovery Park Association at 530-622-6198.

Planning Your Trip

For maps and more weekend information, see our Coloma Christmas page.