New to ArtMix? Here’s How to Work the Spells & Spirits Edition Like a Pro

So you’ve heard the legends: ArtMix is where Sacramento’s art lovers and night creatures collide. For Spells & Spirits (Thu, Oct 9, 2025), here’s your no-stress game plan.

1) Pre-game the plan
Skim the schedule when you arrive and circle set times for the burlesque show, storytelling, and any DJ sets you can’t miss. Leave buffer for spontaneous detours (there will be many).
2) Dress the theme (your way)
• Celestial: moon-and-stars accents, metallics, silvery eyeliner.
• Witchy minimal: all-black + one statement piece (capelet, hat, boots).
• Artsy occult: printed scarf, vintage velvet, a charm or two.
Comfortable shoes beat any curse.

3) Hit the stations strategically
• Tarot & lunar lore first (lines can build).
• Ghostly cocktails + a gallery stroll (pair sips with art—chef’s kiss).
• Paint under the moon once you’ve settled into the vibe—nothing like a little liquid courage to free the brush.
4) Performance flow
Claim a spot a few minutes before the burlesque set; rotate to storytelling right after, then reward yourself with a dance break. ArtMix is a campus—if you miss one moment, another appears around the corner.
5) Mindful museum manners
Drinks stay where signs say; flash off around art; say thanks to staff and volunteers—they’re the night’s true familiars.
6) Make it social
Snap your masterpiece at the moonlit art station and tag the Crocker. Compliment a stranger’s outfit; it’s practically currency here.
Pocket list (screenshot me)
• Card/ID • Light layer (patio temps can shift) • Phone battery at 90% (photos + playlists) • Curiosity set to “high”

You’ll leave with paint on your fingers, a new favorite track from the DJ, and a story about that moment during tarot that felt a little too accurate. That’s ArtMix.

Parents’ Game Plan: How to Do Boo Clues Without Meltdowns

If your ideal Halloween trades jump-scares for giggles and learning, Boo Clues at the Sacramento Zoo hits the sweet spot. On Oct 26, 2025, from 3:30–6:30 pm (last admission 5:30 pm), families roam the zoo with a phone-based scavenger hunt, watch animals enjoy pumpkin enrichments, and hop unlimited free carousel rides. Oh, and free mini donuts plus six exclusive trading cards per participant—instant motivation.

Pre-game checklist
1 Charge the phone (and maybe bring a small power bank). Clues live on your device.
2 Costume comfort first. Capes are cute; ensure they’re walkable. Closed-toe shoes for everyone.
3 Set a pacing rule: clue stop → animal watch → carousel spin → water break → repeat.
4 Photo burst mode: animal enrichments happen fast—burst captures the moment the tiger demolishes a pumpkin.
5 Snack strategy: use the mini donuts as a mid-hunt morale booster.


Why kids love it
• Clues turn exhibits into mini adventures—every correct answer “unlocks” the next fun thing.
• Trading cards (set of six) add a collectible thrill (and a quiet car-ride activity).
• Costumes welcome, but the tone is not-so-spooky—perfect for sensitive littles.


Event essentials
• When: Sun, Oct 26, 2025 • 3:30–6:30 pm (last admission 5:30)
• Where: Sacramento Zoo, 3930 W Land Park Dr
• Cost: $25–$30 per person
• Note: Not a trick-or-treat event; treats provided as listed


Plan your loop by zones, prioritize must-see animals, and save one carousel ride for the finale. You’ll exit with happy kids, lighter camera storage, and a new high score in “Halloween that actually works.”

Your Hitchcocktoberfest Game Plan: Where to Sit, What to Wear, When to Flinch

New to Hitchcocktoberfest at the Tower Theatre? Here’s how to savor every sting and reveal.

Arrive 20–30 minutes early.
The lobby vibe is part of the ritual—posters, chatter, and that rising sense something wickedly clever is coming.

Best seats for suspense:
• Center/middle rows = balanced audio and the framing Hitch intended.
• Front third if you love to be swallowed by the image; avoid far side aisles.

Dress the part:
• Oct 1 – The Birds: coastal chic (minus the gulls).
• Oct 8 – Rope: crisp suits, bold ties.
• Oct 15 – Marnie: saturated jewel tones, gloves optional.
• Oct 22 – Dial M: classic cocktail attire.
• Oct 29 – Psycho: monochrome glamour… maybe skip the shower cap.

Snack strategy:
Popcorn early, candy mid-film (you’ll want quiet during those “is someone behind that door?” beats). Hydrate before—bathroom breaks are a jump scare you control.

How to watch like a pro:
• Track composition: Hitch hides clues in lines, mirrors, and doorways.
• Trust sound: when it drops out, brace; when it swells, breathe.
• Notice hands: keys, phones, knives—tiny props carry huge turns.

Micro-teasers for each night:
• The Birds: The quiet between attacks is worse than the attacks.
• Rope: Watch the chest like it’s the sixth character.
• Marnie: Red is never just red.
• Dial M for Murder: The phone is the trap and the key.
• Psycho: Who we follow isn’t always who we’re with.

Post-show debrief:
Walk it off under the marquee lights and rank the reveals while they’re fresh. Bonus points for best scream-that-became-a-laugh.

Hitchcocktoberfest is classy fear with immaculate timing. Plan well, sit still, and let the master steer.

Heroes vs. Villains (And Parents vs. Bedtime): Your Fairytale Town Game Plan

Halloween night with little kids can feel like a boss level. Fairytale Town’s Safe & Super Halloween makes it a breeze—safe paths, friendly guides, and interactive Descendants-inspired zones that cleverly pace the evening. This year’s makeover drops you into Auradon and the Isle of the Lost: candy in one hand, quest card in the other. Pro parent plan: 1 Pre-game snacks. Full bellies = fewer meltdowns. Pack water and a small tote for candy overflow. 2 Costume comfort. Capes and crowns are adorable—secure them so they don’t vanish mid-quest. 3 Map your loop. Start in Mal’s enchanted school halls for confidence-boosting activities, then “set sail” to Uma’s pirate cove for swagger and selfies. 4 Spread the joy. Let each kid pick one must-do activity and one must-photo spot. That’s your non-negotiable checklist. 5 Exit strategy. Choose a candy checkpoint near the gate for last treats and quick goodbyes.

Between the trick-or-treat stations and playful challenges, kids get wins early and often—perfect for shy heroes and bold villains alike. Grown-ups get a guided, stress-light path through Halloween hype without downtown chaos. Admission & Info
Phone: (916) 808-5233 • Email: magic@fairytaletown.org • Web: fairytaletown.org/calendar/safe-super-halloween-3/

Date Night with the Departed: Why the Ghost Tour Wins October

Dinner-and-a-movie? Predictable. Sacramento History Museum’s Ghost Tour? Unforgettably Sacramento. Stroll the dusky streets of Old Sac while spectral storytellers rewind the clock to a city bristling with Gold Rush danger—from riverboat blasts to clever con artists and hard bargains that ended… badly.

This one-hour walking tour starts at 101 I Street and is recommended for ages 8+, making it a versatile pick: brave kids, history nerds, and couples who like their romance with a shiver. The pacing is brisk, the tales are juicy, and the atmospherics (lanterns, wood planks, river air) do half the haunting.

Before you go
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early; tours depart on time.
• **No need to print tickets—**your name is on the list.
• Runs rain or shine. Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe, comfy shoes.
• Parking: Old Sacramento Garage (2nd & I Streets) or meters.
• Policies: No audio/video recording. All sales final. Tickets are valid only for the date/time purchased.

Details at a glance
• Price: $35 per person
• Duration: ~1 hour
• Phone: (916) 808-7059
• Web: sachistorymuseum.org/ghost-tours-2024/

Tip: Cap the night with cocoa on the boardwalk while you argue suspects. The dead don’t mind eavesdropping.

Why B Street’s Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors Is the Silliest Spoof of Summer

Sacramento theatre fans, rejoice: Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors opens August 6 at B Street Theatre’s The Sofia, marrying Hollywood horror tropes with Monty‑Python‑level parody for a laugh-loaded evening.

What sets this show apart is its razor-sharp tone and fearless humor. Scripts by Greenberg and Rosen deliver scene after scene of witty one-liners, absurd plot twists, and snarky nods at Victorian Gothic clichés. Count Dracula is less haunting predator, more obsessed real estate prospect—making for comedic ironies that delight every moment.

The cast amplifies the fun. Veteran actor Kevin Kantor transforms Dracula into a fierce flirt who commands the stage with a wink and a bite. The ensemble—Greg Alexander, Stephanie Altholz, Amy Kelly, and John Lamb—are masterful at timing, physical comedy, and audience engagement. Director Tara Sissom‑Pittaro ensures the pacing never lets up, and the theatrical absurdity remains fresh throughout.

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors opens next week at the B Street Theatrehttps://t.co/KlRFmqjhdd pic.twitter.com/wHFRZOA6ct

— Sacramento Top 10 (@SacramentoTop10) July 31, 2025

Performances begin with early previews (Aug 6–7), followed by the full run and Talkback Tuesdays midweek—when ticket holders can hear from cast and creative team after the show. These evenings are especially appealing to theatre geeks and comedic fans who want deeper context behind the laughs.

The Sofia itself enhances the experience. With seating limited and every row close to the stage, it fosters direct audience connection. The lobby and courtyard area make for a great gathering spot before and after the show.

Whether you’re a horror buff or just in search of a brilliantly absurd evening, this parody offers a perfect blend: gothic atmosphere, comedic absurdity, and playful performances. Grab $23–$37 tickets now online or via box office before they’re flogged—this comedic bloodsucker is thirsty for laughs.

Monster Jam Freestyle Mania: Sacramento’s Ultimate Adrenaline Weekend

Roar into summer with Monster Jam Freestyle Mania, making its Sacramento debut at Golden 1 Center on August 9 & 10, 2025. Known for its signature monster truck battles, Monster Jam now amps up the action by pairing its massive trucks with FMX bikes—bridging two extreme sports into one unforgettable spectacle.

Expect chaos in the best possible way: Grave Digger®, El Toro Loco®, Sparkle Smash™, Classroom Crusher®, and more will race in head-to-head challenges, compete in two‑wheel skills, and wow crowds with freestyle routines. Meanwhile, FMX riders perform hair-raising whips and mind-bending tricks—all under the big tent of the Golden 1 Center arena Monster Jam®.



Doors open at 11 AM with Pit Parties and Trackside activities—perfect for close-up photo ops, athlete meet-and-greets, and live commentary before the show hits full throttle at 12 PM. There’s even live in-arena scoring, where fans vote in real time for their favorite performances.

Pit Parties let families get up close to trucks and bikes while racers sign autographs and pose for selfies. Then post-show, stick around for exclusive Driver Meet & Greets for souvenirs and behind-the-scenes stories. Tickets range from general admission to VIP seating and Trackside access, with prices starting around $15 and VIP seats up to premium tiers.

Whether you’re a diehard monster truck fan, motocross addict, or just love high-energy entertainment, Monster Jam Freestyle Mania is a two-day thrill ride that Sacramento can't afford to miss. Get ready for full-throttle fun, high-flying stunts, and memories worth roaring about.

Step Inside Sacramento’s Sleekest Neighborhood: Eichler Homes Tour 2025

On Sunday, September 21, 2025, Preservation Sacramento’s 49th Annual Historic Home Tour shines a spotlight on the South Land Park Hills Eichler Historic District—home to Sacramento’s only enclave of Mid‑Century Modern residences built by Joseph Eichler in the mid-1950s.

This residential district became the city’s first historic district dedicated to Mid‑Century architecture in 2024. Visitors tour four interior homes, each a contributing piece of architectural history—complete with post-and-beam ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, atriums, and open layouts that merge indoor living with gardens. These homes were designed by Eichler alongside architects A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons, embodying the forward-thinking design ethos Eichler is known for.

The tour begins at Reichmuth Park where guests pick up their brochure and enjoy a festive street fair running from 10 AM to 4 PM. Expect vintage cars (1950s–60s) parked alongside homes, roaming musician sets, food trucks, local artisan booths, and nonprofit partners sharing community stories.

Ticket info: $30 for members, $40 for the public, available starting June 1. Street-level logistics like monitored bike corrals, restrooms, and accessible pathways enhance the walkable experience. More than just a look at pretty structures, this tour tells a story of social inclusivity—Eichler’s non‑discrimination policies and vision to bring modern living to the middle class paired architectural ambition with civil progress. Preservation Sacramento’s ongoing mission includes preserving such design and expanding neighborhood awareness through tours and district designation efforts.

Whether you’re an MCM fanatic, architecture newbie, bike commuter, or just curious—this day is for you. Walk through glass-walled atriums, feel the climate‑clever California design, and talk with passionate docents. The 2025 Tour embodies why Eichler’s designs still inspire more than six decades later.

🎶 Herb Alpert Celebrates 60 Years of Whipped Cream & Other Delights — Live in Sacramento

When Whipped Cream & Other Delights was released in 1965, it wasn’t just another album — it was a cultural moment. With its sultry cover art and breezy, brassy sound, Herb Alpert and The Tijuana Brass delivered a collection of songs that became the backdrop to an era.

Now, six decades later, Herb Alpert is bringing that magic back to the stage on November 13, 2025, in Sacramento. The performance will honor the legacy of that iconic album while offering fans a fresh, dynamic take on the hits they’ve cherished for decades.

Songs like “Whipped Cream,” “Ladyfingers,” and “Love Potion No. 9” will be reimagined with Herb’s signature energy and warmth. The concert also includes classics like “This Guy’s In Love With You,” “Zorba the Greek,” and the infectious “Spanish Flea” — instantly recognizable from its many appearances in pop culture.



But what makes this event truly special is its personal touch. Herb Alpert doesn’t just perform — he invites the audience into his world. His conversational storytelling, humorous anecdotes, and intimate Q&A sessions make each show feel like a living room gathering with one of music’s most enduring talents.

And with the help of a large screen showcasing original footage, vintage photos, and memorabilia, it becomes part concert, part documentary, and all heart.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering Herb’s music for the first time, this concert is a must-see tribute to an artist who helped define a musical era — and who continues to inspire audiences around the world.

Moshing, Mayhem & Memories: Insider Anecdotes from Aftershock Legends

Imagine being pressed into a sweaty crowd, summer heat in your face, heart pounding to Slipknot’s drum-led onslaught. That was the 2015 Aftershock experience. One concertgoer writing for The Aggie said: “I was more sober than literally anyone else attending… caught some highlights that others missed,” as bands like Slipknot, Marilyn Manson, and Deftones smashed through four stages and over 45,000 people moshed their way to sonic bliss.

Fast forward to 2023, and the festival weathered scorching temperatures—with hydration stations becoming lifesavers amid the Saharan-like conditions. Slipknot’s usual crowd‑surging intensity was disrupted—not by sound or stage—but by phone screens. Loud fans filming the set, but fewer plunging into the pit. Another attendee reported: “It was the most bizarre audience… everyone was filming. You could feel the band becoming annoyed by the lack of mosh pits.” This moment captured the uneasy friction between fandom and documentation in modern shows.

At 2024’s edition, Aftershock introduced a newly added Soundwave Stage, unlocking access for 30 more bands and expanding the festival footprint across five stages for the first time. It was a logistical marvel and musical buffet all at once. Promoters called it the largest lineup in festival history.

One compelling story from that year: Dope threw down in a short set on short notice and immediately became a cult favorite. A Redditor shared: “Dope was AMAZING! I was in the pit and people were slamming harder than any of the other pits I've ever been in. It was a short set with a small crowd but still a highlight”.

Or recall Static‑X in 2024: the pit erupted under their iconic beat, with fans saying the lead singer’s voice from 2000’s industrial heyday was eerily accurate. They noted: “Stage show was awesome… at least thirty‑thousand people in attendance.” It made for one of most talked-about moments of the weekend.

Taken together, these festival recollections capture Aftershock’s essence: from sweaty early days in 2012, to sold‑out 32,000‑person tents, to 160,000-strong rock pilgrimage; from surprise standout short‑notice band sets, to founder-led additions of stages; to heat‑soaked crowds and evolving participation norms. For diehards and newcomers alike, Aftershock is less an event and more a ritual: a baptism by distortion, celebration of community, and sonic fireworks at Sacramento's Discovery Park.

Sacramento Gets the Slow Food Spotlight: What Makes it Terra Madre America‑worthy

Every so often, a city “has its moment.” For Sacramento, that moment arrived in May 2025 when Visit Sacramento and Slow Food announced a fusion: the U.S. debut of Terra Madre Americas—paired with the city’s beloved Farm‑to‑Fork Festival—for September 26–28 at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center and city streets.

Slow Food’s global mandate? Celebrate food traditions, biodiversity, sustainability, and local farmers. Sacramento, surrounded by some 1.5 million acres of farmland and boasting a vibrant, internationally recognized food scene—including Michelin and James Beard nods—fit the brief perfectly.

The selection wasn’t random: Paolo Di Croce highlighted Sacramento’s diverse cultural fabric (over 120 nationalities) as emblematic of the Americas’ culinary mosaic.

And Visit Sacramento’s leadership knew merging their Farm‑to‑Fork Festival with Terra Madre would elevate both: local pride and global reach in one bite

Slow Food Sacramento

Attendees can expect a rich lineup: artisan food markets featuring flavors from Patagonia to Alaska, Slow Food Coffee coalition tastings, interactive panels on olive oil and biodiversity, and an Enoteca presented by Bank of America—all free to enter. Tickets are only needed for select demos, workshops, and an intimate chef‑curated pop‑up restaurant experience.

And let’s not forget the stars: Alice Waters, Jeremiah Tower, Sean Sherman, Elizabeth Falkner, Drew Deckman, and others share the stage in demonstrations that embody terra‑madre philosophy in action.

Combined with outdoor concerts from The War on Drugs, Passion Pit, Spoon, and Jade Bird—this event promises sensory overload in the best possible way.

Sacramento’s hosting of Terra Madre Americas marks a bold step: bringing the world’s food stories to California’s capital, honoring growers and traditions from across the hemisphere, and inviting everyone to savor it together.

Why the USA vs. Japan Rugby Match Is a Can’t-Miss Event

This isn’t just a game — it’s a statement. Rugby’s popularity is surging across the United States, and the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup match between USA and Japan on September 6 at Heart Health Park in Sacramento is proof that American rugby is ready for the spotlight.

A Global Matchup with Local Impact

Japan made global headlines at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, capturing hearts with their speed, discipline, and upsets against heavyweights like Ireland and Scotland. They’ve since become a respected rugby powerhouse, known for their tactical precision and fearless play. The Brave Blossoms are no longer a team to watch — they’re a team to beat.



On the other side of the pitch are the USA Eagles, a squad with raw power, growing cohesion, and an appetite for respect. With a new generation of players emerging from American colleges and professional leagues like Major League Rugby (MLR), the Eagles are more than hungry — they’re on the hunt to prove themselves on home turf.

The Stakes Are High

This game isn't just about pride — it's a critical step in preparing for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Both nations are using the Pacific Nations Cup to test lineups, sharpen tactics, and build momentum. Every pass, tackle, and try will matter.

For American fans, this is a rare opportunity to see elite international rugby in their own backyard — and in one of the country’s most passionate sports cities.

Why You’ll Want to Be There

The Atmosphere: Heart Health Park will be electric. Expect flags, face paint, chants, and a sea of red, white, and blue.
The Hits: Rugby is not for the faint of heart. No pads. No timeouts. Just 80 minutes of relentless, high-speed action.
The Community: You’ll join thousands of fellow fans — seasoned rugby heads and curious newcomers alike — united by adrenaline and anthem pride.
The Experience: Food trucks, beer gardens, merch stands, and plenty of opportunities to learn the rules if you're new to the sport.

It’s More Than a Game

Rugby fans always say, “Once you see it live, you get it.” That’s what makes September 6 so special. Whether you’re a lifelong rugby supporter, a sports lover looking for something new, or someone just curious about the hype — this is the perfect gateway into one of the world’s most exciting sports.

And when the national anthems play, and the first scrum locks in under the stadium lights, you’ll know you’re part of something much bigger than a game.

Come for the hits. Stay for the culture. Leave as a fan.

Don’t wait — this match is expected to sell out.

Get Your Nosh On: Sacramento Jewish Food Faire Returns Oct 12

Get ready, Sacramento — your favorite nosh-fest is back! The 48th Annual Sacramento Jewish Food Faire hits the Scottish Rite Masonic Center on Sunday, October 12, and it’s packed with flavor, fun, and family-friendly vibes.

This year’s event brings all the staples — latkes, brisket, knishes, kugel — plus new additions like a beer and wine garden and the launch of Sacramento’s Best Bagel Contest (yes, the bragging rights are real).

With live music, vendors, and free admission, it’s a Sunday celebration you won’t want to miss. You don’t have to be Jewish to enjoy Jewish food — just come hungry!

Everything You Need to Know About the 48th Sacramento Jewish Food Faire

🗓️ Date: Sunday, October 12

📍 Location: Sacramento Scottish Rite Masonic Center

🎟️ Admission: Free!



Here’s what’s on the (literal and figurative) menu:
• Classic Jewish cuisine — brisket, kugel, knishes, babka, and more
• A bustling vendor fair with local artisans and Judaica
• Beer & wine garden featuring Israeli imports and California favorites
• Live music from klezmer to folk
• Sacramento’s Best Bagel Contest — you be the judge!


Grab your friends, your appetite, and your stretchy pants. This is the kind of Sunday Funday that feeds your soul and your stomach.

The Virgin Sturgeon: Sunset, Soul, and Sacramento History

Some restaurants have recipes. The Virgin Sturgeon has roots.

Floating peacefully at its riverside post for nearly 50 years, this hidden hideaway has outlasted trends and outshined newcomers thanks to one thing: heart. Here, the staff greets you with familiarity. You’re not a customer—you’re a guest, a neighbor, maybe even part of the crew.

Its no-frills charm is part of the magic. Wood-paneled interiors, a deck that creaks just right, and that iconic view at sunset—when the Sacramento River catches the day’s last light and turns everything gold.



Whether it’s date night, an after-work beer, or a solo visit to soak up the serenity, the Virgin Sturgeon offers something rare: a place where the pace is slow, the smiles are easy, and the moment is everything.

Sunset. Salmon BLT. River vibes.
The Virgin Sturgeon is Sacramento’s floating hideaway—where the food’s always good, the people treat you like family, and sunset is pure magic. 🌅🍽️⚓

Sacramento’s West End: Where Jazz Ruled the Night—and Still Does!

The West End wasn’t just a neighborhood—it was a mood. A place where the air vibrated with jazz riffs, laughter spilled from dance halls, and immigrants from all over the world called the streets home.

Long before redevelopment reshaped Sacramento’s downtown, the West End pulsed with energy as the city’s premier entertainment district. From the early 1900s through the mid-century, this neighborhood was alive with neon lights, packed dance halls, and smoky jazz clubs where music spilled onto the streets. The West End was a cultural crossroads, drawing African American, Japanese, Chinese, Italian, and other immigrant communities together, united by a love of rhythm and the soulful improvisations of jazz. Legendary performers passed through its clubs, and local musicians found steady work and vibrant audiences. But urban renewal in the 1950s and 60s demolished many of these venues, forever altering the neighborhood’s landscape—and scattering its thriving jazz scene.



Today, Harley White, Jr. stands as one of Sacramento’s most prominent keepers of that musical flame. The son of Harley White, Sr.—an accomplished jazz trombonist and a fixture of Sacramento’s earlier jazz days—Harley Jr. grew up steeped in music. A virtuoso bassist, composer, and bandleader, he leads the Harley White Jr. Orchestra, a group renowned for masterfully blending classic big band swing with modern jazz sensibilities. His repertoire often includes nods to jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Charles Mingus, while also weaving in original compositions that speak to contemporary audiences. Beyond his talent as a performer, White is dedicated to educating the public about jazz’s history and cultural significance, making him an ideal artist to help bring the West End’s storied past back to life through West End Blues.

On July 10, the Sacramento History Museum invites you to relive those golden days with West End Blues, an event blending history and live music.

You’ll hear stories about how jazz legends once played in tucked-away clubs in the West End. This was where folks gathered to forget their troubles, dance till dawn, and celebrate life’s highs and lows.

But the best part? The Harley White Jr. Orchestra will bring those vibes roaring back. Known for their vintage jazz sound and high-energy performances, they’ll make you feel like you’re sipping whiskey in a speakeasy circa 1930.



So come for the history, stay for the swing—and let Sacramento’s past groove its way into your heart.

Harley White Jr. Orchestra