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Events

The California State Capitol hosts a variety of special events throughout the year to commemorate significant moments in California’s history. Participating volunteers may help with event set-up and clean-up, distribute food to guests, and engage and educate the public through living history. For information about becoming a volunteer at the State Capitol Museum, please call the Tour Office at (916) 324-0333.

Camellia Day

This springtime celebration honors Sacramento’s designation as the “Camellia Capital of the World.” After their introduction to California in the mid-nineteenth century, landscaping with camellias became a Sacramento tradition. To the delight of Capitol visitors and staff, volunteers distribute complimentary corsages harvested from Capitol Park’s own camellia garden.

Living History Day

Living History Day is a triannual event offering live re-enactments of important moments within California history performed by costumed volunteers. Visitors are transported back to the Capitol of the early twentieth century through theatrical recreations of events such as Election Day, the 1906 Earthquake, Governor’s Day, and California Admission Day.

Admission Day

California became a state on September 9, 1850. Admission Day marks the anniversary of California Statehood and is commemorated with great fanfare. On this day, the west steps of the State Capitol building set the stage for a classic birthday celebration, complete with music, cake, and ice cream! Join special guests and visitors from across California in honoring the creation of the Golden State.

California Biodiversity Day

Fun family activities inspire discovery and connection to California’s state parks during California Biodiversity Week! Celebrate the unparalleled natural diversity of the Golden State through guided explorations of Capitol Park and the Leland Stanford Mansion this September 7-14th, 2025.

Capitol Holiday Music Program

Get ready for some holiday fun on your next December visit to the California State Capitol! Beautiful vintage decorations create a festive backdrop for a variety of live musical performances in the Capitol rotunda. This special holiday experience is made possible by the State Capitol Museum and California State Parks in association with the California State Legislature Joint Rules Committee, the Governor’s Office, and the Department of General Services, who work collaboratively to preserve holiday traditions inside the Capitol.