A Living Gold Rush History Lesson in Old Sacramento!

Sacramento, California, August 25, 2003 – The Old Sacramento historical district will be transformed into a scene from the 1850’s with dirt covered streets, horse and buggy carriages, Pony Express reenactments, Wild West shoot-outs and more. The excitement of the California gold rush is brought to life during Sacramento’s Gold Rush Days Festival over Labor Day Weekend.
The streets are covered with dirt and cars are prohibited from entering the 28-acre area. As visitors stroll the dirt streets and boardwalks, they will encounter horse-drawn carriages roll along cobblestone streets, while “living history” characters stroll through town in period costume. The event also includes street dramas, period-musicians entertainment, dancers, a tent saloon, miner’s encampment, wagon rides, pony rides and interactive gold panning exhibits.
The highlight of the event, the Wells Fargo Ethnic Village, showcases the heritage of the many cultures of the Gold Rush Era and their impact on the region. The Wells Fargo Ethnic Village features period artifacts, dancing, story-telling and more. Some of the ethnicities represented include: European, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, African American and California Indian. A Daily Procession will end the event each day, with the exception of an opening-day parade on Friday, August 29th. Admission is Free! Friday, August 29th 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday, August 30th 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 31st 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 1st 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The holiday weekend event is co-sponsored by the City of Sacramento, Old Sacramento Management and the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau.