Spark your festive spirit this winter in Carson City

Kick off the holiday season in Nevada’s capital city with a visit from Santa Claus himself at the Nevada State Railroad Museum. The young and young at heart are welcome to enjoy the annual Santa Train rides, which will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17. Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased at the museum.

Admire the lights.

If you’re looking for dazzling holiday lights, then you can’t miss the Silver & Snowflakes Annual Tree Lighting at the Nevada State Capitol Building, which will begin at 5:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 1.

Plus, Carson City’s historic west side neighborhood showcases a beautiful display of holiday spirit that you’ll want to admire while you’re in town. Follow along the 2.5-mile Kit Carson Trail to marvel at the Victorian-era architecture, featuring many homes that are lit up for the holiday season. And be sure to stop at the Governor’s Mansion and the Capitol building, which feature especially festive holiday decorations.

The Silver Saddle Ranch also puts a Western twist on the holidays! Grab your boots and giddy up with your loved ones to enjoy the Holidays on the Ranch Wagon Rides from 2-5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16 and Sunday, Dec. 17. Tickets are $10 per person and must be reserved in advance. Go to VisitCarsonCity.com/events for details.

Sleigh your gift list.

While you’re in Carson City, you can check off items from your gift list and purchase one-of-a-kind treasures from skilled artisans at seasonal fairs. The Carson Christmas Craft Fairs will be Saturdays, Nov. 11, Dec. 2 and 9 at the Fuji Exhibit Hall; the Christmas at the Plaza Craft & Vendor Faire will take place Friday, Dec. 8 through Sunday, Dec. 10 at the Carson Plaza Hotel and Convention Center; and the Brewery Arts Holiday Bazaar & Market will be Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Brewery Arts Center. Find more details at VisitCarsonCity.com/events.

Carson City offers many seasonal activities for you and your family to delight in experiencing together. Go to VisitCarsonCity.com for a full list of winter festivities.