El Dorado Hills Pet-Friendly Holiday Activities: Celebrate the Season with Your Pup!
The holiday season in El Dorado Hills and surrounding towns is the perfect time to include your furry friend in festive fun! From tree lightings to dog-friendly runs, crawls, and local patios, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the holidays with your pup. Here’s your ultimate guide to pet-friendly holiday activities in El Dorado Hills and the surrounding Sacramento region.
🎄 El Dorado Hills Christmas Tree Lighting
One of the highlights of the season is the El Dorado Hills Christmas Tree Lighting at El Dorado Hills Town Center. Families and their dogs are welcome to enjoy this festive event in an open-air plaza.
Event Details:
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Date & Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Location: El Dorado Hills Town Center, 4364 Town Center Blvd, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
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Highlights:
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Live music and caroling performances
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Merchant open houses- check out Beyond Wellness for dog treats with CBD!
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Arrival of Santa (often via fire truck)
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Tree lighting around 6:30 PM
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Dog-Friendly Tips:
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Bring a leash, water bowl, and a mat or blanket for your dog.
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Arrive early to secure a good spot and allow your dog to acclimate to the crowd.
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Keep your pup calm around lights, music, and children.
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Choose a spot with easy exit access if your dog needs a break.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Holiday Runs & Crawls
Davis Turkey Trot & Dog Jog
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Date & Time: Saturday, November 22, 2025, 7:50 AM – TBD
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Location: Civic Center Park, Davis, CA
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Multiple distances offered, including a 2-mile dog jog.
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Post-race expo with refreshments, vendor samples, kid-friendly activities, and live music.
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Dogs must be leashed (non-retractable) and comfortable with crowds.
Learn more and register here
Jingle Bell Pup Crawl – Midtown Sacramento
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Date & Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
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Check in at Truitt Bark Park, get jingle bells for your dog, enjoy photo ops with “Santa Paws”, giveaways, and festive fun.
Event details
🍴 Dog-Friendly Dining & Breweries in El Dorado Hills
After your holiday adventures, relax at one of these pet-friendly spots:
1. Selland’s Market-Café – Spacious patio with a water feature view, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner with your dog.
2. Brickyard Counter & Bar – Umbrella-shaded outdoor tables where leashed dogs are welcome. Great for BBQ and casual drinks.
3. Boring Rose Brewing Co. – Dog-friendly patio at a local brewery. Bring a treat and enjoy the casual, festive vibe.
🛍️ El Dorado Hills Farmer Market
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El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market: Walk with your dog, shop local vendors, and enjoy all the free treats for your pup!
- Every Sunday from 9-1 across from Brickyard Counter & Bar in the amphitheater. Then starting November 15th, the Farmers’ market will be every Saturday from 9-2.
Holiday Makers Market – Saturday, November 15th | 9 AM–3 PM
Get into the holiday spirit at our Holiday Makers Market! Celebrate local artisans, discover unique gifts, and support our community makers.
📸✨🐾 Don’t miss The Holiday Box Experience — a fun, modern take on family photography in El Dorado Hills!
At the studio of Susannah Gill Photography in El Dorado Hills, CA, families (and yes, pets too!) step into a custom 4 × 4 ft “holiday box,” play, laugh, and create nine unique images that tell their personal story. With props, snacks, customization, and professional prints, this session becomes a memorable keepsake — ideal for holiday cards or wall décor. It’s a fantastic pet‑friendly holiday activity right here in El Dorado Hills, so bring your pup and make this season extra special.

✅ Tips for a Safe & Fun Pet-Friendly Holiday Season
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Keep your dog leashed at all times.
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Bring water, treats, and a comfortable mat or blanket.
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Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a good spot.
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Monitor your dog’s behavior in busy or noisy environments.
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Confirm dogs are allowed before attending any event.
Make the Holidays Magical for You and Your Dog
Whether it’s tree lightings, dog-friendly runs, festive crawls, or outdoor markets, El Dorado Hills Pet-Friendly Holiday Activities offers plenty of ways to enjoy the season with your pup. Leash up, mark your calendar, and make unforgettable holiday memories together!
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