As spring arrives, many in Northern California are beginning to plan their Easter celebrations. Beyond the religious significance for many, Easter has become a widely observed cultural holiday, with Americans expected to spend nearly $25 billion this year, according to the National Retail Federation. A recent analysis by WalletHub identified Sacramento as one of the best major cities in the country to celebrate, ranking at No. 14 overall.
The ranking considered a range of factors, from the number of Easter-related religious services available to the abundance of opportunities for family-friendly activities. Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, explained that the best cities for Easter “cater to the religious nature of the holiday…and also provide the resources for people to have a great time with their family regardless of religious affiliation.” This includes access to treats, dining options, favorable weather, and open spaces for traditional Easter egg hunts.
Sacramento’s high ranking was driven by strong scores in Easter observers, traditions, and events geared toward children. The city also received recognition for its favorable Easter weather and a robust offering of Easter-themed activities. It outperformed all other California cities on the list, with Long Beach and Bakersfield following closely behind at No. 16 and No. 17, respectively. Riverside secured the 29th spot.
Northern California Cities Ranked by WalletHub
- 31: Anaheim
- 32: San Diego
- 33: Fresno
- 35: Los Angeles
- 36: San Francisco
- 44: San Jose
- 49: San Bernardino
- 52: Santa Ana
- 59: Oakland
- 63: Irvine
- 68: Stockton
- 89: Fremont
- 90: Chula Vista
WalletHub’s methodology assessed 100 of the most populated cities across the United States, evaluating them based on four key dimensions: the proportion of Easter observers, the prevalence of Easter traditions, the availability of kid-friendly Easter events, and the local weather conditions. Each dimension was scored using 11 specific metrics, with a maximum score of 100 representing the most ideal environment for celebrating Easter.
Looking beyond California, the top 10 cities for Easter celebrations, according to WalletHub, are:
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Modern Orleans, Louisiana
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Buffalo, New York
- Orlando, Florida
- Atlanta, Georgia
- El Paso, Texas
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
For those planning Easter celebrations in Sacramento, a variety of options are available. Local churches are hosting services throughout the weekend, and many restaurants are offering special Easter brunch menus. Several parks and community centers are organizing Easter egg hunts for children. The city’s mild spring weather is expected to provide a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities.
The economic impact of Easter is substantial. The National Retail Federation estimates that approximately 80% of Americans plan to celebrate Easter this year, contributing to a projected total spending of nearly $25 billion. This spending encompasses a wide range of items, including candy, clothing, decorations, and food.
As the Easter season unfolds, Sacramento and other cities across Northern California are poised to offer a blend of religious observance and festive celebrations. Local event listings and community calendars will continue to be updated with details on specific activities and services in the coming days. Residents are encouraged to check with local organizations for the most current information.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute financial or religious advice.
What are your plans for Easter this year? Share your traditions and celebrations in the comments below.
