Events

With all the financial demands we face, it's nice to know that Sacramento is not only a great vacation destination, but also an affordable one. Listed below is a sampling of free attractions that represent Sacramento's identity as the home of the Gold Rush, state capital of California, agricultural powerhouse, and unique, modern city. Enjoy all that money can't buy, in Sacramento!

Application deadline: February 28, 2006

The HI-USA Golden Gate Council is proud to sponsor Bands That Rock, a series of monthly shows at 330 Ritch in San Francisco, featuring the Bay Area's hottest emerging bands. Shows unfurl the fourth Friday of every month, and Hostelling International members get in free!

Each November, thousands of visitors gather to witness the annual lighting of the original first-order Fresnel lens at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, and to celebrate the anniversary of the first lighting more than 130 years ago. The annual celebration, instituted by Hostelling International more than a decade ago, has become so popular that the California State Parks department now acts as master of ceremonies by inviting the U.S. Coast Guard to switch the lights, and local community and environmental organizations participate as well.