SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Crowds are expected to gather in Old Sacramento Wednesday night for the “Countdown on the Cobblestones” New Year’s Eve celebration, with organizers moving forward despite rainy weather.

Sacramento police said they are increasing patrols in and around Old Sacramento as thousands of people are expected to attend the festivities.

Even with the wet conditions, crews spent the day preparing the area, setting up for the celebration and decorating a tree to ring in 2026. Some visitors chose to arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere before the evening crowds arrived.

Rebecca Shoemaker, who traveled from Reno with her partner, said they wanted to experience Old Sacramento together despite the rain.

“I love the old town. He’s never been here before, so just experience something new with each other,” Shoemaker said.

Shoemaker said the weather also influenced how they planned to spend the night.

“We decided to enjoy it this morning, and then tonight, we’ll probably sit by the fireplace and have a little bit of some nice quiet time inside,” she said.

For those planning to attend the celebration later in the evening, Sacramento police say safety is a top priority, especially given past New Year’s Eve incidents in the area.

“There’s going to be a lot of pedestrian and vehicle traffic throughout downtown, throughout Old Sacramento,” Sacramento Police Public Information Officer Allison Smith said. “So most importantly, if you can plan ahead, plan a rideshare, never drink and drive, and remember to be patient.”

Local businesses say the extra police presence is welcomed. Last Stop Saloon owner Scott Manley said New Year’s Eve is typically one of their busiest nights of the year.

“This will be our third New Year’s, and yeah, it’s great that they do the fireworks at 9 p.m. It kind of gets people out early. They stay late. So yeah, we love it,” Manley said.

This year’s celebration will not extend until midnight. The official countdown and fireworks show are scheduled for 9 p.m., with organizers hoping the earlier time creates a more family-friendly environment.

Bob and Joanna Huffman, visiting from Manteca, said they were happy to be out celebrating after a difficult year.

“We’ve had a little rough year this year, and we just thought we needed to get away and bring in the new year,” Joanna Huffman said.

Organizers say the fireworks show will go on rain or shine, with events in Old Sacramento expected to wrap up around 10 p.m.

You find more information on road closures and parking here.

CHP launches New Year’s enforcement period with extra patrols