Holiday Cheer, Community Spirit, & Local Finds

This mid-December week, South Placer is wrapped in holiday cheer, community gatherings, and seasonal traditions, alongside a few noteworthy local updates worth keeping an eye on.

What you may find in today’s edition:

• Family-friendly holiday events and Santa appearances across the region

• Seasonal concerts and performances for all ages

• Creative classes and festive paint-and-sip experiences

• A local restaurant highlight and a brief business update to keep you in the loop

Two South Placer Schools Seek to Expand Into Commercial Spaces

Two schools in South Placer County are moving forward with plans to expand into commercial properties to accommodate growing enrollment, following recent actions by local planning commissions.

In Roseville, the Planning Commission unanimously approved John Adams Academy’s proposal to purchase and occupy a 6,795-square-foot building at Sierra Gate Plaza, adjacent to its existing campus. The space would be used for transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and before- and after-school programs. The school emphasized that space constraints have limited its ability to fully serve students and families.

In Rocklin, the Planning Commission approved a proposal for Destiny Christian Church to convert a 53,000-square-foot vacant retail space at Five Star Plaza (6850 Five Star Blvd.) into a private school serving fourth through eighth grades, with up to 250 students. Plans include classrooms, a teaching kitchen, and an outdoor play area built on part of the existing parking lot. While commissioners approved the plan, they expressed concerns about the loss of sales-tax-generating retail space and recommended that the city negotiate an annual use fee to offset lost revenue.

The Rocklin City Council has not yet scheduled a hearing on the proposal, and no council meetings are currently set through the end of 2025. The discussions reflect broader challenges facing retail centers as communities adapt vacant commercial spaces to new uses.

Local Spotlight: The Greenhouse Restaurant, Penryn

Tucked into the heart of Penryn, The Greenhouse Restaurant continues to be a standout destination for elevated comfort food in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Known for its seasonal menus, thoughtfully crafted cocktails, and beautifully restored historic space, The Greenhouse blends small-town charm with a refined dining experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a cozy dinner, brunch with friends, or a special night out, it remains a favorite for locals who appreciate quality ingredients, attentive service, and a space that feels both special and familiar.

Why locals love The Greenhouse Restaurant:

• Seasonal, farm-forward menu with elevated comfort classics

• Craft cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine list

• Beautifully restored historic greenhouse setting

• Ideal for date nights, small celebrations, and relaxed gatherings

• Consistently praised for warm service and welcoming atmosphere

Upcoming Events (December 17-23, 2025)

Community & Family Fun

Lincoln Community Blood Drive
What: Give the gift of life at Lincoln’s community blood drive, hosted by Lincoln Community Blood Drives and the Rotary Club of Lincoln. Every donation helps save lives, and snacks are provided for donors by Placer-Nevada CattleWomen.
Where: 541 5th St, Lincoln, CA 95648
When: Friday, Dec 19, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Cost: Free
Link: https://bit.ly/LincolnBloodDrive20251219

Breakfast with Santa at Lazy Dog
What: Bring the kids for a festive morning with Santa featuring a FREE kids meal, holiday coloring, gingerbread house building, a hot cocoa and cookies bar, and a special Lazy Dog gift for little ones. A fun and relaxed holiday outing for the whole family.
Where: Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, Roseville, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Santa in the Plaza – Downtown Lincoln
What: Celebrate the season at Beerman Plaza with Santa’s Workshop in the Plaza. Enjoy gifts from Santa, kids’ crafts, holiday fun, face painting, free photos by Jennypine Photography, and a special appearance by Santa’s reindeer. A festive evening for the whole family.
Where: Beerman Plaza, Lincoln, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Cost: Free

Country Christmas in Old Town Auburn
What: A festive holiday celebration in Old Town Auburn with lights, shopping, seasonal treats, and small-town Christmas charm.
Where: Old Town Auburn, Auburn, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 9:00PM
Cost: Free
Link: https://www.exploreauburnca.com/events-calendar

Whisker Wonderland
What: Step into a cozy, cat-filled holiday celebration at FieldHaven Marketplace featuring adoptable cats, festive shopping, sweet treats, live music, and family-friendly fun. Highlights include Cat Adoptions & Snuggle Time, Champy’s Café, pop-up boutiques, holiday décor, and seasonal treats—plus every visit supports FieldHaven’s lifesaving programs.
Where: FieldHaven Marketplace, Lincoln, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cost: Free admission

Santa at the Promenade
What: Santa is visiting the Downtown Auburn Promenade—stop by for photos, smiles, and a little Christmas magic in the heart of Auburn.
Where: Downtown Auburn Promenade, Auburn, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 13-21, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Cost: Free
Link: https://www.exploreauburnca.com/events-calendar

Auburn Winds Concert Band Presents: A Christmas Portrait
What: Celebrate the season with a festive, family-friendly holiday concert performed by the Auburn Winds Concert Band. Led by Conductor Jim Kepfer, the program features classic holiday favorites including “The Wonder of Christmas,” “Deck the Halls,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” and more. Auburn Winds is a community band made up of volunteer musicians of all ages and proudly serves as the Official Town Band of Auburn.
Where: Placer High School Theater, Auburn, CA
When: Sunday, Dec 21, 2025 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Free
Link: https://auburnwinds.org

Arts & Culture

A CHRISTMAS CAROL; Or, The Miser's Warning!
What: A heartwarming theatrical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, following Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey through Christmas Past, Present, and Future.
Where: Auburn Theater, Auburn, CA
When: Thursday-Sunday, Dec 11-21, 2025 | Times vary depending on day of performance
Cost: $25 General Admission
Link: https://www.visitplacer.com/events/

Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas — Movie Screening
What: A festive Disney holiday movie screening perfect for families and young children, presented by Auburn Theatre.
Where: Odd Fellows Lodge #7, Auburn, CA
When: Sunday, Dec 21, 2025 | 4:00 PM
Cost: $12 Adults · $5 Kids (under 12)

Entertainment & Social Events

Paint Nite: Santa Gnome
What: Enjoy a festive, adults-only paint night led by Yay Lets Paint, where you’ll create a holiday-themed Santa gnome step-by-step in a relaxed, social setting. All supplies are included—just bring your creativity and enjoy food and drinks available for purchase at the venue.
Where: CJ’s Pizza Bar & Grill, Rocklin, CA
When: Wednesday, Dec 17, 2025 | 6:30 PM (2 hours 15 minutes)
Cost: $45 per person (supplies included)
Link: https://www.paintnite.com/events/

Paint Nite: Polar Bear Love
What: Enjoy an adults-only paint night as you create a winter-themed “Polar Bear Love” artwork step-by-step. Led by CCs-fatbirdsart, this creative evening is perfect for a festive night out, with all materials provided and food and drinks available for purchase.
Where: El Tapatio, Auburn, CA
When: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025 | 5:45 PM (approximately 2 hours)
Cost: $45 per person (supplies included)
Link: https://www.paintnite.com/events/

Ribbon Cutting – Pinkberry
What: Celebrate the opening of Pinkberry at a Roseville Chamber ribbon cutting.
Where: Roseville Chamber of Commerce, Roseville, CA
When: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Cost: Free

Archery for All Skill Levels
What: Learn the fundamentals of archery or refine your skills with guidance from certified instructors. Classes are tailored to individual skill levels and open to beginners through experienced archers. Closed-toe shoes required.
Where: Maya Archers Inc., Roseville, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: $40 Resident; $45 Non-Resident
Link: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofroseville/activity/search

Paint & Sip at Crooked Lane Brewing
What: Get into the holiday spirit with a cozy, beginner-friendly paint and sip experience at Crooked Lane Brewing. This festive workshop features step-by-step instruction to create a glowing winter-themed painting, paired with craft beer, warm seasonal vibes, and just enough holiday magic. Stay after for the brewery’s popular Ugly Christmas Sweater Party and keep the celebration going.
Where: Crooked Lane Brewing Company, Auburn, CA
When: Sunday, Dec 21, 2025 | 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Cost: $40
Link: https://sips.art/products/festive-tree-crooked-lane-sun-dec-21st-12-30p

Live Events

Ugly Sweater Karaoke Is Back
What: A festive Ugly Sweater–themed karaoke night.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Tuesday, Dec 16, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Cost: RSVP
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Whiskey & Cigar Night with Pendleton
What: An evening of whiskey tasting paired with cigars, hosted by Pendleton.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Wednesday, Dec 17, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: $15
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Thursday Night Live Music with Braswell
What: A live evening performance by Braswell.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Cost: Reservations
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Official OHS Christmas Party Featuring Brodie Stewart & Jen Michele Line Dancing
What: A festive Christmas party featuring live music, dancing, and performances.
Where: Opera House Saloon, Placer County, CA
When: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Cost: $17.85
Link: https://www.operahousesaloon.com/

Rock Monsterz – 80’s Rock Tribute
What: A high-energy 80s rock tribute performance.
Where: Thunder Valley Casino Resort, Lincoln, CA
When: Thursday, Dec 18, 2025 | 7:30 PM
Cost: Starting at $40
Link: https://thundervalleyresort.com/entertainment/events

Tony Hinchcliffe
What: A live comedy performance by Tony Hinchcliffe.
Where: Thunder Valley Casino Resort, Lincoln, CA
When: Friday, Dec 19, 2025 | 8:00 PM
Cost: Starting at $65
Link: https://thundervalleyresort.com/entertainment/events

Christmas Celebration with Quinn Hedges
What: A holiday celebration with live music by Quinn Hedges.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Friday, Dec 19, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Cost: Reservations
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Parabellum
What: A live rock performance by Parabellum.
Where: Goldfield Trading Post, Placer County, CA
When: Friday, Dec 19, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Cost: $21.29 General Admission
Link: https://wl.eventim.us/event/parabellum/669399?afflky=GoldfieldTradingPost

All Hat No Cattle (with Chris Gardner)
What: A live country music performance.
Where: Opera House Saloon, Placer County, CA
When: Friday, Dec 19, 2025 | 8:00 PM
Cost: $17.85
Link: https://www.operahousesaloon.com/

Leo Ku – All About Love
What: A concert event featuring Leo Ku.
Where: Thunder Valley Casino Resort, Lincoln, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 7:30 PM
Cost: Starting at $128
Link: https://thundervalleyresort.com/entertainment/events

Fretless LIVE bringing REM Covers
What: A night of R.E.M. cover songs performed live by Fretless.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Cost: Reservations
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Eyes Set to Kill
What: A live performance by Eyes Set to Kill.
Where: Goldfield Trading Post, Placer County, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 6:00 PM
Cost: $31.18 General Admission
Link: https://wl.eventim.us/event/eyes-set-to-kill/657873?afflky=GoldfieldTradingPost

Popular Demand & Kristen Brown
What: A live music performance featuring Popular Demand and Kristen Brown.
Where: Opera House Saloon, Placer County, CA
When: Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 | 8:00 PM
Cost: $23.18
Link: https://www.operahousesaloon.com/

Martin & Monroe Christmas Show
What: A smooth, festive Christmas show featuring Martin & Monroe.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Sunday, Dec 21, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: $15
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Mark Your Calendars!

Here’s your heads-up on what’s coming soon in our area: the concerts, dinners, and community favorites you’ll want tickets for before they sell out.

Keep an eye on this section every issue for early-bird links, local experiences, and seasonal must-dos.

New Year’s Eve Special Dinner at House of Oliver
What: Ring in the New Year with an elegant four-course prix fixe dinner designed by the House of Oliver chef. The evening features seared crab cakes to start, a seasonal second course, your choice of handcrafted entrées—including seared ahi risotto or smoked prime rib—and a decadent dark chocolate mousse dessert. Wine pairing options are available.
Where: House of Oliver, Roseville, CA
When: Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025 | Dinner service (time not listed)
Cost: $85 per person; wine pairings available; +$15 upcharge for prime rib
Link: https://www.houseofoliver.com/events

Auburn Symphony: Masterworks II Concert – Amaryn Olmeda & Mozart 38
What: The Auburn Symphony presents Masterworks II, featuring the return of internationally acclaimed violinist Amaryn Olmeda, a former Young Artists Competition Grand Prize winner. The program includes Richard Strauss’ Wind Serenade, Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto, and Mozart’s Symphony No. 38, with a special spotlight on the symphony’s wind section.
Where: Placer High School Theater, Auburn, CA
When: January 17–18, 2026 | Saturday at 6:00 PM; Sunday at 3:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed event
Link: https://www.visitplacer.com/auburn-symphony-masterworks-ii-concert/

365 Days of Fresh: Discover South Placer’s Year Round Farmers Markets

Kaiser Lincoln Farmers’ Market
When: Mondays | 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Where: 1900 Dresden Dr, Lincoln

Fountains Farmers’ Market – Roseville
When: Tuesdays | 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: 1198 Roseville Pkwy, Roseville

Old Town Auburn Farmers’ Market
When: Saturdays | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: 150 Auburn Folsom Road (at Lincoln Way), Auburn

Mahany Park Farmers’ Market
When: Sundays | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: 1545 Pleasant Grove Blvd, Roseville

Fowler Ranch Farmers’ Market
When: Sundays | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: 3111 Lincoln-Newcastle Hwy, Lincoln

Community isn’t built in big moments, but in the small ones we choose to share.