Calaveras County is a year-round destination for travelers seeking small-town charm, Gold Rush history, and stunning natural beauty. From cozy cabins and historic downtowns to award-winning wineries and outdoor adventures, there’s always a reason to visit. Whether it’s family fun, a romantic getaway, or solo exploration, Calaveras offers unforgettable experiences every season.
Winter (January – February)
January and February are Calaveras County’s best-kept winter secret, offering all the charm with none of the crowds. These off-season months bring snow-dusted mountain scenery, easy access to winter fun at Bear Valley, and cozy cabin stays without Tahoe-level traffic or lift lines. Visitors can enjoy relaxed, fireside wine tasting in Murphys, stroll historic downtowns like Angels Camp and Mokelumne Hill at an unhurried pace, and take advantage of better lodging availability and seasonal deals. With crisp mountain air, quiet trails, and a welcoming small-town vibe, winter in Calaveras is the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic California charm proof that the coziest travel moments happen after the holidays.
Spring (March – May):
Spring transforms the hills into a riot of wildflowers – the hills are lush with orange California poppies and purple lupine. Celebrate Celtic heritage at the Calaveras Celtic Faire and Murphys Irish Day, or explore sparkling gems at the Calaveras Gem & Jewelry Show in March. Fans of vintage and repurposed home goods must check out the Crafty Chicks Road Show in April! Aviation enthusiasts will love Airport Day, usually held the third Saturday in April, complete with airplane rides for kids of all ages and up close interactive airplane demonstrations! Wine lovers flock to Spring Wine Weekend the last weekend in April, and May brings car enthusiasts to the Copperopolis Lions Club’s Hot Copper Car Show. Hop on over to the world-famous Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee in Angels Camp held the third Thursday-Sunday in May every year! You can bring your own frog or rent one for $5, and, don’t worry, those frogs are treated like the royalty they are! Visit the frogs in their temperature controlled frog spa where they are fed yummy frog treats and lounging in their climate controlled spa boxes. After the contest, they are returned right back to the pond they came from with a huge “thank you” and “see you later”! Last, check out the Spring Peddler’s Faire in Arnold throughout Memorial Day Weekend for art, antiques, and crafts.
Summer (June – August)
Farmers’ markets in Angels Camp, Murphys, and West Point offer fresh local produce and artisanal foods. Don’t miss some of music’s greatest musical artists at Ironstone’s Summer Concerts Series under the stars usually running from June through September or Fireworks over Lake Hogan the last Saturday in June. Celebrate the 4th of July with parades in Mokelumne Hill and Arnold and alpine tunes at the two-week long Bear Valley Music Festival. Spoil yourself with world-class orchestral performances and contemporary gems echoing through the Sierra Nevada, creating an unforgettable alpine cultural experience. Set in scenic Bear Valley, this beloved California music festival blends breathtaking mountain beauty with inspiring classical and contemporary concerts that delight visitors year after year.
Fall (September – November)
Labor Day Weekend brings the Sierra Nevada Logging Museum’s Logging Jamboree and Arnold Arts & Crafts Fair to Arnold, while BMX fans race at Frogtown Classic BMX Days. The Logging Jamboree is a sanctioned contest drawing competitors from all over and showcasing the important history of logging in the Sierra Nevada. Classic car aficionados attend the Ironstone Concours d’Elegance at Ironstone Vineyards towards the end of September, and Hermitfest happens on the first weekend in September in Bear Valley to close out summer with live music on the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway. October highlights include Lumberjack Day, the Calaveras Grape Stomp, All Hallows Faire, and the Mark Twain Wild West Festival for family-friendly Gold Rush fun.
Holiday Season (November – December):
The town of Murphys celebrates Dia de Los Muertos the first Saturday in November coming to life with marigolds and vibrant colors to celebrate the lives of people who have passed and are with us in heart and spirit. The celebration happens in Murphys Park with Folk Art Mercado, Sugar Skull face painting, Ballet Folklorico, a Catrin & Catrina contest, Aztec dancers, and the final blessing of the community altar. Thanksgiving Day in Murphys, start the morning at the locals’ favorite Klassen Klassic Turkey Trot where family-fun, charity, and gratitude cumulate at a run/walk from Murphys Park to Ironstone Vineyards, raising money for local families in need and the Murphys Senior Center Food Bank. December sparkles with festive events including the Murphys Open House & Christmas Celebration, San Andreas’ Caroling & Candy Canes, Mokelumne Hill Holiday Open House, Angels Camp Gold Country Christmas, and Valley Springs Christmas Parade & Craft Fair, complete with Santa, carolers, and twinkling lights.
From winter escapes and spring festivals to summer music and fall harvests, Calaveras County is a year-round playground filled with charm, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Be sure to check our Calendar of Events for a full schedule of all the great things to do in Calaveras. Plan your visit and experience the best of Gold Country today!
