Quaint Quincy transforms into a Norman Rockwell painting annually during the beloved Sparkle event. This year, immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season by venturing to Plumas County on Friday, Dec. 1, from 5 to 8 p.m., and enter a family-friendly winter wonderland.
Amid the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s important to slow down and remember what the season is about: community, love, and celebration. Since 1989, Sparkle has transformed the charming Sierra town of Quincy, just 90 minutes north of Reno, into a scene from a vintage Christmas film every holiday season.
Main Street is brilliantly illuminated, with residents and visitors alike reveling in the holiday spirit during three hours of festivities, including a light parade, a variety of vendors, artistic performances, a Christmas tree lighting, and the Quincy Volunteer Fire Department delivering Santa for a visit on its ladder truck.
Sparkle is a uniquely special event in a town that hosts many.
“It’s just that small town feel … it’s that classic Christmas scene … that sensation of walking around downtown and seeing everyone greeting everybody; everyone is happy and smiling,” says Cheryl Kolb, administrative director for the Quincy Chamber of Commerce. “It’s all about that community, that warm, cozy feeling of belonging.”
Sparkle’s 2023 entertainment showcase on the courthouse steps includes Quircus performing jaw-dropping circus acts, dancers, musicians, the High Sierra Winter Witches fairy show, local harmonica player Johnny Walker accompanying the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 7:25 p.m., and free photos with Santa. After the event, the West End Theatre will perform A Christmas Story live nearby.
Local vendors will offer handmade goods plus hot chocolate and cider, while Quincy Elementary School’s sixth-grade class will host a fundraiser for its big annual watershed field trip from Plumas County to the Pacific. Surrounding shops are decorated in finest fashion for the season as well and are ideal for holiday shopping while taking in Sparkle.
On Main Street, must-visit shops include Forest Stationers for fun arts and crafts goods; The Toy Store Quincy for high-quality playthings, musical instruments, and clothing for little ones; and the Plumas Arts Gallery for eye-catching, locally made artistry of all sorts.
Meander the Quincy streets before, during, and after the event to sample delicious local fare and libations. At Quintopia, sip on craft beers while noshing on exceptional pub and Thai cuisine, or check out the expansive menu and filling portions at Patti’s Thunder Café.
The Knook has mouthwatering grab-and-go staples, while Leon & Roys Family Pizzeria is a new hotspot in town. Round out the evening at Plumas Club, a welcoming watering hole with history dating back to 1914.
Such a fun event invites a full weekend experience. Book a cozy room at Quincy Feather Bed Inn, a converted Victorian home one block from downtown, or the family-friendly Gold Pan Lodge just two blocks from the Sparkle festivities. Just a bit further is the Ranchito Motel, with an exquisite garden area and updated rooms, plus Ada’s Place, featuring charming individual garden cottages.
Wake up Saturday morning, have breakfast, then take home a grand seasonal souvenir. While in Quincy, get a permit on the Sparkle website to cut down a Christmas tree from the Plumas National Forest, and go on a memorable excursion to treasure for a lifetime.
“Celebrating Christmas in a small town, it’s just magical … there’s just something about it, that wonderful, warm, cozy sensation,” Kolb says.
For a full schedule of events, dining and lodging reservations, and further info, visit Quincychamber.com/Sparkle.
