In
late November 2025, our family kicked off the Christmas season with an
unforgettable afternoon at Sacramento's Golden 1 Center to see the Trans-Siberian
Orchestra perform The Ghosts of Christmas Eve.
While the music was spectacular, what stood out just as much was how easy the
arena made the experience for Kellisa, proving that accessibility and
world-class entertainment can go hand in hand.
This wasn't our first Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert. Lisa and I had seen the band back in Jacksonville in 2010, but that experience was cut short because we had to leave halfway through to relieve the babysitter. Fifteen years later, things were very different. Instead of worrying about getting home early, we were able to enjoy the concert together as a family, sharing the experience with Kellisa and Egypt. It was a reminder of how quickly life changes and how special it is to create new traditions together.
Sacramento, CA
November 28, 2025
3pm
One of the reasons we love attending
events at Golden 1 Center is the exceptional treatment of guests with
disabilities. Rather than navigating the busy main entrances, wheelchair users
are directed to a dedicated VIP entrance near the suites. From there, elevators
provide easy access to every level of the arena. Staff members are consistently
friendly, escorting guests to their section, helping locate the correct seating
area, and making sure everyone is comfortable before moving on. It's a simple
process that removes much of the stress often associated with attending large
events.
The accessible seating itself is
thoughtfully designed. Kellisa's wheelchair fit comfortably into an open
viewing area without feeling crowded, and the arena provided three cushioned
companion chairs so the rest of our family could sit together beside her. Too
often, accessible seating can leave families feeling separated, but Golden 1
Center creates an inclusive environment where everyone shares the same
experience. Best of all, our seats offered an outstanding, unobstructed view of
the stage.
As
the lights dimmed, the arena transformed into a dazzling Christmas spectacular.
Towering walls of light, synchronized lasers, brilliant video displays, and
bursts of pyrotechnics perfectly complemented the orchestra's blend of rock and
holiday music. Even though we only recognized a handful of songs, the
performance captivated all four of us. The visual production was every bit as
impressive as the music, making it impossible to look away for even a moment.
For longtime fans, there was also a
sense of nostalgia. Before Trans-Siberian Orchestra became a holiday
phenomenon, founder members were part of the heavy metal band Savatage. It's
amusing to think that Savatage might struggle to fill a small club today, yet
by combining their incredible musicianship with the spirit of Christmas,
Trans-Siberian Orchestra now sells out multiple performances at Northern
California's largest indoor venue. It's a remarkable transformation that speaks
to the universal appeal of their music.
Our afternoon at Golden 1 Center was
about much more than a concert. It was another reminder that accessibility
opens doors to memorable family experiences. From the dedicated entrance and
attentive staff to spacious wheelchair seating and outstanding sightlines, the
arena demonstrated how inclusive design allows everyone to enjoy major events
together. As the final notes echoed through the arena and the last fireworks
faded, we left filled with Christmas spirit—and grateful that accessibility
made the entire experience seamless, comfortable, and unforgettable.
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