Sacramento's Grand Stage for Live Entertainment
A century-old downtown theater bringing concerts, film nights, and unforgettable shows to K Street.
A century-old downtown theater bringing concerts, film nights, and unforgettable shows to K Street.
Screenings coming up here. Get tickets or add them to your calendar.
The Crest Theatre has been anchoring 1013 K Street since the 1940s, and the building makes that history impossible to ignore. Walk through the doors and you're immediately inside one of Sacramento's most ornate surviving movie palaces, all gilded details, soaring ceilings, and a screen that still commands the room the way it was designed to.
These days the Crest runs a genuinely eclectic calendar. A Tuesday might bring a $2 nostalgia screening of The Wedding Singer to a crowd of 100 enthusiastic regulars. A Friday might see a sold-out Adele Tribute concert filling the hall with spot-on acoustics and theatrical lighting. That range is deliberate. The Crest isn't trying to be one thing; it's trying to be the place downtown Sacramento goes when it wants to feel something.
Downstairs, the Empress Bar adds another dimension entirely. It's a beautifully designed room that regulars wish were open more than its current two days a week, which tells you everything about how well it's executed. With a 4.6-star rating across more than 2,100 reviews, the Crest has earned its standing as a downtown institution through decades of consistent programming and a space that genuinely can't be replicated.
The Crest hosts live music across genres, from tribute acts to original touring artists, in a room with natural acoustics that reviewers consistently praise. The intimate size keeps every seat feeling close to the stage, and the historic architecture adds a backdrop that modern venues simply don't have.
Classic film screenings are a signature offering, including the beloved budget-priced nostalgia nights that pack the house with fans who came to see a favorite on a proper big screen. Private event rentals, comedy shows, and special community screenings round out the calendar, making the Crest one of the most versatile event spaces on K Street.
The Empress Bar beneath the main theater serves as a pre-show gathering spot and standalone destination, offering a sophisticated lounge atmosphere that complements the grandeur upstairs. Check the Crest's website for the current schedule since the programming changes frequently and tickets for popular shows move fast.
Take a look at our space and what we have to offer
“$2 movie night! I enjoyed it. The popcorn was yummy. The staff was polite. It was a bit cold though so bring a sweater.”
— Melissa Evette
Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers
The Crest hosts a wide range of events including live music concerts, tribute artist shows, classic and nostalgia film screenings, comedy nights, and private event rentals. The calendar changes frequently, so check crestsacramento.com for the latest lineup.
Ticket prices vary by event. The popular nostalgia movie nights are famously priced at just $2, while concerts and larger shows are priced according to the performer. Visit the Crest's website to purchase tickets for specific events.
The Empress Bar is a beautifully designed lounge located beneath the main theater. It's currently open two days a week and serves as a great pre-show or standalone destination. Check the Crest's website or social media for current Empress Bar hours.
The Crest is a historic building, and some areas involve stairs. Reviewers have noted the stairs can be a consideration. It's best to contact the theater directly or check their website for specific accessibility information before your visit.
Yes, the Crest is available for private event rentals. The historic space and built-in stage make it a striking venue for corporate events, screenings, receptions, and performances. Reach out through crestsacramento.com for rental inquiries.
The Crest is located at 1013 K Street in downtown Sacramento, 95814. It sits on the K Street corridor and is accessible via light rail and multiple bus lines, with parking garages nearby in the downtown grid.
Most reviewers praise the Crest's acoustics for live music, with tribute concerts in particular receiving strong feedback. Some reviewers have noted that sound improvements could be made, so the experience may vary slightly depending on the event type and setup.
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