What can you do in Sonoma County? You can spend all your time hiking the many acclaimed trails on the search for waterfalls. You can kayak the Russian River or canoe along the vineyards. While all of these things are amazing, there are many ways to get social and local.
There’s a constant rotating door of Sonoma County events and things to do for everyone, from memorable group outings to family games and attractions that the kids will love.
Many of these events are annual. Come on out year after year and appreciate the growth and social connections made possible by this exciting and active community.
These special events are worth traveling for, and they always come back.
The Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival
While some events come and go, some are cultural and community staples. Since 1897, this festival has reigned as a collective place of expression. It’s a mix of local food, wine, music, and art of various forms. This innovative event features a grape smashing competition, a sip and shop trip, a “Get Your Glow On” night parade, and a kid’s zone. The event is every September, and is a long-standing staple of Sonoma.
Fall Colors Festival and Vintage Car Show
Geyserville is a cute and quaint little suburb outside Healdsburg. It also brings out the fun for the fall. On the last Sunday of October, the town announces the best vintage vehicles in the region, with a craft fair, silent auction, pancake cook-off, games, and more. The event is free and just another example of enjoyable small-town living in Sonoma County.
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is a surprisingly ambitious and epic event. In 2018, the community of Windsor celebrated their 16th iteration of the big and bold Cinco de Mayo event. It now coincides with the Windsor Day Parade, which ran its 35th course in 2018. The event brings live music and entertainment, theater performances, children’s games, and a lot more.
Find Windsor, CA light up every May 5th. The event is also free to attend for all ages.
Russian River Festival
Get a big helping of jazz and blues over the river. For 42 years now, the Russian River Festival has collected the most intriguing and bombastic soul and blues artists nationally and locally. The stage is set right against the river, while attendees float on the water or rest on the shore over the sound of feel good guitar jams. The event is every June, and it expects to hit its 50th celebration soon – and keep on going.
Endless Exciting Local Events in Sonoma County
There’s truly no end to the many seasonal events that come around in Northern California. Enjoy some music in the redwoods at the Old Grove Festival every September. Drink wine on the water at Pinot on the River, a celebratory seasonal event in October.
You can even enjoy artisan local cheeses at, you guessed it, the California Artisan Cheese Festival each March, which is on its 13th year.
There’s so much to love here, and you’ll be able to easily fill your schedule out with community fun and memories whether you plan on visiting briefly or taking a nice, long pleasant vacation.
