Festive events in Sonoma Wine Country

Sonoma County offers its own unique holiday experiences that go beyond the usual tourist destinations.

This season immerse in the charm of Sonoma Wine Country, where the festive spirit comes to life.

Sonoma County is the perfect escape for the holiday wit that quintessential wine country ambience.

Check out these noteworthy holiday events:

WinterBlast 2024 

Join the free, kid-friendly WinterBlast street party on November 9 from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM in Santa Rosa’s SOFA district. Enjoy food and drink vendors, a parade with rolling sofa floats, live music, circus performers, and open art studios.

Brewsters Petaluma

From November 22 to January 5, Brewsters Petaluma transforms into a festive wonderland with dazzling decorations. Explore the Miracle Market for holiday gifts while enjoying rock ‘n’ roll Christmas music. Open daily from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

Lighting of the Sonoma Plaza

Thousands of brilliant holiday lights shine throughout all eight acres of the historic Sonoma Plaza in the heart of downtown Sonoma. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and holiday cheer on November 23 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.

West Wines Scandinavian Christmas Celebration

From November 24 to 26, West Wines hosts a Scandinavian Christmas event featuring a holiday market with authentic Swedish gifts. Sample Swedish Glogg and treats while learning about holiday traditions from the winery’s Swedish owners.

Winter Lights Tree Lighting Celebration 
Kick off the holiday season in Santa Rosa with the Winter Lights Tree Lighting on November 29 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This free event features family-friendly activities, live entertainment, treats, and photos with Santa.

Skating on the Square – Downtown Santa Rosa 
From November 29, enjoy skating on the Square in Downtown Santa Rosa with a zero-energy rink. This eco-friendly option reduces environmental impact while still providing a smooth, stable surface, perfect for beginners or anyone improving their skills. Skate helpers are also available for extra support.

Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove – Windsor Town Green 
From December 5 to 31, enjoy a “Tree Walk” featuring over 200 decorated Christmas trees by local schools and families. This festive wonderland on the Town Green includes spectacular lighting and holiday music, perfect for family photos and Instagram moments.

Lighting of the Vines 
Join Hamel Family Wines for the annual Lighting of the Vines on December 6-7. Enjoy wine, food, and music while witnessing the estate vineyards illuminated in festive lights. This event supports the Sonoma Valley Firefighters’ toy drive.

Petaluma’s Lighted Boat Parade

On December 7 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, watch a dazzling parade of brightly lit boats on the Petaluma River. This spectacle is perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments.

Christmas in the Redwoods 
From December 8 to 18, experience “Christmas in the Redwoods” at the Alliance Redwoods Conference Grounds. Enjoy a display of holiday lights among the coastal redwoods and meet Santa Claus in downtown Occidental. The event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 PM and is $10 per vehicle (reservations required).

Holiday Bazaar at Bacchus Landing

On December 7 and 8, Bacchus Landing hosts a Holiday Bazaar featuring 15-20 local artisans showcasing unique gift ideas, alongside wine tastings, pizza, and live music from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Posada Navidena by Calidanza Dance Company
Start off the holiday season with the vibrant Posada Navideña on December 13 at 6:30 PM at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. Enjoy lively dance, costumes, and festive music as the Calidanza Dance Company showcases traditions from various regions of Mexico.

Cloverdale Winter Festival 
Join the Cloverdale Winter Festival on December 13 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Experience a transformed downtown with twinkling lights, cookie decorating, Santa’s arrival, and a tree lighting ceremony. Browse the local vendors and enjoy live performances in a festive atmosphere.

Luma Ice: Petaluma’s Inaugural Outdoor Ice-Skating Rink 
From December 13 to January 7, Petaluma debuts its first outdoor ice-skating rink at the Fairgrounds, adding to its holiday traditions like Santa’s Riverboat Arrival and the Gingerbread Showcase.

Transcendence Theatre Company Broadway Holiday
Experience the magic of Broadway Holiday at Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma on December 18-19. Featuring performers from popular shows like Frozen and Wicked, this production promises festive music and entertainment.

Sonoma Sterling Limousines’ Holiday Lights Tour
Sit back and relax as Sonoma Sterling Limousines’ friendly drivers take passengers to light displays in Sonoma County, with a soundtrack of Christmas carols along the way. This two-hour-long, mid-week tour is a fun way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. It includes sparking apple cider for children and chilled champagne for adults.

Check out how to Celebrate the Holidays Sonoma County-Style and see the Holiday page for more ideas about holiday celebrations. 

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