Events Listing

Caroling by Candlelight is one of the most beloved events of the year in Sonoma Valley as it draws together people in the community in a simple, non-commercial and non-denominational way to celebrate the holiday season. It’s a magical moment as you enter the historic 1840 Sonoma Mission Chapel, taking a candle in hand and a step back in time.  It doesn’t matter one bit if you can’t carry a tune; everyone is warmly encouraged to sing along. Afterwards, refreshments are served by a crackling fire in the Barracks courtyard. Bring the entire family and friends. Tickets are free but are snapped up quickly. More info

Down home, fun and funky, the Glen Ellen Village Fair lets the locals strut their stuff. The main (and only) downtown street shuts down to allow revelers to take over for an afternoon of fun and games. Highlights include a parade; kids games; wine and food; and a much-loved quilt raffle. And even in wine country, you can find a great beer garden at this fair! 12-5 p.m. More info.

Over a dozen wineries in the Carneros region of southern Sonoma and Napa Valleys throw open their doors for Holiday in Carneros, an annual event in late November. This multi-winery open house is a great way to kick off the holiday season. Each winery rolls out the red carpet, offering special tasting selections of current releases and library wines, creative food pairings, live music, art exhibits and more. Look for special pricing, holiday gift packs, and handmade gifts.  More info.

There is something particularly gleeful about seeing hundreds of snowmen marching in a row; it’s enough to put a holiday twinkle in the eye of the most recalcitrant Scrooge. Each year Sonoma Valley’s Cornerstone Gardens  kicks off the holiday season with the Lighting of the Snowmen Festival in early December. This event features free live music and a dance performance; pictures with Santa; classic holiday films and even a traditional German Beer Garden. In addition to the free events, fundraising tickets are sold for children’s activities including face painting, decorating of gingerbread men and holiday crafts. More info.

This home-grown, boutique fest is a a weekend-long celebration of music, food, and wine. Set at Gundlach Bundschu Winery on a grassy hill, it is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine. Blankets or low-back beach chairs and flat, walking shoes, are encouraged. Pack some sunscreen, a hat and get ready to enjoy a day in the sun! Wears layers as it can get chilly at night.

More info.

Enjoy 3 Full Days of LGBT events in Northern California’s magnificent Sonoma Valley – home to some of the world’s most prestigious wines and wineries. Celebrate with world class wine and culinary delights, music and dancing in a private estate vineyard, VIP Receptions, wine tasting excursions, champagne brunch and wine auction in one of the most famous luxury wine destinations in the world. Out in the Vineyard web site.

Each year the city of Sonoma pulls out all the stops and throws a “City” party for itself. This free event is a well-loved tradition that takes place on the town square. Grab a blanket and your best dancing shoes and join the locals for food, wine, live music, and a rollicking good time. Starts at 5:30 p.m. More info.

French importers from around the Bay Area set-up this weekend flea market featuring vintage collectibles and antiques. It is a small and charming event, hosted by the Chateau Sonoma Sonoma home and garden store.  More Info.

The Sonoma International Film Festival takes place in the heart of Northern California’s Wine Country and features more than 90 films including independent features, documentaries, world cinema, shorts and a showcase of Spanish language films. All films are shown at intimate venues within walking distance on Sonoma’s historic plaza. The Festival is dedicated to promoting independent film, supporting filmmakers around the world and inspiring film lovers. More Info.