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Sonoma County Events and Activities: 8 Unforgettable Things to Do This Fall

Written by: Somo
Published on: October 19, 2023

Sonoma County Events and Activities: 8 Unforgettable Things to Do This Fall

Each new season brings a certain excitement and energy to get out and explore your own backyard, and fall is no different. There’s an abundance of incredible things to do and it’s a great time to get out and discover them. So, we wanted to round-up some of the best Sonoma County events and activities to check out this season. 

From catching the fall colors to sipping wine and trying some new food, there’s lots to keep you busy this fall in Sonoma County. 

Here are eight things to do in Sonoma County this fall season. 

Outdoor Sonoma County Events and Activities

walking amongst fall leaves on the ground1. Take a Scenic Drive

A lot of the beautiful fall colors and foliage are best seen on the road. Grab your favorite snacks, curate an awesome autumn playlist and drive through some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll ever see!

The classic Sonoma County road trip is Highway 12, or the wine road, where you can take in views and sips stopping at wineries along the way. Another unique road trip option is the Bohemian Highway, a 10-mile stretch in the Russian River Valley. 

2. See the Leaves Change at a Regional Park

Sonoma County regional parks offer many opportunities to explore nature outside. And there’s no better time to explore than the autumn! Summer crowds have subsided and the beautiful fall colors are on full display. 

With maple and oak trees, these specific parks are great options to see fall colors include: 

You can also check out our insider’s guide to Sonoma County regional parks to learn more. 

And while not a regional park, the Sonoma Botanical Garden also has beautiful fall colors on display and is a great place for a walk. 

3. Visit a Farm

It’s harvest time in the fall, and there are plenty of farms around Sonoma County to visit. Many farms in Sonoma County host events and family-friendly festivals with activities, too. Apple-picking is a popular activity, with options to pick your own apples (U-Pick), try fresh apple cider or baked goods, and check out fresh-made apple products, like soap, skincare, apple sauce, vinegar, and more. 

Another great way to explore farms this autumn is by visiting the pumpkin patch. Here are a few local options to check out: 

  • Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch: Located in Healdsburg, this spot includes farm animals, hay stacks, a maze, and lots of pumpkins to choose from. 
  • Mickelson Pumpkin Patch: Located in Petaluma, you can try out the apple cannon, paintball gallery, and a grain train! 
  • Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze: Come for pumpkins, stay for the maze! Located in Santa Rosa, this is a great spot for the whole family with two different mazes, hay rides, farm animals, and more. 

You can see the full list of pumpkin patches in Sonoma County here. 

Or, if you want to experience the best of each farm in one place, check out one of the many farmer’s markets around Sonoma County. 

Wine Country Sonoma County Events and Activities

children stomping on grapes

4. Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures

Take a self-guided tour of one of seven Sonoma County vineyards. It’s a great way to stretch your legs, learn more about winemaking, and find your next favorite wine!

Autumn is a great time to explore local vineyards because the weather is great to be outside and the grapes are currently being harvested. 

Get your self-guided tour guides here

5. Go Grape-Stomping

If you’re not afraid of getting your hands a little dirty, consider attending a grape-stomping event at a local winery! Wineries like The Estate Yountville and Bouchaine Vineyards host annual parties to celebrate the harvest and get up close to the grapes. You can check in with your favorite winery and see if they are doing anything similar. 

Food-Related Sonoma County Events and Activities

6. Try a Seasonal Menu

Sonoma County events are often centered around good food and drinks. Because, after all, there are a ton of amazing restaurants, breweries, wineries, cafes, and other establishments all around the county. 

And, many of them boast exciting seasonal menus made from fresh, local ingredients. You can always ask if there is a special fall menu, or check out some of these options that are known for their seasonal options: 

7. Attend the Wine and Food Affair

This annual celebration of Sonoma County food and wine is entering its 25th year. Wineries from around the region bring a food and wine pairing for their guests, so you can taste the best of what the region has to offer. 

Tickets are available for one or two days and typically go on sale in October for this November Sonoma County event. More details here

Sonoma County Events and Festivals

Group of people tasting wine and sitting outside8. Attend a Fall Event

There’s always something going on in Sonoma County, and the fall is a great time to get out and explore the region. Popular fall activities and Sonoma County events include the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, the Fort Ross Harvest Festival, or the Healdsburg Farmers’ Market Pumpkin Festival.

Happening in Sonoma County and Sonoma County Tourism both keep up-to-date calendars of Sonoma County events and festivals to check out throughout the season. 

The fall season is always a great time to get out and explore this beautiful region. These Sonoma County events and activities are sure to keep you and your loved ones with a full calendar this fall. 

Learn More About SOMO Village

If you’re interested in living in a sustainable community that fuses the best of city living with the country lifestyle and all the amazing things that Sonoma County has to offer, we invited you to visit SOMO Village. To learn more, download our residential project brief or get in touch with us today.