Spring in Sonoma County signifies a time of renewal as our destination emerges from winter dormancy and bursts into vibrant life. The spring season infuses new energy into local communities, with festivals, events, and outdoor activitiescelebrating Sonoma County’s diverse culture and natural beauty. Visitors can explore scenic trails, savor the season’s first harvest, or indulge in farm-to-table dining that showcases the region’s abundance. Spring in Sonoma County represents a time of growth and transformation, offering a chance to experience the rebirth of nature, culture, and spirit.
Sonoma County invites travelers to experience more than just its vineyards, showcasing redwood hikes, coastal adventures, and innovative cuisine, redefining wine country as a place of connection, shared human experiences and belonging for all.
Local agricultural icon: the Gravenstein apple
The Gravenstein apple has deep roots in Sonoma County’s agricultural history, introduced by Russian fur trappers at Fort Ross around 1811. Sonoma County’s ideal climate and soil helped it thrive, making it a staple crop by the mid-1800s. Valued for its versatility in fresh eating, baking, and preserving, the Gravenstein reached its peak during World War II, with over 10,000 acres in production in the 1940s. However, post-war industrialization and the rise of other apple varieties led to a sharp decline, leaving only about 2,200 acres by 2016. Preservation efforts, including Slow Food USA’s Sebastopol Gravenstein Apple Presidium and local events like the Apple Blossom Festival and the Gravenstein Apple Fair, have worked to protect this heirloom variety — a lasting symbol of Sonoma County’s rich agricultural heritage. This longstanding apple tradition seamlessly flows into Sonoma County’s thriving cider culture. The Petaluma Cider Circus, a lively celebration of minimal-intervention ciders, beers, and co-ferments, showcases the region’s artisanal beverage production. Presented in partnership with Friends of the Petaluma River, the event will be held at Steamer Landing Park and will feature over 22 local producers. Minimal-intervention methods — which use fewer additives and emphasize the natural flavors of locally grown ingredients — reflect the same respect for the land that has long sustained the Gravenstein apple. Alongside tastings, attendees can enjoy live music, family-friendly activities such as apple bobbing, face painting, and kayak paddling, as well as the sweet treat of free ice cream. The legacy of the Gravenstein apple and the region’s cider-making tradition are intertwined — both representing Sonoma County’s commitment to preserving its agricultural roots while celebrating the vibrant flavors of today. 12:00 pm | April 26 | Steamer Landing Park
Honey-tasting in Healdsburg
A new honey tasting room in downtown Healdsburg, La Ruche, gives visitors the chance to sample a diverse selection of honeys from around the world, each with its own unique flavor profile. This fresh addition enhances Healdsburg’s culinary scene, offering both locals and tourists the opportunity to explore the intricate tastes of global honeys in one place. The tasting room not only highlights the variety of flavors in honey but also underscores the importance of bees and beekeeping in our ecosystem. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or just curious, this new spot offers a sweet experience worth exploring.
For the good of the cause
Sonoma County by Danilo Lessa Bernardineli – Unsplash
Russian River Brewing Company has announced the release of WE LOVE LA West Coast Pils. Now available at both Sonoma County pub locations and in their online store, this special, limited production craft brew is more than just a beer—it’s a way to give back. Proceeds from WE LOVE LA will be donated to United Way’s Los Angeles Wildfire Response Fund, providing crucial support to those affected by the recent wildfires. Having faced our own devastating wildfires in Sonoma County, we understand the immense emotional and financial burden these disasters impose on individuals and entire communities. It is an honor for Russian River Brewing Company to contribute to relief efforts, helping friends, family, and neighbors in Southern California as they begin the long road to recovery.
Sparkling and sustainable
In June 2024, Amista Vineyards became Sonoma County’s first sparkling wine producer to exclusively use organic grapes, earning organic certification from California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF). The Slow Wine USA Guide 2025highlights 380 U.S. wineries committed to producing wine in alignment with the principles of good, clean, and fair practices. Inspired by the Slow Food Manifesto, the guide features wineries that honor their local terroir, embrace sustainable methods, and positively contribute to the environment. Amista Vineyards has been recognized in the 2025 edition of the Slow Wine USA Guide for its dedication to these principles.
An educational, flavorful experience
Sonoma County Vinters are hosting a new one-hour experience featuring Sonoma County winemakers, combining wine tasting with small bites. The monthly event, Sonoma County – An Hour Uncorked!, takes place at the Region in The Barlow, providing guests with an intimate setting to explore wines from local wineries. Attendees can taste a variety of wines while enjoying thoughtfully paired small bites designed to complement the flavors. The event offers participants an opportunity to learn directly from the winemakers about the wines and the region, creating a personalized and educational tasting experience. This experience is aimed at those seeking a quick yet immersive introduction to the world of Sonoma County wines. No reservations required | Every third Thursday of the month | 5:30 to 6:30 pm
Newly-launched Signature Experiences
Wine country by Maria Shayna – Unsplash
Sonoma County Tourism has introduced Sonoma County’s Signature Experiences, which offer immersive, behind-the-scenes activities that connect visitors with the region’s people, landscapes, and traditions. These curated experiences go beyond wine tastings, showcasing Sonoma County’s culinary creativity, outdoor adventures, and environmental stewardship. The initiative supports local businesses, attracts a broader visitor base, encourages year-round visits, and distinguishes Sonoma County from competing regions. Developed in collaboration with local partners, the experiences align with the “Wine Country for All of Us” initiative inviting travelers to engage with Sonoma through exclusive, interactive experiences.
Featured experiences includes:
Behind the Scenes (Safari West Wildlife Preserve, Santa Rosa) – Create enrichment items for giraffes, cheetahs, and exotic species while learning about conservation and animal care.Paddle The Petaluma: Turn to the River (The Floathouse, Petaluma) – Explore the historic Petaluma River, tracing its role in trade and agriculture from the Gold Rush era.Secrets of Sonoma: A Culinary Wine Pairing Journey (St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Santa Rosa) – Enjoy an interactive tasting led by Chef Peter Janiak, pairing award-winning wines with a seasonal menu.Taste of Coastal Foraging (Timber Cove Resort, Jenner) – Join expert guides for a foraging adventure along the Sonoma Coast, ending with a chef-prepared tasting.The Remarkable Redwoods (Sonoma Zipline Adventures, Occidental) – Explore the ecology of the Redwoods and soar through the treetops on one of California’s longest zipline courses.
“These experiences reveal a deeper side of Sonoma County,” says Claudio Vecchio, CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. “We want visitors to truly know Sonoma—not just its wines, but its people, landscapes, and stories.” Reservations for Sonoma County’s Signature Experiences are now being accepted.With limited availability and intimate group sizes, early booking is recommended.
Don’t forget the brews
Sonoma wineries are adapting to shifting consumer preferences by partnering with breweries. The long-standing joke that winery professionals prefer beer is now shaping strategy. With Gen Z and millennials favoring cocktails, hard seltzers, beer, and nonalcoholic drinks, wineries are rethinking their approach. To stay competitive, many are transforming tasting rooms into multi-beverage destinations. Ken and Diane Wilson, owners of nine Sonoma wineries, are leading the charge. Their Healdsburg property, Coyote Sonoma, formerly housed the Sonoma Cider taproom, making it ideal for a beer and wine combo. Coyote Sonoma offers 18 local brews from favorites like Parliament, HenHouse, Cooperage, and Russian River. Wine lovers can enjoy tastings with food pairings Thursday to Sunday, from 11 am to 3 pm, while the taproom, which also serves wine, operates Wednesday to Saturday from 4 pm to close. By blending wine and beer, Sonoma County wineries are broadening their appeal and redefining their tasting experience rooms.
Beyond the wine
Better Sunday in The Barlow redefines social drinking by providing a welcoming space for both drinkers and non-drinkers. It offers a thoughtful alternative to traditional alcohol consumption, catering to a growing wellness-focused community. The shop features a curated selection of non-alcoholic craft beers, wines, and cocktails, often infused with natural ingredients like kanna, ginseng, and sage, appealing to mindful consumers. Customers are encouraged to explore and sample products, fostering discovery and engagement. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, Better Sunday proudly serves as a safe space for LGBTQ+ and transgender individuals. Beyond retail, it functions as a social club, hosting regular events like Thursday game nights and Friday taste-and-learn sessions. Wellness events and intimate concerts further cultivate a vibrant sense of community.
New dining experiences
Stella – Stella revitalizes a beloved Kenwood location, honoring its history while providing a fresh perspective on California-Italian cuisine. Surrounded by the beauty of Sonoma Wine Country, it offers a warm and inviting space for locals and visitors to gather. Leading the venture is 2025 James Beard Award Semifinalist Chef/Proprietor Ari Weiswasser alongside managing partner Erinn Benziger, whose deep Sonoma roots influence their approach to hospitality. Their experienced team blends culinary artistry, hospitality, and top-quality local ingredients, ensuring every guest enjoys a memorable dining experience. As Glen Ellen Star’s sister restaurant, Stella continues a legacy of excellence, merging Italian traditions with the flavors of Sonoma County.
BaSo – Bazaar Sonoma (BaSo) in Forestville, is a Sichuan-focused restaurant co-owned by chef Sean Quan and his wife, Jenny Phan. The couple, who relocated from Chicago to Sonoma County, previously hosted innovative pop-up dinners before establishing BaSo. Their menu features dishes like handmade dumplings and spicy mapo tofu, aiming to introduce authentic Chinese flavors to the area. Quan and Phan emphasize creating their restaurant on their own terms, embracing the role of the underdog to offer a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is cozy and creative, reflecting the owners’ commitment to authenticity and innovation in Chinese cuisine in Sonoma County.
Darbar Kitchen – Enhancing the growing lineup of restaurants in downtown Santa Rosa, Darbar Kitchen offers a dining experience inspired by the opulent feasts once enjoyed by the Maharajas and royalty. Nestled near the historic Old Courthouse in the heart of Santa Rosa, Darbar Kitchen showcases the rich culinary traditions of Indian and Nepalese cuisine, with each dish meticulously prepared using Far Eastern spices to create flavors of extraordinary depth and taste. From indulgent Indian curries to delicately spiced Nepalese appetizers, every bite evokes the elegance and artistry of regal feasts. Its central location provides diners with easy access to Santa Rosa’s cultural and social hub.
Carmella – Carmella, located on Healdsburg Plaza, offers delicious, nutrient-rich food and beverages designed to support your wellness journey. Inspired by founder Tara Somers’ transformative health experience, Carmella embraces the healing power of plants and clean, organic ingredients. From craft cold-pressed juices and nourishing smoothies to satisfying salads and energizing grab-and-go bites, every item is made with the freshest local produce from Sonoma County. More than just a juice bar, Carmella is a haven for flavor enthusiasts and wellness seekers—a place where delicious food also happens to be healthy.
New places to stay
Art House – Originally a mixed-use development, Art House is now open, operating as a boutique hotel just steps from downtown Santa Rosa’s shopping and dining. Nestled in the Cherry Street Historic District, it offers a peaceful retreat. The four-story building features up to 36 rooms—including studios and one- or two-bedroom suites—many equipped with full kitchens and in-room laundry facilities. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light, provide views, and invite fresh air. Sustainably built, Art House combines light wood framing and steel moment frames on the ground floor with mass plywood panels (MPP) above. This innovative system allows for off-site fabrication, quick assembly, superior strength, enhanced acoustics, and improved fire resistance. A distinctive alternative to traditional hotels, Art House merges modern comfort, sustainability, and prime location.
The River Electric – Kelsey and Mike Sheofsky are preparing to open The River Electric, a 40-tent glamping resort, swim club, and events venue on a 12-acre floodplain site in Guerneville. Shelter Co., founded in 2012 as a pop-up hotel service, has evolved into a high-end event rental business with clients like BottleRock and Outside Lands. Their experience with temporary structures makes the flood-prone location feasible, as the permanent buildings — including two pools, a pool bar, and a welcome center — have already withstood flooding without damage. Operating seasonally from April to October, The River Electric aims to attract a diverse clientele, from young solo visitors to corporate groups, with day passes and overnight stays. The Sheofskys purchased the site in 2018, taking advantage of an existing use permit. Their ties to Guerneville run deep, with a history of community involvement and a vision to support local ecotourism. River Electric officially opens Memorial Day weekend through October.
—For more information, visit sonomacounty.com.
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