As 2022 comes to a close, the holiday season is right around the corner once again, bringing with it a myriad of seasonal fun and festivities. 

So, if you’re in search of some holiday warmth and cheer, you won’t have to look far. 

And to help you plan your holiday schedule, we’ve rounded up some of Sonoma County’s can’t-miss celebrations and holiday events.

Santa’s Riverboat Cruise

One of the most popular holiday events in Sonoma County is Santa’s Riverboat Cruise. This family-friendly event features a cruise down the Petaluma River with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus themselves. Sailing south, the tugboat will take passengers to the River Plaza. Kids will love getting their photos taken with Santa!

Where: Lind Marine D Street, Petaluma

When: Saturday, November 26th @ 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Cost: Free

Transcendence’s Holiday Spectacular

Looking for something a little more musical? Transcendence’s Holiday Spectacular is a must-see event. This annual show features a family-friendly performance by Broadway performers with plenty of holiday cheer. Be sure to pick up a glass of wine and cookies before the show!

Where: Hanna Center, 17000 Arnold Dr., Sonoma

When: Friday, December 2nd @ 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm / Saturday, December 3rd @ 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm, 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm / Sunday, December 4th @ 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Cost: $49 – $169

Cirque de Bohème

This popular event returns for its ninth year with its new show Gypsy. The performance features a contortionist, mime, aerial duet, static trapeze, and other world-class performers, all based on the French tradition of the 1920s. Take a trip back in time to a place full of whimsy and fun with this exciting holiday circus.

Where: 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma

When: Select dates from November 25th – December 25th @ 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm

Cost: $39 (Adults), $29 (Kids 15 or younger)

Forni Farm and Nursery Holiday Wreath Making

Get into the holiday spirit with a festive wreath-making workshop at Forni Farm and Nursery. The farm will provide everything you need to make a beautiful wreath including a variety of holiday greens (eucalyptus, bay, fir, and more), floral wire, a wire frame, and decorations to choose from. 

Guests will also enjoy warm tea and snacks and treats while they create their one-of-a-kind wreaths.

Where: 4000 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa

When: Saturday, November 26th, Saturday, December 3rd @ 1 pm – 4 pm

Cost: $65

Holiday in Healdsburg: Sip, Savor & Shop

Explore the charm of downtown Healdsburg on a walking tour that has become a much-loved holiday tradition for over 10 years. Marvel at the colorful window displays and festive decorations on the streets, listen to the sounds of the carolers, and hop on a horse-drawn carriage. 

Although the evening tour is currently suspended, the day tour is just as magical and worthwhile. An expert guide will give you an inside look into the small-town community and allow you to taste test three boutique wineries and two food businesses.

Where: Gazebo at Healdsburg’s Central Plaza

When: Daily, November 25th – December 30th @ 10:45 am

Cost: $119 (inclusive of all tasting fees)

Jordan Winery’s Holiday Wine Tasting Experience

For a true wine-country holiday experience, head to Jordan Winery for their annual holiday wine tasting experience. This year’s event will feature a fireside tasting, a chef’s selection of hors d’oeuvres, homemade holiday cookies, and hot cocoa.

Guests will also have the opportunity to taste Jordan Winery’s very own artisanal caviar and tour the beautiful grounds. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!

Where: 1474 Alexander Valley Road

When: December 1st – 16th (Thursdays to Mondays) @ 1 pm

Cost: $85

Handmade Holiday Crafts Fair

Featuring over 90 local artisans and crafters, the fair is a great place to find unique holiday gifts for loved ones. This fantastic event allows you to shop for anything from holiday decor, home goods, bath and body items, gourmet eats, and more. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment and lunch available to buy from local restaurants.

Where: Finley Community Complex, 2060 West College Avenue, Santa Rosa

When: Saturday, December 3rd – Sunday, December 4th @ 10 am – 4 pm

Cost: $5, free for children 12 and under

Santa Run

Start your holiday season off on the right foot with a jolly 5k Santa Run (or walk!) through Santa Rosa. Fleet Feet Santa Rosa and Trail House have partnered with Secret Santa – a nonprofit program that looks to offer gifts and holiday spirit to those who are less fortunate. 

This event is perfect for the whole family, with a kids’ fun run, plenty of holiday festivities afterward, and a contribution to a good cause.

Where: Trail House, Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa

When: Saturday, December 10th @ 8:15 am (check-in)

Cost: $25 for adults and $12 for youth

WinterBlast and Sofa Parade

For a festive and family-friendly event, check out WinterBlast, presented by the City of Santa Rosa. This annual event features live music, an art alley, food and drink vendors, and more. 

The highlight of the event is the quirky Sofa Parade, where anyone can participate or even set up and decorate their floats with holiday lights and decorations. It’s sure to be a blast for all!

Where: 463 Sebastopol Ave, Santa Rosa

When: Saturday, December 10th, 2022 @ 4 pm – 8:30 pm

Cost: Free entry

6th Annual Gingerbread House Showcase & Competition

One of Petaluma’s staple holiday traditions returns for its sixth year! Everyone is invited to simply marvel at the beautiful craftsmanship and cast a vote or create their own gingerbread houses, which will be on display for the public to admire. 

The winning entry will receive a prize, so get your creative juices flowing and start planning your entry today!

Where: Hotel Petaluma, 205 Kentucky Street, Petaluma

When: Friday, December 16th @ 1 pm – 9 pm / Saturday, December 17th @ 9 am – 9 pm / Sunday, December 18th @ 1 pm – 5 pm

Cost: Free entry

Winter Wineland

Wine tasting is always a popular activity, but it becomes extra special during the Annual Winter WINEland event in Northern Sonoma. With 70 participating wineries across Sonoma County, each winery will offer vertical, vintage, or varietal tastings on the weekends. 

Be sure to snap some photos at the festive backdrops provided at every location so you can get back into the holiday spirit.

Where: Various Sonoma County Wineries

When: Saturday, January 14th – Sunday, January 15th, 2023

Cost: $75 for Sunday-only tickets, $95 for a weekend ticket, $10 for designated drivers

Whichever holiday events in Sonoma County you choose to participate in, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. Sonoma County is the perfect backdrop for a festive and fun-filled holiday season. 

So, get out and enjoy all that the county has to offer!