Winter in Sonoma County is a blend of festive lights, charming small-town traditions, cozy wine-country experiences, and outdoor adventures you can enjoy even as the temperatures drop. This guide highlights the best winter activities in Sonoma County, including parades, light displays, skating, and seasonal celebrations, plus insider tips to help you make the most of the chilly season.
The Best Winter Activities in Sonoma County
Celebrations and Festivities
Christmas in the Redwoods
At the Alliance Redwoods Conference Grounds, Christmas in the Redwoods transforms winter nights into a magical forest of lights. Instead of standing on sidewalks, you drive through a glowing world of illuminated redwoods while caroliners, creative light displays, and themed installations make it an immersive experience. Born just two years ago and quickly becoming a beloved tradition, it now uses a reservation system to manage traffic, making the visit smooth, festive, and unforgettable.
If you are planning to stay several winters and want a place to settle, check the neighborhood guides in the Top Places to Live in Sonoma County.
Geyserville Tractor Parade
A classic small-town winter celebration, the Geyserville Tractor Parade draws thousands to the town’s main street. Decorated tractors roll by in a lively display honoring Sonoma County’s deep agricultural heritage. Expect holiday lights, local vendors, and the kind of community warmth that makes winter in Sonoma County feel special and timeless. This is one of the most charming, iconic traditions just a few minutes North of Healdsburg.
Speaking of Geyserville, check out the Geyserville Dining Guide on the JetSetting Fashionista here.
Healdsburg Tree Lighting
December 5, 2025 (5:00–9:00 PM)
Kick off the holiday season with one of Healdsburg’s most magical annual traditions: the Healdsburg Tree Lighting Celebration. Join the countdown as the Plaza comes alive with dazzling holiday lights, transforming the heart of downtown into a festive wonderland.
Highlights include:
- Holiday Night Market: Stroll the streets surrounding the Plaza and shop from local vendors offering jewelry, home goods, holiday décor, baked treats, desserts, artisan gifts, and more.
- Live Musical Performances: Enjoy classic holiday songs performed live throughout the evening. Nothing sets the mood quite like your favorite festive tunes echoing across the Plaza.
- Complimentary Carriage Rides: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through beautiful downtown Healdsburg. This charming experience makes for perfect holiday memories with family and friends.
- Magical Snow Flurry: On select nights when Santa visits the Plaza, you may witness a whimsical snowfall, right in downtown Healdsburg. It’s a breathtaking moment that delights visitors of all ages.
- Children’s Holiday Crafts: Kids can unleash their creativity with ornament decorating and seasonal craft activities, adding an extra layer of joy to the evening.
Healdsburg Turkey Trot
The Healdsburg Turkey Trot is one of the town’s most beloved Thanksgiving traditions, a festive 5K run (or walk) that brings together families, locals, and visitors before the big holiday meal. Held on Thanksgiving morning, the event winds through scenic Healdsburg neighborhoods and offers a fun, energetic start to the day.
More than just a community run, the Turkey Trot plays an important role in supporting local causes. Each year, proceeds benefit Live Like Drew, a nonprofit foundation dedicated to honoring the legacy of Drew Esquivel, a Healdsburg local and Stanford athlete known for his leadership, kindness, and commitment to service.
Winterblast (SOFA District – Santa Rosa)
A truly unique winter celebration, Winterblast features two parades of light-decorated living room furniture, especially sofas, rolling through Santa Rosa’s SOFA arts district. It’s quirky, bold, and full of creative energy. Between the illuminated parades, you can enjoy live music, street performers, open art studios, and the community spirit that makes this event unforgettable each year.
Historic and Art Wonders
Charles M. Schulz Museum
Celebrate the legacy of Charles Schulz, creator of the Peanuts comic strip, at this charming Santa Rosa museum. Winter exhibits often include holiday-themed Peanuts art, interactive activities, and seasonal installations that spark nostalgia for all ages.
Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
Catch a concert, comedy show, dance production, or rotating exhibition at this beloved performing arts center in Santa Rosa. Winter brings a lineup of holiday symphonies, touring artists, and family-friendly productions, perfect for a warm indoor activity on colder nights.
For retirees or those scouting quieter seasonal living, consider also reading about nearby 55+ communities in Sonoma County that pair easy access to parks with a relaxed lifestyle.
Outdoor Adventures
Redwood Hikes in the Winter Mist
Armstrong Woods, Riverfront Regional Park, and Jack London State Historic Park offer serene, fog-kissed trails. Winter’s cool temperatures make these hikes peaceful and invigorating, with moss-covered trees and quiet forest scenery.
Whale Watching in Bodega Bay
Winter marks the southbound migration of gray whales, and Bodega Head is one of the best land-based viewing points in Northern California. Bring binoculars, dress warm, and enjoy panoramic ocean views as you watch for spouts, tail flukes, and migrating pods along the coastline.
Winter Wonderland & Ice Skating at the Petaluma Fairgrounds
December 10, 2025 – January 6, 2026
A beloved seasonal tradition, the Winter Wonderland & Ice Skating event at the Petaluma Fairgrounds offers everything from twinkle lights to family rides to daily skating sessions. Whether you’re bringing kids, going on a holiday date, or simply want to enjoy the magic of the season, this is one of the top winter attractions in Sonoma County.
Outdoor activities are popular among tourists and temporary guests. So, if you’re thinking of investing in a second home where weekend wine-country visits are easy, see our guide to the top locations for a second home in Sonoma County.
Wine & Culinary Experiences
Brewsters Beer Garden: Holiday Decorations & Festive Atmosphere
Brewsters Beer Garden in Petaluma transforms into a full-on holiday wonderland during the winter season. Expect over-the-top Christmas decorations, cozy outdoor heaters, fire pits, and a cheerful atmosphere perfect for families and groups. Their specialty holiday drink menu, including mulled cider, festive cocktails, and seasonal brews, adds even more magic. It’s one of the most joyful spots in Sonoma County to gather with friends, sip something warm, and soak in all the holiday cheer.
Festive Markets & Local Shopping
Holiday and artisan markets pop up across the county, especially in Sebastopol, Petaluma, Healdsburg, and Santa Rosa, featuring local makers, gourmet treats, handmade gifts, and warm beverages. Ideal for holiday shopping or supporting small businesses. If you visit Healdsburg and want to look for the best local markets and stores, check this guide here.
Santa Breakfast at Costeaux Bakery
A beloved Healdsburg tradition, the Santa Breakfast at Costeaux French Bakery brings holiday charm to the heart of downtown. Families enjoy a warm, homemade breakfast surrounded by Costeaux’s famous nutcracker collection and festive décor. Kids can meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy a morning full of excitement while adults savor artisan pastries, French toast bakes, and fresh-roasted coffee.
Small-Town Strolls & Winter Light Displays
Healdsburg Plaza, downtown Sonoma, and Petaluma’s historic district all illuminate their squares with seasonal lights and holiday installations. Combine an evening stroll with a hot chocolate or glass of mulled wine for the full winter experience.
Winter Wine Tasting in Healdsburg & Sonoma Valley
Cozy tasting rooms, fireplaces, limited-release wines, and fewer crowds make winter arguably the best season for wine tasting. Many wineries decorate for the holidays, adding festive charm to every sip.
See our favorite downtown Healdsburg Tasting Rooms here, or if you want to explore the Russian River, see our Top 10 Russian River Winery Guide here.
¿Ready for Winter Activities in Sonoma County?
Winter in Sonoma County offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventure, festive community traditions, cultural experiences, and cozy wine-country moments. From unique parades like Winterblast and the Geyserville Tractor Parade to scenic whale watching at Bodega Head, winter here feels both magical and refreshing. Whether you’re visiting for the holidays, enjoying a seasonal escape, or simply exploring new experiences, the best winter activities in Sonoma County bring together charm, creativity, and a warm sense of community that shines all season long.