Holiday Tree Lighting Events Across Sonoma County

Lifestyle

As a proud local real estate professional in Sonoma County, I believe that the magic of the holidays is deeply tied to community, place, and the wonderful local traditions we share here in Wine Country. If you’re thinking about moving, investing, or just exploring the region, these tree-lighting and holiday-kickoff events are a perfect way to feel the local vibe, get to know neighborhoods, and maybe fall in love with the place.

Below are seven standout towns in Sonoma County where the holidays truly come alive with lights, community spirit, and festive gatherings. I’ve pulled together event details, why each town is special, and what to expect (plus a few tips from me). If you like, I can also pull a shareable version of this (for social or newsletter) or include even more towns.

1. Sonoma Plaza (Town of Sonoma)

Why this one matters

The Lighting of the Sonoma Plaza is described as “the brightest evening in Wine Country” when hundreds of thousands of lights drape the trees, the plaza, and the façade of City Hall.
It’s in the heart of Sonoma’s historic downtown — charming, walkable, full of restaurants, tasting rooms, and boutique shops.
Perfect if you’re considering property in a town with strong tourism + historic character.

Event details

Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Highlights: Live performances by local and regional artists, food truck menus, seasonal treats like hot cocoa and cookies, wine and cider options.
It’s family-friendly and also great for an early start on the holiday shopping.

My tip

Arrive by 4:30 pm to grab a good spot, maybe enjoy an early dinner downtown before the lights come on. If you’re visiting, check out one of the historic inns or B&Bs for a festive stay.

2. Forestville

Why you’ll like this one

Cozy, small-town vibe on the western side of Sonoma County, perfect if you’re seeking a more relaxed, community-oriented celebration.
The event features familiar holiday comforts: hot cocoa, cookies, community gathering under the oaks. The Press Democrat

Event details

The tree-lighting ceremony runs from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm (example 2023 event) under the oaks on Front Street (6990 Front Street) in downtown Forestville. The Press Democrat
Free, family-friendly, and a chance to feel “local.”

My tip

Make a night of it: after the lighting head to one of the local restaurants or stop by a tasting room for a quiet wine or beer. Parking is easier than in larger towns.

3. Santa Rosa (Downtown – Old Courthouse Square)

Why this event stands out

Santa Rosa is the largest city in Sonoma County, so you’ll find big-scale events with lots of energy.
The holiday tree lighting is part of the “Winter Lights” program — combining live shows, ice skating, and downtown activity.

Event details

Date: Friday, November 28, 2025, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Old Courthouse Square.
Expect live musical performances, holiday drinks and treats, and photo ops with Santa & Snoopy.

My tip

Downtown Santa Rosa offers great restaurant variety, so plan for dinner after the tree lighting. Also, make sure to bundle up — “winter” in Wine Country can still feel crisp.

4. Petaluma

Why it’s worth the visit

Petaluma brings in the holiday spirit in a unique way: Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by tugboat on the Petaluma River before the tree lighting!
Great mix of historic downtown, riverfront views, and local shopping.

Event details

Example: Tree Lighting Celebration on December 6, 2024, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Theatre Square (101 2nd Street) in Petaluma.
Includes live music and performances, Santa’s Mailbox, a laser light show, and visits with Santa.

My tip

If you’re considering homes in Petaluma, the downtown riverfront area is especially attractive during the holidays. After the lighting, wander the plaza and check out the nearby boutiques.

5. Guerneville (Russian River region)

Why this one is fun & unique

Guerneville hosts the annual Parade of Lights down Main Street in early December — lots of floats, creative lighting, community cheer.
The town has a distinctive character and plenty of charm; great if you’re seeking something less “wine-country resort” and more “river valley retreat.”

Event details

For 2025: Saturday, December 6, at 7:00 pm.
Parade theme and floats vary each year; past years included “A Peanuts Parade of Lights” and “The Spirit of Love and Light.”

My tip

Wear warm layers and bring marshmallows or cocoa if you’d like. Parking can get crowded, so arrive early. This is a great event for families and for neighborhoods that love community engagement.

6. Occidental (Bohemian Corridor)

Why this one is special

Rather than a standard tree lighting, Occidental offers the “Christmas in the Redwoods” drive-thru light experience — you drive through towering coastal redwoods decked out in lights, and then head into the village for cocoa, Santa & Bigfoot!
If you’re drawn to the more forested, relaxed, West County side of Sonoma County, this is a must.

Event details

First three weekends of December, Thursday through Sunday, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Rain or shine. Advance reservations required ($10 per car).
Afterwards you can stroll the village, local shops, and enjoy the holiday lights under the redwoods.

My tip

This one is perfect for a cozy family evening. Because it’s a drive-through event, it works well if you have younger children or want a low-stress outing. Combine it with dinner in West County after.

7. Windsor (Town Green)

Why to add Windsor to your list

The 24th Annual Holiday Celebration (December 4, 2025) at Windsor Town Green features a “Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove” — over 200 individually decorated trees lining the pathways of the Green.
Good blend of planned programming, family activities, and a festive but manageable size.

Event details

Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Activities: Children’s crafts, youth performances, holiday treats, and the tree grove stays up through January 1.

My tip

If you’re exploring moving options in Windsor or nearby, this event is a nice way to see community life. The Town Green is central, and the event has a comfortable, neighborhood feel intertwined with local businesses.

These holiday events aren’t just fun — they’re opportunities. Whether you’re a resident, potential home-buyer or just visiting, here’s how I suggest you make the most of them:

Visit a town during one of these events: You’ll feel the community energy, see how residents gather, what the local lifestyle is like.
Note parking, dining and logistics: Events often begin at dusk; plan for traffic, arrive early, pick a restaurant in advance.
Use it as a preview day: If you’re considering buying in any of these towns, make a day of it: event in the evening + exploration during the day.
Capture memories: Bring the family, take photos, make it fun — these towns shine (literally) during the holidays.
Warm up: Even in Wine Country, evenings in November/December can be chilly. Dress in layers, bring scarves, enjoy hot cocoa or cider.