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 eight 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).
1. The Brightest Evening in Sonoma County - Sonoma Plaza
Why this one matters
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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.
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It’s in the heart of Sonoma’s historic downtown — charming, walkable, full of restaurants, tasting rooms, and boutique shops.
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Perfect if you’re considering property in a town with strong tourism + historic character.
Event details
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Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
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Highlights: Live performances by local and regional artists, food truck menus, seasonal treats like hot cocoa and cookies, wine and cider options.
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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.
Why you’ll like this one
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Cozy, small-town vibe on the western side of Sonoma County, perfect if you’re seeking a more relaxed, community-oriented celebration.
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The event features familiar holiday comforts: hot cocoa, cookies, community gathering under the oaks. The Press Democrat
Event details
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The Forestville tree lighting is part of the Forestville Holiday Faire on Saturday, December 6, 2025 and runs from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm under the oaks on Front Street (6990 Front Street) in downtown Forestville.
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Free, family-friendly, and a chance to feel “local.” Restaurants and shops will be open, and vendors will be awaiting you along the street with unique gifts and food. Enjoy wandering brass bands playing holiday music, and see festive dancers spreading the holiday spirit. And rumor has it Santa will be joining us!
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.
Why this event stands out
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Santa Rosa is the largest city in Sonoma County, so you’ll find big-scale events with lots of energy.
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The holiday tree lighting is part of the “Winter Lights” program — combining live shows, ice skating, and downtown activity.
Event details
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Date: Friday, November 28, 2025, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Old Courthouse Square.
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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.
Why it’s worth the visit
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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!
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Great mix of historic downtown, riverfront views, and local shopping.
Event details
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Light Up A Life - Tree Lighting Celebration on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 6 pm to 7:00 pm at Walnut Park - Petaluma Blvd. S. at D St. in Petaluma.
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Includes live music and performances, Santa’s Mailbox, a laser light show, and visits with Santa.
- Light Up Downtown - Friday, December 5, 2025, from 6pm - 8pm with Tree Lighting at 7pm
- Join Santa & Mrs. Claus as they Light Up The Square with their giant sparkling Christmas Tree in the middle of Theatre Square!
The festivities will start with Santa’s Arrival, live music, laser show, and other festive performances. Bring your letter for Santa and drop it off at the Wishes For Santa Mailbox. Don’t miss the tree lighting at 7pm!
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.
Why this one is fun & unique
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Guerneville hosts the annual Parade of Lights down Main Street in early December — lots of floats, creative lighting, community cheer.
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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
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For 2025: Saturday, December 6, at 7:00 pm.
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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.
Why this one is special
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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!
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If you’re drawn to the more forested, relaxed, West County side of Sonoma County, this is a must.
Event details
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First three weekends of December, Thursday through Sunday, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Rain or shine. Advance reservations required ($10 per car).
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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.
Why this one is special
- Enjoy performances by the Analy Jazz Band, Sebastopol Ballet, Mr. Music and more. Special appearance by Santa Claus who will be arriving on a firetruck.
Event details
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Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
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Activities: Warm up with free hot chocolate, hot cider, popcorn, cookies, and enjoy kid's crafts and fun for all ages.
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A magical evening for the whole community - and it's all for free!
My tip
Come early and have dinner at Ramen Gaijin and finish your evening with some of the best ice cream at Screamin Mimi's!
Why add Windsor to your list
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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.
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Good blend of planned programming, family activities, and a festive but manageable size.
Event details
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Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
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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.
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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:
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Visit a town during one of these events: You’ll feel the community energy, see how residents gather, what the local lifestyle is like.
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Note parking, dining and logistics: Events often begin at dusk; plan for traffic, arrive early, pick a restaurant in advance.
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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.
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Capture memories: Bring the family, take photos, make it fun — these towns shine (literally) during the holidays.
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Warm up: Even in Wine Country, evenings in November/December can be chilly. Dress in layers, bring scarves, enjoy hot cocoa or cider.
Wishing you a season of light, warmth, and wonderful community moments!
— Jennifer Klein Real Estate
