Spring is a wonderful time to visit California’s Sonoma County for a wine country getaway, as the season provides plenty of “excuses” to linger a little longer and enjoy some experiences beyond the tasting rooms.
Here is a sampling of upcoming excuses… uh, events…
* April 13-14 — Sebastopol Apple Blossom Festival and Parade: “The 73rd annual Apple Blossom Festival begins with a parade on Saturday, followed by live music, food, crafts, children’s games, art show, wine and more!” SonomaCounty.com tells us. “The fun carries on Sunday with the festival and the Blues Music Explosion, featuring headliner Joe Louis Walker and bands from nearby and around the country.”
* April 27 — Butter and Eggs Parade and Festival — “Brimming with authentic small town pride, Petaluma’s Butter and Egg Days Parade pays tribute to Petaluma’s place in history as the ‘World’s Egg Basket’ and the community’s rich agricultural heritage. The parade steps off at noon and will march through the historic downtown, surrounded by a festival of fun and activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Clover Kids’ Parade precedes the main parade with a procession of preschoolers and primary grade youngsters and their families. The Butter and Egg Days festivities continue on Sunday when the historic downtown district transforms into an open-air marketplace for the Spring Antique Faire.”
* April 27-28 — 30th annual Passport to Dry Creek Valley: “At 40-plus participating wineries throughout Dry Creek Valley, guests will enjoy elaborate themed parties with remarkable and memorable food and wine pairings. Guests can meet Sonoma County’s most renowned chefs, savoring their inspired culinary creations alongside newly released and limited-edition wines.”
These are wonderful opportunities to join mostly locals for lots of fun before the big summertime crowds arrive. You can get more information on these events and others here.