The holiday season in California wine country is quickly approaching, and here are three Healdsburg holiday events to not miss. There is no better place to indulge in the season’s magic than Healdsburg. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County along the Russian River, this picturesque town captivates visitors with its unique blend of elegance and rustic allure. The air carries the scent of harvest, a reminder of this region’s world-class vineyards and wineries working tirelessly to produce their newest vintages. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast seeking the region’s finest cuvées, an art lover eager to explore the city’s robust galleries, or someone simply yearning for a tranquil holiday escape, Healdsburg offers an experience for everyone.
1. Holiday Sip and Shop
Winter in downtown Healdsburg commences with the annual Sip and Shop event, held this year on Saturday, December 2nd. Tickets to the event include the chance to taste your way through 15 wineries and tasting rooms, savor delicious bites from popular food vendors, and shop at more than 18 shops throughout the downtown area. Fill in your ‘Holiday Bingo’ card and support local businesses by purchasing gifts, joining their email list, or following them on social media for the chance to win a fabulous grand prize when the event concludes. Get your tickets now to experience the unequaled charm and flavors of Healdsburg!
2. Third Annual Merry Healdsburg
Celebrate the holidays with an evening of family activities in Healdsburg at the 3rd Annual Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting on December 1st! The central plaza transforms into a winter wonderland for the night with carriage rides, family activities, live holiday music, and endless food and drink vendors! Shop for gifts and souvenirs at the Holiday Market from 4-9:30pm, and get in line to take photos with Santa from 6:45pm-9:30pm. Don’t miss the beautiful tree lightning ceremony at 6:30pm!
3. Art Galleries
Despite having a population of only 11,000 people, Healdsburg in Sonoma County boasts nearly two dozen art galleries around the central plaza! Immerse yourself in works by local and internationally renowned artists in these premier galleries. Start your art adventure at one of these renowned galleries.
The city’s largest gallery is the Paul Mahder Gallery, located inside a 1940s-era Quonset Hut. With sprawling arched ceilings and 8,500 square feet of gallery space, this gallery showcases a variety of international and local artists. You can satisfy all of your senses by tasting the portfolio of wines from GrapeSeed while you enjoy the gallery.
2. Stafford Gallery is located in the historic Bank of Italy Building in downtown Healdsburg. The gallery exhibits nationally and internationally recognized artists, photographers, sculptors, and high art glass and jewelry artisans.
3. The two-story Harris Gallery (@theharrisgalleryartandwine on Instagram) is devoted to the work of father-son duo M.C. Harris and A3L3XZAND3R. Explore cubist floral works, exclusively-labeled wine bottles, and dreamlike impressionist landscapes throughout the halls of the Plaza Arts Building (built in 1905) that houses this unique gallery.
Make sure to book your vacation rental with WC Lodging before you head to Healdsburg and join these wonderful Holiday events!