Sonoma, California · Wine Country Events
Things to Do in
Sonoma, CA
May 2026
Your complete guide to festivals, farmers markets, wine events, live music, parks, and community happenings across Sonoma Valley this May.
May is one of the finest months in Sonoma Valley. The vineyards are leafing out, wildflowers are still lingering on the hillsides, and the warm afternoons are made for exploring. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting wine country for the first time, May 2026 is loaded with events across every category — literary festivals, winery gatherings, Japanese cultural celebrations, park hikes, live music, and the beloved return of the Tuesday Night Market.
All events below are listed in chronological order. Dates and details sourced from official event organizers — always check the linked website for the latest updates.
🗓 Recurring May Events
📅 One-Time Events — Chronological
Authors on the Plaza — FREE Public Event
Part of the Sonoma Valley Authors Festival, this free outdoor event brings world-class authors right to the historic Sonoma Plaza for a family-friendly afternoon under the towering trees. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pick up food from nearby restaurants, and enjoy readings and conversations with Dave Barry and other festival authors. Registration is free on Eventbrite.
Register Free on Eventbrite →Bodega Bay Fisherman’s Festival
Since 1973, the Bodega Bay community has hosted this beloved annual festival packed with craft booths, live music, fresh seafood, entertainment, and fun for all ages. A classic Northern California coastal tradition — well worth the scenic drive from Sonoma along the Pacific Coast.
Event Details →Tuesday Night Market — 2026 Season Kick-Off
The very first Tuesday Night Market of the 2026 season! The opening night kicks off at 5:00 PM with welcoming remarks, a preview of this season’s vendors, and live music. A beloved community tradition that draws thousands of Sonoma Valley residents and visitors every week. Continues every Tuesday through September 8.
Official City of Sonoma Market Page →Senior Saunter — Doran Regional Park
Sonoma County Regional Parks’ popular low-impact 2-mile Senior Saunter walks are held throughout the county all month long. This session at Doran Regional Park offers a coastal walk near Bodega Bay, ideal for seniors and those looking for a relaxed, sociable outdoor experience with a naturalist guide.
Full Parks Activities Calendar →Habitat Restoration — Spring Lake Regional Park
Help restore native coastal habitat at Spring Lake Regional Park alongside Sonoma County Parks staff and fellow volunteers. A hands-on morning in one of the Bay Area’s most scenic regional parks — perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone who wants to give back to the local environment.
Sonoma County Parks Calendar →KIDS-ONLY Science & Art Hour — Environmental Discovery Center
Bring your junior scientist to the Environmental Discovery Center at Spring Lake for an interactive, kids-only science and art hour. Multiple sessions available throughout the day. Great for families looking for an educational and fun Saturday activity amid Sonoma County’s beautiful parklands.
Sonoma County Parks Calendar →Hanna Center Annual Celebration Gala
The Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual community celebration gala at the beautiful Hanna Center, honoring four extraordinary community members. A chance to mingle with local business and civic leaders while supporting the heart of the Sonoma Valley community.
Chamber Event Calendar →Petaluma’s Salute to American Graffiti Car Show
One of Northern California’s most beloved car shows returns to Petaluma — the filming location of the classic movie American Graffiti. Over 400 classic cars and trucks line the streets alongside vendors, live entertainment, and special happenings. An irresistible slice of Americana just a short drive from Sonoma.
Salute to American Graffiti →Sonoma Valley Western Reserve at Wing & Barrel Ranch
The first-ever Sonoma Valley Western Reserve, hosted by the Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance at the exclusive Wing & Barrel Ranch. An unforgettable evening celebrating world-class Sonoma Valley wine and authentic Western spirit — featuring rare reserve labels poured by the vintners, premium wines, signature cocktails, live music, and a ranch-style BBQ dinner.
Sonoma Valley Events Page →Memorial Day Weekend in Sonoma County Parks
Kick off Memorial Day Weekend in Sonoma County’s spectacular regional park network. Guided hikes, nature walks, kayaking at Spring Lake, and family-friendly programs are scheduled throughout the holiday weekend. Sonoma Valley Regional Park offers easy access to oak woodland trails, wildflowers, and sweeping valley views. Check the parks calendar for full weekend programming.
Sonoma County Parks Calendar →Memorial Day — Sonoma Wineries & Plaza Open
Memorial Day is one of the most popular wine country getaway weekends of the year. Many of Sonoma’s wineries and tasting rooms are open for tastings — from Buena Vista (California’s oldest winery) to boutique estate wineries throughout the Valley. The historic Sonoma Plaza and its surrounding restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms are lively all weekend. Winery reservations are strongly recommended.
Sonoma Valley Visitor Guide →Sonoma Stompers Baseball — Season Home Opener Week
Sonoma’s beloved summer baseball team, the Stompers of the California Collegiate League, kicks off their 2026 home season at historic Arnold Field. The first home games begin May 28 with Bercovich Honors vs. the Stompers. Grab local wine or craft beer from the concession stand and catch a game at one of Sonoma’s most charming spots — just a block off the Plaza.
Full 2026 Schedule & Tickets →INVITATIONAL: For The Enthusiasts — Sonoma Raceway
The premier luxury motorsports festival in the Bay Area returns to Sonoma Raceway for Memorial Day weekend. Three days of stunning classic cars, breathtaking hypercars, concours-quality classics, extreme drift vehicles, and the finest offerings from wine country — all in an intimate, accessible setting. Described as America’s most significant automotive culture event. Tickets are limited; first-release available now.
ViaVelocity Tickets & Info →
