There’s no more exhilarating time to visit Sonoma County than harvest. From September through November, West Sonoma County and the Russian River Valley come alive with the bustle of grape picking, the scent of fermenting wine, and festivals that bring together growers, winemakers, chefs, and music lovers. Autumn days are warm and golden, vineyards glow in vibrant fall colors, and the entire region feels charged with excitement.
Whether you’re here for world-class Pinot Noir, sparkling wine celebrations, or grape-stomping fun, harvest season offers experiences you’ll never forget. And there’s no better home base than the Inn at Occidental, located in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country.
Why Travel in Harvest Season?
As Condé Nast Traveler notes, autumn “is when everything comes alive in the vineyards with the harvest in full swing,” making it the ideal season for an immersive wine experience—but be sure to book early due to high demand. Condé Nast Traveler
September Highlights
September in Sonoma Wine Country is alive with the buzz of harvest—sun-drenched vineyards, the scent of freshly picked grapes, and wineries opening their doors for festive tastings and hands-on experiences.
Harvest Wine Trail – September 13, 2025 — A one-day tasting extravaganza across 30+ wineries in Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys. Your $50 ticket grants access to at least three tastings per winery—no reservations required. Healdsburg Chamberwineroad.com
Indulge Sonoma – A Beverage and Culinary Festival – September 27, 2025 — At Indulge Sonoma, expect a vibrant and immersive experience centered around indulgence and exploration of local flavors from over 50 restaurants, wineries, breweries, and distilleries in Sonoma County. Taste, Explore, and Indulge! Join us for an unforgettable day of flavor, fun, and local pride! Indulge Sonoma
Winery Experiences:
Iron Horse Vineyards – Harvest Magnum Experience – September 18, 2025 — Join us for a hands-on and engaging floral workshop with Jenny Tamayo founder and farmer of Daughter’s Dahlias. Set against the sweeping views of Iron Horse Vineyards, this intimate gathering celebrates the season’s most beautiful blooms … and delicious bubbly. Iron Horse Events
Dutton Goldfield – Pinot & Paella – September 20, 2025 — Celebrate the start of harvest season at Dutton-Goldfield with an afternoon of food, wine, and convivial spirit. By September, the vineyards are alive with harvest energy and buzz, making it the perfect time to gather for this wine country tradition. Chef Castaneda will prepare his signature authentic Paella Valenciana, served in beautifully plated individual portions. Alongside our vibrant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, flavors come alive in a way that perfectly captures the season. Dutton Goldfield Events
Breathless Wines – Sushi & Sparkle Soiree – September 26, 2025 — Step back in time for a decadent afternoon of sparkle and style! Celebrate with Breathless bubbles perfectly paired with masterful sushi creations by Sushimotos. Featuring local vocalist, Stella Heath, showcasing her love of American swing along with her love of French chanson and Jazz manouche. Breathless Events
October Highlights
October is the heart of harvest celebrations, when the picking is in full swing and wineries host their biggest parties.
Sonoma County Harvest Fair – October 11, 2025 – Sonoma’s premier fall festival celebrates its 50th anniversary with grape stomping, grand tastings, food pairings, and more. Sonoma County Tourism
Winery Experiences:
La Crema – Best of Golden Hour– October 3, 2025 – Experience the enchanting Golden Hour at La Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard, every first Friday of the month (through October). Immerse yourself in breathtaking views of the Russian River Valley, with the option to pack your own picnic or indulge in dishes from our featured food partners. Set to the melodious backdrop of local music, witness the vineyard bathed in the hues of sunset. Kickstart your weekend in style with La Crema’s Best of Golden Hour. La Crema Events
Marimar Estate – Harvest Paella Party – October4, 2025 – Celebrate harvest with us and enjoy Marimar’s famous paella while looking over the Don Miguel Vineyard! Savor Spanish tapas prior to a delicious lunch paired with many of our wines. Marimar Estate Events
Red Car – Harvest Luncheon – October 18, 2025 – It’s that time of year – when the air shifts, the vines are heavy with fruit, and the cellar comes alive. Join us as we celebrate harvest season the Red Car way: with great wine, live music, local food, and good company under the West Sonoma sky. This is your invitation to experience the magic of harvest with the people who make it all happen. Enjoy current releases and exclusive wines from our cool-climate portfolio, perfectly paired with a seasonal family-style luncheon. Red Car Events
Halleck Vineyard – Annual Harvest Lunch & Party – October 18, 2025 – includes oysters, library wine tastings, and live music. Halleck Events
Dehlinger – Cornucopia: Harvest Celebration – October18, 2025 – Immersive experience of Dehlinger’s agricultural and pumpkin cultivation heritage. Enjoy extensive harvest displays, the opportunity to purchase pumpkins grown on the Dehlinger ranch, among other festivities. Dehlinger Events
November Highlights
As the last grapes are brought in, the celebration shifts toward wine and food pairings.
Wine Road – Annual Wine & Food Affair – November 1–2, 2025 – The ultimate wine and food experience in Sonoma County. Explore the picturesque wine regions, indulge in delectable pairings, and create unforgettable memories. Where world-class wines meet gourmet delights. Get your taste buds ready for an unforgettable culinary experience! Tickets are selling fast, so secure your spot now. Wine & Food Affair
Taste Route 116 – Wine Appreciation Weekend Sip & Shop – November 22, 2025 Sip & shop with us the weekend of November 22 and 23 at each of the Taste Route 116 wineries, with a special welcome happy hour on November 21. Taste Route 116 Market
Winery Experiences:
Bowman Cellars – Fall Wine Party – November 8, 2025 – Please stop in anytime between 1pm to 5pm for our more elevated party of the year. Food pairings, a hearty lunch, live music, and of course all the Bowman wine. Bowman Events
Hartford Family – Winemaker & Family Dinner – November 8, 2025 – Annual Indoor Winemaker and Family Dinner. Hartford Events
Your Harvest Getaway
Harvest is Sonoma County’s most vibrant season, and staying in the middle of it all makes the experience even more magical. At the Inn at Occidental, you’ll enjoy charming accommodations, fireplaces, spa tubs, and a welcoming wine bar in the lobby. After a day of grape picking, paella feasts, or dancing at a harvest party, retreat to the comfort of the inn, nestled in the redwoods and just minutes from these world-class wineries.
Book your stay today and join us for an unforgettable harvest season in West Sonoma County.