The Wine Country destination is celebrating its inaugural “A Season to Sparkle,” and wineries, restaurants, hotels and shops all over town are doing their part to add to the festive cheer. The fun starts now and runs through December 31 — enjoy special holiday menus, dazzling light displays and plenty of opportunities to visit your favorite wineries and tasting rooms to sip (and shimmer). Here are a few of our favorites to get you started.
14210 Bacchus Landing Way
Come for the wine from beloved independent wineries and stay for the Holiday Bazaar. On December 7 and 8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. visitors can browse a plethora of gift ideas from local retailers and artisans, including clothing, books, games, toys and festive home wares as well as foodie gifts and, of course, wine. Live music, pizza and more. How can you resist?
3770 Lambert Bridge Road
It’s once again time for Dry Creek Vineyard’s Holiday Celebration and Marketplace, a beloved annual event. Not only do visitors have the opportunity to sample limited-release wines, but there will also be carolers, seasonal bites from Park Avenue and irresistible gifts from local artisans (think Carrie’s Art & Ceramics, Fortuna Jewelry, Heirloom Haus, K&D Mercantile, Laura’s Ornaments, Pine Photo & Print Studio, Volo Chocolate and others). November 30 starting at noon.
25 Matheson Street
What would the holidays be without a traditional afternoon tea? This year make your way to Hotel Healdsburg and its Holiday Tea service — guests will choose from custom blended teas, classic cocktails and of course plenty of delicious pastries and finger sandwiches. Friends and families of all ages are welcome. Starts on December 7 and available Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Make a reservation on the hotel’s website.
1474 Alexander Valley Road
If you are looking for something special to share with friends and family look no further than the Holiday Tour & Tasting. It begins with a taste of Jordan Cuvée by Champagne AR Lenoble, accompanied by an hors d’oeuvre featuring the chef’s Reserve Caviar. Following a leisurely walk among the historic oak tanks, you will settle into the newly renovated and elegantly decorated dining room for more wine tasting and nibbles. Finish with a bit more wine, Jordan hot chocolate and house-made holiday cookies while you relax by the crackling fireplace. December 2 through 20.
25 North Street
On Friday, December 13, salute the season in style with “Vinyl Valley: A Festive Friday Flight,” hosted by Little Saint and Dry Creek Valley. Sip and sway to the sounds of DJ Saint Rose Disco — and don’t miss the champagne saber at 6:30 p.m.
2306 Magnolia Drive
Experience the charm of an Italian Christmas market right in Healdsburg with the Orsi Family Vineyards’ annual Mercatini di Natale. The festive market features local vendors (these include College Confectionista, Dry Creek Zinegar and Valley Ford Cheese) alongside the Orsi family’s unique wine gift sets. The event is complimentary and walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
1000 Dry Creek Road
Christmas is coming to West Wines early this year. From November 29 to December 1, visitors can enjoy hot glögg, sweet treats and charming Swedish decorations in the tasting room and vineyard-adjacent pavilion. Guests will get to try some of the most revered wines, including the 2018 Seafoam Blanc de Blancs and Late Harvest Viognier. Reservations are recommended; $35 to taste four wines and enjoy glögg and treats.
