It’s hard for many folks to believe, but Wine Country loves kids. If you’ve been on the fence about a trip with kids in tow, rest assured, there’s no need for a babysitter. Whether sipping wine or hot cocoa, Napa Valley and Sonoma County make you feel festive. From ice skating and gingerbread, to quality time with Santa, these are some of our favorite family-friendly wine countries events. Enjoy!
Featured Photo: Courtesy of Yountville Chamber of Commerce
Holidays in Yountville
November 24 – January 1
An annual tradition that stretches for more than six weeks, Holidays in Yountville offers the brightest cheer in Napa Valley Wine Country. Amidst the festive glow of tens of thousands of twinkling lights, the big guy himself kicks things off at Town & Tree Lighting, before moving to Santa’s Village in the center of town for endless photo opportunities.
More info: yountville.com
Cirque de Bohème at Cornerstone Sonoma
November 29 - December 29
A fun twist on a French circus tradition, Cirque de Bohème combines magicians, mimes, jugglers and more with music and mystery. Shows are held in a circus tent and are limited to 100 people.
More info: cirquedeboheme.com
Napa Christmas Parade
December 7
Enjoy the parade as it winds through downtown Napa, then head to the Archer Hotel to meet Santa.
More info: donapa.com
Ice Skating at Meritage Resort and Spa
November 18 - January 11
Glide into the holidays at a seasonal ice rink on the lawn at The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa. It’s the largest outdoor rink in Napa, and there will even be a 40-foot Christmas tree and “snow” to create the ambiance of a winter village for an even more immersive experience.
More info: meritagecollection.com
Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade
December 7
This much-loved tradition Calistoga decks out tractors, floats and farm equipment of all shapes and sizes in holidays lights before parading down Lincoln Avenue.
More info: visitcalistoga.com
Larson Family Winery Holiday Open House
December 7 & 8
This should make every parent jolly. Along with booking a wine tasting at Larson Family Winery during the annual Holiday Open House, you can book a professional photography session of your kids with Santa. Images are delivered digitally after the event.
More info: larsonfamilywinery.com
Luther Burbank Holiday Open House
December 4 - 5
Now in its 41st year, the Holiday Open House at the Luther Burbank Home & Gardens is a Santa Rosa tradition. An abundance of Christmas greenery and big red bows give the historic property a magical feel.
More info: lutherburbank.org
Charles Dickens Christmas with Santa
December 5, December 18
Enjoy some private, one-on-one time with jolly old Saint Nicholas at The Ackerman Heritage House in downtown Napa. The late 1800s Victorian mansion will be adorned for the holidays; 15-minute time slots give families plenty of time to snap photos while little ones remind Santa of their Christmas wish list.
More info: ackermanfamilyvineyards.com
5th Annual Gingerbread House Showcase & Competition at Hotel Petaluma
December 17 – 19
Bakers and creators of all ages are encouraged to showcase their sugar-coated talents at this merry community event. Gingerbread house entries will be showcased in the Hotel Petaluma Goldman Ballroom for all to see; awards will be given in a wide range of age categories.
More info: hotelpetaluma.com
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!
