In the heart of Sonoma, California, dining is being reimagined through a renewed focus on seasonal ingredients and ever-evolving menus.

 

Local chefs are sourcing vibrant produce and fresh herbs, resulting in inventive pairings and surprise flavors that delight both residents and visitors.

 

Grilling over binchotan charcoal—a beloved Japanese technique—is becoming a standout feature, imparting irresistible smoky depth to dishes like asparagus and dry-aged beef.

 

Newly opened downtown restaurants combine charcoal-fired cooking with Northern California’s rich agricultural bounty, pushing creative boundaries.

 

Shared plates have also gained popularity, inviting groups to savor a variety of offerings, each anchored by peak-season ingredients.

 

Some venues now offer immersive art displays, blurring the lines between culinary and cultural adventure.

 

Sonoma’s leading restaurants are setting a new regional standard, intertwining food, art, and community in memorable ways.

Something magical is unfolding on East Napa Street this summer — and theater lovers across the valley won't want to miss it.

 

Once Upon a Mattress has arrived in Sonoma, and Sonoma Arts Live is delivering exactly the kind of spirited, laugh-out-loud production this community was made for.

 

The Tony Award–nominated musical comedy runs Thursday evenings at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM through early August, staged on the historic Rotary Stage inside Andrews Hall at the Sonoma Community Center.

 

Directed by Larry Williams, the show stars Daniela Innocenti Beem as the irrepressible Princess Winnifred and Tim Setzer as the lovably awkward Prince Dauntless — a duo radiating warmth and comic electricity.

 

What makes this production special is its soul — a volunteer cast pouring their hearts into a 112-year-old venue, performing with the kind of joy only community theater delivers.

 

Tickets are available for all ages, ranging from $25 to $42 — a remarkable value for live theater in one of Northern California's most charming towns.

Sonoma buzzes with excitement as the Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon and the colorful Rosé 5K return this July.

 

Locals and visitors eagerly lace up, diving into half marathon training and embracing the region’s dynamic running tradition.

 

The marathon’s route stretches from picturesque Napa vineyards to the lively Sonoma Plaza, promising breathtaking views and local cheer.

 

Race day unites the community—with rolling hills, energetic spectators, and new memories forged on the course.

 

Safety prevails thanks to early morning road closures, law enforcement, and volunteers guiding every step.

 

Saturday’s Rosé 5K amps up the Plaza with music, laughter, and a festival-like vibe, drawing families and relaxed runners.

 

Fresh local cafes and renovated parks greet finishers, enhancing Sonoma’s inviting spirit and boosting business for restaurants and hotels.

 

Whether racing for fun or a new record, Sonoma’s warmth and community pride make every finish unforgettable.

Electric bikes are becoming more common on Sonoma streets and paths, blending in with traffic and pedestrians alike.

 

But not all fast, quiet bikes are created equal.

 

Some, now known as e-motos, look like bikes but are legally motorcycles if they exceed 750 watts or lack working pedals, requiring a motorcycle license, registration, and insurance.

 

California law recognizes three e-bike classes: Class 1 and 2 both top out at 20 mph, while Class 3 can hit 28 mph and comes with stricter age and helmet rules.

 

Sonoma police, led by Chief Brandon Cutting, are focusing on community education before issuing citations, aiming to help families and teens understand which rules actually apply to their ride.

 

The city is also considering clearer signs and trail markings to ensure everyone, from riders to walkers, can safely share local trails.

 

Knowing your bike’s class—and its legal status—keeps everyone safer and supports Sonoma’s approach of education over enforcement.

Sonoma’s first-ever Parks and Recreation Department, funded by Measure T, officially launched in 2025 and is now at the center of this summer's activities.  

For the first time, all parks, recreation programs, special events, and community spaces like the historic Plaza are overseen by a single team based at the Carnegie Building on First Street East.  

Dave Jahns, Sonoma’s inaugural Parks and Recreation Director, brings wide-ranging experience from local communities and a strong focus on partnerships.  

The department now manages 19 parks and trails, three cemeteries, public art, and cultural events—plus free community swim days, new youth camps with the National Academy of Athletics, and Plaza festivities.  

Working alongside Sonoma’s nonprofits and educators, the department aims to connect resources and plan future improvements, ensuring residents and families have more opportunities for recreation, nature, and community gathering than ever before.

Sonoma Sundays on the Plaza returns in 2026, transforming the historic Grinstead Amphitheater into a lively gathering spot for free weekly concerts every Sunday from June 7 to October 4.

 

Curated by Music in Place with support from the City of Sonoma, this series features an eclectic mix, from salsa and jazz to bluegrass and swing.

 

Concertgoers can enjoy top-notch performances in the heart of Sonoma Plaza, now enhanced with new benches thanks to a Sonoma Raceway donation.

 

New culinary options add extra flavor — the much-anticipated SMASH eatery by chef Ari Weiswasser will open nearby, offering signature smashburgers and classic milkshakes.

 

Organizers invite all ages to grab a blanket, enjoy great food, and celebrate community through live music and dance in a scenic setting.

Sonoma traces its roots to the founding of Mission San Francisco Solano in 1823, the northernmost of California’s mission system.

 

General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo established the town in 1835, designing it around Sonoma Plaza, which remains the community’s lively heart.

 

Strategically placed, Sonoma acted as a barrier to Russian expansion and flourished thanks to its rich soil and mild climate, setting the stage for a celebrated wine tradition led by pioneers like Agoston Haraszthy.

 

Sonoma played a pivotal role in the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt, briefly becoming the hub of the California Republic.

 

The iconic stone City Hall, built in 1908, and diverse architecture reflect the area’s layered past.

 

Recent years have seen Sonoma Plaza evolve, welcoming new eateries such as Smash and upgraded public spaces like the Grinstead Amphitheater, blending history with modern charm.

 

This dynamic spirit continues to define Sonoma’s allure as a destination.

California State Parks is inviting qualified businesses to manage and operate a historic-style event space and lodging at the Blue Wing Inn in Sonoma State Historic Park, Sonoma County.

 

The state will accept proposals for a 50-year concession contract through September 15, 2026.

 

All interested parties must attend a mandatory tour and pre-proposal meeting on May 18, 2026 at the Presidio of Sonoma, with advance registration required.

 

A Letter of Intent to Bid, due to Sasha Tokas by June 16, 2026, is mandatory for all proposers.

 

Originally built in the early 1800s, the Blue Wing Inn is one of Northern California’s first hotels and is a California Historical Landmark.

 

Situated in the heart of wine country, Sonoma State Historic Park preserves key sites from California’s past, offering a unique opportunity for operators to revitalize local history with modern amenities.

Alaska Airlines is expanding in California, adding four new nonstop routes from Santa Rosa and Long Beach to key western cities.

 

Starting November 1, 2026, seasonal flights from Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport will connect Santa Rosa to Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and Boise until April 2027.

 

Travelers will fly aboard Embraer E175 jets, boosting Santa Rosa’s nonstop destinations to 12.

 

On September 8, 2026, Alaska Airlines resumes year-round, twice-daily service from Long Beach to Seattle-Tacoma using Boeing 737s, a welcome return after a ten-year break.

 

Santa Rosa flyers can also benefit from the popular Wine Flies Free program, checking up to a case of wine at no charge.

 

All new Santa Rosa routes will feature complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos Rewards members, ensuring reliable in-flight connectivity.

 

Alaska Airlines’ latest moves bring greater convenience and more options for California travelers.