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The 112th version of a great Sonoma tradition – a celebration of the Valley’s bounty, community and local culture. This year’s theme, Come Home to Sonoma, includes a “Young Artists of Sonoma” section, where local students’ artwork joins an array of exceptional arts and crafts.
As usual, the Plaza will feature fun and games for kids, food and wine, and lots of live music – see schedule. The traditional opening ceremony of the festival, The Blessing of Grapes begins at 10 a.m. A grape stomp is also part of the festivities.
Saturday’s entertainment includes historical re-enactments of events which changed the history of California. The wedding of General Vallejo’s daughters, a wonderful display of traditions and costumes, will be acted out in front of the Sonoma Mission. The Bear Flag Revolt will be re-created – complete with 33 actors in historic garb and the raising of California’s first flag – at the Bear Flag Monument at the Plaza’s northeast corner.
Free live music on the Plaza
Saturday, Sept. 26
Main Stage, in Back of City Hall
12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Hellhounds – classic and original blues
3:15 p.m. to Close The Shannon Ryder Band – six-piece
country-rock group
Wine Tasting Stage
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Jazz Gitan – swinging jazz and hot gypsy guitar
3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Isaac Carter Trio – jazz guitar
Sunday, Sept. 27
Main Stage, in Back of City Hall
12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Dr. Joel Rudinow and Rude Notes Galore – gumbo ya-ya rock and roll
1:45 p.m. to 3 p.m. Whiskey Thieves – powerhouse rock quartet
3:15 p.m. to Close Showcase – rock, blues, Latin and polka
Wine Tasting Area Stage
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Out of the Blue – western swing and jazz
3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Leo Servin Trio – Latin and tropical jazz
