Without a doubt, the Fourth of July is the pinnacle of the summer season. It’s full of fireworks, parades, picnics, barbecues, and group celebrations. Sonoma offers an incredible 4th of July experience, whether you’re coming for a visit or live in the area.
Spend your 4th of July weekend in Sonoma and experience the best of summertime in wine country. Use our guide to plan your trip or itinerary for this boomtastic summer holiday weekend!
Courtesy Sonoma County Tourism
Fireworks in Sonoma
Let’s kick this off with a BANG! After all, aren’t the fireworks the main event of the Fourth of July? Sonoma County is renowned for its stunning summer evenings, making it an ideal location for watching fireworks at night.
Praised as one of the best fireworks celebrations by Travel + Leisure Magazine, the Sonoma Plaza Parade & Firework Show kicks off at 10 a.m. in the historic Sonoma Plaza. Festivities continue into the evening, featuring game booths, food carts, wine, and drinks, along with plenty of family-friendly fun. At dusk, the fireworks show begins above General Vallejo’s field, lasting 45 minutes!
Outdoor picnic in the vineyards
The sun is hot and the Rosé is chilled! What better way to picnic than at one of Sonoma’s best wineries? Many wineries in the region are the perfect backdrop for your summertime picnic and wine sipping. Visit places like Ledson Winery, VJB Vineyards, and Cline Family Cellars for a picturesque picnic experience!
If you’re seeking a more exclusive and guided experience, Bohemian Highway Tours offers a curated experience complete with transportation and behind-the-scenes access to vineyards and wineries. Savor a hosted and private lunch in the vineyards at one of Sonoma’s most exclusive wineries!
Courtesy Sonoma County Tourism
Self-guided tours on bike rentals
Get out and explore Sonoma like a local! Allow a seasoned tour guide to show you around wine country for a half-day or full-day bike tour with stops for olive oil samplings, wine tasting, and snacks. Sonoma Valley Bike Tours will take you to stops like Buena Vista Winery and legendary Sebastiani Winery on your own pedal-assisted e-bike.
Swim days
There’s no better time of year for swimming in Sonoma than July. Spend the day lounging around your vacation home’s private pool at some of these top summer homes in Sonoma.
The MacArthur House: Just two miles from Sonoma Plaza, this two-bedroom home sits on four private acres complete with a heated swimming pool and outdoor kitchen. Plus, it’s close to the popular Scribe Winery and includes an EV charging station.
Himmel House: In nearby Kenwood, this home sleeps up to six people and includes a solar-heated swimming pool. Visit the majestic Mayacamas Mountains or head to the historic Jack London State Park. All of which are nearby and awaiting adventure in between pool dips!
Sonoma Retreat: Bring the whole family to this Sonoma gem! With four bedrooms, a pool, and hot tub, this home sits just minutes from downtown Sonoma. Perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway or relaxing weekend.
Visit Sonoma’s best restaurants
It’s no secret that Sonoma offers some of the best cuisine in the world. That, paired with Sonoma’s status as one of the top ten wine regions in the world, makes for a dining experience you won’t forget. Try some of downtown Sonoma’s best restaurants in between Fourth of July celebrations, or head to nearby towns for memorable food and wine.
Head to Kenwood’s Salt and Stone, known for their cocktails, oyster bar, and fine steaks. Or visit to Glen Ellen, home to Michelin-rated Glen Ellen Star and highly-rated The Mill at Glen Ellen. Of course, you can’t go wrong at one of Sonoma’s popular food trucks like Little Lou’s, El Gitano Taco Truck, and Costa’s Tacos.
Take a day trip to Napa
Just 25 minutes west of Sonoma, downtown Napa has so much to offer! Visit the popular Oxbow Public Market and shop artisan goods, enjoy lunch, sip local wine and beer, all just steps from downtown.
Just a few blocks down, you’ll find incredible restaurants and shops along Napa’s waterfront. Enjoy al fresco dining at spots like Allegria, Downtown Joe’s, and Wilfred’s Lounge. Taste wines from across the region at boutique wine bars like Vintner’s Collective, Mayacamas Downtown, and Robert Mondavi Arch & Tower.
Best Vacation Homes in Sonoma for the 4th of July
Immerse yourself in the Sonoma Fourth of July fun when you stay in the heart of Sonoma. These Sonoma vacation homes are located within walking distance or a short drive to Sonoma Plaza and the epicenter of Sonoma wine country!
Creekside Cottage: Just three blocks from downtown, this charming cottage home sleeps up to four people in its private and wooded location. Soak in the hot tub after the fireworks show and walk to nearby wineries and restaurants!
Villas at Sonoma: Host up to eight people at this luxury Sonoma vacation home just two miles from downtown! Enjoy its private three acres complete with a pool, outdoor lounging area, and within close proximity to dozens of restaurants and wineries.
Gustaffson Estate: Bring your pup to this pet-friendly, poolside estate! Just minutes from Sonoma Plaza, this home will host up to eight people with luxurious indoor and outdoor amenities.
Fryer Creek Agriturismo: Agritourism at its finest in Sonoma! This 2.2-acre working farm features egg-laying chickens, fruit orchards, bees at work, and a charming modern cottage. Soak in the private hot tub while surrounded by the seedlings of the farm-to-table culture.
Start planning your Sonoma 4th of July vacation and experience the peak summer season in wine country!
