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Celebrate the Holidays in California’s Wine Country: Festive Events in Napa, Sonoma & More

It’s a perfect win-win—or should we say wine-wine—opportunity. Discover your new favorite holiday wines amid stunning scenery while supporting Northern California’s wine country in its recovery from devastating wildfires in Napa, Sonoma, and Solano Counties. The vast majority of the region is fully open for business, offering joyful and delectable ways to toast the season.

Meet Santa on the Napa Valley Wine Train Nov. 18 - Dec. 29

The iconic Napa Valley Wine Train transforms into a family-friendly holiday extravaganza, headlined by Santa himself. Ride antique Pullman rail cars filled with seasonal games, singalongs, cookies, and carefully selected wines (reds, whites, and sparkling) for adults. (Note: No trains on Christmas Eve or Day.)

Holidays in Yountville Nov. 20 - Dec. 31

This Michelin-starred culinary haven in Napa Valley sparkles with thousands of twinkling lights. Enjoy holiday food and wine tours, carriage rides, cocktail classes, or exceptional meals at The French Laundry, Bouchon, Redd, and Étoile at Domaine Chandon.

“Holidays in Healdsburg” Tour in Sonoma County Nov. 25 - Dec. 31

Join a guided walking tour through festively decorated downtown Healdsburg, featuring carolers, horse-drawn carriages, hot cocoa, and access to over 30 wineries, tasting rooms, and wine bars.

Winter in the Wineries Passport in Calistoga Dec. 2 - Feb. 4

Explore Calistoga’s wines with this $60 annual passport, offering complimentary tastings at 17 wineries, plus discounts at local hot springs and hotels. It’s an ideal holiday gift.

Napa Valley Wine Trolley “Holiday Light Tours” Fridays-Sundays, Dec. 8-23

Hop aboard a vintage trolley for a tour of Napa’s twinkling Victorian neighborhoods, complete with onboard singalongs. Start at Oxbow Public Market, renowned for its outstanding food and wine.

Ring in the New Year at Castello di Amorosa in Napa Valley Dec. 31

This Tuscan-style 13th-century castle winery offers tours and tastings throughout the holidays (closed Dec. 25). Cap the season with a glamorous “Great Gatsby” New Year’s Eve party: don 1920s attire for flowing wines, multi-course dinners, live jazz, and a Spumante toast to the new year. Danny Jensen is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and photographer specializing in food, lifestyle, and travel.
Travel Notes
  • Holiday Magic at Barefoot Landing: Family Events, Lights & Fireworks in North Myrtle Beach

    The holiday season brings a lineup of festive activities along the Grand Strand. Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beachs premier waterway shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, hosts family-friendly events throughout November and December. The annual Lighting of the Landing ceremony kicks off the celebrations on Saturday, November 17. Enjoy a visit from Santa, holiday music by The Alabama Theatre, the Risen Christ Lutheran School Choir, and local performers. Activities begin at 4 p.m. w

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