When people think of fall in Sonoma County, the first thing that often comes to mind is the harvest--the grapes, the crush, the golden vineyards. But once that whirlwind slows, our towns don’t go quiet, this is when many other local traditions comes to life.

A fall tradition special to me was going to the Pumpkin Festival in Half Moon Bay when I lived in the Bay Area over 35 years ago. It was an annual ritual with my kids. We’d jump into the car, make the drive over the hill, and spend the day wandering through pumpkin patches, marveling at oversized gourds, and bringing home treasures for carving, porch decorating, and baking. Those memories are some of the sweetest markers of fall for me.

Now I am in Sonoma County where families have their own traditions, and the pumpkin patches have evolved in wonderful ways. What used to be simple pick-your-own fields are now full-scale fall experiences with hayrides, corn mazes, farm animals, and even live music. Parents sip hot cider or a local glass of wine while kids run through rows of pumpkins. It’s a reminder that while the basic pumpkin patches have evolved, traditions of fall gatherings remain the same.

Even as the grapes come off the vines, the celebration of harvest continues. The Sonoma County Harvest Fair brings together local winemakers, food artisans, and farmers for one unforgettable showcase of what our region does best. It’s an annual reminder that the harvest isn’t just about grapes, it’s about community, creativity, and the flavors that define wine country living.

Fall here isn’t only about wine; it’s also apple season. Local orchards open their gates for picking, cider tastings, and farm tours, making this one of the sweetest times of year to explore Sonoma’s agricultural roots. The Farm Trails Apple Trail is a favorite, connecting you to family farms and reminding us that Sonoma County’s bounty stretches well beyond the vineyard rows.

From art fairs to cultural celebrations, fall weekends brim with energy. You might stroll a plaza art walk on a Thursday evening, enjoy live music at a tasting room, or celebrate Día de los Muertos with neighbors. These community events are where Sonoma’s warmth truly shines locals and visitors alike gathering not just for entertainment, but to feel connected to the place and each other.

While my autumn rituals have shifted over the years, the heart of the season feels the same--family, community, and savoring the small moments. Sonoma County gives me that in abundance, but one of these days, I might just make the trip back to Half Moon Bay and relive the pumpkin festival tradition with fresh eyes. After all, fall is about honoring old memories while creating new ones.