Sonoma County Features: Weekender - Nov. 7

Your Weekly Guide to Events, Stargazing and Service

Nov 07, 2025

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SONOMA COUNTY, Calif. — Welcome to the Sonoma County Features Weekender, your guide to local events and experiences. Each Friday we deliver a quick-scan format organized into four sections: Around the County for festivals, concerts and other gatherings; Farmers Markets around the region; In the Sky for night-sky highlights; and Lend a Hand for volunteer opportunities. This edition offers options from free to affordable to suit a range of interests. New events since the last issue are marked (N) while recurring ones are tagged (R) for easy reference.

Have an event, community gathering or opportunity we missed? Email us at SonomaCountyFeatures@gmail.com.

Around the County

(R) Hands-On Cheesemaking Classes at The Epicurean Connection

Recurring weekly, Thursday–Saturday, through Dec. 20, noon to 2 p.m. and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Cheesemaker Sheana Davis and wine educator Ben Sessions lead interactive cheesemaking workshops at The Epicurean Connection in Sonoma. Guests craft a 2- to 3-pound wheel of crème de ricotta, sample artisan cheeses, enjoy a glass of rosé and take home supplies that include a cheese cloth, ladle, recipe card and cheese trail map. $125. More info at the website, email sheanadavis@gmail.com or 707-235-9530. The Epicurean Connection, 19670 Eighth St. E., Sonoma.

(R) A Taste of Sonoma Bike Tour

Recurring weekly, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sonoma Adventures leads a guided full-day bike or e-bike ride through the vineyards and backroads of Sonoma Valley, with stops at local wineries and tasting rooms. The tour includes a catered picnic lunch from Sonoma’s Best Gourmet Deli, featuring artisan sandwiches, fruit and dessert, served on winery grounds overlooking the vineyards. Riders cover 3 to 5 miles between tastings, with options to visit additional olive oil, brewery or boutique tasting rooms. $179 per person. More info at the website, email office@sonoma-adventures.com or 707-938-2080. Sonoma Adventures, 1254 Broadway, Suite A, Sonoma.

(R) Robert Ferguson Observatory Events

The Robert Ferguson Observatory in Kenwood offers a range of bilingual and astronomy-focused programs through the end of 2025 and into 2026, including star parties, educational sessions and astrophotography workshops. Programs are open to the public unless otherwise noted.

Focus Night: Saturn 2025 — Friday, Nov. 14, 7 to 10 p.m.
Cosmos & Cocoa — Saturday, Nov. 22, 5 to 8 p.m.
Public Star Parties 2026 — Begins Saturday, Jan. 10, 7 p.m. (13 additional events scheduled)
Bring Your Own Telescope 2026 — Begins Friday, Jan. 30, 5:30 p.m. (1 additional session)
Beginner Deep Sky Astrophotography Processing — Begins Thursday, Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m. (two additional sessions)
Bring Your Own Binoculars & Chair 2026 — Begins Saturday, Feb. 14, 7 p.m. (one additional session)
Jupiter Focus Night 2026 — Friday, March 6, 7 to 10 p.m.
Cosmos & Cocoa 2026 — Begins Saturday, March 7, 6 p.m. (three additional events)
Deep Sky Astrophotography Image Capture — Begins Thursday, April 16, 6:30 p.m. (2 additional sessions)
Docent and Member Party — Begins Saturday, April 18, 7:30 p.m. (one additional session)

For more information email info@rfo.org or visit their website. 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood.

(R) Cloverdale Wine Walk

Sunday, Nov. 2, 1 to 4 p.m. The Cloverdale Wine Walk brings local wineries and downtown businesses together for an afternoon of wine-tasting and community. Held on the first Sunday of each month through May, the event features check-in locations at Kelley & Young (119 S. Cloverdale Blvd.) and I.SEE. Optical Co. (210 N. Cloverdale Blvd.). For more information email info@cloverdalewinewalk.com or visit their website. Downtown Cloverdale.

(R) Jordan Winery Events

Experience a season of refined Wine Country hospitality at Jordan Winery in Healdsburg, where elegant dining, wellness and afternoon indulgence take center stage this November.

An Evening of French Elegance — Friday, Nov. 7, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. A formal multi-course dinner celebrating the art of French gastronomy, featuring a Champagne and caviar reception, seasonal ingredients, black truffles and Jordan vintages in the Jordan Dining Room. Formal black-tie attire encouraged. $295 per person; member pricing from $200 to $250.
Yoga at Vista Point — Sunday, Nov. 9, 9:45 a.m.–noon. A rejuvenating morning yoga experience atop the winery’s Vista Point hilltop with panoramic vineyard views, followed by breakfast bites and Jordan wines. Guests should bring yoga mats and water bottles. $75 per person.
Afternoon Fall Tea — Friday, Nov. 14, 3:30 to 5 p.m. A refined tea service featuring sandwiches, petits fours, and foraged teas paired with Jordan chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. The afternoon begins with a garden-inspired tisane in the Oak Tank Room. $95 per person.

For more information visit their website, call 707-431-5250 or email reservations@jordanwinery.com. Jordan Winery, 1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg.

(N) Cookbook Club at Sonoma Valley Library

Saturday, Nov. 8, 12 to 1:30 p.m. The Sonoma Valley Library’s Cookbook Club in Sonoma invites participants to share cozy, casual meals inspired by the season — think soups, stews, oven-baked favorites, and warm drinks or sweet treats. Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish and, if desired, a cherished family recipe. Plates, cutlery and refreshments provided. For more information visit their website, call 707-996-5217 or email kdeadder@sonomalibrary.org. 755 W. Napa St., Sonoma.

(R) Grand Bazaar of Petaluma

Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 8 to 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Giving4Life hosts the city’s largest indoor arts and crafts fair at the Petaluma Fairgrounds, with more than 100 vendors offering handmade gifts, holiday décor, collectibles, food and more. Each day features different artists and activities, with visits from Santa and food by Sax’s Joint. Admission, parking and shuttle service are free. Proceeds benefit Micah’s Hugs, a local drug-intervention charity. For more information visit their website. 175 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma.

(R) ‘Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue’

Saturday, Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m. The touring stage comedy “Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue” brings Dorothy, Blanche, Rose and Sophia back to the stage in a new storyline filled with sharp humor and outrageous twists. Featuring a cast of comedic actors and a set inspired by the iconic TV show, the production offers fans a chance to relive the spirit of the beloved sitcom. Tickets start at $35, with VIP packages including premium seats and photo opportunities on the set. More information at the website. Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa.

(N) Volunteer Workday at Doran Park

Wednesday, Nov. 12, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Volunteers with the California Native Plant Society will gather at Doran Regional Park in Bodega Bay to remove invasive ice plant, helping restore habitat for native species like the endangered Snowy Plover. This weekly project supports ongoing coastal restoration. Free; parking fees waived for volunteers. For more information visit their website or text Jan Lochner at 707-569-4724. Doran Park, meeting location varies within parking areas, Bodega Bay.

(N) Kaleidoscope Photo Exhibit at Sebastopol Library

Nov. 12 to Dec. 13. “Kaleidoscope,” an exhibit of vivid photographs by the Santa Rosa Photographic Society, is on view at the Sebastopol Regional Library. A featured window highlights the display mid-run. For more information visit their website, call 707-823-7691 or email baharris@sonic.net. 7140 Bodega Ave., Sebastopol.

(R) WinterBlast

Saturday, Nov. 15, 3 to 8 p.m. WinterBlast returns to Santa Rosa’s SofA Arts District with a nighttime procession of decorated sofas, stilt walkers, marching bands and lanterns to celebrate the coming winter season. The event features food, live music, art studio open houses and family-friendly activities throughout the evening. Free admission. More info at the website. Contact winterblast@srurbanarts.org. SofA Arts District, Santa Rosa.

(N) Rainbow Hike: Tidepool Exploration in Bodega Bay

Monday, Nov. 17, 2 to 4:30 p.m. LGBTQIA2S+ community members and allies are invited to an intergenerational hike along the Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Access Trail in Bodega Bay. This free event offers a chance to explore tidepools, share nature knowledge and build community. Dress in layers and bring water and snacks. For more information visit their website or email ParkPrograms@sonomacounty.gov. Pinnacle Gulch Coastal Access Trail, Bodega Bay.

(N) Canon Book Club in Healdsburg

Tuesday, Nov. 25, 6 to 7:30 p.m. The Joe Mesics’ Literary Canon book club meets at the Healdsburg Library to discuss Poems, 1965–1975 by Seamus Heaney. Print copies are available by request. For more information visit their website, call 707-433-3772 or email mjones@sonomalibrary.org. 139 Piper St., Healdsburg.

(N) Winging It Wednesday in Rohnert Park

Wednesday, Nov. 26, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Birders of all experience levels are invited to Crane Creek Regional Park in Rohnert Park for a relaxed morning walk focused on birdwatching and community connection. Binoculars available to borrow; no registration required. Free with park admission; fees waived for members. For more information visit their website or email ParkPrograms@sonomacounty.gov. Crane Creek Regional Park, meeting at the parking lot, Rohnert Park.

(N) Holiday Market at Bricoleur Vineyards

Dec. 6 to 7 and Dec. 13 to 14, 10 a.m. each day. Bricoleur Vineyards in Windsor hosts a family-friendly Holiday Market across two festive weekends, featuring seasonal shopping and local vendors. Free admission. For more information call 707-857-5700, email info@bricoleurvineyards.com or visit their website. 7394 Starr Rd., Windsor.

(N) Holiday Wreath Making at Forni Farm

Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 to 7, 10 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Forni Farm & Nursery in Santa Rosa hosts a festive outdoor wreath-making workshop using locally foraged materials. Tickets include all supplies, plus snacks and tea. Held rain or shine under covered greenhouses. Ages 12 and up. Tickets start at $81.88. For more information visit their website. 4000 Barnes Rd., Santa Rosa.

Have an event, community gathering or opportunity we missed? Email us at SonomaCountyFeatures@gmail.com.

Farmers Markets

(R) Sonoma Valley Certified Farmers Market

Fridays, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Long-running Friday morning market with local produce and goods. Find more details on their website. 284 First St. W., Sonoma.

(R) Rohnert Park Certified Farmers Market

Fridays, 5 to 8 p.m.
Seasonal evening market featuring produce, artisan vendors and family-friendly booths. More information is available on their website. 500 City Center Drive, Rohnert Park.

(R) Healdsburg Certified Farmers Market

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to noon
Saturday market at the West Plaza lot with local produce, flowers, baked goods and crafts. For more information, visit the organization's website. 1 North St., Healdsburg.

(R) Petaluma Walnut Park Farmers Market

Saturdays, 2 to 5 p.m.
Afternoon market with fresh produce, baked goods and live music. More information is available on their website. Walnut Park, D Street at Fourth Street S., Petaluma.

(R) Oakmont Certified Farmers Market

Saturdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Year-round neighborhood market offering local produce and goods.For more information, call 707-321-7549. Located at Oakmont Drive & White Oak Drive, Santa Rosa.

(R) Sebastopol Farmers Market

Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Weekly downtown market with local produce, crafts and live music. Find more details on their website. 6908 Weeks Way, Sebastopol.

(R) Cloverdale Certified Farmers Market

Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sunday market featuring produce, honey, baked goods and flowers. Website. North Cloverdale Boulevard at West Second Street, Cloverdale.

(R) Bodega Bay Community Farmers Market

Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Coastal market with seafood, produce and seasonal goods behind the community center. Find more details on their website. 2255 Highway 1, Bodega Bay.

(R) Cotati Community Farmers Market

Wednesdays, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Midweek market in the plaza with fresh food, handmade goods and music. More information is available on their website. La Plaza Park, Cotati.

(R) Occidental Community Farmers Market

Thursdays, 4 to 8 p.m.
Small-town evening market with live music and fresh food. Visit their website for more information. Downtown Occidental.

In the Sky

November 2025

Leonid Meteor Shower Peak

Nov. 7 to 18, after midnight. Produces up to 15 meteors per hour at its peak. These meteors radiate from the constellation Leo and are known for their fast and bright streaks. With a crescent moon setting early in the evening, conditions are excellent for meteor viewing.

Moon Near Jupiter

Nov. 10, evening hours. The waxing crescent moon will appear close to Jupiter in the night sky. Use binoculars or a telescope to capture this bright pairing.

Northern Taurid Meteor Shower Peak

Nov. 11 to 12, after midnight. Produces about five to 10 meteors per hour with occasional bright fireballs. The moon will be less illuminated after midnight, improving visibility.

New Moon

Nov. 20, all night. A moonless night provides ideal conditions for observing faint deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae under dark skies.

Uranus at Opposition

Nov. 21, all night. Uranus will be at its closest approach to Earth and fully illuminated by the sun, making it brighter than any other time of the year. Though just barely visible to the naked eye under dark skies, binoculars or a telescope will reveal its faint blue-green disk.

Lend a Hand

Mentor Me – Petaluma People Services

Mentor Me pairs adult volunteers with Petaluma-area youth for academic and personal mentorship, with a one-hour weekly commitment. For more information call 707-765-8488, ext. 108, email mentorme@petalumapeople.org or visit their website. 1500 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma.

Sonoma County Library – Volunteer Program

Volunteers assist with adult literacy tutoring, homework clubs, special events and Friends of the Library sales across county branches. For more information call 707-545-0831, email volunteer@sonomalibrary.org or visit their website. Multiple locations.

La Luz Center – Family Resource Volunteer

Volunteers support food distribution, English-language instruction and administrative services for immigrant families. For more information call 707-938-5131, email info@laluzcenter.org or visit their website. 17560 Greger St., Sonoma.

North Bay Organizing Project – Community Support

Volunteers help with advocacy and community outreach focused on immigrant rights, housing and education. For more information call 707-843-6111 or visit their website. 555 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa.

Council on Aging – Meals on Wheels Driver

Volunteers deliver meals to homebound seniors across the county. Training and background checks are required. For more information call 707-525-0143 or visit their website. 30 Kawana Springs Road, Santa Rosa.

Sonoma County Human Services – Friendly Visitor Program

Volunteer opportunities are available supporting isolated older adults, including roles such as friendly visits, support calls and other companionship or assistance activities as part of the Adult and Aging Services Division. To learn more or get involved, call 707-565-5936 or email volunteer@sonoma-county.org. Office: 3725 Westwind Blvd., Santa Rosa.

Redwood Empire Food Bank – Veterans Pantry

Redwood Empire Food Bank offers volunteer opportunities that support food distribution for veterans and low-income households at pantry locations throughout Sonoma County. Volunteers help distribute groceries and fresh produce at a variety of community sites, including those that specifically serve veterans. To learn more or sign up, call 707-523-7905 or visit their website. Headquarters: 3990 Brickway Blvd., Santa Rosa.

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 223 – Community Projects

Volunteers with Chapter 223 support veterans through outreach, donation drives (such as annual care package assemblies), food access programs, scholarships and public events honoring and advocating for local veterans. To learn more or get involved, call 707-526-4218 or visit their website. Mailing address: P.O. Box 6814, Santa Rosa.

Humane Society of Sonoma County – Animal Care Volunteer

Volunteers help socialize animals, assist with adoptions and support events or the Pet Rescue Thrift Store. For more information, call 707-542-0882 or visit their website. Main campus: 5345 Highway 12 W., Santa Rosa.

Forgotten Felines of Sonoma County – Shelter Volunteer

Volunteers help with fostering, cat care, adoption events and trap-neuter-return programs. For more information call 707-576-7999 or visit their website. 1814 Empire Industrial Court, Santa Rosa.

Dogwood Animal Rescue Project – Foster and Event Volunteer

Volunteers foster rescued animals or assist with adoption events and fundraising. For more information email dogwoodanimalrescue@gmail.com or visit their website. Location provided upon approval.

Bird Rescue Center – Wildlife Care Volunteer

Volunteers train to care for injured and orphaned birds and assist with education and outreach programs. For more information call 707-523-2473 or visit their website. 3430 Chanate Road, Santa Rosa.