A bee flies around a rhododendron at Hidden Forest Nursery in Sebastopol on Monday, April 22, 2024. (Christopher Chung/The Press Democrat)
Forest succession after a major disruption like logging or wildfire — of which we’ve seen plenty lately — can be measured in stages. The early-seral stage, dominated by grasses, shrubs, and eventually saplings among both surviving large trees and standing dead and dying trees, typically lasts between one and three decades.
It’s been more than 100 years since the last big fire at one coastal Sonoma County state reserve, but the forest is largely suspended in an early-seral stage. That’s thanks to decades of active land management for the benefit of a single shrub, the rhododendron, which is also the namesake of the reserve. In May and June, visitors to the Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve will find the plant blooming in all its rosy-pink magnificence.
California State Parks senior environmental scientist Brendan O’Neill explains that crews thin the redwood, tan oak, and fir forest by removing smaller trees from beneath the main forest canopy, then piling the cuttings and covering them to cure, before burning the piles in winter when conditions allow. “The rhododendrons depend upon sunlight and openings in the forest to be at their greatest,” O’Neill says.
Lush rhododendrons at Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve. (Chad Surmick / Sonoma Magazine)Pink rhododendron blooms at Kruse Rhododendron State Park in Jenner. (Sonoma County Tourism)
Three species of native rhododendrons exploded on the landscape after last century’s fateful conflagration. All are fire-adapted, possessing latent buds in their root crowns that initiate vigorous new growth after a fire, even if the rest of the plant is charred beyond repair. In 1933, about a decade after the fire, Edward P. Kruse donated to California part of the large ranch on which his family had been raising sheep and logging tan oak — expressly for the public’s continued enjoyment of the dense rhododendron stands whose fragrant, late-spring blossoms had already become a popular tourist attraction.
As the decades passed, the forest advanced into a mid-seral phase and the rhododendrons began to suffer. By the 1970s, State Parks ecologist Jim Barry recognized that without logging or fire, they would largely disappear. So he proposed an “out-of-the-box” and “a little bit revolutionary” idea, in O’Neill’s words, of maintaining the forest in an early-seral stage indefinitely.
Today, selective thinning and pile-burning are far more commonplace for fire safety and fuel-load management: a clear co-benefit of the rhododendron-driven work at Kruse. Another benefit? The unique beauty of a steep, deep-green forest lit with dappled sunlight and pastel-pink blossoms held 20 feet high on the elongated branches of these endemic yet ephemeral shrubs.
A rhododendron grows along a pond at Botanica Nursery and Gardens (formerly Hidden Forest Nursery) near Sebastopol. (Christopher Chung / The Press Democrat)Sunlight streams down on a rhododendron at Botanica Nursery and Gardens (formerly Hidden Forest Nursery) near Sebastopol on Thursday, May 6, 2021. (Christopher Chung / The Press Democrat)
Where to see rhododendrons in bloom this spring and early summer
(From left) Bottles of La Sirena Moscato Azul, La Sirena Chardonnay, and Aviatrix Grenache at La Sirena tasting room in Calistoga Wednesday, May 13, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
At the 2000 Napa Valley Wine Auction, a 6-liter bottle of the cult Cabernet Sauvignon blend Screaming Eagle set a world record for the highest price ever paid for a single bottle of wine: half a million dollars. Heidi Peterson Barrett made that wine. Today, you can taste Barrett’s offerings at much more down-to-earth prices at her first tasting room in downtown Calistoga.
The story
Barrett grew up in the vineyards and cellars of Napa Valley, working alongside her father Dick Peterson, a legendary innovator in California’s post-Prohibition wine industry. She became one of the region’s most sought-after winemakers in the late ’80s and ’90s, making top-scoring wines for Dalla Valle, Screaming Eagle, Grace Family and other cult producers.
The winemaker founded her own brand in 1994 somewhat on a spur of the moment. She had been hired to make a Sangiovese for a client who suddenly needed to abandon the project. Instead of letting the client sell the wine on the bulk market, Barrett decided to buy it herself and start a winery. She called it La Sirena, inspired by the mermaid on Mexican Lotería cards and a nod to her love of scuba diving and the ocean.
In April, after a decade-long search for just the right spot, Barrett opened her debut tasting room in Calistoga.
Heidi Peterson Barrett and her daughter Remi sit on swings outside La Sirena tasting room in Calistoga Wednesday, May 13, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
“I would either be priced out of the market, or it was way too big of a place, or it came with a large home or more vineyard land,” she said. “I was really just in need of a tasting room, and this place has a little barrel cellar with the potential to make some of the wine here. It was a perfect fit.”
The tasting room showcases La Sirena wines, along with selections from Barrett & Barrett, co-founded with her husband Bo Barrett of Chateau Montelena, and Aviatrix, a collaboration between Barrett and her daughters Chelsea and Remi Barrett. Made from the family’s vineyards and purchased fruit, wines range from Moscato and Grenache to serious red blends. Annual production totals about 3,000 cases.
The vibe
Barrett describes her fledgling tasting room as “joyous,” and it’s hard to argue with that. Set on Foothill Boulevard next to Rivers-Marie and close to Lola Wines, La Sirena is filled with nautical whimsy, awash in cheery cobalt and aquamarine hues. Barrett, also an artist, painted the mermaid mural in the women’s bathroom.
Paintings, pottery and jewelry made by Heidi Peterson Barrett on display for sale at La Sirena tasting room in Calistoga Wednesday, May 13, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
The concrete-topped bar is decorated with blue mosaic tiles, and Barrett’s colorful paintings line the walls on both the main floor and in the upstairs loft. Outside, you’ll find two fun surprises: a petite side patio overlooking a neighbor’s vineyard and a set of swings — yes, swings! — hanging beneath a vine-covered arbor in the parking lot. Go ahead and take a ride (I did). In addition to wine, the tasting room sells Barrett’s handmade ceramics, jewelry and paintings.
On the palate
Though Barrett made a name for herself with Cabernet Sauvignon-based trophy wines, the offerings at La Sirena venture beyond typical Napa Valley varieties.
Heidi Peterson Barrett talks with guests at La Sirena tasting room in Calistoga Wednesday, May 13, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
The 2021 Grenache from Aviatrix ($40), made from Bennett Valley grapes, has a bright and juicy profile that’s all about ripe red fruit. Also on the fresher side, La Sirena 2023 Moscato Azul ($34) from Lake County and Calistoga has lovely floral aromas, plus peach and tropical fruit flavors. With barely a half-percent residual sugar, it’s crisp and dry.
Fans of serious reds will appreciate the La Sirena 2021 Studio Series from Napa Valley ($125). An unconventional blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Franc, the wine is rich in leathery spice aromas and black fruit flavors.
Tasting flights include a $25 mini tasting for walk-in visits, a signature tasting ($50) and two different reserve tastings ($75-$100).
Pedestrians walk past an “I Love Calistoga” mural along Lincoln Avenue (Highway 29) in downtown Calistoga, Tuesday, June 20, 2023. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Beyond the bottle
Calistoga is a walkable town, but it can be more fun to travel by cruiser bike. It’s an easy, flat ride between La Sirena and other downtown tasting rooms, including Lola and Tank Garage, plus shops and restaurants. Beyond downtown, riders can pedal alongside vines to visit local wineries. Bring your own bike or rent from Calistoga Bikeshop.
La Sirena, 810 Foothill Blvd., Calistoga. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Reservations required for reserve tastings. 707-942-1105, lasirenawine.com
Tina Caputo is a wine, food, and travel writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including SevenFifty Daily, Visit California, HuffPost, and Sonoma magazine. Follow Tina on Bluesky @winebroad, view her website at tinacaputo.com, and email her story ideas at tina@caputocontent.com.
A dinner spread at SingleThread in Healdsburg. (John Troxell / Sonoma County Tourism)
SingleThread in Healdsburg has once again been recognized as one of North America’s best restaurants, ranking No. 16 on the 50 Best organization’s North America list.
This is SingleThread’s second appearance on the regional ranking, which includes restaurants in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean as part of the broader World’s 50 Best Restaurants program. Mexico is featured on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
At the May 28 awards ceremony in New Orleans, SingleThread, which holds three Michelin stars, moved from its previous No. 8 ranking in 2025. It retained its title as Best Restaurant in the West and remained the highest-ranking California restaurant. Other Bay Area restaurants recognized were San Francisco’s Saison (No. 22), Benu (No. 33), Atelier Crenn (No. 44) and Sons & Daughters (No. 45).
An elegantly presented dish at the three-Michelin star SingleThread in Healdsburg. (John Troxell / Sonoma County Tourism)
Chicago’s Smyth earned the top ranking this year, followed by Eight in Calgary and Restaurant Pearl Morissette in Lincoln, both in Canada. Dakar Nola in New Orleans and Mon Lapin in Montreal completed the top five.
New York secured 13 spots on the list, including Atomix (No. 7), César (No. 10), Le Veau d’Or (No. 12), Le Bernardin (No. 13), Kabawa (No. 14) and Jungsik (No. 18).
Since 2002, “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” has served as a snapshot of some of the best destinations for unique culinary experiences and has highlighted emerging gastronomic trends.
At SingleThread restaurant in Healdsburg. (Garrett Rowland / Sonoma County Tourism)
North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list joins other prominent accolades, such as the annual Michelin stars and James Beard Awards, as well as various national and regional “best of” lists that can significantly influence a restaurant’s success.
Judges for the North American awards are selected from a pool of chefs, restaurateurs, food journalists and gourmets, according to the organization.
SingleThread is also on the extended World’s 50 Best restaurant list at No. 80, along with American restaurants Le Bernardin (No. 90), Atelier Crenn (No. 96), and New York’s Cesar (No. 98). Atomix (No. 12) is the only American restaurant that currently breaks into the top 50. The 2026 World’s 50 Best awards will be held in November.
A full list of winners can be found on the 50 Best website.
Mole Tamales from Sonoma Eats in Boyes Hot Springs on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
Hazel restaurant in Occidental will reopen this summer in the former Barley and Hops space at 3688 Bohemian Highway.
The casual eatery, run by husband-and-wife team Jim and Michele Wimborough, closed last fall after nearly a decade when its previous location at 3782 Bohemian Highway was sold. Since then, the couple has hosted pop-ups and events at the Inn at Occidental while searching for a new, permanent home.
Many of Hazel’s signature comfort dishes, such as Brussels sprouts, vegan Caesar salad and pot roast, will return. Michele Wimborough also noted that several new menu items will be introduced.
“It’s really fun being uptown, and we’re right across from the farmers market, in the middle of everything,” she said.
Owner/chefs Jim and Michele Wimborough of Hazel restaurant in Occidental. The couple will reopen their casual eatery this summer. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat, file)Owners Hayley Cutri and her husband Efrain Balmes at Parkside Eats in Santa Rosa Monday, April 13, 2026. The couple will reopen their Sonoma Eats restaurant this summer. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Popular Sonoma restaurant to reopen
Sonoma Eats will reopen this summer after closing in March due to a significant rent increase, according to owners Efrain Balmes and Hayley Cutri. The closure occurred just weeks before the couple opened their second restaurant, Parkside Eats, in Santa Rosa.
The new Sonoma Eats location will be in Sonoma, though the exact address has not been announced. The restaurant will offer table service and takeout with a menu of Mexican classics.
“I can already smell the mole,” said Cutri, who will help open the new location.
A selection of specialty doughnuts from SoCo Dough Co. inside the Graton Casino & Resort, clockwise from bottom, Gone Bananas, Pretty in Pink, Dubai of My Eye and Right Side Up Friday, May 29, 2026 in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Whether you call them doughnuts or donuts, like them jelly-filled or straight-up glazed, it’s always time for these fried bits of heaven. But wasting calories on a day-old mess isn’t worth it. Sonoma County boasts over a baker’s dozen doughnut shops, so locals are never far from a fresh, fried delight.
Here are some of our favorite doughnuts in Sonoma County to enjoy on National Doughnut Day (June 5) or any day of the year.
New: SoCo Dough Co.
Guests of the Graton Casino & Resort can grab a specialty doughnut at SoCo Dough Co. just a few feet away from the slot machines Friday, May 29, 2026 in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)The Right Side Up, a take on the Upside Down Cake in doughnut form, from SoCo Dough Co. in the Graton Casino & Resort Friday, May 29, 2026 in Rohnert Park. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)
SoCo Dough Co., one of three recent additions to Graton Casino’s expanded nonsmoking wing, leans into Vegas-style excess. Doughnuts come stuffed with banana pudding, lacquered in espresso glaze, or topped with candied bacon, honeycomb streusel and li hing mui. There’s also the Millionaire’s Doughnut, the most expensive piece of fried dough in the county, but hardly the strangest item at SoCo Dough Co. That honor goes to the everything bagel doughnut filled with cream cheese. “Abomination” feels harsh but not entirely inaccurate.
Even in an era of over-the-top pastries, the lineup of 15 buttermilk doughnuts inspires childlike awe. There’s the Vietnamese Coffee Time, glazed with espresso and drizzled with condensed milk; the Rap Berry, with raspberry icing and white chocolate; and the Wake ’N Bacon, sticky with maple glaze and strips of candied pork. Tropic Like It’s Hot, mango-glazed, coconut-drizzled, and flecked with lemon zest, serves as a gateway to Matcha Made in Heaven, coated in green tea glaze and shredded coconut. 288 Golf Course Drive W., Rohnert Park, graton.com
Special Doughnut Day Deals
Krispy Kreme, Rohnert Park: Krispy Kreme offers a free doughnut on National Doughnut Day — no purchase necessary. The chain also typically offers a $2 Original Glazed dozen with the purchase of any dozen at regular price. This year, Krispy Kreme teams up with DoorDash to offer $7 off orders of $25 or more from June 4-18 (redeemable via the DoorDash app). “Hot Light” hours, when doughnuts are freshest, are 7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. daily. 5090 Redwood Drive, Rohnert Park, 707-521-9154. krispykreme.com
Employees stock the display case prior to the grand opening of the Krispy Kreme in Rohnert Park, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)Customers can get a free doughnut with a purchase of a beverage on Friday at Dunkin’ in Petaluma, Santa Rosa and Windsor. (Pere Rubi / Shutterstock)
Dunkin’, multiple locations: Customers get a free doughnut with a beverage purchase on June 5. The first Sonoma County outpost of this East Coast and Midwest favorite arrived in Petaluma to the delight of transplants. It now also has locations in Santa Rosa and Windsor. In addition to their legendary coffee, they have doughnuts in every flavor of the rainbow. Because that’s what doughnuts are made of: rainbows and love. 435 N. McDowell Blvd., Suite 50, Petaluma; 2739 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa; 6650 Hembree Lane, Windsor. dunkindonuts.com
Best Doughnuts in Sonoma County
A variety of doughnuts from Johnny Doughnuts in Santa Rosa. (Courtesy of Johnny Doughnuts)
Santa Rosa
Johnny Doughnuts: The successor to the much-loved City Garden Doughnuts excels with Crodoughs (a take on Cronuts, or croissant doughnuts), Bismarks (jelly doughnuts), cinnamon rolls, wheat-free doughnuts, vegan doughnuts, and all the sprinkles you want. 1200 Fourth St., 707-308-4836, johnnydoughnuts.com
Donut City: Fancy doughnuts with sprinkles, sugar and plenty of pizzazz are best bets here. Check out the Tiger Tail, a braided doughnut with chocolate swirls. 1331 Guerneville Road, 707-541-6141
Donut Bagel Cafe: Food-choosy friends swear this is the best doughnut cafe in town. Always packed. Jelly doughnuts are a favorite. Doughnut holes are also great. Takeout only. 750 Stony Point Road, 707-284-1012
Tan’s Donut: A go-to for straight-up office-worthy doughnuts. Don’t miss the buttermilk doughnut, a denser version of the glazed. The Guerneville Road location also serves up Cambodian cuisine. 1074 Fourth St., 707-568-3988; 2550 Guerneville Road, Suite E, 707-528-1567
A variety of freshly baked doughnuts in the case at Tan’s Donut in Santa Rosa, on Thursday, April 28, 2022. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
The Jelly Donut: Our favorite raspberry jelly doughnut. Open daily from 3:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. the next day. Plus, get a dozen doughnut holes for only $2.75. Enough said. Takeout only. 443 Dutton Ave., Suite 10, 707-544-8494, instagram.com/thejellydonutsr
Andy’s Donuts & Bagels: Doughnuts that can turn a rough morning around. “This has been my favorite donut store for years. I lived in that neighborhood over 10 years ago and still come here,” wrote Shannen R. on Yelp. “Staff are always friendly, donuts are always tasty, can’t go wrong,” added Nick. O, whose Yelp profile photo is, fittingly, Homer Simpson. 1784 Piner Road, 707-541-0877
Sonoma
Danish & Donuts: Crullers are a specialty at Sonoma’s Danish & Donuts, along with yeasty doughnuts with sprinkles and maybe a Danish or two if you get there early. Takeout and delivery available. Boston cremes get top billing. 18580 Sonoma Highway, 707-938-1333
Petaluma
Donut Den: Nestled in an unassuming strip mall on the corner of North McDowell and Old Redwood Highway, the Donut Den has earned a devout following on Petaluma’s east side. The shop makes creatively designed doughnuts, including holiday-themed treats. Custom doughnuts and apple fritters are best bets. 1390 N. McDowell Blvd., 707-792-1312, instagram.com/the_donut_den
Keny’s Donuts: This doughnut shop has been around since 1984 and has been a favorite among Petaluma high schoolers for decades. “This is not the hipster, organic doughnuts place … this is Sunday morning I want a good donut!” wrote Dara Krahne Peloquin on the Save Sonoma County Restaurants page. 202 Douglas St., 707-765-3961. Find on Facebook.
Sunrise Donuts: Chocolate cake and blueberry doughnuts are favorites at this neighborhood spot. “Boy, it’s safe to say it would take a lot to make me get emotional about donuts, but Sunrise Donuts made it happen!” said one enthusiastic reviewer. Takeout. 68 E. Washington St., 707-762-6601. Find on Facebook.
Rohnert Park
Kailey’s Donuts: A cute doughnut shop with even cuter doughnuts. Raised or filled, glazed or sprinkled, it’s hard to go wrong with the assortment of sweet offerings. 931 Golf Course Drive, 707-971-5974
Windsor
New Zealand Donut with raspberry and cream from BurtoNZ Bakery in Windsor. (Heather Irwin / The Press Democrat)
BurtoNZ Bakery: You can thank the Kiwis for coming up with a cream and raspberry-filled doughnut that’s about the best thing since sliced bread. This New Zealand specialty is a not-too-sweet fried torpedo rolled in sugar, split down the middle and stuffed with whipped cream and a schmear of seedless raspberry jam. Oh, so good with morning coffee, an evening dessert or any time in between. 9076 Brooks Road S., 707-687-5455, burtonzbakery.com
Happy Donuts: Solid raised and glazed doughnuts, plus delightful apple fritters and maple bars. Find a second outpost in Cloverdale (1117 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Suite C). 8962 Brooks Road S., 707-838-3526, happydonuts.me
Healdsburg
Flakey Cream Do-Nuts & Coffee Shop: A favorite since the 1960s, this classic coffee shop offers a full breakfast and lunch menu. But it’s the doughnuts in the window every morning that have been drawing kids and hungry grown-ups to this spot for more than 50 years. They even have a “buy five, get one free” deal for their doughnuts. Amazing glazed doughnuts. 441 Center St., 707-433-3895, flakeycreamcoffee.com
Heather Irwin and Maci Martell contributed to this article.
The food delivery site listed 100 small- and medium-sized doughnut shops with at least 1,000 lifetime reviews and the highest consumer ratings from April 2025 to April 2026.
“Doughnut shops are true neighborhood institutions that people return to week after week,” said Ruth Isenstadt, Head of U.S. Restaurants at DoorDash, in the site’s press release. “With our inaugural Donut Day Dozens list, we’re proud to shine a light on 100 of the top-rated neighborhood favorites that share joy, sweetness and convenience with communities across the country.”
The most-ordered treats at locals’ favorite Andy’s Donuts, according to DoorDash, are apple fritters, cinnamon rolls, jelly-filled and custard-filled doughnuts, plus a dozen mixed-variety doughnuts and a dozen doughnut holes. Old-fashioned and cake doughnuts also get high reviews.
Andy’s Donuts & Bagels offers single bagels as well as croissant and bagel breakfast sandwiches. (perlphoto / Shutterstock)
In addition to the sweet fried treats, Andy’s offers bagel and croissant breakfast sandwiches. There’s also boba tea and fruit smoothies.
Individual doughnuts range from $2.75–$4.35 on DoorDash; a dozen doughnuts range from $23.99–$34.99. Drinks from $5.99–$7.99. Open from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
Andy’s Donuts & Bagels, 1784 Piner Road, Santa Rosa, 707-541-0877
This modern Sonoma estate on 37 acres in the Carneros AVA is currently listed for $7,695,000. (Jeffrey Frisk / Sotheby’s International Realty)
A modern Sonoma estate with poetic, understated style on 37 acres of rolling hills and vineyards is currently listed for sale. Owned by the estate of CD-multimedia pioneer Robert Ellis, the four-bedroom, four-bathroom home is seeking $7,695,000. A portion of the sale proceeds will benefit the late entrepreneur’s beloved organizations: Opera Parallèle, the San Francisco Symphony and the UC Berkeley Foundation for Cal Performances.
The work of Mahoney & Piechota Architects, the 4,200-square-foot dwelling offers a seamless indoor-outdoor experience via floor-to-ceiling sliding windows and a wraparound deck. But the interplay between the design and setting strikes an alchemy beyond that.
The home’s angular design whispers with clean lines and subtle tones. The look is made sumptuous with juxtaposing curvy hills and vineyard rows, visible from nearly every room — even the walk-in closet. Similarly, a flood of red flowers dazzle in the courtyard against a tranquil backdrop of wood-siding and walls of glass windows, gently framed in black steel. From inside the house, the show of red beams against seasonally green hills in the distance. The landscaping, by Tammara Norman, includes a surround of lush shrubbery.
Seating area of great room. (Jeffrey Frisk / Sotheby’s International Realty)Eating area. (Jeffrey Frisk / Sotheby’s International Realty)Seating area with vineyard views. (Jeffrey Frisk / Sotheby’s International Realty)
The grounds offer a spa, pool and outdoor shower. A sizable pond is just a short walk beyond a patch of vineyard.
The property sits in the Los Carneros AVA and includes 3 acres of Merlot vines, plus smaller plantings of Zinfandel, Riesling and Muscat. The established vineyard offers potential for expansion.
The home is outfitted with solar energy, a fire hydrant and fire pump.
A home with a powerful history is currently listed for sale in Cloverdale. Built in 1903 as a steam-generating power plant, the structure was converted into a residence by the 1950s. The “Power House” — named by former owner Arthur Foster, a banker and Northwest Pacific Railroad scion — is currently seeking $3,750,000.
The stucco dwelling, which once converted Big Sulphur Creek water into power for three towns and the Italian Swiss Colony, still bears the words “No Admittance. Danger.” No danger remains, but Big Sulphur Creek does, which runs that length of the property, adding scenic and acoustic beauty, not to mention a nod to the home’s history.
The home has three en-suite bedrooms, a 40-foot-by-40-foot great room with 20-foot ceilings, a herringbone-brick faced hearth, and custom windows that overlook the creek.
Table and hearth. (Jeffrey Frisk)Great room. (Jeffrey Frisk)Exterior of building. (Jeffrey Frisk)
Sapele wood doors with van Cronenburg architectural hardware connect to the gardens, featuring ancient olive trees, native plants and gravel pathways — the work of notable landscape architect and former owner of the “Power House,” Todd Cole. A vintage Wedgewood stove adds a retro touch to the kitchen. Doors lead to a courtyard on one side and the creek on the other.
Other amenities include a pool, an office, a pavilion and an accessory dwelling unit.
Juanita Watkins of Cotati, waves a flag as she dances with the “Hubbub Club” in the parade during the 2025 Sonoma County Pride Parade in Santa Rosa on Saturday, May 31, 2025. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Pride Month, celebrated every June in the United States since 1999, commemorates decades of LGBTQ civil rights activism and marks the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York that sparked the movement. Sonoma County has long been at the forefront of gay rights activism, and each year the Pride celebrations grow more colorful.
This year is no exception as the county is going all in on the rainbow-filled community festivities. Here is where to celebrate Pride in Sonoma County.
Sonoma County Pride
Sonoma County’s annual Pride Month celebration will kick off with a free pride-flag-raising ceremony at 11 a.m. on June 1 atop the Rosenberg Building in Santa Rosa (306 Mendocino Ave.). Sonoma County Pride will present various events across the county, including its main festival weekend, June 5-7, in downtown Santa Rosa. sonomacountypride.org
Messages of support displayed by participants during Sonoma County Pride’s Transgender Rally For Our Rights event in Santa Rosa’s Courthouse Square, May 30, 2025. (Chad Surmick / The Press Democrat)
Transgender Rally – For Our Rights! June 5
Sonoma County Pride will host a Transgender Rally from 4-7 p.m. June 5 at Santa Rosa’s Old Courthouse Square. The rally aims to support and uplift transgender and nonbinary individuals with speakers and community resources. Speakers, performers and special guests include Suzanne Ford, executive director of San Francisco Pride; E. Samuell MacLaughlin, a member of Santa Rosa’s Manzanita Harmony choir; Diana Dreams, a singer-songwriter and community organizer; and Tiesa Meskis, new Sonoma County Pride board member and trans rights advocate. Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa
Pride 2026 Kickoff Party, June 5
Shady Oak Barrel House will host Sonoma County Pride’s Kickoff Party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., June 5, at its Santa Rosa taproom. Hosted by drag performer Fantasia Royale Gaga, the party will include dance music by DJ Dyops and drag performances by Bay Area entertainer Tila Pia, Petaluma performer La Adriana Falana and drag king Divonte West. Doors open at 9 p.m. The 18-and-over drag show starts at 11 p.m., with dancing before and after. General admission is $20. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. Shady Oak Barrel House, 420 First St., Santa Rosa
Sonoma County’s AG + Open Space participants march and hold signs during the 2025 Sonoma County Pride Parade in Santa Rosa on Saturday, May 31, 2025. (Darryl Bush / For The Press Democrat)
Sonoma County Pride Parade and Festival, June 6
The 41st annual Sonoma County Pride Parade will be held from 11 a.m. to noon, June 6, from Fremont Park down Fourth Street to Old Courthouse Square in downtown Santa Rosa. The Pride Festival immediately follows the parade and will include live entertainment, a marketplace, local artists, community resources and interactive experiences. Dance-music artist Kristine W will headline the festival, which will also include performances by Los Angeles-based queer music artist BleachX; host and drag entertainer Fantasia Royale Gaga; Bonesurf, resident DJ at the Rainbow Cattle Company; and nonprofit Cheer San Francisco. Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa
Pride After-Party at La Rosa, June 6
Sonoma County Pride will hold its after-party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., June 6, at The Lounge at La Rosa. Fantasia Royale Gaga will host the 21-and-over party, featuring music by DJ Beverly Chills and drag performances by Princesses Poncha, Mary Vince and Kochina Rude. General admission is $20. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. La Rosa | Tequileria & Grille, 500 Fourth St., Santa Rosa
Pride Pool Party at Francis Ford Coppola Winery, June 7
Sonoma County Pride will host its pool party from noon to 5 p.m., June 7, at Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville. Hosted by Fantasia Royale Gaga, the 18-and-over party will include music by DJ Jaymeebaaby. General admission is $45 and reserved loungers (includes admission) are $125. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. Francis Ford Coppola Winery, 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville
Pride Stand-Up Comedy Night, June 19
Sonoma County Pride’s “Tokes & Jokes” stand-up comedy night will be held from 6-10 p.m., June 19, at The Lounge at Mercy Wellness in Cotati. Comedian Marcus Williams will headline the 21-and-over event, which will also feature special guest Tila Pia, live DJ music, cannabis tastings and herbal cocktails. Tickets range from $25 to $200. Purchase tickets on EventHi. The Lounge at Mercy, 7950 Redwood Drive, Suite 16, Cotati
A giant Pride flag is unfurled at Sonoma City Hall during the Sonoma Valley Pride Festival at Sonoma Plaza in Sonoma Sunday, June 1, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Sonoma Valley Pride
Founded by Out in the Vineyard owner Gary Saperstein and local designer Matthew Long in 2020, Sonoma Valley Pride held the first official Pride gathering with the mayor in 2023 and arranged city-approved Pride banners around the Plaza in June. Sonoma Valley Pride will hold its three-day Pride celebration from June 12-14. sonomavalleypride.com
Pride Kickoff Gathering, June 2
Before its annual Pride weekend, Sonoma Valley Pride will kick off Pride month with a meet-up at the Tuesday Night Market at 5 p.m. on June 2 on the Sonoma Plaza. Sponsored by Picnic Potential and presented by Sonoma Valley Pride in collaboration with Sonoma GayDar, the gathering offers the LGBTQ community and allies a chance to connect and enjoy the market together. Guests are welcome to bring food and drinks to share. Free to attend; RSVP on Facebook. Sonoma Plaza, 453 First St. E., Sonoma
Rise with Pride Concert, June 12
The Sebastiani Theatre will host “Rise With Pride,” an inaugural concert presented by and benefiting Sonoma Valley Pride, on June 12. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. and the all-ages show starts at 8 p.m. The show will feature Portland musician J. Graves and Bay Area drag performers Kochina Rude and Tila Pia. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for youth under 21. Purchase tickets online. Sebastiani Theatre, 476 First St. E., Sonoma
Pride Dance Party at General’s Daughter, June 13
Sonoma Valley Pride will host a Pride dance party from 7-10 p.m., June 13, at the soon-to-reopen event venue The General’s Daughter in Sonoma. The evening will include music by Marylouise Pels of the DJ duo Posso, food for purchase from Costa’s Tacos in Sonoma and wine from Pangloss Cellars and Winery Sixteen 600 (included with ticket purchase). Tickets are $30. Purchase tickets online. The General’s Daughter, 400 W. Spain St., Sonoma
2026 Plaza Pride Festival, June 14
Sonoma Valley Pride’s annual music and arts festival will be held from 2-5 p.m. June 14 on the Sonoma Plaza. The community festival will include food, live music, guest speakers, queer artists and makers, face painting and a photo booth with costumes and props. Free to attend; food and wine available for purchase. Learn more online. Sonoma Plaza, 453 First St. E., Sonoma
Sutton Beyer, 7, smiles as Bailey Rhude flicks open her fan during the Sonoma Valley Pride Festival at Sonoma Plaza in Sonoma Sunday, June 1, 2025. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Cloverdale Pride
The town of Cloverdale will celebrate its second annual Cloverdale Pride Weekend from June 18-21 with several festivities.
Pride Happy Hour at The Beet, June 18-21
The Beet Restaurant & Wine Shop will host a special happy hour from 3-6 p.m. every day during Cloverdale Pride Weekend. It will also host a Pride Dance Party with a live DJ playing favorite dance hits from 9:30 p.m. until close on June 19. The kitchen will stay open late. Free entry. 116 E. First St., Cloverdale, 707-669-5080, cloverdalebeet.com
Pride Movie Night in Cloverdale, June 18
The Cloverdale Performing Arts Center will celebrate Cloverdale Pride with a screening of the 1995 film “To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar” from 6-9 p.m. June 18. The movie follows three New York City drag queens — played by Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes and John Leguizamo — on a cross-country trip that gets sidetracked when they break down in a small town. A reception with a DJ, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be held after doors open at 6 p.m. The film begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30. Purchase tickets online. 209 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-894-2214, cloverdaleperformingarts.com
Friday Night Live with Earl Thomas, June 19
Grammy-nominated blues singer Earl Thomas and his band will perform a free, outdoor show from 6-9:30 p.m. June 19, at the Cloverdale Plaza, as part of the town’s Friday Night Live at the Plaza concert series. Thomas has claimed he’s the “first openly gay bluesman” in the genre’s 200-year history. All ages welcome. Cloverdale Pride T-shirts will be available for purchase. Cloverdale Plaza, 122 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, facebook.com/FridayNightLiveAtThePlaza
Community Day at the Plaza, June 20
Pride Weekend’s Community Day will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 20, at the Cloverdale Plaza. KJ Fullsend will host an open-air karaoke all afternoon, and crafts store Knotty Nook will have arts and crafts for all ages on the square. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from Papa’s Pizza and The Butcherman food truck. The afternoon festivities will be followed by an art gallery reception from 2-4 p.m. at the Cloverdale Arts Alliance Gallery. The reception — featuring the works of artist James William Moore — will include wine, small bites and live music from Steve Tellez and KJ Jones. Free entry. Cloverdale Plaza and CAA Gallery at 204 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. cloverdaleartsalliance.org
Drag Bingo Brunch, June 21
La Tequila Mexican Restaurant will host a drag bingo June 21 featuring brunch and a show. Doors open at 11 a.m., a brunch buffet starts at 11:30 a.m. and the drag show starts at 12:30 p.m. with hostess Blanca Salchicha Chicharron de la Cruz, her sidekick Lazy Susan and more drag queens. Tickets are $60 per person and include brunch, two bingo cards, drag performances and special prizes. Drinks will be available for purchase. Purchase tickets online. La Tequila, 134 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-669-2363, mexicanrestaurantcloverdale.com
More exciting Pride events
Dolly! A Pride Show, June 6
The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus will perform a Pride concert inspired by music icon Dolly Parton starting at 5 p.m., June 6, at Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center in Weill Hall. Tickets are $31–$81. Purchase tickets online. Green Music Center, 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park, 707-664-4246, gmc.sonoma.edu
Queer Trailblazers of Sonoma, June 18
An evening of storytelling and live music recognizing Sonoma Valley’s LGBTQ trailblazers from 5-7 p.m. June 18 at the Sonoma Community Center. Light appetizers and drinks available. The event benefits the center’s Queer Art Club. The main event is 18-and-over, and the after-party from 7-9 p.m. at Pangloss Cellars (35 E. Napa St.) is 21-and-over. Tickets are $40-$50. Purchase tickets online. Sonoma Community Center, 276 E. Napa St., Sonoma
Proud Mary: A Creedence Queerwater Revival, June 19
Proud Mary, the self-proclaimed “world’s queerest Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band,” will perform from 6-9 p.m., June 19, at Rio Nido Roadhouse. All ages welcome. Tickets are $15, available at the door only. 14540 Canyon 2 Road, Rio Nido, 707-869-0821, rionidoroadhouse.com
Priscilla, Queen of the Center! June 20
The Sonoma Community Center, in partnership with Out in the Vineyard, will host its Pride Night celebration from 5-9 p.m. June 20 at the center’s Secret Garden and Redwood Grove. The event, inspired by the 1994 film “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” will include a cocktail hour, family-style dinner, live drag performances and a post-show dance party with DJ music. General admission is $150 per person and a VIP Experience is $500 per couple. Learn more and purchase tickets online. Sonoma Community Center, 276 E. Napa St., Sonoma
Sonoma County Dyke March and Street Fair, June 21
The inaugural Sonoma County Dyke March will stride through downtown Santa Rosa on June 21, followed by the Lez-a-Palooza Street Fair on the Square. Participants should gather at 10 a.m. at the Santa Rosa City Hall parking lot. The march begins at 11 a.m. and finishes at Old Courthouse Square, where the street fair will take place. The route is wheelchair and walker friendly; dogs are not allowed at Courthouse Square. The street fair will include speakers (with ASL interpretation), live music by DJ Dyops, a dress-up photo booth and other interactive booths. Various activities and games will include cornhole, line dancing, axe throwing, a Hula-Hoop challenge and a kids corner. Free to attend. Santa Rosa City Hall parking lot and Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa. socodykemarch.org
Pride Happy Hour at Martin Ray, June 27
Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery will host a Pride happy hour from 3-6 p.m., June 27, at its Santa Rosa tasting room. The happy hour event, a benefit for the Russian River Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, will include an auction, light bites and wine by the glass or bottle. Guests will have a chance to try the estate’s recently released 2025 PRIDE Cuvée. Carpooling and ride-sharing are encouraged, as parking is limited. Tickets are $30. Purchase tickets on Tock. 2191 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa, 707-908-8993, martinraywinery.com
Every June for the past 16 years, a rainbow flag has flown from the tall water tower at Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery in northwest Santa Rosa. The winery celebrates Pride Month with a series of Pizza & Pride events. (Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery)In 2008, Gary Saperstein founded Out in the Vineyard, a Sonoma-based event company aimed at cultivating an inclusive experience in Wine Country. Today, the organization organizes events throughout the year and a series of popular parties during Pride Month. (Melania Mahoney of Sonoma Valley Pride 2025)
Gay Wine Weekend, July 17-19
Out in the Vineyard’s 15th annual Gay Wine Weekend will return July 17-19 to Sonoma Valley. While it’s after Pride Month, the three-day event hosted by Gary Saperstein’s Wine Country events company is among the most anticipated LGBTQ festivities in the county.
Tickets for select events range from $75 to $250. A Magnum VIP Pass ($1,200) includes access to all events over the weekend, and a VIP Party Pass ($575) includes access to all the parties but not the tours and dinners. A portion of ticket proceeds benefit local nonprofit and HIV/AIDS network Face to Face. Purchase tickets online.outinthevineyard.com
Pesto and basil leaves. (gorchittza2012 / Getty Images)
Basil is a signal creature of summer, a robust herb that flourishes in the hot sun. Genovese basil—sometimes called big leaf basil, sweet basil, or true basil—is the very scent of the season, with sweet, heady aromas evocative of clove, anise, lemon zest, and licorice root. Tear a single leaf and you are enveloped in the essence of summer. Basil tastes refreshingly green.
Frédérique Lavoipierre, author of “Garden Allies” and a former longtime resident of Sebastopol, offered advice that made her then-young son blush.
“Basil should not be planted until you can lie on the ground naked,” she told customers at her diminutive Shoestring Nursery.
Basil flourishes in the hot sun — tear a single leaf and you are enveloped in the essence of summer. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat, file)
Plant basil in May, when the ground is indeed warm, and begin harvesting in June. Three to six plants, depending on how many you typically feed, should keep you in delicious basil and its classic sauce, pesto, until the first heavy rain or freeze. And then you should forget about it, as basil is meant to be enjoyed in hot weather, not in colder months.
The very best pesto is made by hand with mortar and pestle (or the similar Japanese suribachi), but time being what it is today, there is an easy alternative: grinding the garlic, basil, and parsley in a food processor and folding in the other ingredients by hand. Pesto should not be a smooth pureé; it should have some texture and this technique provides some. Just before using, stir in a tablespoon or two of hot water to loosen the pesto and make it easily spreadable.
Basil, a summer plant, tastes refreshingly green. The robust herb works beautifully in this easy pesto. (gorchittza2012 / Getty Images)
Traditional Summer Pesto
Serves 4 to 6
• 1 large bunch fresh Genovese basil (about 4 cups of leaves), loosely packed
• 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 1/2 cup shelled walnuts, lightly toasted and chopped into small pieces (see note below)
Do not wash the basil. Instead, brush off any dust or dirt that clings to the leaves. If you have not already done so, remove and discard the stems. Tear or chop the basil and parsley coarsely; set aside.
Put the garlic into the work bowl of a food processor, sprinkle generously with salt, and pulse several times until the garlic is reduced to a smooth paste, scraping the sides of the work bowl as necessary.
Add the chopped leaves and pulse several times, stopping before the leaves are pureed; they should retain some texture. Scrape the mixture into a mixing bowl.
Fold in the walnuts, cheese, and butter. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while mixing with a rubber spatula. Taste and correct for salt.
Cover and set aside until ready to use. The pesto will keep, refrigerated, for 2 to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before enjoying tossed with pasta or new potatoes; spread over bruschetta or pizza; spooned over tomatoes, grilled vegetables, or polenta; or stirred into soup or risotto.
Note: Although pine nuts are traditional in pesto, they can be both expensive and vary widely in quality. Walnuts are a delicious, inexpensive alternative.
