This Saturday, SOMO Concerts is putting on its season grand finale, the Fünkendänk Oktoberfest. This brand new beer and music experience is hosted in collaboration with RateBeer.com, HopMonk, The Press Democrat and Mead Clark, and will feature two of the craft beer industry’s fastest growing beer styles: sours and hoppy beers, as well as gourmet bites and live music from seven national touring acts and local bands. Here’s what not to miss:
Sample sours from Almanac Beer Co. and Shady Oak Barrel House. Since Almanac Beer Co. and Shady Oak Barrel House do not have taprooms (their beers are only available in bottle), this is a great opportunity to taste these hard to find, classic sours.
Meet brewery owners and taste news brews in the Rate Beer tent. Breweries will be bringing out their best, most funky sours and their hoppiest, most dankalicious beers for this inaugural event.
Listen and dance to jazz and funk band Galactic. This six-member group from New Orleans describe their sound as “swamp-funk.” Through near-constant touring since breaking into the music scene in 1994, the band has made a name for themselves and they’re sure to get your body groovin’.
And don’t miss Royal Jelly Jive. Started in San Francisco’s Boom Boom Room in 2013, this Bay Area-born band offers an eclectic blend of swing, rock, soul and hip-hop. The group has garnered a devoted fan base with their sultry sounds, gritty keys, swingin’ horns, and songwriting talent.
Lauren Michelle Bjelde and Royal Jelly Jive combine elements of Soul, Rock, Swing and Hip-Hop. (www.royaljellyjive.com)
For more information and tickets, visit SOMO Concerts or fünkendänk.com. VIPs are granted access at 12:30 pm, General Admission at 2:00 pm. Ticket prices: $49 General Admission, $69 Taster, $39 Ticket and $140 VIP. Now: buy 4 tickets and only pay for 3.
SOMO Village 1400 Valley House Dr #110, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 795-3550, www.somoconcerts.com,
This weekend, you can have pancakes and support a good cause at Windsor High Boosters and Windsor VFW fundraising Pancake Breakfast. (The pancakes in the picture are served at Wishbone in Petaluma)
This weekend, you can have pancakes and support a good cause at Windsor High Boosters and Windsor VFW fundraising Pancake Breakfast. (The pancakes in the picture are served at Wishbone in Petaluma)
Ready for some fun? We have a few ideas. This weekend, enjoy a live performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, the Funkendank Oktoberfest beer and music festival, Petaluma’s River Heritage Celebration and more. It’s all in our list of things to do!
FRIDAY, Oct. 21
Sonoma Laughfest: Laugh yourself silly with 14 shows over four nights of comedy at the Sonoma Community Center. 100+ comedians will take the stage, tickling your funny bone throughout the weekend. Tickets are $14 in advance. Find out all the details at sonomalaughfest.com. (Oct. 20-23)
Alexander Valley Film Festival: This weekend, watch more than two dozen vetted films for the 2nd annual Alexander Valley Film Festival. The event will include an opening night film and block party at Clover Theater on Friday, a classic film under the stars at Francis Ford Coppola Winery on Saturday, and a closing night film and awards reception at the Raven Film Center on Sunday. For tickets and information, visit avfilmsociety.org. (Oct. 20-23)
Live performance of Rocky Horror Picture Show: The 6th Street players present a live-action performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Every line and song is true to the original for this Santa Rosa tradition. Performances are Thursdays through Sunday. Admission is $10-$26. Purchase tickets at 6thstreetplayhouse.com. (Oct. 21-Nov. 13)
River Heritage Celebration: This weekend, enjoy a full slate of events celebrating Petaluma’s past as a river town. The three days of fun will include a barn dance and dinner, a flotilla ride down the river, movie night on the Alma in the Turning Basin and more. Many events this weekend are free. Find out all the details at friendsofthepetalumariver.org/project/celebrate. (Oct. 21-23)
Paula Poundstone: The Luther Burbank Center for the Arts presents comedian Paula Poundstone for a night of hilarious comedy. Tickets to the 8 p.m. show are $29-$39. Find out more information at lutherburbankcenter.org.
This weekend, enjoy a full slate of events celebrating Petaluma’s past as a river town at River Heritage Days. (Photo by John Burgess)
SATURDAY, Oct. 22
Funkendank: In its season finale of concert pop-up festivals, SOMO Concerts is bringing down the house with Funkendank Oktoberfest, a brand new beer and music experience. The event will celebrate some of the nation’s top brewers, including several local favorites. There will also be live music and gourmet appetizers for all tastes. This 21-plus event runs 2-8 p.m., and tickets are $49-$140. Find out all the details at funkendank.com.
Tolay Fall Festival: Enjoy the final weekend of family fun with hay rides, a giant pumpkin patch, a “creatures” barn, straw maze and more at Tolay Lake Regional Park in Petaluma. Admission is $3-$5 with $7 parking. Purchase tickets at pd2go.net/TolayFallFestival. (Oct. 22-23)
YMCA Halloween Carnival: Dress up and enjoy some family fun entertainment from 4-7 p.m. at the Sonoma County YMCA in Santa Rosa for their annual Halloween Carnival. Admission is $5 adults, $5 kids. Kids under 2 free. More information at scfymca.org.
North Bay Ukulele Festival: This Saturday, bring your ukulele to the Arlene Francis Center in Santa Rosa for their inaugural Ukulele Festival. Starting at 4 p.m., the afternoon will include jam sessions, performances, workshops and more. Admission is free. Find out more at northbayukulelefestival.weebly.com.
SUNDAY, Oct. 23
Pancakes!: Get your fill of pancakes when the Windsor High Boosters and Windsor VFW hold a fundraising Pancake Breakfast this Sunday at the Windsor Town Green Stage area. The menu includes pancakes, pumpkin pancakes, eggs, sausage and more. The breakfast takes place 9 a.m. to noon, and prices are $2-$10. Find out more at their Facebook page.
Tomatito: Flamenco guitarist José Fernández Torres, Tomatito to fans, 7 p.m. Sunday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
More Upcoming Events…
Friday, Oct. 21
Kim Simmonds and Savoy Brown: British blues-rock institution, 8 p.m., HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $25-$50. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
Rudolf Budginas: ‘Piano Unlimited,’ Santa Rosa Junior College Chamber Concert series, 7:30 p.m., Ellis Auditorium, SRJC Petaluma campus. $15-$26. (415) 392-4400, santarosa.edu/chamber-concerts.
Saturday, Oct. 22
‘Floribunda’: Opening reception for exhibit showcasing Hunt Institute botanicals, 5-7 Saturday, Petaluma Arts Center. Free. Runs through Dec. 11. 762-5600, petalumaartscenter.org.
Banshee Fest: Pinot tasting and exploration, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Healdsburg SHED. $90. Lord Huron 1 p.m. concert sold out. bansheewines.com.
Denis Matsuev: Piano virtuoso, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Sunday, Oct. 23
Pinot on the River: Grand Tasting, 100-plus wineries and artisan food, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Healdsburg Plaza. $75-$90. pinotfestival.com.
Santa Rosa Symphony Pops: Maestro Michael Berkowitz leads a program of greatest musical hits, 3 p.m. Sunday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $37-$80. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Monday, Oct. 24
Mike Love: Book signing and discussion with the Beach Boys frontman and ‘Good Vibrations’ author, 7 p.m. Monday, Copperfield’s Books, Petaluma. $30.31 book and pass. 762-0563, copperfieldsbooks.com.
Tuesday, Oct. 25
Chris Botti: Jazz trumpeter opens new jazz club, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Blue Note Napa. Also 8:30 p.m. Oct. 28, Opera House Ballroom, Napa. $65-$125. 603-1258, bluenotenapa.com.
Jethro Tull: Ian Anderson, rock band’s singer and flutist, 8 p.m. Tuesday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $55-$69. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Wednesday, Oct. 26
‘Don Giovanni’: Metropolitan Opera Live screening of the Mozart opera, 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Rialto Cinemas, Sebastopol. $18-$25. 829-3456, rialtocinemas.com.
Thursday, Oct. 27
Mario Batali: Restaurateur and ‘Big American Cookbook’ author, 7 p.m. Thursday, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $66 includes signed cookbook. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
‘John, Paul, George & Django’: The Hot Club of San Francisco CD release concert, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $20-$25. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.
Friday, Oct. 28
Ice-T: ‘Overcoming the Impossible’ lecture with the gangster rapper, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $40. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Petaluma International Film Festival: Independent feature and short films, various times Oct. 28-30, Boulevard Cinemas, Petaluma. $12-$180. (415) 251-8433, petalumafilmfestival.org.
Cirque du Sebastopol: Vintage circus days, live music and entertainment, 8:45 p.m. Oct. 28 and 9 p.m. Oct. 29, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $15-$35. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
Richard Thompson & The Blind Boys of Alabama: Renowned guitarist and roots music band, 8 p.m. Oct. 29, Uptown Theatre, Napa. $45-$65. 259-0123, uptowntheatrenapa.com.
‘Bouquets to the Dead’: Artistic displays honoring late ancestors, dawn to dusk, Oct. 29-30, Sonoma Mountain Cemetery. Free. facebook.com/bouquetstothedead.
Halloween Party: Come in costume for dancing to Frobeck, Mr. Music & Love Choir, 7:30 p.m.-midnight Oct. 29, Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. $12-$15. 823-1511, seb.org.
Foreverland: San Francisco-based 14-piece Michael Jackson tribute band, 8:30 p.m. Oct. 29, Mystic Theatre, Petaluma. $22. 765-2121, mystictheatre.com.
Halloween at Howarth: Trick-or-treating and activities for costumed kids 12 and younger, 11:30 a.m., 12:45 and 2 p.m. Oct. 29, Howarth Park, Santa Rosa. $5-$12. 543-3737, pd2go.net/HalloweenAtHowarth.
Sonoma County Farm Trails: Fall Feast Fundraiser, Dinner and Auction, featuring the 4-H Heritage Turkey Auction
Tresch Barn at Olympia’s Valley Estate in Petaluma. The event takes place this Saturday, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $150. www.farmtrails.org
Sunday, Oct. 30
Will Durst: ‘Elect to Laugh’ standup comedy and theater show poking fun at the presidential election, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $25-$30. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.
Zakir Hussain Niladri Kumar: World musicians on the tabla and sitar, 3 p.m. Oct. 30, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
There was something for everyone at Sonoma County’s first Funkendank Oktoberfest, hosted on Saturday, October 22. People from all walks of life came to SOMO Village in Rohnert Park to sample some of the nation’s top hop-forward brews and sours, while munching on locally sourced small bites to the sound of some funky beats.
Beer lovers enjoying the lineup at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 22, 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Some attendees showed up in their best Oktoberfest get-ups and posed for pictures, while other guests wore favorite beer shirts and hats to support their beloved breweries. Attendees happily sipped on a variety of brews, while chatting with fellow beer lovers.
“I have been sipping on Santa Adarius because their beers taste more like wine” said Vivian Fenn of Rohnert Park.
“The Faction Brewery Double IPA is the best Double IPA I’ve ever had. I may be a little biased, because they make a beer for our annual NorCal Beer Geeks Festival, but it’s so smooth”, said Peter Lopez Jr. of the Norcal Beer Geeks group.
“This is a great lineup, a lot of local and Bay Area breweries you don’t always see at beer events” stated Jeff Bull of Santa Rosa as he happily sipped on a Monkish IPA.
“Fridge” poses with beer lovers at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest on October 22, 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)Ankara Cory had to show ID before she could sample the craft beers at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by John Burgess)Guests ordering beer from Gordon Biersch’s Oktoberfest bar at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest on October 22, 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)Over 20 craft breweries poured their best for the patrons at the Funkendank Oktoberfest (Photo by John Burgess)
The rooms and grounds at SOMO Village quickly became filled with people and, when the Dixie Giants took the stage, the crowd got moving as the band took their show “on the road,” walking through the venue and grounds while playing their horns.
Royal Jelly Jive perform at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)The Dixie Giants entertain the crowd at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by John Burgess)
Later, the crowd was gettin’ down to the funky sound of Royal Jelly Jive, The Pimps of Joytime, and Big Sam’s Funky Nation. Some were so into the music they never stopped groovin’. Others relaxed on their blankets, beer in hand, while waiting for the grand finale: Galactic.
People relaxing at Sonoma County’s Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)Restauranteur Mark Stark, right, touts his smoked beet salad for foodies at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
The event was popular with beer and music lovers alike.
“I’m never going to another beer festival that has music. Everything Joe puts on seems to be the best” expressed Jimmy Madden of Santa Rosa, as he sipped on Cooperage Brewery‘s “Danky Leg”.
“The event was a big success. About 2,000 people came to the event and we had a great time. While we had some challenges, we got a lot of rave reviews; we learned a lot and will be back next year with more beer and music,” said Joe Tucker from Ratebeer, one of the organizers of Funkendank Octoberfest.
Joe and Jennifer Tucker of Ratebeer.com at the Funkendank Oktoberfest. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Stay tuned for updates on the next Funkendank Oktoberfest.
Chainsaw-weilding actor Nate Friedman, left, emerges from behind a curtain to scare Kaitlyn Bradley and her friends in the Slaughter Shack at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Adrenaline pumping, chills running down your spine, neck hairs raising, screams and hysteric laughter… what’s Halloween without few good scares? If you dare, check out these local haunted houses that are bound to make your skin crawl… Bringing kids? We’ve included two low-terror options.
Blind Scream is the ultimate scare-land for fear fanatics. Covering 25,000 square feet at the Sonoma Mountain Village, this is the biggest haunted house attraction in Sonoma County. The them park is divided into three haunted houses: Uncle Chuckles 3D Madhouse, an insane asylum from hell; Blackout, a sensory focused house with smells and sounds that will make your blood freeze; and Slaughter Shack, a backlit 3D maze which takes you trough the woods as you escape from hungry Lil Horrus. There are more than 100 volunteer actors at Blind Scream, all committed to making your believe you should fear for your life. The attractions are all indoor.
1500 Valley House Drive, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, (707) 837-1928, blindscream.com
Emily Quintas creeps around a room scaring passersby inside Uncle Chuckle’s 3D Mad House at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)Desiree Sizemore, right, screams as actor Emily Quintas, left, jumps towards her inside Uncle Chuckle’s 3D Mad House at Blind Scream Haunted House, in Rohnert Park (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
NorCal Fear, located at the Petaluma fairgrounds, sets the sinister stage for a mental-asylum mayhem that will have you scream your guts out. Unlike most haunted houses, this Halloween attraction follows a real time storyline: attendees are engaged in a rescue mission to save a few sane souls stuck in an old-school — and absolutely terrifying — mental asylum where the patients have revolted against cruel nurses and evil doctors. Left at the mercy of some of the asylum’s most violent patients, attendees must complete a journey around the theme house and find their way out.
Family Martial Arts Center of Santa Rosa puts on a suitably spooky family friendly Halloween event that won’t keep the little ones up at night. Their haunted house offers two levels on the “scare-o-meter;” the first one with lights on and sound-effects off (for 6-year olds and under), and the other with lights off and sound-effects on (for everyone else). The event also features kids carnival games, a bounce house, fair style food, trick-or-treat booths and a kids costume contest.
Every year in October, McDonald Avenue in Santa Rosa gets decked out in over-the-top Halloween decor. This is a great trick-or-treat destination; soak up some spooky sensations as you walk down a street lined with houses old enough to host generations of ghosts, then end your Halloween outing at the McDonald mansion. This stick-style Victorian home, also known as Mableton, was built in 1877 and was used in the filming of Walt Disney’s “Polyanna.” From Hollywood to Halloween, the McDonald Mansion continues to be a Sonoma County star. Over the past 15 years, owners John and Jennifer Webley have created ever-expanding, and awe-inspiring, decorations together with family, friends and volunteers. On October 31, at 5 p.m., the Webleys open their home to the public and welcome guests of all ages to an afternoon of terrific trick-or-treating.
Looking for more things to do in Sonoma County? Click here.
Jonathan Pascale, 4, and his sister Aurora, 2, wait for the McDonald Mansion gates to open during Halloween on McDonald Avenue in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)Gianna Ratto, 11, in her homemade jellyfish costume floats down McDonald Avenue during Halloween in Santa Rosa, California on Saturday, October 31, 2015. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
There are plenty of clever wines for Halloween enthusiasts to consider, but the most important trick is the treat. That means these cleverly packaged reds also have to meet the taste test. Here’s a quick list of bottlings that won’t disappoint your palate:
Poizin, The-Wine-To-Die-For, 2014 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, $25.This is a layered zinfandel with zesty spice. Notes of bing cherry, sweet oak and cracked black pepper. Edgy.
Sin Zin, 2014 Alexander Valley Vineyards Zinfandel, $17. A spicy zin with notes of black cherry, plum and pepper. Bright acid. Nice length.
7 Deadly Zins, 2014 Lodi Zinfandel, $16. Aromas and flavors of cranberry, boysenberry and peppercorn. Bright acid. Zesty finish.
Vampire, 2013 California Pinot Noir, $12. A bright pinot noir with good structure. Balanced. Notes of cherry, herbs and oak. Lingering finish.
Ghost Pine’s 2013 Red Blend, $18. A great range of flavors — red and black fruit, coupled with notes of cocoa and brown sugar. A spooky red that’s a steal for the price.
From scary events to family-friendly fun, plus pumpkin patches around Sonoma County, here’s everything you can do locally to celebrate Halloween.
SCARED STRAIGHT EVENTS
Oct. 7-31 Blind Scream Haunted House: Ready to be terrified? Blind Scream opens its haunted house this weekend, running every weekend through Halloween, starting this Friday. This haunt is a 12,000+ SF maze that includes special effects, live actors, animatronics and more that’s not for the faint of heart or young children. Dates are Oct. 7-9, 13-16, 19-23, 26-31. Admission is $10-$30. Purchase tickets at blindscream.com.
NorCal Fear: Come to the Bedlam Asylum at the Petaluma Fairgrounds where the patients have revolted and are ready to make your worst nightmares come true. Your job is to stay alive while you make your way through the asylum. Open Oct. 7-9, 14-16, 20-23, 26-31. Admission is $15. Purchase tickets at norcalfear.com.
Blind Scream opens its haunted house this weekend, running every weekend through Halloween. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)
EERIE EVENTS
Sonoma Plaza Ghost Walking Tour: Step back in time with this historic tour of Sonoma, learning about the Native American spirits of Mission Solano, the Sonoma Plaza, the Whipping Tree and more. Tour takes place most Friday and Wednesday evenings at 8 p.m. Cost is $28 plus tax per person. Reservations required at napaghosts.com.
Oct. 27 Mystery Writers in the Mausoleum: Listen to Sonoma County readers share their short stories by lamp oil light at Santa Rosa Memorial Park’s Mausoleum. Past years have been standing room only. This is a free event, taking place 7-8:30 p.m. Find out more at srmp.org.
Attend a live performance of Rocky Horror Picture Show at 6th Street Playhouse. (20th Century Fox)
THEATRICAL & BIG SCREEN EVENTS
Oct. 7-Nov. 5 Bell, Book and Candle: A modern day witch in New York casts a spell on an unsuspecting stranger she desires, then must choose between having him and losing her magic, or letting him go and keeping her powers. See this witchy tale at Curtain Call Theatre in Monte Rio. Admission is $15-$20. Purchase tickets at russianriverhall.com.
Oct. 29-30 Witchie Poo and the Haunted Cruise: Enjoy a Halloween variety show for the whole family at Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma, presented by Witchie Poo Players and Rhoten Productions. Come in costume to participate in the Costume Parade, and for a chance to win a prize. Admission is $8-$10. Ticket locations available at sebastianitheatre.com.
Oct. 28 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Play a game of whodunnit when Charlie’s Restaurant at the Windsor Golf Club with “Murder at Joe’s Speakeasy,” a roaring ‘20s mystery. Guests are encouraged to dress in the style of the 1920s. Cost for the 3-course meal and show is $68 per person. Reserve your space at www.getaclueproductions.com.
Oct. 20-30 The Woman in Black: The theatrical adaptation of a mourning mother ghost and the actor retelling her story creates a play within a play for Raven Theater audiences. Performed live at Costeaux Bakery in Healdsburg, the location plays a large part in setting the scene. Performances are Oct. 20-23, 37-Oct. 30. Admission is $10-$25. Purchase tickets at raventheater.org.
Oct. 23-Nov. 8 Live performance of Rocky Horror Picture Show: The 6th Street players present a live-action performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Every line and song is true to the original for this Santa Rosa tradition. Performances are Thursdays through Sunday. Admission is $10-$26. Purchase tickets at 6thstreetplayhouse.com.
PARTIES FOR GROWN UPS
Oct. 29 Halloween LGBTQI & Friends Dance: Scare up some fun for an evening of dancing, costume contests, appetizers and wine at the Sebastopol Senior Center. Come in costume. Admission is $10 at the door for 21-plus. Find our more at sebastopolseniorcenter.org.
Oct. 29 Sebastopol Halloween Party: Starting at 7:30 p.m., dance the night away to Frobeck and Mr. Music & Love Choir at the Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. Come in costume. Admission is $12-$15. Purchase tickets at seb.org.
Attend the Halloween Carnival Howarth Park in Santa Rosa on Oct. 31. (Photo by Kent Porter)
UNSPOOKY FAMILY EVENTS
Oct. 27 Halloween Pumpkin Decorating Party: Teens and tweens are invited to a pumpkin decorating party at 4 p.m. at the Rincon Valley Library. The sky’s the limit for your creation, and pumpkins will be provided. More information at sonomalibrary.org.
Oct. 29 Midnight of the Day Mad Monster Party: Kids 5 and older are invited to Sebastopol Regional Library for pumpkin decorating, costume fun and more, noon to 2 p.m. Find out more at sonomalibrary.org.
Oct. 29 Halloween at Howarth Park: Come in costume for an afternoon of trick-or-treating around the park. Families are invited to register for a time slot, and then travel through the park to treat stations hosted by local businesses and organizations. Admission is $5 for a basic pass, and $12 to include additional park fun. Register at pd2go.net/HalloweenAtHowarth.
Attend the Pumpkins on Pikes event at Tara Firma Farms in Petaluma on Oct. 29. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)
Oct. 29 Pumpkins on Pikes: This annual event at Tara Firma Farms has become a beloved tradition for Sonoma County families. Carve a pumpkin, then display it on a pike in the corn field. When the sun goes down, watch the magical glow while enjoying delicious food, music and more. Admission is $15-$20, and kids 6 and under are free. Purchase tickets at tarafirmafarms.com.
Oct. 29 Apple Blossom Halloween Carnival: Wear your costume to Apple Blossom Elementary School’s Halloween Carnvial for an afternoon of carnival games, face painting, a pumpkin carving contest and more, plus the 5th grade hosted haunted house. This free event is 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Apple Blossom Elementary School, 700 Watertrough Rd. Sebastopol. Proceeds benefit the Twin Hills Apple Blossom Education Foundation.
Oct. 29 Dogtoberfest: Why should humans have all the fun? Dogs and their people are invited to Topel Winery in Healdsburg for a day all about them, with a costume contest, a pet psychic, pet portraits and more. Information at facebook.com/topelwinery.
Oct. 29 Candlelight Procession with Giant Puppets: Watch as giant puppets make their way through Petaluma, starting at the Water Street Bistro and ending at the Petaluma Museum. Along with the parade, the event will include Aztec dancers, live music, food and art vendors, altars and more. More information at petalumamuseum.com.
Oct. 30 Halloween Carnival at Coppola: From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy a day of games, crafts and costume fun at Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Tickets are available for purchase until Oct. 17. Admission is $12 per child, 14 and under. Purchase tickets at francisfordcoppolawinery.com.
Watch the Day of the Dead procession of Giant Puppets in Petaluma on Oct. 29. (Photo by Jeff Kan Lee)
PUMPKIN PATCHES
Petaluma
Petaluma Pumpkin Patch and Amazing Corn Maze: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Entry to corn maze closes 1/2 hour before patch closes. Cost: $5, kids 5 and under free. 450 Stony Point Road, Petaluma. petalumapumpkinpatch.com
Pronzini Pumpkin Patch: Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with hay rides, Indian Village, petting zoo and more. 3795 Adobe Road, Petaluma. www.pronzinitrees.com
McClelland’s Dairy Pumpkin Patch: Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Activities include hay ride, haunted house, obstacle course and more at an extra charge. 6475 Bodega Avenue, Petaluma. mcclellandsdairy.com
Great Peter Pumpkin Patch: Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in October, with free activities including a corn pit, hay maze, cow milking and more. Pasta King and live music on the weekends. 621 Western Avenue, Petaluma. springhillcheese.com
Peterson’s Farm Pumpkin Patch: Located at 636 Gossage Avenue, Petaluma. www.petersonsfarm.com
The Petaluma Pumpkin Patch and Amazing Corn Maze in Petaluma. (Photo by John Burgess)
Healdsburg
Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch: Open 10 a.m. to dusk in October. 17740 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg. healdsburggranny.com.
Preston Organic Farm and Winery Pumpkin Patch: The U-Pick Pumpkin Patch is open daily, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 9282 W. Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg. prestonfarmandwinery.com
Santa Rosa
Punky’s Pumpkin Patch: Open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Located at 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa (at the Luther Burbank Center). punkysadobefarm.com
Eastside Seasonal Farm and Pumpkin Patch: Open 6-8 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Sunday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, with pick your own pumpkins, a corn maze, petting zoo and more. 5834 Petaluma Hill Road, Santa Rosa. eastsideseasonalfarm.com
Muelrath Ranches Pumpkin Patch: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with free hayrides, a pumpkin cannon and more. 3800 Walker Avenue, Santa Rosa. muelrathspumpkins.com
Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch: Open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a corn maze, corn play box, hay bale maze and more. Cost is $2-$18, with several a la carte activities. 5157 Stony Point Road, Santa Rosa. santarosapumpkinpatch.com
Floating Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 15 only, 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Ridgway Swim Center in Santa Rosa. Entry fee is $10 and includes a pumpkin. Pre-sale registration required before the event. 455 Ridgway Avenue, Santa Rosa. pd2go.net/floatingpumpkinpatch
Sebastopol
Papa’s Pumpkin Patch: Located at 13110 Occidental Road, Sebastopol. Visit their Facebook page here.
Sam Arneson, 14, climbs atop a pyramid of hay bales at the Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)
Looking for more things to do in Sonoma County? Click here
Russian River Brewing Company growlers. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Russian River Brewing Company growlers. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
The crew and patrons of Russian River Brewing Company are used to crowds circling the block around the downtown Santa Rosa brewpub for a sip on a special release. The brewery’s legendary double IPA, Pliny the Elder, brings beer pilgrims from all over the world every day of the year and, in February, the limited two-week release of triple IPA Pliny the Younger makes people wait in line for hours for a 10 ounce pour.
During the month of October, Russian River Brewing Co. serves up another limited edition: the Framboise for A Cure, an American wild ale which is not only worth the wait, but also worthwhile. The Santa Rosa brewery will also host an “All Hopped Up for the Cure” charity event on October 27.
Framboise for the Cure, 2016 batch. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Released in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Framboise for a Cure is available only during the month of October (or until it runs out) and is part of the brewery’s annual charity event “All Hopped Up for The Cure.” 100 percent of the proceeds from “All Hopped Up for The Cure” and “Framboise for A Cure” benefits Sutter Breast Care Center in Santa Rosa, which supports women and men in Sonoma County in their fight against breast cancer.
Russian River Brewing Company owners Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo. (Photo by John Burgess)
Russian River Brewing Co. founders and owners Natalie and Vinnie Cilurzo have been raising money for breast cancer charities since 2005. The couple has a special connection to the cause; a close friend lost his wife, Sheri, to breast cancer in 2003. Sheri was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 29. She died six years later, leaving behind her husband and their 6-year-old daughter.
“I knew I could not help Sheri even when she was still fighting cancer, but I was motivated to show my support and try to help others in the process,” said Nathalie. “Although Sheri has been gone for 13 years, I have been touched by hundreds of people affected by all kinds of cancers and other terrible diseases. It keeps me going.”
This year, Russian River Brewing Company’s bottling schedule was so tight that they were unable to bottle Framboise (blame it on Pliny!). On the good side, this means the special October beer will be on tap longer at the brewpub and, for the first time, it will be offered on growlers to go.
Pink Cruiser donated by the Bike Peddler, hanging in the Russian River Pub for “Hopped Up For The Cure” 2016. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
The “All Hopped Up for The Cure” charity event at Russian River Brewing Company also features a raffle, with donated prices such as a custom bass guitar made by Timmy Lavold, a friend of the Cilurzos, and a pink Electra Cruiser from The Bike Peddler. “All Hopped Up for the Cure” raffle tickets and t-shirts can be purchased at the Santa Rosa brewpub, via phone and online.
Raffle winners will be announced on October 27th during a family friendly Wild Card Belly Dance event (if you can’t make it to the show, and your name is called, you will still win the raffle and be contacted by the brew pub). The result of the fundraising campaign will also be announced at this event – which makes for a very memorable evening. Last year Natalie and Vinnie Cilurzo wrote a check for over $143,000!
The Bass Guitar donated by Tommy Lavold for “Hopped Up For The Cure” 2016 at Russian River Brew Pub. (Photo by Tim Vallery)
Starting construction on a new brewery in Windsor (due to open in fall 2018), Natalie and Vinnie will have a lot to focus on and may need to put the fundraiser on hold for a couple of years. So, if you haven’t yet attended “All Hopped Up for The Cure,” or tried the “Framboise for A Cure,” make sure to stop by Russian River Brewing Company this month, try a fantastic beer and support a good cause!
Russian River Brewing Company, 725 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 545-2337, russianriverbrewing.com, @russianriverbrewingofficial
Raffle tickets can be purchased at the Santa Rosa brew pub; via phone, (707) 545 -2337; or by email, info@rrbeer.com.
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8378995 bytes; 3900 x 2925; Donata Mikulik, left, and her daughter Viola, 4, swim among the floating pumpkins at Ridgeway Swim C
Donata Mikulik, left, and her daughter Viola, 4, swim among the floating pumpkins at Ridgeway Swim Center’s annual floating pumpkin patch in Santa Rosa, Calif., on October 19, 2013. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)
Donata Mikulik, left, and her daughter Viola, 4, swim among the floating pumpkins at Ridgeway Swim Center’s annual floating pumpkin patch in Santa Rosa – coming up this Saturday. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Find some fun this weekend with these upcoming events around Sonoma County. This Saturday, find out whodunnit at Murder Mystery Dinner Theater. Take the family to the Tolay Fall Festival this weekend. Enjoy some free family fun at SRJC Petaluma’s LumaFest. All this and more in our list of things to do.
FRIDAY, Oct. 14
Just Between Friends Consignment Sale: Young or expecting families will want to take advantage of the North Bay’s hottest consignment sale at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds this weekend, with items for babies, toddlers and kids, as well as maternity wear and more. All days can be free with a pass on their website. Find out all the details at www.northbay.jbfsale.com.
“Easy Rider” at Mystic Theater: Kick back for the classic film “Easy Rider” this Friday in Petaluma, but with a twist. While the movie plays onscreen, hear the film’s well-known tracks, like “Born to Be Wild,” performed live by a seven-piece band. The show starts at 8:30 p.m., and tickets are $25. Find out more at mystictheatre.com.
Andre Lam-Truong, 4, has trouble spitting out his pumpkin seed as he competes in a pumpkin seed spitting contest during Fall Festival at Tolay Lake Regional Park east of Petaluma. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)
SATURDAY, Oct. 15
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Play a game of whodunnit when Charlie’s Restaurant at the Windsor Golf Club with “Murder at Joe’s Speakeasy,” a roaring ‘20s mystery. Guests are encouraged to dress in the style of the 1920s. Cost for the 3-course meal and show is $68 per person. Reserve your space at www.getaclueproductions.com.
Haunted Sonoma County: Filmmaker Tom Wyrsch presents the much talked about documentary on the haunted locations of Sonoma County. See it Saturday at 1 p.m. at Summerfield Cinemas in Santa Rosa. A second showing takes place Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. For showtimes at all locations and more information about the documentary, www.hauntedsonomacounty.com.
Artist Peter M. Krohn, right, talks with Judy Mathieson about his scanography of botanicals on aluminum in his studio, during the Sonoma County Art Trails Open Studio Tour. (Photo by Christopher Chung)
Sonoma County Art Trails: In its final weekend of the season, visit the studios of artists around the county to witness their creative process, peruse their art and to be inspired. For artist information and more, visit sonomacountyarttrails.org. (Oct. 15-16)
Floating Pumpkins: Kids are invited to swim for their pumpkins at the annual Floating Pumpkin Patch at Ridgway Swim Center in Santa Rosa. From 1:30-6 p.m., families can enjoy games, activities and crafts, plus an open swim and pumpkin collecting. Entry fee is $10 and includes a pumpkin. Purchase tickets at pd2go.net/floatingpumpkinpatch.
Tolay Fall Festival: Enjoy the first of two weekends of family fun with hay rides, a giant pumpkin patch, a “creatures” barn, straw maze and more at Tolay Lake Regional Park in Petaluma. Admission is $3-$5 with $7 parking. Purchase tickets at pd2go.net/TolayFallFestival. (Oct. 15-16)
Fort Ross-Seaview Harvest Festival: Enjoy a day of wine tasting, local foods, live music and more. This annual event at Fort Ross State Historic Park in Jenner includes a morning of apple picking, wine seminars, demonstrations, and many other fun events. Tickets are $20-$90. Find out more at www.fortross.org.
Santa Rosa Mystic Fair: See the past, present and future revealed at this annual event held at the Santa Rosa Veterans Building on Saturday and Sunday. More than 60 vendors will fill the hall, with psychics, tarot, reiki, massage therapy and more, plus belly dancer performances both days. Free admission, or get discount with vendors through a $3 VIP wristband. More information at www.facebook.com/SantaRosaMysticFair. (Oct. 15-16)
LumaFest: Come to the SRJC Petaluma campus for a day of fun, including a family obstacle course, music and dance performances, Day of the Dead activities and more. The free event takes place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find out more at lumafest.santarosa.edu.
A variety of Day of the Dead figurines and other products on display at the Lucky Mojo Curio Co. booth during the Mystic Fair in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Oct. 15 & 16
Two shots at mega LuLaRoe events: Can’t get enough of those buttery leggings or vibrant Amelias? Two events this weekend will enhance your wardrobe with leggings, dresses, flattering shirts and more.
On Saturday, come to the Santa Rosa Veterans Building this Saturday to find coveted prints of your favorite clothing line from 16 consultants. Event is free, and takes place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. First 32 customers get a swag bag. Find out more on the Facebook events page.
On Sunday, a one-day pop up with 12 consultants will take place at Coddingtown Mall near Nordstrom Rack, featuring more than 10,000 pieces of inventory. The free event takes place 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. See the Facebook events page.
Go to one, or go to both. Who knows, you might find a “unicorn” or two.
More Upcoming Events…
Zofo Piano Duet: Stravinsky’s ‘The Rite of Spring’ with pianists Eva-Maria Zimmermann and Keisuke Nakagoshi, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $15-$30. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.
Friday, Oct. 14
‘Titanic the Musical’: Factual story of the 1912 catastrophe, opens at 8 p.m., Spreckels Performing Ats Center, Rohnert Park. $16-$26. Through Oct. 30. 588-3400, spreckelsonline.com.
‘Dancing at Lughnasa’: Drama set in 1930s Ireland, opens at 8 p.m., Main Stage West, Sebastopol. $15-$25. Runs through Oct. 30. 823-0177, mainstagewest.com.
‘Daktari Affair’: Safari West Wildlife Foundation fundraiser with food, wine and wild animal encounters, 5 p.m., Safari West, Santa Rosa. $125. 566-3613, safariwest.com.
Ry X: Australian singer-songwriter and musician, 8 p.m., Redwood Barn at Gundlach Bundschu Winery, Sonoma. $28. 938-5277, gunbun.ticketfly.com.
Saturday, Oct. 15
Philharmonic Baroque Orchestra & Chorale: All-Beethoven program on period instruments, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
‘Deep Blue Sea’: National Theatre Live screening of the West London drama, 10 a.m. Saturday, Rialto Cinemas, Sebastopol. $18-$25. 829-3456, rialtocinemas.com.
‘Strangers in Paradise: California Redwood Chorale’s 10 anniversary concerts, plus soloists Bonnie Brooks and Michael Fontaine. 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 4 p.m. Oct. 16. Sebastopol Center for the Arts. $15. sebarts.org.
Will Durst: ‘Elect to Laugh’ political humor stalking the presidential election, 8 p.m. Saturday, Rven Performing Arts Theater, Healdsburg. $20. 433-6335, raventheater.org.
Sunday, Oct. 16
Santa Rosa Symphony Family Concert: ‘Land of Make Believe,’ 3 p.m. Sunday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $12-$17. 546-8742, srsymphony.org.
Robert Huw Morgan: All-Bach program with the Stanford University organist, 3 p.m. Sunday, Schroeder Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $30. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Zofo Piano Duet: Stravinsky’s ‘The Rite of Spring’ with pianists Eva-Maria Zimmermann and Keisuke Nakagoshi, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Cinnabar Theater, Petaluma. $15-$30. 763-8920, cinnabartheater.org.
The Band of Heathens: Rock ’n’ roll band from Austin, 8 p.m. Sunday, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $13-$15. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
Monday, Oct. 17
Adam Savage: Tales of experiments, explosions and hijinks with the ‘Mythbusters’ host, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35. gmc.sonoma.edu.
Emma Bland Smith: Meet-and-greet with the children’s author of ‘Journey,’ the famous wild wolf, 4 p.m. Tuesday, Copperfield’s Books, Sebastopol. Free. 823-2618, copperfieldsbooks.com.
Wednesday, Oct. 19
‘Once in a Lifetime’: Jewish Film Festival drama, 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Rialto Cinemas, Sebastopol. $10-$15. Festival runs through Nov. 30. 529-4222, jccsoco.org.
Thursday, Oct. 20
The Cherry Pickers: Traditional bluegrass, folk and progressive styles, Americana Night season oener, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Cloverdale Arts Alliance. $20. 894-4410, cloverdaleartsalliance.org.
Alexander Valley Film Festival: Opening night, runs through Sunday. Neighbor screening, ‘National Bird,’ plus dinner, 6 p.m. Thursday, Alexander Valley Hall, Geyserville. $66. 893-7150, avfilmsociety.org.
Laughfest: Opening night of four-night comedy festival with stand-up, sketch and improv shows, 6:30, 8 and 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Sonoma Community Center. $14-$16. sonomalaughfest.com.
Itzhak Perlman: Violin virtuoso, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $50-$125. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
Friday, Oct. 21
‘Rocky Horror Show’: Gothic parody musical, opens 8 p.m. Oct. 21, 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa. Runs through Nov. 13. $10-$26. 523-4185, 6thstreetplayhouse.com.
Paula Poundstone: Standup comedy with the veteran humorist, 8 p.m. Oct. 21, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $29-$39. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
Kim Simmonds and Savoy Brown: British blues-rock institution, 8 p.m. Oct. 21, HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol. $25-$50. 829-7300, hopmonk-sebastopol.ticketfly.com.
River Heritage Celebration: Barn dance and dinner, 6-9:30 p.m. Oct. 21, David Yearsley River Heritage Center, Petaluma. $15 admission, $10 dinner. Events through Oct. 23. 763-7756, friendsofthepetalumariver.org.
Saturday, Oct. 22
Banshee Fest: Pinot tasting and exploration, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 22, Healdsburg SHED. $90. Lord Hron 1 p.m. concert sold out. bansheewines.com.
Denis Matsuev: Piano virtuoso, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22, Weill Hall, Green Music Center, Rohnert Park. $35-$85. (866) 955-6040, gmc.sonoma.edu.
FünkenDünk Oktoberfest: Top brewers, live New Orleans funk with five bands including Galactic, 2 p.m. Oct. 22, SOMO Village Event Center, Rohnert Park. $36.75-$140. 795-3550, somoconcerts.com.
Redwood Writers Open Mic: Share your writing with an audience, and hear featured authors Christina Molcillo and Patty Somlo read from their works, 2-4 p.m., Oct. 22, Gaia’s Garden, 1899 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. Free. redwoodwriters.org.
Sunday, Oct. 23
Pinot on the River: Grand Tasting, 100-plus wineries and artisan food, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 23, Healdsburg Plaza. $75-$90. pinotfestival.com.
Santa Rosa Symphony Pops: Conducted by Michael Berkowitz, 3 p.m. Oct. 23, Luther Burbank Center, Santa Rosa. $37-$80. 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org.
The closed Rendez Vous Bistro on courthouse square in Santa Rosa will be reopened by the Chandi Restaurant Group. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat)
Hallelujah! The downtown Santa Rosa restaurant with million-dollar patio space is about to rise from the dead.
The long-vacant Rendez-Vous Bistro space in downtown Santa Rosa is coming back to life. The Chandi Restaurants Group, who own Stout Brothers, Bibi’s Burger Bar,County Bench and several Mountain Mike’s Pizza shops (including one in development in Bennett Valley) are re-opening the bistro space as Booze Barrel.
With a planned opening in early 2017, the CEO Sonu Chandi said the restaurant will feature cocktails, beer, wine and Indian-inspired small plates. They’re hoping to be able to utilize the outdoor patio space as a vibrant part of the new downtown Courthouse Square. More details coming soon.
Rendez-Vous was previously owned by restaurateur Nino Rabbaa, as was the Bibi’s Burger space.
Along the coastal bluffs, just south of the Eel River, the Lost Coast Headlands lie approximately 260 miles north of San Francisco and 25 miles south of Eureka. Surrounded by private land, the trailhead provides visitors access to remote and rugged beaches. (Bob Wick/BLM)
The Lost Coast is among Californias most rugged stretches of coastline. (Wendy Seltzer/Flickr)
California’s Lost Coast is a backpacker’s dream, the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the state with miles of deserted beaches and coves. But you don’t have to rough it that much to access its wild and scenic beauty.
Sunset Magazine once called the Lost Coast “too lovely to be believed, perhaps too beautiful to last.” But fortunately it endures.
It has a legacy of ranching and logging, but the nearby King Mountain Range was too daunting for early road builders. As a result, Highway 1 veered inland north of Fort Bragg, leaving a back country without a shoreline road. Today it is encompassed by Sinkyone Wilderness State Park and King Range National Conservation Area, overseen by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
Backpackers willing to make the difficult trek to the Lost Coast region are rewarded with spectacular views of California’s coastline. (Melanie Nacouzi/Flickr)
Years ago, I backpacked the 53-mile stretch solo, overnighting at a few remote, primitive campsites. I felt the trepidation of a city slicker alone in the woods, along with a John Muir type reverence for nature and its power of rejuvenation.
These days, I’m more inclined to a less strenuous approach to the Lost Coast that doesn’t involve lugging food, sleeping bag and tent over loose sand, or scrambling around rocky outcrops, racing the tide.
It’s called car camping, and there’s no better spot for it on the Lost Coast than the A.W. Way County Park, a short distance from the mouth of the Mattole River, where the north end of the Lost Coast trail begins. It’s run by Humboldt County Parks department.
Hiking the Lost Coast trail, which crosses the beach at times. (Rick McCharles/Flickr)
The 30 acres along a bend in the Mattole were donated in 1968 for a park by the civic-minded Arthur Way, a judge, Eureka mayor and state senator. It provides a good jumping off point for day tripping on the Lost Coast.
About 10 miles downstream from the campground is the mouth of the Mattole River, which is suited for a walk of whatever length on a seemingly endless, driftwood-lined beach, or exploring the lagoon estuary and its bird habitat.
Along the coastal bluffs, just south of the Eel River, the Lost Coast Headlands lie approximately 260 miles north of San Francisco and 25 miles south of Eureka. Surrounded by private land, the trailhead provides visitors access to remote and rugged beaches. (Bob Wick/BLM)
Just 3.5 miles to the south of the river mouth is the abandoned Punta Gorda Lighthouse, which can be reached in a round trip, half-day hike. It will take that amount of time to slog some slower beach segments, explore thriving tide pools and enjoy the coastal bluff vistas. But there are other more sedentary ways to take in the spectacular scenery. One is driving the back road that goes north toward Ferndale, 45 miles away and known for its Victorian architecture, small county fair and zany kinetic sculpture race with human-powered art works.
Lost coast camping. (Rick McCharles/Flickr)
The road to Ferndale zig-zags up the flanks of Cape Mendocino, the part of California that juts farthest west into the Pacific Ocean and the first landmark for Spanish galleons after a harrowing journey from the Philippines.
Another interesting historical footnote is the town of Petrolia, located about five miles from the mouth of the Mattole and named for the first oil well drilled after petroleum was discovered in 1861.
Petrolia also is known for the damage it sustained in a 1992 earthquake from a strong jolt of 7.1 magnitude and two aftershocks, measuring 6.6 and 6.7, that destroyed its century-old post office.
The area is prone to strong quakes because of three tectonic plates that converge off Cape Mendocino.
A.W. Way campground is about five miles upstream from the mouth of Mattole River, which is suitable for walks of all lengths. (Photo by Virginia Mason)
Petrolia has a small store that’s good for sundries like ice cream, with another little general store about 15 miles away in the even smaller community of Honeydew. It wasn’t named after a to-do list for husbands, but supposedly for thick dew resembling honey drops that covered the meadow.
The narrow roads that lead to these peculiarly named Lost Coast communities are steep in some places and badly pockmarked in many spots, slowing motorists who have to weave around crater-sized indentations.
It doesn’t require four-wheel drive, but the deteriorated back roads undoubtedly winnow down the number of people willing to take the Highway 101 exit, 22 miles north of Garberville, and head for the coast.
It’s probably why the “no vacancy” sign never goes up at A.W. Way Campground, even though it is popular with locals, too. Campsites are first come, first served, no reservations taken.
The Mattole River empties into the ocean along the Lost Coast. (Photo by Virginia Mason)
“I’ve never had to say, ‘You can’t stay here,’” said Zack Littleton, the park caretaker, who said the campground gets close to filling only at certain times, such as Fourth of July weekend.
Thirty-seven spacious camp and RV sites ring a big meadow with “a lot of elbow room. A lot of folks are surprised,” Littleton said. Campsites are $25 per night per vehicle.
The campground has men’s and women’s bathrooms with flush toilets, plus additional private rooms with hot showers that cost about 25 cents a minute (bring quarters).
There is no reliable cell phone coverage in the area, which can be a welcome break. There’s a pay phone if needed, but forget about staying connected to social media.
A visitor to Humboldt County’s Lost Coast left this driftwood maze for others to enjoy. (Photo by Virginia Mason)
The campground is open year-round, despite some heavy rains that can lash the Lost Coast in the winter and drive season rainfall totals to more than 100 inches. January through March is fishing season, drawing quite a few campers to catch and release steelhead trout.
Earlier this year, the county threatened to shut down A.W. Way because of a structural budget deficit in the parks budget and high insurance costs.
More than 1,000 people signed a petition to keep it open.
On a Facebook page for the campground, one woman said her husband proposed to her at A.W. Way and her children learned to walk and ride bikes there, as well as catch snakes and newts.
The appeal from the public apparently helped keep the park open.
“Everything is back to normal,” Littleton said, cautioning that “it’s kind of wait and see very year.”
