For those who are passionate about wine, Sonoma County in Northern California is a dream destination. After all, it’s home to American Viticultural Areas (AVA) like the Russian River Valley, which boasts bold wines and serene picnic spots, among several others. Additionally, this region hosts the annual Sonoma County Harvest Fair at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa. Founded in 1975, it pays tribute to premium vino, immaculate food, and other artisan goodies. Picture a massive space where countless renowned local wineries and eateries convene, providing guests a variety of samples that will please their taste buds and appetites. This year the fair celebrates 50 years with their Taste, Toast & Celebrate! gala on October 11, 2025.
In a video uploaded to YouTube by the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, a previous attendee of the Harvest Fair exclaimed, “This is wonderful, I’ve been able to taste a lot of wines I probably would not have because you can only go to so many wineries a day…” While another individual stated,”…this is the best, it’s like a one-stop shop to figure out what your taste is, basically.” It is not an understatement to say that you’ll be wining and dining on the best Sonoma County has to offer. In the months and weeks leading up to event, the Sonoma County Harvest Fair holds a professional wine competition and a professional food competition.
These are judged by experts, including winemakers, writers, local businesses owners, and more. For an entry fee of $100, you will be able to savor all the victors at the Taste, Toast & Celebrate! gala. As you can imagine, winning is a monumental achievement. There are hundreds of wines that are assessed in the largest regional wine competition in the U.S., but only a small selection receive medals — and the prestige that comes with it.
What to know before you go to the Sonoma County Harvest Fair
This year, the Sonoma County Harvest Fair’s Taste, Toast & Celebrate! gala will be on October 11 at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds Grace Pavilion. As the wine flows, attendees can expect to feast on samples that range from pastries, appetizers, bread, deli items, and much more. If there’s something you like that you want to take home, there’s usually bottles of wine and foodstuffs available for purchase. Take note that the Taste, Toast & Celebrate! gala, held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., is a formal celebration (cocktail attire is required) that is only open for individuals who are 21 and older. Tickets can be purchased on the Sonoma County Harvest Fair’s website…