Held in nearby Santa Rosa, the Sonoma County Harvest Fair is a must-attend event if you're in the area in October. The fair features local wines, craft beers, artisan foods, farm-fresh produce, and live music. It's a great place to experience Sonoma County’s agricultural bounty, including fresh apples, squash, and wine.

October is a beautiful time to explore the vineyards in Healdsburg as the grapevines turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The scenic views of the vineyards with fall colors are picture-perfect for a peaceful stroll or a wine-tasting tour. The Russian River Valley and Dry Creek Valley offer some of the best autumn vineyard views.

Healdsburg’s food scene shines during the harvest season, and many local restaurants offer special fall menus and harvest-inspired dishes. Some highlights include:

SingleThread: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a seasonal, multi-course tasting menu, focusing on locally sourced ingredients.

Barndiva: Known for its farm-to-table offerings, featuring dishes that incorporate fresh, seasonal produce.

Café Lucia: Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and try their seasonal fall menu featuring rich, hearty dishes that complement the cooler weather.

While Healdsburg itself doesn’t host a pumpkin patch, there are many farms and ranches around Sonoma County where you can pick pumpkins, go on hayrides, and enjoy fall-themed activities. Popular spots like Petaluma’s Pumpkin Patch and Sebastopol’s Apple-A-Day Farm are just a short drive away.

October is a fantastic time to take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, as the crisp fall air offers clear views of the beautiful Sonoma landscape. Watching the sunrise over the autumn-colored vineyards is a breathtaking experience.