Framing Fall
Experience the vibrant colors of fall, the richness of the harvest, and the mysteries of the night sky at the Garden this autumn. With our one-of-a-kind Asian Woodland full of a gorgeous array of various deciduous trees and perennials – many of which are rare and endangered – fall color in the Garden is unlike any other in the North Bay. The Garden offers numerous ways to experience the majesty of earth and sky during this special season including star parties, guided fall foliage walks, sunset concerts, meditation hikes, holiday centerpiece crafting, and more. Visit our calendar or program listing for more details.
The Garden bursts with fall colors starting early with burgundy Amur Maple leaves, golden Chestnut rose hips, and ripe cabernet vines. As November arrives, maples turn vibrant reds and oranges, while Japanese Cherry Birch and Large-leafed Dogwood showcase amber and pink hues. In December, Five-Lobed Maple and Beautyberry offer crimson leaves and purple berries. Don’t miss fleeting displays like the Golden Larch, which ignites in amber brilliance. Visitors are encouraged to follow the Garden on social media for seasonal updates.
Thank to our media sponsor!
Early Fall
Sep – Oct
Callicarpa japonica
Hedychium spicatum var. acuminatum
Acer tataricum ssp. ginnala
Berberis wilsoniae
Mid Fall
Oct – Nov
Camellia sinensis
Ilex dimorphophylla
Cornus capitata
Acer tataricum ssp. ginnala
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Rhus chinensis
Cotoneaster salicifolius
Late Fall
Nov – Dec
Camellia granthamiana
Anemone sp.
Berberis thunbergii
Idesia polycarpa
Acer oliverianum
Malus toringoides
Acer pentaphyllum
Public Programs
Guided Meditation Hike
Saturday, November 23
10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
$30 per person | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Take a soul-nourishing journey, connecting nature, mind, and body. This unique experience combines the rejuvenating power of a hike to the highest point in the Garden with the serenity of guided meditation. Find your center with mindful moments, scenic stops, and deep breathing.
This program is held outdoors. Please dress accordingly and bring water.
Sonoma Yoga is rooted in community and growing with you. Over 20 years, they have built a dynamic team of yoga, fitness, and meditation guides to help expand your practice. Registration is through Sonoma Yoga’s website.
Everlasting Holiday Centerpieces
Saturday, November 30
2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
$50 members | $65 non-members. Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Create stunning holiday centerpieces that endure throughout the season. Learn to blend berries, pinecones, ribbon, and dried materials with fresh greens to craft a resilient centerpiece for your festive table.
SOLD OUT
Framing Fall Photo Walk
December 6
10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Free for members, $15 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Join professional photographer Daniel Perales for a Fall Photo Walk on select Fridays. Capture the vibrant colors and textures of the Garden as it transforms with the season. This immersive experience covers photography techniques—composition, lighting, and highlighting the unique beauty of autumn—helping you create stunning visual stories.
Register Here
General Guided Garden Tour
Saturday, December 7, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 14 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 21, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 22, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 29, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Free for members and included with Garden admission for non-members. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Drop in for a guided tour led by a volunteer guide. Immerse yourself in both the Asian and California native sections of the Garden. This is a drop-in program; there is no need to register.
Winter Solstice Sound Bath
Friday, December 20, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
$15 for members, $30 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Celebrate the quiet beauty of the Winter Solstice with a serene sound bath in the tranquil surroundings of the Garden. As the longest night of the year invites reflection and stillness, participants will be immersed in soothing sounds that harmonize with the emerging winter landscape. This special solstice gathering honors the turning of the season, encouraging deep relaxation, inner peace, and a connection to the quiet energy of renewal that winter brings.
What to Bring: We recommend that participants bring a yoga mat, blanket, and/or pillow for added comfort during the sound bath experience. These items will help you relax and fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the new Center for Learning & Engagement (indoors).
Register Here
Holiday Closure Notice
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season from all of us at Sonoma Botanical Garden! To give our hardworking staff time to celebrate and recharge, the Garden will be closed on Wednesday, December 25, and Thursday, December 26. We will reopen on Friday, December 27, and look forward to welcoming you back then.
Happy Holidays!