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.
Early Fall
Sep – Oct
Acer buergerianum
Acer palmatum
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
Garden Calendar
Public Programs
Celebrate fall at the Garden with special programs: Acoustic Sunsets continues Wednesdays through October 30 with live music and wine tasting; a star party with the Robert Ferguson Observatory is on November 8; enjoy guided fall color walks and monthly photo walks with Daniel Perales; Sonoma Yoga offers meditation hikes; and craft a holiday centerpiece on November 30. Don’t miss the inaugural Garden Gala: A Stellar Affair on October 5 with local wines, cuisine, live music, and stargazing.
Acoustic Sunsets
Wednesdays, October 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30*
October 30: Halloween Dog Costume Contest
Music from 6-8pm
Free for members and included with Garden admission.
The Garden extends its hours every Wednesday this summer with special activities for all ages including live music in the amphitheater, local wine, lawn games, and other family friendly activities. Bring a picnic and Fido too, as the Garden is welcoming well-behaved, leashed dogs during these special evening hours.
Garden Gala: A Stellar Affair
Join us on Saturday, October 5, 2024, for Garden Gala, Sonoma Botanical Garden’s signature fundraising event of the year. Join us for an evening of celebrating all that we love about the Garden under the stars and in the company of friends who share our appreciation of the natural world. This inaugural fall fundraiser will support the activation of the Garden with exhibitions, classes, tours, workshops, live music and much more.
Star Party
Friday, November 8
7pm – 10pm
We are partnering with the Robert Ferguson Observatory to offer a star party. Astronomers will set up telescopes in the Garden for your viewing enjoyment while sharing fascinating information on astronomical topics.
Curator’s Fall Seasonal Walk
Saturday, November 16
10:30 am – 12:00 noon
Take a deep dive into this season’s botanical highlights with the Garden’s Curator of Living Collections, Michael Wenzel.
Friday Photo Walk
October 4, November 1, December 6
10:30am-12pm
$15 members | $30 non-members. Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Join professional photographer, Daniel Perales for a Photo Walk on select Fridays of each month. Explore the Garden’s unique landscapes in this fun and dynamic workshop focused on visual storytelling. Learn basic to advanced techniques including composition, directing light, conveying emotion, eliminating distractions, and focusing on what each image communicates.
Bring your camera (or camera phone), walking shoes, and your creativity.
Daniel Perales is an award-winning artist, photojournalist, and commercial photographer driven to celebrate the world through images that convey emotions. Daniel reveals the natural essence of his subjects, documenting genuine experiences with an artistic sensitivity and style. During his career, Daniel has worked with international architectural firms, major cultural institutions, the performing arts, human service organizations, and scientific leaders. He is an instructor, a commissioned artist, and is committed to elevating social conscience through imagery.
Guided Meditation Hike
Saturday, October 19, November 16, & December 14
10:30am-12pm
$25 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
2:00pm-3:30 pm
$70 members | $85 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.