Each spring in Sonoma County, the hills roll green, the vineyards hum with energy, and the city of Healdsburg gears up for its much-anticipated food and wine celebration. Now in its fourth year, the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience is back this May 15–18, bringing four full days of inspired cooking and world-class wines to this renowned part of the state. The festival honors the region’s agricultural roots and showcases the chefs, winemakers, farmers, and artisans who define Sonoma County’s distinctive taste.
A Taste of Sonoma’s Best
The heart of the weekend is the Grand Tasting on Saturday afternoon. More than 150 wineries will pour selections, complemented by seasonal small plates by both local chefs and nationally recognized names such as Antonia Lofaso, Crista Luedtke, and Stephanie Izard. The real stars here, though, are the ingredients: vibrant, seasonal, and grown in the region’s own backyard.
One-of-a-Kind Culinary Adventures
Each event tells a different story about heritage, innovation, and a deep connection to the land. A sushi dinner set among the vines at Aperture Cellars pairs traditional omakase with Sonoma terroir. A lively lunch at Kendall-Jackson (Courses on the Court) blends fine dining with basketball culture. At Orsi Family Vineyards, pitmaster Matt Horn (of Horn Barbecue fame in Oakland) puts a California spin on Texas-style barbecue, matched with local wines you won’t find outside of the state.
VIP Moments, Sparkling Nights
Looking for something extra? The Platinum VIP package offers access to exclusive tastings, private vineyard lunches, and a show-stopping dinner at Chalk Hill Estate, where a team of acclaimed chefs will craft an unforgettable meal with wine pairings.
Music fans can catch live performances at Rodney Strong Vineyards, where soul singer Allen Stone will light up the stage under the stars. And Guy Fieri is back, too—hosting his Big Bottle Party at The Matheson, complete with magnum pours, late-night bites, and a high-energy vibe that keeps the fun going well into the night.
Plan Your Trip
Tickets prices range from à la carte event access to weekend-long and VIP packages. Popular events sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended. Head to healdsburgwineandfood.com for more details.
While you’re in the area, be sure to take some time to explore Healdsburg beyond the festival. This idyllic town sits at the crossroads of three wine regions—Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valley—and offers a walkable downtown filled with plenty of tasting rooms, local shops, and standout restaurants, from Michelin-starred Single Thread to beloved neighborhood joints.