Sonoma's rich and unique history is spotlighted in this annual event. There are docent led tours around the Sonoma Town Square by day as well as candlelight tours at night.
Organizers say that the idea is to dress up and have fun. "We are asking participants to consider dressing in a costume appropriate from 1823 to 1900.
That could be Italian or French, Spanish or Mexican, Swiss or Italian, Indian or Frontier, or most any other combination. Costumes don't have to be lavish. Consider a hat, a scarf, a shawl, suspenders or a long skirt. Wear whatever your imagination would consider being worn in 1823 to 1900. And plan to enjoy the day."
The docents hosting at the historic sites will wear costumes appropriate to the period. And many business people will by wearing clothing typical of merchants doing the same business in the 1800's.
The Sonoma Heritage Tour is presented by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Sonoma/Petaluma State Historic Parks Association, Inc., and the Sonoma Business community.
Highlights From the 2006 Sonoma Heritage Tour (Not All Events Are Repeated Each Year)
- Historic buildings around the plaza will be toured by General Vallejo and an 1800's business associate starting at 12:30 pm and will leave every 15 minutes.
- Restaurants are offering a "Heritage Special" on their menu for the event.
- Hotels and B & B's are offering an off-season rate.
- The Sebastiani Trolley will offer rides down Spain Street to the Vallejo home (Trolley stops behind the Toscano Hotel).
- The Vallejo home will open for touring from 1 to 5 pm.
- The New York Regiment of 1846 will be represented at the Barracks and the Blue Wing Inn.
- Portraits of American Indians by Bob Morris will be displayed at the Barracks.
- Classical Guitar music and folk music will be offered at the Vallejo home.
- The Blue Wing Inn will be open for viewing from 4 to 8 pm. Look for a vintage card game there.
- The Chapel at the Mission will be viewed by candlelight.
- The Barracks will open rooms for viewing, and the bookstore will be open all day.
- Music at the Barracks will feature Mariachi and the Grand Finale.
- The Toscano Hotel will be open and staffed by the Sonoma League for Historic Preservation from 1-6pm.
- The League will also host at the Vasquez House from 1-6 pm.
- The Sonoma Valley Historical Society is hosting at the Depot Museum from 1-6 pm.
- The Sonoma Merchants will be open and welcoming patrons into the evening.
- During the evening the Mariachis will be moving through the downtown area.
- At 9 p. m. the cannon will fire.
- The evening will end when the last door closes.