As the golden hues of fall sweep across Sonoma County and the air turns cool and refreshing, it’s a wonderful season to make memories with your four-legged companion. From festive pumpkin patches to playful costume events, autumn brings no shortage of dog-friendly adventures. Here are some of the best ways to celebrate the season with your pup!
1. Blessing of the Animals at St. Francis Winery
Kicking off the list is the Blessing of the Animals at St. Francis Winery! Now in its 24th year, this beloved annual event invites guests to bring their pets—furry, feathered, or scaly—for a special blessing in the heart of Sonoma wine country. The afternoon includes live blessings, a festive Winery Dog of the Year contest (plus cutest, most fashionable, and most talented dog categories), raffle prizes donated by local businesses, and plenty of delicious food and wine. St. Francis is also dog-friendly year round!
When: Sunday, October 5, 2025 • 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Santa Rosa
Details: Buy raffle tickets and learn more about this fun event HERE.
2. Hikes with Hounds (Hunter Creek Trail)
Hikes with Hounds is a free, dog-friendly guided hike organized by Sonoma County Regional Parks. Led by a certified dog trainer—and often accompanied by a Spanish-language interpreter—it’s designed to help you and your pup hike more confidently together. Participants learn leash training tips, hiking etiquette, and how to make your walks smoother and more enjoyable for both of you.
When: October 16, 2025 • 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Hunter Creek Trail, Sonoma County
Details: Learn to train your dog into a stellar hiking companion during this interactive session—perfect for combining fall’s cooler temps with active bonding time. Visit the website HERE.
3. Visit one of Sonoma County’s Many Dog-Friendly Wineries for an Autumn Tasting!
Sonoma Valley is home to some incredible wineries where your pup can join the fun. Here are a few favorites:
B.R. Cohn (Glen Ellen) – Leashed dogs welcome outdoors. Relax among olive groves with live music on weekends.
Landmark Vineyards (Kenwood) – Scenic grounds with bocce courts and picnic spots. Pups allowed outside.
Kunde Family Winery (Kenwood) – Famous for vineyard hikes where dogs can tag along.
Bartholomew Estate (Sonoma) – Trails and picnic areas in a 375-acre park.
Larson Family Winery (Sonoma) – Playful vibe with “Three Lab Cab” and plenty of lawn space.
Gundlach Bundschu (Sonoma) – Historic winery with dog-friendly patios and scenic grounds.
Mutt Lynch Winery (Windsor) – A tasting room that celebrates dogs at every turn.
Always keep pups leashed, bring water and cleanup bags, and call ahead if you’re planning a weekend visit!
4. Not Into Wine? Try One of These Dog-Friendly Breweries!
Cooperage Brewing Company (Santa Rosa) – Leashed dogs welcome on the sunny patio. Enjoy Belgian-style ales with your pup.
Crooked Goat Brewing (Sebastopol) – Open-air brewery with fire pits. Dogs are welcome while you sip IPAs and fruit beers.
Cuver Belgian Brewers (Windsor) – Dog- and kid-friendly patio serving Belgian-inspired beers.
Fogbelt Brewing Company (Santa Rosa) – Dogs allowed indoors and in the beer garden. Try sours, IPAs, and stouts.
Lagunitas Brewing Company (Petaluma) – Leashed pets welcome on the spacious patio with craft beers and live music.
Russian River Brewing Company (Windsor) – Large pet-friendly beer garden. Enjoy Pliny the Younger and outdoor seating.
Shady Oak Barrel House (Santa Rosa) – Relaxed brewery with dogs welcome in outdoor spaces.
Stumptown Brewery (Guerneville) – Large beer garden by the Russian River. Leashed dogs welcome.
Always keep pups leashed, bring water and cleanup bags, and call ahead if you’re planning a weekend visit!
5. Paws for a Cause Cornhole Tournament
Gather your friends and dogs for a friendly cornhole competition benefiting the Humane Society. Teams of two compete for prizes while enjoying a dog-friendly environment, raffle opportunities, and plenty of food and drinks. Whether you’re an experienced player or a casual participant, this event is a great way to have fun and support animal rescue in the community.
When: October 4, 2025 • 1 PM
Where: Iron Ox Brewing, Santa Rosa
Details: HERE.
6. The SOCO Halloween Market
Join us for the 4th Annual SoCo Halloween Market, a festive celebration of Halloween in the heart of Santa Rosa. This family-friendly and pet-friendly event offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors, delicious food, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect occasion to enjoy the spirit of Halloween with your loved ones and pets.
When: Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Where: Old Courthouse Square, Downtown Santa Rosa, CA 95404
For more information and updates, visit the official event page: The SoCo Halloween Market
7. HOWL‑O‑WEEN Pet Parade
When: October 18, 2025 • 12–2 PM
Where: Healdsburg Town Square
Details: Get into the Halloween spirit with this festive pet parade! Dress up your pets for a chance to win prizes in categories like best dog costume, most creative group costume, and best other pet. The event also features a kids’ zone with activities, photo opportunities, and plenty of treats. It’s a family-friendly, dog-friendly celebration that brings the community together for a cause while having fun with your furry friends.
8. Fall Fun at Bees N Blooms – Bring Your Pup!
Experience the beauty of autumn at Bees N Blooms in Santa Rosa! Stroll through vibrant gardens, explore the Lavender Labyrinth, and enjoy the serene farm setting—all dog-friendly, so bring your leashed pup along.
Fall Plant Sale (Sept 5–Oct 5): Shop pollinator-friendly perennials, California natives, lavenders, and vegetables.
Fall Farm Trails Weekend (Sept 27–28): Guided tours, flower gardens, butterfly habitats, and farm animals for the whole family to enjoy.
Open Farm Hours: Fridays–Sundays, 10 AM–4 PM. Free admission, dogs welcome.
Discover seasonal blooms, fall colors, and a relaxing dog-friendly escape in Sonoma County HERE.
Tips for Enjoying Fall Activities with Your Dog
– Leash Up: Always keep your dog on a leash to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
– Hydration: Bring water for your dog, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
– Poop Bags: Clean up after your dog to keep the area tidy and enjoyable for everyone.
– Know Your Dog: Be mindful of your dog’s temperament. If they’re not comfortable around crowds or other animals, it may be best to visit during quieter times.
– Check Ahead: Always call ahead or check the websites of the wineries or events to confirm their dog policies and any special events.
Autumn in Sonoma County is the perfect season to celebrate with your four-legged friend! From dressing up your pup for the costume contest at Larson Family Winery, joining the Howl-O-Ween festivities in Healdsburg, to parading your pooch at the SoCo Halloween Market, there’s plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy. Grab the leash, bring some treats, and immerse yourselves in the cozy, playful spirit of fall together!