With Halloween just a few days away, the start of the holiday season is upon us. In Sonoma, the Northern California city is gearing up for a festive season with a number of activities planned over the next couple of months.

To kick off the celebrations, there will be a lighting of the historic Sonoma Plaza Ceremony on November 14 at dusk. The event is expected to attract over 1,500 people to the event which will include over eight acres of 100,000 sparkling lights illuminating the plaza (doubling the amount they used last year). The affair will also include hot cider courtesy of The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa, musical performances from Transcendence Theatre Company, complimentary hot chocolate provided by William-Sonoma, presentations by community leaders, Sonoma Market cookies and swag bags.

Guests are also invited to bring their own wine and beer to sip on during the event. The finale will consist of a band performing at the amphitheater. On December 6 at 4 p.m., the Lighting of the Snowmen will take place at Cornerstone Sonoma. The afternoon will consist of pictures with Santa, live music and cookie decorating. 

For a family treat, head to Christmas at the Mission on December 12 at the historic Mission San Francisco Solano on Sonoma Plaza. Along with a warm fire in the Barracks courtyard, the evening will include readings and carols by candlelight in the Mission Chapel. Check out HolidaysInSonoma.com for the full lineup of events.