Events in Santa Rosa today

North Bay SBK introduces New York Style Salsa to Sonoma County with a focused Salsa On2 class in Santa Rosa. Designed for dancers who already feel confident with On1, this lesson helps you transition to On2, also known as Mambo, so you can expand your social dancing with ease. Instruction covers breaking on the 2 with musicality, contemporary shines and footwork, partner turns and patterns, and practical techniques seen at socials, festivals, congresses, and competitions around the world. The goal is to enhance musical interpretation, create smoother partnering, and connect participants with the broader Mambo community, whether traveling to dance events or leveling up locally. Best suited for experienced On1 social dancers who want to add On2 to their repertoire with confidence. Monthly members can apply their membership to this class, and drop-ins are welcome. Pricing is $25 for a single visit or $80 for four class credits.

Petaluma Chess Club offers a friendly chess session with casual play and opportunities to learn. It is open to all ages and experience levels, and light instruction is available for those new to the game. Enjoy a relaxed setting where participants can play, build skills, and have fun with chess.

Bestselling author Anne Lamott takes the stage for a moderated conversation at the Sonoma State University Green Music Center, blending quick wit with candid reflections on living with hope and humor. Drawing on books such as Bird by Bird and Traveling Mercies, she explores resilience, creativity, and ways to find meaning when life is anything but perfect. A book signing follows the discussion. Tickets are $38 at the GMC Box Office or $44 online.

A yet-to-be-announced headliner will take center stage, with The Lostines providing support. The duo of Camille Wind Weatherford and Casey Jane Reece-Kaigler blends close, Everly Brothers-inspired harmonies with lilting guitar and doo-wop accents, exploring themes of disillusionment, lasting romance, and resilient hope. Their name points to a river in their Oregon home, and their collaboration took shape in the New Orleans DIY community where they met. The sound feels both nostalgic and fresh, drawing from classic country, Louisiana dance hall traditions, and the shimmer of mid-century girl groups. Since 2013 they have delivered airy lullabies, sharp harmonies, playful call and response, and a light touch of humor.

Hosted at Sonoma State University, the 13th Annual State of the Latino Community Address is Los Cien’s signature gathering of more than 550 leaders from across the community, including advocates and policy makers. The program features a morning dedicated to substantive conversations, fresh ideas, and data-informed dialogue centered on the Latino experience in Sonoma County. Building on last year's momentum, it will provide space for timely discussion of the issues that matter now, including the evolving role of artificial intelligence in local communities. Tickets will go on sale.

This three-day, hands-on bra making workshop is led by Nikki Griffin, a nationally recognized specialist in bra fitting and construction. Presented by the Santa Rosa Chapter of the American Sewing Guild, it takes place at Cross and Crown Lutheran Church. Geared toward intermediate to advanced sewists, it also supports those newer to garment sewing who want to build skills. Participants receive clear instruction and individualized guidance in a supportive setting while learning how to properly fit and construct bras. All attendees receive materials and expert support. The aim is to leave with a personalized fit sample and the knowledge to complete a bra in fashion fabric, and some participants may start or finish a bra in fashion materials during the workshop. Registration includes member and non-member options. Santa Rosa ASG member pricing ranges from 480 to 500 dollars depending on when registration is completed, and the non-member rate is 550 dollars. Registration is available through Eventbrite, and members who prefer to avoid platform fees may register by check. If the online registration fills, checks received afterward will be returned because online registrations receive priority. Fees are non-refundable, and transfers are permitted by participants if a waitlist is in place.

At Café Frida Gallery, S.R. Laws brings an acoustic songwriter set shaped by a deep love for the classics many grew up hearing, presented with a voice and viewpoint that feel welcoming yet distinctly his own. He draws on storytellers like John Hiatt, Lou Reed, Steve Earle, Neil Finn, and Ron Sexsmith, crafting relaxed, mid tempo Americana anchored by a steady groove. His journey began in Northern California, where he sifted through stacks of discarded 45s from his father’s trash route, discovering music one treasure at a time. He later set off for Texas with two suitcases and five hundred dollars to immerse himself in Austin’s vibrant scene, sharpening his skills at open mics and songwriter gatherings. Now living in Sonoma County and also writing and singing for his original rock band, The Heartsleeves, he continues to share songs drawn from real life, told clearly and directly. Listeners and presenters have praised his storyteller’s touch, an easygoing baritone, and a slow build that keeps people lingering for one more tune. The performance centers on lyrics and melody, offering familiar echoes alongside fresh ideas and a warm, conversational feel.

Hands-on fly casting instruction welcomes newcomers and experienced anglers at Galvin Community Park. Volunteer instructors from RRFF offer free, public clinics that focus on building solid fundamentals, answering questions about tackle and gear, and demystifying knot tying, fly selection, and setup for both freshwater and saltwater pursuits. Participants who want to go further can work on advanced skills such as the double haul, using shooting heads, quick casting for saltwater, and spey techniques. Teaching draws on methods from Fly Fishers International and the Golden Gate Angling and Casting Club, including the FFI Fly Casting Skills Development program and the progressive levels used by GGACC. The sessions emphasize purposeful practice, helping you develop the feel of the line loading the rod and gain control in a range of fishing situations. Instruction takes place weather permitting and is not conducted in the rain.

Connect with others at The Floathouse during an easygoing evening on the water followed by dockside snacks. This monthly paddle and dock social welcomes everyone, whether you rent a sit-on-top kayak or stand-up paddleboard from The Floathouse for $35 or bring your own boat or board for a $10 event fee. Head out for a relaxed group paddle and enjoy the river at your own pace, then return to the dock to share snacks... some will be provided and participants are encouraged to bring something to share. The gathering wraps up with enough daylight for tidy cleanup, offering a simple, social way to glide toward the weekend with fellow paddlers and river enthusiasts.

Cheryl King, creator of Forbidden Kiss LIVE, Santa Rosa’s award-winning bawdy vaudeville series at The California Theatre, hosts a new spoken word variety showcase that brings together poets, flash fiction writers, comedians, and monologists. Each artist appears for a concise set of original work, and the lineup is handpicked by the host. The night includes a happy hour at The Astro Lounge, the performance, and time afterward to meet the performers. Tickets are $15, and the bar is open throughout. This queer-friendly event welcomes everyone. Submissions are being accepted, and confirmed names will be added as the roster develops. Presented monthly at The Astro Lounge in Santa Rosa.

Brass Queens, an eight-piece all-women ensemble from Brooklyn, appear in the Second Story’s upstairs space as part of a weekly free live music series. Drawing on the brass traditions of New Orleans, they deliver a lively, horn-forward sound showcased on their 2021 instrumental EP Royal St, and their performances have been featured on Good Morning America. No RSVP is required, seating is available in the order of arrival, and entry depends on capacity.

A monthly open board game night centered on modern strategy titles and social play for adults. Past gatherings have been small, about 4 to 8 people, and there is room for more players. The game selection changes each session and is chosen by those who attend. Bring a favorite to share or jump into a table using one of the store's demo games. Whether you like engine builders, cooperative play, eurogames, or lighter strategy, everyone is welcome and no experience is required. Activities take place in the upstairs mezzanine game area and will wrap up before the store closes. Participants will need to enroll in Goblin Bros' free loyalty program, which earns points with each visit. If stairs are a concern, the downstairs room can be arranged with advance notice. Attend solo or with friends, and first-time players are encouraged.

At Victory House, Kris the Trivia Guy leads a high-spirited trivia night, keeping the crowd engaged with tricky questions and plenty of personality. It offers a fun challenge for trivia buffs from the area who enjoy testing their knowledge in a lively setting.

Every Thursday night, Simmer Claw Bar hosts a karaoke experience that stands out in Sonoma County. Singers are encouraged to step into the spotlight and perform for the whole dining room, so bring plenty of energy and be ready to command the room. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and family friendly, with opportunities for both kids and adults to participate. Enjoy the show alongside food from the kitchen, with a focus on genuine performances rather than the usual karaoke routine. Whether you take the mic or cheer from your seat, you become part of the action.

DJ Trivia brings a live, interactive trivia game to Galvan's Eatery, led by a DJ who hosts a screen-based competition. Teams match wits with others in the room for a spirited contest focused on fun. Attendees can arrive with friends to form a team or come solo and join new teammates. Prizes may be available, and the event is family friendly. Businesses interested in visibility during the show can explore advertising during the live games.

The Lone Bellow steps into a new chapter centered on their sixth studio album, What A Time To Be Alive. For the first time they wrote the songs as a full touring unit, with founding members Zach Williams, Brian Elmquist, and Kanene Pipkin joined by drummer Julian Dorio and multi-instrumentalist Tyler Geertsma. Tracked live in Muscle Shoals, Alabama after a creative retreat in a converted Kentucky firehouse, the record channels the electricity of their stage show into music that feels warm, candid, and grounded in human connection. It celebrates friendship and love, faces loss and hardship, and leans on resilience. The process was not without obstacles, including the theft of early recordings, and the support from fans affirmed that their music is something shared. Since their 2013 debut the band has appeared on The Tonight Show, Austin City Limits, and The Late Show, topped Americana charts, and headlined renowned venues from Carnegie Hall to the Ryman Auditorium. This moment highlights an ongoing commitment to building community in performance, in song, and around the table.

A casual get together for board game enthusiasts, organized by Meetup members, at Round Table Pizza in Petaluma. Participants play board games in a relaxed, social setting.

Young golfers can discover the game in a welcoming setting through beginner clinics at Foxtail Golf Club. Using the Pathway Program from the US Kids Coaches Institute, each session introduces fundamentals step by step, keeping it engaging while building confidence. Instruction is led by US Kids Golf Certified Coaches to provide consistent, high quality guidance for developing players. It offers a fun way to stay active in the fall and encourages a love for the sport that can last for years to come. An additional processing fee of up to 5 percent will be added.

Celebrate compassionate, healthy and sustainable living at a vibrant North Bay gathering set at the Santa Rosa Veterans Building. This indoor and outdoor festival highlights plant-based food and eco-minded lifestyles in a welcoming community setting. Taste delicious vegan dishes and refreshing drinks from local and Bay Area vendors, explore animal-themed art, connect with nonprofits, and discover sustainable products and free samples. Throughout the day, enjoy engaging speakers, hands-on cooking demonstrations, and live music. Families will find a dedicated kids zone filled with activities, and children under 13 get in free.

Geotrek is a sponsor of the California Overland Adventure & Power Sports Show in Sonoma County, offering hands-on access to its latest models. Attendees can step inside completed builds, take a close look at the craftsmanship, and speak with the team about floor plans and off-grid features. The show is held at the Sonoma County Event Center, set against a landscape of vineyards. Overnight camping is available on site at the Sonoma Fairgrounds RV Park.

The September session centers on natural soap making, where participants learn to create bars from scratch using herbs, botanicals, and nourishing oils. This small, hands-on gathering takes place on a private seven-acre property in the Sebastopol and Freestone area, surrounded by open meadow and old-growth redwood and bay laurel forest. No prior experience is needed. The workshop welcomes women and those who identify as female, with an intimate group size of up to 13. All materials and supplies are provided, light refreshments are included, and aprons are available. Everyone leaves with a handmade product to take home. Sessions typically run two to three hours and are part of a year-round series that invites a slower pace and a return to traditional home and land skills. Single workshop tickets are $60. Series passes are available at $160 for three workshops, $299 for six, and $549 for twelve, with flexible scheduling and priority registration for the full-year option. A minimum of four registered participants is required for the workshop to run. Full address and parking information are shared after registration. Private group sessions can be arranged by contacting Sunee at 707-483-5312.

An early evening paddle on the Petaluma River, often called the city’s longest park, aligns with the Harvest Moon, when the moon rises ahead of sunset and daylight lingers as the night sky begins to glow. Participants travel together in stable, stay-dry Hobie pedal kayaks with a local expert, kept to a small group of up to 10 guests for an easygoing outing that lets the season, scenery, and good company take center stage. The Harvest Moon traditionally honors gratitude and the earth’s abundance, and in Petaluma that spirit extends to appreciation for the river and the community shaped around it, past and present. The timing pairs well with dinner or drinks downtown beforehand, a peaceful glide during sunset and moonrise, and late snacks or a nightcap afterward. Participants also receive 15% off at TAPS on The River after the paddle. Kayak, PFD, lights, and an experienced guide are provided for a moonlit experience on the water.

Now in its 12th year, Tri to Inspire, previously known as the DJFE Triathlon Race Series, is a triathlon friendly to families and welcoming to athletes of all abilities. The experience is untimed and non-competitive, making it a comfortable first step for newcomers while still providing a satisfying day for experienced participants who appreciate a supportive, community-focused setting. The course begins with a pool swim at the Finley Aquatic Center, then continues with a flat, beginner-friendly bike and run along the Santa Rosa Creek Trail. Each registration includes a commemorative finisher medal, a swim cap, and an athlete goody bag. Proceeds support Inspiration Sports Foundation, a local 501(c)(3) that helps youth in Sonoma County through sports and fitness programs. Registration will open soon.

Set on the Petaluma River, this stand up paddleboard yoga session offers a calm, water-based practice in the heart of downtown. It begins with a short, easy paddle from The Floathouse docks to get comfortable on the board, and kneeling is always welcome. After reaching a quiet spot, boards are anchored together so the tide does not disrupt the flow. Participants then move, stretch, breathe, and rest with supportive instruction. The experience welcomes all levels, with no prior yoga or paddleboarding required. All equipment is included, featuring extra-stable boards that are 34 inches wide and 11 feet long to help you feel steady. The session lasts 90 minutes and the cost is $50.

Enjoy a relaxed board game meetup at the downtown Round Table, next to Goblin Bros Petaluma. The setting is typically quiet with room to spread out, creating a comfortable place to play. A range of games is available, from easy to learn options for all ages to deeper strategy titles, and helpful guidance is offered for anyone interested in learning something new. Compared with the Friday game nights, this gathering allows for longer sessions and Euro themed games.