September may be closely tied to harvest season, but Sonoma Valley's creative side runs just as deep. It shows up in galleries, pottery studios, culinary workshops, local makers, live performances, public art, and the landscapes that continue to inspire artists. With the Sonoma Plein Air Festival returning September 14–19, 2026, this is a fitting month to explore the creative side of Sonoma, Glen Ellen, and Kenwood.
Watch Sonoma Become the Canvas
Sonoma Plein Air is one of the Valley's signature September traditions, bringing artists outdoors to paint vineyards, architecture, trees, hillsides, and everyday Sonoma scenes. The week culminates with the Art Show and Sale on Sonoma Plaza on September 19, where visitors can see the finished work and meet the artists behind it.
That same creative energy carries into the galleries and studios downtown.
Wander Sonoma's Art Scene
Downtown Sonoma makes it easy to add art to an afternoon out. The Sonoma Art Walk connects artists, galleries, and businesses around the Plaza, while the Arts Guild of Sonoma features local and regional artists and the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art brings rotating exhibitions into the mix. Even a quick stop into one gallery can turn a walk around the Plaza into something more.
Make Something Yourself
For those who'd rather create than observe, the Sonoma Community Center offers ceramics, painting, drawing, printmaking, fiber arts, and culinary workshops, while Art Escape Sonoma adds more hands-on programming. Whether it's a pottery wheel, a paintbrush, or a knife and cutting board, a class is a more personal way to experience the local creative scene.
That same spirit carries into the shops and studios throughout the Valley.
Discover Local Makers
Ceramics, jewelry, textiles, photography, paintings, and handcrafted home goods can be found in shops, studios, galleries, and rotating displays across Sonoma Valley. Looking at who made something can turn a simple shopping stop into a closer connection with the people creating in the area.
Find Inspiration in Glen Ellen
In Glen Ellen, the landscape itself becomes part of the creative experience. Jack London State Historic Park has long attracted painters and photographers drawn to its historic buildings, vineyards, redwoods, oak trees, and changing light. Bring a camera, a sketchbook, or simply take a slower walk and notice the scenery from a different perspective.
Take in Theater and Live Music
Sonoma's creative side comes alive on stage, too. Sonoma Arts Live, based at the Sonoma Community Center, opens its 2026–27 season this September. The historic Sebastiani Theatre continues to host films, concerts, and live performances, while Music in Place brings free live music to the Plaza through its Sonoma Sundays series.
See Sonoma a Little Differently This September
Sonoma Plein Air may put painting in the spotlight, but it's only one part of a much broader creative community. Take a workshop, visit a gallery, discover a local maker, see a performance, or simply look at the Valley with fresh eyes.
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This post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence and reviewed by the marketing team at Coldwell Banker Brokers of the Valley.
