Winters, CA is a hidden gem with an annual event lineup that rivals that of much larger cities. There are plenty of things to do in Winters, from wine tasting to farm-to-table dining, boutique shopping to outdoor activities. But the special events held in Winters throughout the year make a visit even more worthwhile.
Winters is a family-friendly community, as evidenced by the way people come together. Street festivals, holiday events, and live music are just a few of the events that draw both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a holiday escape, there are plenty of events in Winters you won’t want to miss. Consider planning your getaway around one of these popular events and be sure to check the lodging options in Winters before you book your trip.
Fall Events in Downtown Winters
Winters Bridge Dinner – September
Dine under the stars at the Winters Bridge Dinner, a memorable community gathering that brings together great food, local wine, and the beautiful scenery of Putah Creek. Guests enjoy a festive, family-style meal at a long table set on the historic Winters Putah Creek Bridge, creating a one-of-a-kind evening that celebrates the town’s agricultural roots and vibrant community spirit. It’s an experience that captures the charm of Winters while showcasing the best of the region.
Downtown Winters Harvest Fest – October
In a town with such a strong agricultural legacy, it’s no wonder that harvest season is one of the most important seasons of the year! To celebrate, Winters puts on a harvest festival to end all harvest festivals. Held at the end of October, the multi-day event features an open-air street market with local vendors offering their handmade and locally produced goods. There’ll be live music throughout the weekend, as well as food and drink specials. For the kiddos, there’ll be trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, and hands-on activities. There’s also a scarecrow contest where you can vote for the funniest, scariest, and best-dressed scarecrows around town. On Sunday, there’s a farmers’ market and a “spooktacular” fun run.
Winters Salmon Festival – November
Held each November, the Winters Salmon Festival celebrates the return of Chinook salmon (also known as King salmon) to lower Putah Creek. The salmon return to the creek every fall to spawn, and their numbers have been growing each year. The free festival celebrates the successful collaborative effort to restore portions of Putah Creek to encourage salmon to return. The event features live music, children’s activities, food trucks, and local vendors.
Visit Winters This Holiday Season
Winters Holiday Home Tour – November
Get into the holiday spirit with the Winters Holiday Home Tour, presented by Winters Collective. This festive annual event invites visitors to view some of Winters’ most beautifully decorated homes, each decked out in its own unique holiday style. It’s a wonderful way to experience the charm of Winters, find decorating inspiration, and enjoy a festive day celebrating the season and the community.
Holiday Tractor Parade & Holiday Tree Lighting – December
The biggest community event of the year is the Winters Holiday Tractor Parade, a family-friendly event held at the beginning of December. The stars of the show are the dozens of illuminated tractors (and fire engines!) decked out in sparkling string lights, shimmery tinsel, and colorful holiday bling. The tractors make their way through downtown for all to admire.
But the parade is only part of the celebration. It also includes the tree lighting ceremony, holiday marketplace featuring local vendors, food trucks, and activities for kids. There’s also live music, a hot cocoa crawl and an elf hunt. No holiday celebration would be complete without a visit from the man with the bag himself — Santa Claus. He and the missus will be on hand for photos in the Rotary Park gazebo.
Can’t-Miss Spring Events in Winters
Winters Spring Open – March
There’s no better way to welcome the changing of the seasons than the Winters Spring Open. The two-day festival includes kids’ activities, an Easter egg hunt, and a visit from the Easter bunny. There’s also a classic car show, fashion show, and live music. Hungry? There are food trucks, or you can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in town.
Winters Art & Wine Festival – May
Winters, and all of Yolo County, produce some amazing wines. This annual event, held in May, celebrates the wine industry. But it’s not just about wine — the festival also celebrates the artistic side of Winters as well. Dozens of local and regional artists display their work, and there is live music throughout the day. Local wineries offer tastes and artists are on hand to talk about their craft.
The Best Summer Events in Winters
Concerts at the Gazebo – June & July
Love live music? Then you’ll love visiting Winters on Thursday nights in summer. Concerts at the Gazebo in Rotary Park feature live music in a range of genres, from blues to rock, folk to jazz. You can bring your own chair or blanket to view the performance or get up and dance if the mood strikes. The free event is kid- and pet-friendly.
3rd of July Fireworks – July
Winters celebrates the red, white and blue each year with its annual 3rd of July Fireworks show. Family and friends can gather at the Winters High School football field to claim their spot and enjoy a picnic before the show. There are food trucks and local vendors as well.
Albariño Wine Stroll – August
Raise a glass to summer at the Winters Albariño Wine Stroll in August! This annual event celebrates one of the region’s favorite white wines with tastings of Albariño from local wineries, paired with delicious bites and specials at downtown Winters businesses. Stroll through town, sip your way from stop to stop, and enjoy the welcoming small-town atmosphere that makes Winters such a fun destination for a wine-filled getaway.
Other Seasonal Events in Winters
4th Friday Kickback & Classic Car Show – March – October
Winters’ small-town charm is on full display on the fourth Friday of the month March through October, where you can stroll Main Street, admire the lineup of classic cars, and enjoy food and drinks from your favorite spots.
Winters Farmers Market – April – October
Held every Sunday morning April through October, the Winters Farmers Market shows off local goodies produced in the region, including fresh fruit and veggies, nuts, honey, wine, flowers, and more. There are also food vendors.
Winters 2nd Saturday Art & Wine Stroll – May – October
Running May to October, this monthly art and wine stroll allows visitors to meet with area artists, watch live art demonstrations, and take advantage of food and drink specials at downtown businesses.
Book Your Escape to Winters Today!
Make a getaway of it and choose from a variety of places to stay. Hotel Winters is a four-star boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, offering comfortable accommodations along with an on-site spa, restaurant, and rooftop lounge. Abbey House Inn is a charming restored 1905 home with cozy guest rooms in historic downtown Winters. For a comfortable and convenient stay, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott offers modern accommodations and the familiar amenities of a trusted hotel brand.
Stay and savor the charm while getting to know the locals at one of the many can’t-miss events in Winters.