By Megan Eileen McDonough

 

Having trouble locking down dates for your Marin County vacation? Thanks to Northern California’s near-perfect year-round weather, there’s never a wrong time to visit. That said, if you’re hoping to celebrate an upcoming holiday, it’s best to time your visit accordingly. Whether you’re in search of avant-garde art or eager to sample the innovative local food scene, Marin offers something for every taste and temperament.

 

Winter

Marin Symphony - Holiday Choral Concerts

What better way to get in the holiday spirit than with a concert by candlelight? Throughout December, the Marin Symphony Chamber Chorus and special guests sing Christmas carols in the Church of Saint Raphael. Even if you're not religious, it's a performance worth seeing for the acoustics alone! 

Festival du Chocolat

Satisfy your wine pallet in Larkspur during Left Bank Brasseries' annual arrival of Le Beaujolais Nouveau! Join the Left Bank locations for Beaujolais Nouveau, a festive French holiday celebrating the release of Beaujolais Nouveau wine!
By law, Beaujolais Nouveau is celebrated in France on the third Thursday of November every year. Made from the Gamay grape, this wine is like a light-bodied Pinot Noir and has fresh, fruity flavors that pair perfectly with autumn dishes. Experience this mirthful, vibrant holiday with a glass of Beaujolais Nouveau wine!

 

Spring

Easter Egg Hunts

Even if you don't celebrate Easter, you can still hunt for eggs. Many Easter egg hunts take place throughout Marin County, and, naturally, kids love them. For example, Larkspur hosts an Easter Celebration & Easter Egg Hunt at the Marin Country Mart  Farmer's Market. There are plenty of activities, from bunny art to pony rides.

Wine, Beer and Gourmet Food Tasting

This annual Mill Valley festival always draws a big crowd, and for good reason. Attendees can sample wine from 60 top-tier wineries and food from local restaurants. As if that isn't enough, there are also 15 breweries represented and more than a fair share of craft beers for the taking. When it comes to Marin culinary events, this is the best of the best.

 

Summer

Mountain Play

The Mountain Play has been serving the Bay Area community since 1913. The Mountain Play isn't just a wonderful theater and outdoor experience; it can also be an incredible dining experience. Many attendees choose to pack along gourmet picnics, combining the stunning views and award-winning entertainment with a fantastic feast.

Sound Summit

Held in an intimate venue set amidst an expansive landscape, Sound Summit is a musical gathering like no other in the Bay Area. The festival is staged at the historic Mountain Theater, a 4000-seat natural stone amphitheater with stunning views of San Francisco Bay and beyond. Add a sun-filled day, a resonant cause, and a healthy dose of joy, spice generously with stellar music, and you have a recipe for a magical mountain brew.

Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival

Calling all art connoisseurs! Stop by the annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival to view work from over 140 artists from across the country. Throughout the weekend there is also live music to keep you entertained and plenty of programs for kids, too. The festival takes place in the redwood grove of Old Mill Park. 

 

Fall

Mill Valley Film Festival

Founded in 1977, this 10-day showcase features films from around the world. Every year, the event attracts more than 200 filmmakers from 50 countries, both up-and-coming and established. If you're a fan of American independent or foreign films (or both), this festival is a must! Plus, it’s a great networking opportunity.

Farmers Markets

In Marin, there are farmers markets open year-round, but fall is arguably the best season to sample fresh produce. Stock up on picnic eats or just chat with the farmers. Either way, you’ll get a real sense of the community. The granddaddy of Marin Farmers Markets is at the Marin Civic Center on Sundays and Thursdays year-round. You can also shop at markets in Mill Valley and Larkspur, open around 9 a.m., with other locations like Fairfax and San Anselmo sticking to afternoon hours.

 

Anytime

Second Friday Art Walks

Every second Friday of the month, San Rafael's downtown turns into an art party. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., view new work from the city's best galleries and artist studios. Many venues provide complimentary wine and snacks along with live music or a DJ. Kids will enjoy the outing as well, especially because there are youth art activities regularly scheduled.

 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website or Facebook page.