Fun Things to Do in the Napa Valley Now!
December and January are the slowest months for tourism in the Napa Valley. That is why it is a good time to travel to the Napa Valley. There are many beautiful days in December. The vines always look lovely when bare and dormant for the winter. Here are seven fun things to do in the Napa Valley in December.
1. Visit wineries and tasting room with art galleries and exhibits
There several wineries in the Napa Valley that have art galleries and art exhibits. These wineries are usually bustling with visitors during the high season but not in December. Two favorites or ours are Mumm Napa and Hess Collection winery. Check out the Art and Winery Wine Trail.
2. Calistoga Winter in the Wineries Passport
Each winter season, 16 wineries in the Calistoga AVA provide what they call a Passport Season. For $60 travelers can purchase a Passport that provides free tasting fees at each of the wineries. In addition, the passport provides free corkage at participating Calistoga restaurants and discounts for lodging. The Passport begins on December 7, 2019, and runs to February 9. 2020.
With the tasting fees at Napa Vallely wineries averaging $30, the price tag of $60 is a fantastic deal. Check it out here.
3. Paupers Feast at the Calistoga Inn
The Pauper’s Feast is held every December in the restaurant at the Calistoga Inn. The date for 2019 is Wednesday, December 18. There is a set menu at a very reasonable price and a local group that sings Holiday cheer. The Pauper’s Feast is such a fun event. It is mostly locals, and everyone is bursting with joy. The evening is memorable.
Reservations are recommended at the Calistoga Inn Restaurant. If you cannot make the Pauper’s Feast, you can substitute a walk up and down the streets of Calistoga. Calistoga is much more laid back than the rest of the Napa Valley. There are plenty of tasting rooms, boutique shops, quaint restaurants, and even a museum. Calistoga rocks!
4. Wild Mustard Scene
Towards the end of December, wild mustard will begin to grow in between the rows of vines. Wild Mustard is one of the most beautiful scenes to witness. The beauty is remarkable and it will cheer the soul. Take a drive up some of the mountain routes to catch Mustard on the hillsides.
5. Yountville Stroll
Yountville has many quaint shops, art studios, and tasting rooms.
We like to stroll Yountville from the landmark V Market Place (1870) north to the trendy R & D Kitchen restaurant. It is about a mile, and there is so much to see. If you have some extra time for a walk or run, take Yount Mill Road. Look for the Bardesanno Hotel and start your trek there. More on Yountville.
6. Take a wine tour
Wine tours are better in December. You will get more attention. There are fewer crowds; therefore, more time to spend with you. We like the tour at Hendry Ranch; it is the best. We also like Beringer Vineyards and Schramsberg. Book ahead for these tours.
7. Cocktails and Appetizers at the Acacia House
It is always a great time to cozy up in a friendly, warm lounge with a fireplace. One of our favorite spots is the Acacia House. It is also an excellent place for dinner. The Acacia House is an enjoyable spot for a glass of wine or a cocktail along with some nibbles. Relax and enjoy this serene spot.
