How to Celebrate Women’s History Month in Sonoma County

In 1980, a group of Santa Rosa women formed the National Women’s History Project after noticing an absence of women in school textbooks: Only 3% of the content was devoted to women throughout history and their achievements.

The National Women’s History Project (now known as the National Women’s History Alliance) mobilized and convinced Congress of the need to acknowledge and celebrate annually women’s role in history, leading to the first official National Women’s History Week during the week of March 8, 1980 (to coincide with International Women’s Day). Seven years later, the alliance led a successful campaign to officially declare the month of March as National Women’s History Month.

Since then, the alliance and institutions across the country celebrated women’s historical achievements every year. The theme for Women’s History Month changes annually, recognizing the countless ways women from all cultures have provided healing and hope to the world throughout history and to this day. Over the years, more diverse perspectives have shaped the annual celebration. But the foremost goal of the month remains the same: To provide education on how women helped shape the nation and to empower children by introducing them to historical role models.

Sonoma County honors the month with various in-person and virtual events, exhibitions and group discussions. Here are a few ways to learn about and celebrate women’s history.

Events

From educational presentations to powerful exhibitions, Sonoma County hosts many events to celebrate the women who have made a difference in the place where Women’s History Month was born. For specific details, current dates, and information, see our Calendar of Events (and make sure to check back as new happenings are added). For special activations at local galleries, visit our Arts & Culture page.

A Toast to Women

Sonoma County wineries, breweries, and restaurants also host celebratory experiences, from curated menus, music lineups, and themed activities. See what’s happening in the tap and tasting rooms, visit a local women-owned business and meet the women winemakers behind some of Sonoma County’s most celebrated wines. Find a lineup of live music here.

Girls Trip!

Celebrate the women in your life with a good, old-fashioned girls getaway. Celebrate Mom, fellow moms, sisters, friends, or girlfriends with a spa day or a true Wine Country getaway. Go wine tasting in Healdsburg or head to Sonoma Valley for gourmet food, fun, and a bit of history.

For more inspiration, see how Sonoma County honors International Women’s Day.