News

Visitor’s Bureau is Newest Occupant of Toscano Hotel

The Sonoma Valley Visitor’s Bureau (SVVB) has moved into the Toscano Hotel at Sonoma State Historic Park, as part of a “Joint Powers Agreement” (JPA) between the City of Sonoma and CA Dept. of Parks & Recreation, Bay Area District. The first floor was professionally cleaned and the cages have been removed.  ADA accessible thresholds were installed at the entrances facing Spain Street. Read more.

Fandango Dances Celebrate Autumn in Petaluma

The spirit of a rancho celebration was once again alive at the Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park on a warm Saturday, September 20, 2025. This year’s festive FANDANGO, featuring Baile... Read more.

Nature & Community Fair Sparkles in the Casa Grande Plaza

California State Parks once again offered a wide array of fascinating exhibits in the annual Nature & Community Event on a steamy Saturday, August 23rd, 2025. Local environmental and civic organizations, as well as State Parks and SPParks invited participation in environmental conservation, restoration, preservation and education. Thanks to Dave Duplantier and Sonoma SHP staff for hosting another successful community event. Read more.

Warm Thanks for a Huge Crowd Hearing Alex Coburn

Alex Coburn sends a warm Thank You to SPParks and to the standing room only crowd that filled the Mission for his lecture, The Story of Us. "I just want to extend my heartfelt thanks for inviting me to speak at your event last night and share The Story of Us. It was such a genuine pleasure to be there, not only to present but to connect with such an engaged, thoughtful, and welcoming group of people. Read more.

Docent Picnic August 24, 2025

The Docent Organization annual potluck picnic will be Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Park Creek Village park, 3 pm – 6 pm. RSVP to Karen Pregler to indicate whether you... Read more.

Coburn Lecture in the News

Check out Daniel Johnson's story in the Sonoma Index Tribune, July 24th issue. Johnson's insightful profile of Alex Coburn digs deeper into Alex's background and motivation in preparation for his upcoming lecture, “The Story of Us: What Ancient Bones Have to Tell Us About Being Human.” Read more.

SPParks Leads Volunteers in July 4th Parade

SPParks extends a heartfelt thank you to the volunteers who participated in Sonoma’s “Road Trip” 4th of July parade. Along with the State Parks truck and mascot, Sonomie, we had... Read more.

International Children’s Day at the Barracks

On Sunday, June 8, 2025 Sonoma State Historic Park hosted International Children’s Day, in collaboration with La Luz Sonoma Valley. Hundreds of visitors and families enjoyed crafts tables, games, “tattoos”, Read more.

Toscano Tea Shines Spotlight on Historic Hotel, Kitchen and Dining Room

A great big THANK YOU to all our wonderful guests who joined SPParks volunteers for a lovely tea-fueled celebration of the Historic Toscano Hotel and Kitchen. On a glorious Spring... Read more.