Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival

The Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival, a celebration that has become a staple in the Healdsburg area of California, is an event that encapsulates the spirit of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and family fun. This annual gathering, now in its 16th year, is often simply referred to as the Steelhead Festival by locals and repeat attendees who eagerly anticipate its return every February.

The festival is designed for a wide and diverse audience, including families, nature enthusiasts, anglers, and anyone interested in environmental conservation. It attracts between 8,000 to 12,000 people each year, making it a significant community event. The target audience includes children and adults alike, with activities tailored to cater to all ages. Notable guests and performers include local musicians who provide live music, experts from various environmental organizations, and volunteers from groups such as the Bird Rescue Center, Sonoma Water, CAL FIRE, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

The event takes place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Milt Brandt Visitor Center and the Congressman Don Clausen Fish Hatchery, located at 3288 Skaggs Springs Road in Geyserville, California. This venue is nestled near Lake Sonoma, a beautiful and serene setting that offers a glimpse into the natural habitats of the region. For those planning to attend, the nearest city is Healdsburg, and the area is accessible via Highway 101. While cell phone reception is limited in the area, the scenic drive and the promise of a day filled with activities make the journey worthwhile.

The setting of the festival is as much a part of its appeal as the activities themselves. Lake Sonoma, with its sprawling waters and surrounding landscapes, provides a picturesque backdrop for the event. The Milt Brandt Visitor Center and the Don Clausen Fish Hatchery serve as the central hubs, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment. Here, visitors can watch steelhead trout navigate the fish ladder, a spectacle that is both mesmerizing and educational.

The festival offers a myriad of signature experiences that make it a unique and engaging event. Live music performances set the tone for a festive atmosphere, while activities such as fish casting, archery range sessions, and a mobile aquarium provide hands-on experiences for attendees. The ever-popular bubble show, arts and crafts sessions, and fishing-themed games ensure that children are entertained throughout the day. For the more curious, there are fish dissection demonstrations, stream walks, and educational talks about coho salmon and steelhead trout.

Food and beverage options are plentiful, with food trucks offering a variety of cuisines and local beer and wine booths providing refreshments for adults. The silent auction, benefiting the Friends of Lake Sonoma, features donations from local businesses, including gift cards, dining certificates, and overnight stays at local inns and hotels.

The Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the natural world and the community’s commitment to its preservation. It provides a platform for over 60 exhibitors to educate and entertain, making it an indispensable part of the region’s cultural calendar. Whether you are an avid angler, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a fun and educational outing with the family, the Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival has something to offer everyone. It is an event that inspires a deeper appreciation for the environment, fosters community spirit, and leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.