California Artisan Cheese Festival 2025

Every spring, cheese enthusiasts from across the country flock to Santa Rosa, California, for the California Artisan Cheese Festival, which highlights the artistry, flavors, and stories behind some of the nation’s finest cheeses. Nestled in Sonoma County, a region renowned for its culinary excellence, this festival offers attendees a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tradition of cheese-making while enjoying the perfect pairing of locally produced wines. The three-day event runs from 8:30 am to 4 pm at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Santa Rosa,

Sonoma County’s rolling hills and temperate climate make it a premier location for artisan cheese production. Home to numerous small farms and creameries, the area prides itself on its sustainable practices and dedication to quality. Many of these creameries use milk from pasture-raised cows, goats, and sheep, ensuring exceptional flavor and texture in their cheeses. Complementing this cheese culture are Sonoma’s world-class wineries, providing a symphony of flavors that enhance the experience of pairing wine and cheese.

Festival Highlights

The festival’s main highlights showcase this incredible bounty. From interactive cheese tastings and pairing workshops to chef demonstrations and live cooking competitions, the event offers an in-depth look at the world of cheese. Attendees can socialize with the artisans behind their favorite cheeses, sample diverse varieties, and discover new favorites. For those interested in more than just tasting, the festival includes seminars that dive into the science and art of cheese-making, offering insights into everything from aging techniques to pairing tips.

Festival Schedule

The festival runs over three days, with a thoughtfully curated schedule designed to engage, educate, and delight attendees. On Friday, the festival usually kicks off with guided tours of local farms and creameries, giving participants an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making process. Visitors can meet the farmers, see the animals, and learn about the sustainable practices that make Sonoma County cheeses so exceptional.

Saturday is dedicated to learning, with expert-led seminars on topics like cheese history, pairing techniques, and the nuances of various cheese styles. The Cheese Crawl takes participants through downtown Santa Rosa, where local shops, bars, and restaurants offer exclusive cheese-inspired dishes and pairings. This lively, interactive event is perfect for those who love discovering new flavors in a festive setting. The festival culminates with a grand tasting event and marketplace on Sunday. Attendees can sample cheeses from over 100 producers, pair them with local wines, and shop for artisan foods, cheese-making supplies, and more.

California Artisan Cheese Festival brings together the best of Sonoma County’s culinary culture in one place. The event captures the region’s passion for high-quality, locally sourced food and its commitment to sustainable practices. For anyone seeking a weekend of indulgence, education, and discovery, the festival will become a real treat in all senses.

Tickets

Admission usually ranges from $30 to $75, depending on the ticket’s type and visiting hours. Feel free to check the California Artisan Cheese Festival website for more up-to-date information in the External Resources section below.