Beat June Gloom in fields of Sonoma Lavender

Suddenly it’s June and you’re feeling gloomy with all that fog surrounding the San Francisco Bay. Here’s a savvy way to handle June gloom: drive north and get lost in Sonoma’s Lavender fields. Sonoma Lavender’s annual Open House takes place three weekends in June.

Sonoma Lavender is family-owned and operated by Rebecca and Gary Rosenberg, who cultivate, tend and harvest around five acres of lavender. Local artisans hand-craft their lavender into unique products available for purchase during the Open House (and also online). The Rosenberg’s say lavender is known for its balancing properties.

“If you are weary and have low energy, lavender is energizing; if you are feeling overstressed, lavender is calming and soothes frazzled nerves. Lavender revitalizes the body and tends the spirit, bringing you back to a state of balance.”

Formerly the Sonoma Lavender Festival was held in June, but the Sonoma Lavender Barn Open House seems to have taken its place. Over three weekends, the Open House will provide a laid back herb-infused experience in the Sonoma County town of Kenwood.

The Sonoma Lavender barn is open to the public only during Open House weekends and the occasional annual warehouse sale, so this is the time to go.

Not much is going on really, but the idea is to just relax and take in the view, breath in the lavender, and chill out. You can take advantage of U-Cut fresh lavender opportunity and get 20-50% off retail prices of hundreds of lavender products including hot/cold wraps, lavender bath & body, diffusers, candles, gifts, sachets, bouquets.

While you’re in Sonoma Valley, check out a few other fun things to do in Wine Country.

Sonoma Lavender: Know Before You Go

I’ll report back on any changes this year after the event. In the meantime, here what need to know if you’re planning to go.

UPDATE: After the first weekend for the 2016 event, I received this notice:

SONOMA LAVENDER OPEN HOUSE IS CANCELLED IN KENWOOD CALIFORNIA JUNE 25 AND JUNE 26.

Due to traffic and safety issues the Sonoma Lavender Open House is cancelled in Kenwood California June 25 and June 26. The fields are closed for viewing. No cars or pedestrians will be allowed near the fields. The fire marshal and highway patrol Have advised us to close due to overwhelming traffic. We are sorry for any inconvience. Products can be purchased at www.sonomalavendershop.com.

Event — Sonoma Lavender Open House at Sonoma Lavender Barn.
Cost — $5 per person, refunded with purchase.
Dates — Each year in June.
Location — Sonoma Lavender Barn, 8537 Sonoma Hwy (Hwy 12), Kenwood, CA, Phone 707-523-4411 ext. 2.
Savvy Tip — Turn East at Chateau St. Jean winery and follow the signs.