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San Francisco is tucked away in a magical little corner of California. It’s surrounded by rolling hills and the beautiful wine region of Napa Valley. Known for its vineyard tours and incredible eateries, it’s also home to a different kind of escapism that people often overlook. And, with spring on the horizon, this is the type of renewal that us city dwellers are really craving.
Less than two hours from the heart of San Francisco lies Sonoma County, a time capsule of an escape right at our fingertips. Native communities discovered the region’s hot springs long before Europeans arrived on American soil, and their traditions continue to be honored today. With ancient spa rituals still practiced and storied venues like the Sebastiani Theatre alive with concerts, Sonoma County offers a kind of escape that reaches far beyond a boozy weekend.
Hot springs and natural spa escapism at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
The Boyes Hot Springs have been a destination for wellness lovers for over a century. Honing in on the legacy of the natural springs, and one of the first established health spas in Sonoma County, is the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa.Â
Fairmont is a historic wellness sanctuary offering the perfect form of escapism. Its acclaimed spa blends these ancient waters with luxurious treatments, geothermal mineral pools, and tranquil rituals that celebrate both the history and therapeutic power of Sonoma’s natural springs. Not to mention, numerous renowned restaurants and access to Sonoma Golf Club.
Musical escapism at the historic Sebastiani Theatre
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But in Sonoma County, escapism goes beyond spa days and hotel stays—it’s about stepping back in time. A true time capsule of this spirit is the iconic Sebastiani Theatre. Built as a gift to the community in 1933, the beautifully preserved venue is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the North Bay. Still fully functioning today, it remains the beating heart of a community that deeply values tradition, art, and culture.
At the Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma, you’ll find a diverse lineup of cultural and entertainment events set within a historic Italian Renaissance–style venue on the Sonoma Plaza. From screenings of classic films to performances by local musicians and theater companies, the programming feels both timeless and intimate. The theatre also offers a rare opportunity to step even further back in time, hosting the world-renowned Candlelight concert series and its enchanting evenings of classical music.
Candlelight: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons
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4.91
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Sebastiani Theatre
Candlelight: Tribute to ABBA & More
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4.79
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Sebastiani Theatre
Candlelight: From Classical to Pop
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4.84
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April 18, 2026 5:00 PM
Sebastiani Theatre
Candlelight: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
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4.86
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April 18, 2026 7:00 PM
Sebastiani Theatre