By Megan Eileen McDonough

 

Having trouble locking down dates for your Marin County vacation? Thanks to Northern California’s near-perfect year-round weather, there’s never a wrong time to visit. That said, if you’re hoping to celebrate an upcoming holiday, it’s best to time your visit accordingly. Whether you’re in search of avant-garde art or eager to sample the innovative local food scene, Marin offers something for every taste and temperament.

 

Winter

 

Marin Symphony - Holiday Choral Concerts

What better way to get in the holiday spirit than with a concert by candlelight? Throughout December, the Marin Symphony Chamber Chorus and special guests sing Christmas carols in the Church of Saint Raphael. Even if you're not religious, it's a performance worth seeing for the acoustics alone! General admission is $30 per person.

 

Festival du Chocolat

Satisfy your sweet tooth in Larkspur during Left Bank Brasseries' annual Festival du Chocolat. Everything from chocolate-infused savory dishes and decadent desserts to handcrafted libations is within reach. The festival is usually held a few days before Valentine’s Day, so there couldn’t be a better time to indulge in chocolate.

 

Spring

 

Easter Egg Hunts

Even if you don't celebrate Easter, you can still hunt for eggs. Many Easter egg hunts take place throughout Marin County, and, naturally, kids love them. For example, Larkspur hosts an Easter Celebration & Easter Egg Hunt at the Marin Country Mart Farmers Market. There are plenty of activities, from bunny art to pony rides.

 

Wine, Beer and Gourmet Food Tasting

This annual Mill Valley festival always draws a big crowd, and for good reason. Attendees can sample wine from 60 top-tier wineries and food from local restaurants. As if that isn't enough, there are also 15 breweries represented and more than a fair share of craft beers for the taking. When it comes to Marin culinary events, this is the best of the best.

 

Summer

 

California Beer Festival

There's no better way to cool off during the hot summer season than with a cold brew. Join in the celebration during the California Beer Festival, which features more than 70 craft brews on tap plus food vendors and live entertainment. Head to Stafford Lake Park and spend the day lounging with friends, music, food and, of course, beer!

 

Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival

Calling all art connoisseurs! Stop by the annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival to view work from over 140 artists from across the country. Throughout the weekend there is also live music to keep you entertained and plenty of programs for kids, too. The festival takes place in the redwood grove of Old Mill Park. Entrance is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

 

Fall

 

Mill Valley Film Festival

Founded in 1977, this 11-day showcase features films from around the world. Every year, the event attracts more than 200 filmmakers from 50 countries, both up-and-coming and established. If you're a fan of American independent or foreign films (or both), this festival is a must! Plus, it’s a great networking opportunity.

 

Farmers Markets

In Marin, there are farmers markets open year-round, but fall is arguably the best season to sample fresh produce. Stock up on picnic eats or just chat with the farmers. Either way, you’ll get a real sense of the community. The granddaddy of Marin Farmers Markets is at the Marin Civic Center on Sundays and Thursdays year-round. You can also shop at markets in Mill Valley and Larkspur, open around 9 a.m., with other locations like Fairfax and San Anselmo sticking to afternoon hours.

 

Anytime

 

Second Friday Art Walks

Every second Friday of the month, San Rafael's downtown turns into an art party. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., view new work from the city's best galleries and artist studios. Many venues provide complimentary wine and snacks along with live music or a DJ. Kids will enjoy the outing as well, especially because there are youth art activities regularly scheduled.

 

Off the Grid Food Trucks

Thursday is food day in Marin. Running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Off the Grid is your chance to sample some of Marin's best grub. In a nutshell, it's a one-stop-shop to sample gourmet food from vendors, whether you’re craving sliders or tacos.

 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website or Facebook page.