Windsor, California — Sonoma Wine Country
Events & Things to Do in Windsor, CA in March 2026
Your complete guide to what’s happening in Windsor this March — from the biggest craft beer event of the year to year-round winery experiences.
March is a fantastic time to visit Windsor, California. The weather is warming up, the vineyards are beginning their seasonal awakening, and the town’s most anticipated annual event draws craft beer fans from across the country. Whether you’re a local looking for something fun to do or a visitor planning a Sonoma County getaway, here’s your guide to March 2026 in Windsor.
🍺 Featured Event: Pliny the Younger Release at Russian River Brewing
Pliny the Younger Annual Release — Windsor Brewpub
This is THE event of the season for Windsor and one of the most celebrated craft beer happenings in all of California. Russian River Brewing Company releases its legendary and intensely hopped Triple IPA, Pliny the Younger, for just two weeks every year — and the Windsor location is ground zero.
The 2026 release runs March 20 through April 2, daily from 11 AM to 10 PM. Beer lovers travel from across the country (and beyond) to wait in line for a chance to enjoy Pliny on tap and take home a couple of bottles. Lines can start forming as early as 5–6 AM on weekends, and waits of several hours are common — but the festive atmosphere in line is half the fun.
Each guest receives a wristband upon entry and is allotted up to 2.5 hours inside the pub, with three 10-oz pours and the option to purchase up to two bottles. The Windsor location has more food options than the Santa Rosa pub, a spacious indoor area, and a dog-friendly indoor patio that opens when the weather cooperates.
Pro Tip: Midweek evenings tend to have shorter waits at the Windsor location. Come prepared for rain on early weekends — check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella if needed.
🍷 Things to Do in Windsor in March 2026
Beyond the Pliny the Younger release, Windsor offers plenty of year-round experiences that are especially enjoyable during the quieter, early-spring month of March. Here are some of the best things to do while you’re in town.
🍇 Visit Windsor’s Wine Tasting Rooms
Windsor sits in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country, with over 50 wineries within just 5 miles. March is an excellent time to visit tasting rooms before the busy summer season hits — expect a more relaxed, personal experience with winery staff. Notable tasting rooms in and around Windsor include La Crema Winery, Martinelli Winery, Notre Vue Estate Winery, Bricoleur Vineyards, and Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards.
Explore Windsor’s Beverage District →🌿 Explore the Windsor Town Green
The Windsor Town Green is the social heart of the community and a great place to stroll in March. The walkable downtown surrounding the Green is home to local restaurants, coffee shops like Café Noto, boutique shops, and casual bars. In spring, the area begins to come alive after the winter months — grab a coffee, browse the shops on Market Street, and soak in the small-town Sonoma County charm.
🚂 Arrive by SMART Train
If you’re coming from elsewhere in Sonoma or Marin County, the SMART rail line stops right in downtown Windsor — just steps from the Town Green, restaurants, and tasting rooms. It’s a convenient and stress-free way to visit, especially if you plan to sample wines or beers during your stay.
SMART Train Info →🍺 Explore Windsor’s Craft Brewery Scene
Russian River Brewing is Windsor’s most famous brewery, but the town’s craft beverage scene extends well beyond one name. Windsor is home to over a dozen breweries, cideries, and distilleries. March is a great time to explore local taprooms outside of the Pliny the Younger rush, including stops at Barley & Bine Beer Cafe (7765 Bell Road, Windsor).
🌳 Get Outside: Sonoma County Parks & Trails
March’s cooler temperatures and greening hills make it ideal for outdoor exploration around Windsor. Nearby Sonoma County regional parks offer hiking and nature walks with views of the wine country countryside. It’s wildflower season in the making — get out and enjoy the scenery before the summer crowds arrive.
Sonoma County Parks →
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Contact TIV360 Today →📅 Plan Your Windsor March 2026 Visit
March in Windsor, California is defined by one word: Pliny. The annual release of Pliny the Younger at Russian River Brewing is a bucket-list experience for craft beer enthusiasts and draws visitors from across the country. Whether you’re lining up at dawn for the Windsor brewpub or catching a midweek evening pour, it’s an event unlike anything else in California.
Pair your brewery visit with a stroll through downtown Windsor, a stop at one of the area’s celebrated wine tasting rooms, and a meal at a local restaurant, and you’ve got a complete and memorable March day trip or weekend getaway in Sonoma Wine Country.
Check back on this page and the Town of Windsor’s official events calendar for any additional events added for March 2026 as the month approaches.
Town of Windsor Official Events Calendar →
