About Occidental
Occidental is a small census-designated place in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County. Despite its small size, however, it has more than enough activities and attractions to keep visitors busy. Founded in 1875, Occidental’s growth was originally due to the North Pacific Coast Railroad stop, which brought in San Francisco vacationers and transported the town’s timber out to the Bay Area. Although the trains have stopped and the sawmills have been silenced, Occidental still sees quite a few tourists drawn by the natural beauty and exceptional wines of the Russian River Valley.
Beyond the town’s excellent local wineries, Occidental has a lot to offer visitors. For a place of its size, it has quite a vibrant arts scene. In addition to the numerous local galleries lining its streets, Occidental Center for the Performing & Visual Arts and the Redwood Arts Council ensure that there are always artistic events lined up. Visitors can enjoy a concert by the Occidental Community Choir or a chamber music presentation during their stay. For the more active visitors, the nearby Russian River provides many opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and swimming. The 80 acre Occidental Arts and Ecology Center is a delightful marriage of nature and culture.
Occidental Facts
The Russian River Valley town of Occidental exudes history and charm. Established in 1876, this town of about 1,500 offers excellent arts and cultural experiences, pretty farms and gardens, watersports, fun annual events, and access to the many fine wineries found in this region of Sonoma County.
Occidental was the center of community-based social movements in the 1960s and 1970s. As a result, the Morningstar, Wheeler Ranch and Star Mountain communes were founded nearby. The town was once famous for its Italian restaurants, which served food family style at a fixed price. Notable Occidental residents include Tom Waits, Mickey Hart, Nick Gravenites, Max Theiriot and Alicia Bay Laurel.
Location / Terrain:
The terrain of Occidental is characterized by the Russian River, coastal foothills and vineyards.Population: 1115
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Occidental Map:
View Location On MapOccidental Zip Code:
95465Occidental Elevation:
594 feet
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Occidental is a great destination for those who love wine, the arts and nature. It is suitable for families, couples and groups of friends.Upcoming Events In Occidental
Borromeo String Quartet Watch The Music!
Charley Orlando
Oaec Tour
Mark Mcdonald Band
Joanne Rand-local Legend In Concert
Dave Hamilton
Occidental's Annual Events
Harvest Market Festival
Top Picks for Occidental
Occidental Arts and Ecology Center
Occidental Chamber of Commerce
Occidental Community Choir
Howard Station Café
Laurence Glass Works
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Occidental California Information
Established in 1876, the historic town of Occidental, in the coastal foothills of the Russian River Valley, has long been a favorite stop for those exploring pristine Sonoma County. There are plenty of things to do and see here and Occidental has much to offer, from unique shops, art galleries, and excellent wineries to fine restaurants, choice lodgings, and a wealth of outdoor pursuits.
Occidental is a town rich in the arts and culture. While you're there, enjoy a concert by the Occidental Community Choir or take in a chamber music presentation, sponsored by the local Redwood Arts Council. The Occidental Center for the Performing & Visual Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to finding a home for the arts in Occidental, sponsoring and promoting a variety of events throughout the year.
Environmental enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, an 80-acre area that encompasses wildlands of meadows and mixed oak, fir and redwood forests. The center receives about 3,000 visitors per year and offers lectures and classes as well as tours.
More outdoor activities can be enjoyed on and along the Russian River, including fishing, canoeing and kayaking, and much more.
The area is also known for its organic gardens and Christmas tree farms. Many Bay Area residents make their way to Occidental each year to choose their family Christmas tree, a tradition that is passed from generation to generation.
Each year, the residents of Occidental join together for their Harvest Market Festival, which attracts many visitors from neighboring towns. The festival, planned by the Occidental Chamber of Commerce, features a costume parade, scarecrow making, pumpkin carving, a haunted house, food demonstrations, and much more.
Occidental lodging is quite varied and includes B&Bs, lodges, inns, campgrounds, and some small motels. Many provide beautiful views and excellent amenities. Occidental restaurants are also quite diverse and include local seafood and organically grown produce in addition to fine local wines found at the vineyards of the Russian River Valley.
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