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A Destination...
As a travel destination Calistoga was described in Bancrofts in 1873. Known for its parties, Calistoga likes an old fashioned party. We even have a photo of a turn of the century San Francisco bill board “Big Doin’s at Calistoga July 4th”.
In March as part of the Valley wide Mustard Celebration (Mustard blooming in the vineyards means spring is here) Calistoga holds its Downtown Jazz and wine tasting Fest... Mustard Mud & Music.
In May, Calistoga is host to Northern California's largest Cinco de Mayo Parade and Festival. This colorful family event ends at the Napa County Fairground where cultural displays, entertainment and food abounds.
On the 4th of July the Silverado Parade winds through downtown ending at the Napa County Fairgrounds where the annual Napa County Fair is underway. In this old fashioned parade, antique cars, politicians, horses, (and whole neighborhoods who have learned to play the kazoo) take part.
In October the annual Halloween Parade brings out the kids and “in the mood” adults for the after-dark costume parade, following which the kids retire to a sponsored costume contest and snack session while adults retire to private parties or restaurants to continue their version of celebration.
In December, after a community Bazaar and open-house in downtown shops, the annual Truck & Tractor Parade takes place just after dark, rain or shine. The lighted and decorated units filled with kids of all ages always have a good crowd and a great time.
Visit the Calistoga
Chamber of Commerce |
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History come alive ...
Calistoga with its Sharpsteen Museum is a storehouse of the unique history of the upper Napa Valley. The Sharpsteen, with a unique style of displaying dynamic exhibits and its many dioramas give an insight into life in the Valley before the last century. Exhibits include information on the indigenous peoples, the Wappo, early emigrants, Robert Louis Stevenson, (his Silverado Squatters, made famous the local characters during his stay here), and early train and stage travel to the “Hot Springs”.
A microcosm of California history. Hot Springs were Indian healing grounds. Was home of several Donner Party rescuers and later home to several survivors. Home of several Bear Flag Revolt leaders. Hot Springs Resort founder Sam Brannan was California's first millionaire and leader of San Francisco's "Committee of Vigilance"(the Vigilantes)
The Sharpsteen Museum is a story in itself. Founded by Ben Sharpsteen an original Disney animator and later Oscar winning Producer, whose grandmother was a local business pioneer, the museum also contains family memorabilia (including an Oscar). |
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