Destinations & Events

With its more than 130,000 square feet of interactive, one-of-a-kind exhibits, the Heidrick Ag History Center showcases the marvels of agriculture and commercial trucking. Included in the display is the world's largest and most unique collection of antique agricultural and truck equipment.

A must for railroad buffs, the Yolo Shortline steam and diesel engines operate on weekends from April through early October, featuring an unsurpassed ride through rich farmlands and conservation preserves - and maybe even survival of a visit form the Sierra Outlaws.

Saved from the wrecking ball in 1971, the restored Woodland Opera House is home to a variety of plays, musicals and concerts throughout the year. Built in 1896, it is Northern California's oldest single-purpose theater outside of San Francisco. With the Woodland Opera House as a backdrop, the annual September Stroll Through History allows visitors to tour the historic district's stately and elegant homes. Horses and carriages abound, and the sell-out event has been featured in Sunset magazine. Visitors also explore Main Street to browse for collectibles and other treasures in the antiques shops, take a guided tour of Dead Cat Alley, and shop the Corner Drug Store. Artisans proudly display their arts and crafts in Heritage Plaza.

Massive wooden columns, formal pediment and a uniquely original series of cut decorations spelling the name "Gibson" reflect some of the character of the ten-room home that now houses the Yolo County Historical Museum. The 1850s-70s Classical Revival-style home, built by William Byas Gibson and occupied by his family until 1963, now hosts rooms of furnishings depicting different styles and eras. Located a half-mile west of the County Fair Mall at 512 Gibson Road, the two-and-a-half acre park setting is open for picnicking during regular museum hours and is available on a fee basis for special events.

Beautiful almond blossoms draw thousands of visitors to the annual Esparto Almond Festival, held in late February west of Woodland. Tasty almond products, food and beverages, as well as arts and crafts and the area's hospitality, make this weekend a special celebration of rural tourism.

In August, Woodland hosts the Yolo County Fair - the only remaining free-admission fair in California. Even though there is no charge for admittance, entertainment for all ages abound at the event.

In addition to the popular "Stroll through History," September brings the annual Dynamite Chili Cook-Off, which fills the fairgrounds air with the aroma of championship chili and the sounds of children playing and live country/western music.

October is highlighted by the Farm-City Harvestfest which the Chamber and the Farm Bureau have hosted for 42 years.

The Chamber's Woodland Holiday Parade - a tradition for more than 43 years and the third-largest in the state - heralds the beginning of the holiday season with a celebration attended by more than 25,000 people.