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Once the “Gravenstein Apple Capital of the World,” Sebastopol is now known for its “Banana Belt” location, rolling vineyards and lush botanical gardens. Located about 20 minutes from the Pacific Ocean and aprx.1 1/2 hours north of San Francisco, Sebastopol is home to approximately 7,700 residents. Sebastopol attracts a variety of lifestyles and offers everything from communal housing to sprawling country estates. From tie-dye to black tie, Sebastopol has it all!

Sebastopol’s original name was “Pinegrove” due to the expansive pine forests throughout the area. In fact, two of the city’s oldest buildings are still named “The Pinegrove Consignment Store” and the “Pinecone Restaurant.”

According to rumor, the name was changed (in the 1850s) from Sevastopol to Sebastopol during a bar fight regarding the proper pronunciation of the Crimean Seaport of Sevastopol. The city of Sebastopol was incorporated in 1902.

Sebastopol has been home to many famous names including: Jerry Garcia and Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, Author Megan McDonald (Moody Judy books), Actress Karen Valentine (Room 222), Japanese music artist Kitaro, Les Claypool of Primus, Rhythm and Blues pioneer Johnny Otis, and singer/songwriters Tom Waits and Kate Wolf.

Things to Do

Sebastopol is also arguably the cultural epicenter of the North Bay. Art exhibits can be seen at the Sebastopol Center for the Arts, the Florence Ave Sculpture Walk, the Tibetan Gallery, the Western Sonoma County Historical Society and The Barlow.

If you prefer outdoor activities, make sure you attend the annual Bluegrass Festival and Apple Blossom Festival in the spring, the Ukelele Festival and Gravenstein Apple Fair in the summer and the Cajun Fair in the fall. Local artists and fare can also be enjoyed at the Sunday Farmer’s Market at the Plaza.

5 Fun Things to do in Sebastopol

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