Fall Al Fresco Activities

From Harvest to Halloween in Napa Valley

(NAPA, CA) —Fall outdoor activities are enjoyed with that bittersweet knowledge that soon we will all be bundled up in boots and coats, more hiding from the weather than taking pleasure in it (unless you mean looking through the window at the rain with a warm toddy and a good book).

Every minute of warm sunshine must be absorbed, storing heat and memories for the long winter to come. If getting out and getting moving on your own just doesn’t seem interesting enough, you may want to check out these activities. They will help you get your heart rate up, and a flush to your face -- if not from excitement, then maybe from gentle exertion.

Fly Tying and Casting Demonstration and Workshop
Saturday, October 21, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Free with admission

Fly fisherman have for thousands of years been wrapping hooks with wool, fur, feathers and thread to imitate a fish’s natural diet and fool the fish into taking the hook. Fly tying is easy to learn and fascinating to watch. Come visit with our panel of fly tyers and fly casters to learn about this age-old art and to try your hand at a few ties. Call 707.944.0500 for reservations

This event is one in a series from the Napa Valley Museum, a private, nonprofit institution, located in Yountville at 55 Presidents Circle adjacent to Domaine Chandon. For additional information, please visit www.napavalleymuseum.org or call 707.944.0500.

Lake Hennessey Autumn Cruise
Saturday, October 21st

A gorgeous 90-minute cruise aboard a comfortable, electric motor-launch is quiet and environmentally safe. Passengers may get a glimpse of the Bald Eagles nesting at the Lake as well as take in the beautiful scenery around Lake Hennessey. Of course, many other bird species are seen on this unique bird watching trip as well. In previous years, wood ducks, osprey, terns, and western grebes have been spotted during this event.

You may bring a picnic, snacks, wine, and other beverages to enjoy along the way. Feel free to bring a camera and binoculars too. A light jacket and/or blanket for the morning cruises are recommended.

Lake Hennessey Autumn Cruise Schedule:
8:00 am - 9:30 am
9:30 am - 11:00 am
12 Noon - 1:30 pm
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Call for reservations at (707) 224 4768.

This is a fundraiser for Friends of the Napa River. It is a $55 tax-deductible contribution to the Friends of the Napa River. Bring a check. Reservations are required; space is limited and fills up quickly. Lake Hennessey is located in north-east Napa County five minutes east on Hwy 128 from Silverado Trail.

Guided Bike Tours
Don’t overlook a leisurely pedal around the vineyards. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to smell the unique odors of harvest and the flowers still in bloom. You can also hear the birds, insects, and ground animals as you ride past vineyards that have already been picked, whose leaves have turned yellow and brown with bare vines peaking through the foliage.

There might be enough coolness in the air to require a light jacket, one you will undoubtedly have to remove as the day warms up.

Check out Napa Valley Bike Tours for information on bikes to rent and routes to take.

Check out things to do in the Napa Valley WineCountry.com listings to plan your October fun.