You’ve heard the phrase – follow the yellow brick road. While you might not be Dorothy finding your way home, around here, looking for brilliant yellow is still a good strategy to find your way to breathtaking experiences. It’s mustard season here in Napa, which means fields all across the valley are full to bursting with incredible shades of yellow and gold.
Although mustard might not have been your first guess for what grows in Napa in the spring, wild mustard plants actually contribute quite a bit to the grape growing process. These plants cover vineyard grounds to help control weeds, reduce soil erosion and add nutrients to the soil, making it the perfect environment for growing excellent wine grapes. That’s why, every spring, we’re all more than happy to celebrate and shout, “MUSTAAAAAARD!”
The history of mustard fields in Napa goes back centuries. In the 1800s, mustard seeds carried by Jesuit priests spilled through the holes in their sacks. Some believe the priests wanted to share the beauty by planting the flowers, while others say the seeds were dropped to mark a path for a return journey. No matter the reason, locals and visitors to the Napa area are the beneficiaries, as the area explodes into beautiful colors for all to enjoy.
THE ART OF THE SEASON
This golden time of year is inspiring to visitors and locals alike, so it’s no surprise that there are a wide variety of art-focused events popping up in celebration of mustard season.
Head to Jessel Gallery, one of Napa’s oldest and largest art galleries, on the first weekend of March and tap into your inner artist at their Artist Demonstration Days event. From 10 AM to 5 PM, you’ll be able to catch demonstrations by a variety of local artists – and of course, wine tastings will be available, too. (Trust us, it helps you appreciate the art better!) Jessel Gallery is also celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, making it the perfect opportunity to come by and show your appreciation for this staple of Napa’s culture.
Art Gallery Napa Valley is also celebrating mustard season with an exclusive exhibit featuring more than 50 local artists. All throughout the month of March, you can stop by to check out paintings, pottery, glassware, photography and more, all inspired by the brilliance and beauty of mustard season. All original art will be available for purchase, so you can find yourself a one-of-a-kind souvenir to commemorate your trip!
THE MAIN EVENT
The signature event of this year’s mustard season celebrations is hosted by The CIA at Copia, one of the most renowned culinary schools in the world. In addition to educating generations of future culinary trailblazers, the CIA at Copia has teamed up with The Downtown Napa Association to host the Mustard Celebration Finale – A Festival of Wine Food & Art . This two-day event will close out mustard season with a bang, offering attendees the opportunity to see the very best of Napa, from art to wine to, of course, food. From 10 AM to 4 PM on March 29-30, explore the incredible work of 30+ artists, wineries and chefs, all with a focus on the season’s theme: mustard!
ENJOY THE VIEW
It’s true that Napa boasts tons to do, all in one easily walkable Downtown – but sometimes it’s nice to let someone else do the driving. Hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train and spend an afternoon enjoying a gourmet meal – paired with excellent wine, of course – as you unwind in a gorgeously restored vintage rail car. And if all that wasn’t enough to convince you, the breathtaking views you’ll take in aboard the train should. It’s one of the best ways to see the way mustard season truly transforms the Valley.
If you’re feeling like staying closer to Downtown, we’ve got you covered. Take a fun and historic wine tasting tour aboard a classic San Francisco-style cable car with the Napa Valley Wine Trolley. As you ride the rails, an expert team of tour guides will share their vast Napa know-how as you jump from tasting room to tasting room.
TREATS FOR EVERYONE
We like to say Napa is the pet-friendliest destination around, and when you bring your furry friend to visit, you’ll soon see why. From restaurants and tasting rooms to boutiques and art galleries, most businesses in Downtown Napa not only allow pets, but encourage them. Mustard season is an especially great time to bring your four-legged pal for a Napa getaway, as the weather will be perfect for outdoor adventuring. This year, you can also give back to pets in need when you sign up for the Pawsport Napa Valley. All throughout the month of March, you can use your pawsport to receive special discounts at participating locations, and each purchase you make benefits Napa Humane’s efforts to help animals all over Napa find their forever homes.
Since you’ll already be hitting tasting rooms all across Downtown, you might as well grab WineD Napa’s Spring Splashes Passport, too. This exclusive passport grants you two free splashes at over 30 tasting rooms and lasts through the end of April.
STAY A WHILE
Whether it’s wild mustard season or cabernet harvest time, Napa is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience any time of the year. While you’re here, be sure to check out the many activities, sights, dining and so much more to see and do. From walking and kayak tours to hot air balloon and bike rides, there are countless ways to explore everything Napa has to offer. After a full day of adventure, finding the perfect place to rest ensures you’re ready to wake up and do it all over again!
