By Clementine Boylan,
Staff Writer.
If you found yourself near the fairgrounds earlier this month, you may have heard enthusiastic commotion coming from SonomaCon attendees; Santa Rosa’s local up-and-coming gaming and arts convention.
This year marked the convention’s third year in running and its biggest event yet. SonomaCon has grown significantly since its 2024 debut at the Veterans Memorial Building, where it was first hosted by local shop Outer Planes Comics & Games. This year, SonomaCon has officially outgrown its humble beginnings and expanded into a thrilling celebration of fandom.
Physical gaming experiences were a major highlight of the convention, as well as the primary focus of the event. Respective buildings throughout the fairgrounds became dedicated spaces for Magic: The Gathering and Warhammer players to participate in large-scale sessions featuring several styles of play.
Fun activities were also prepared for fans of Dungeons & Dragons, who were invited to host their own campaigns at designated open tables or visit a craft station to paint a miniature figure completely free of charge.
The Vendor Hall and Artist Alley were equally as exciting, both being dedicated spaces where local shops and artists were given the chance to display their wares. The Artist Alley was full of unique and masterfully crafted trinkets and illustrations, while the Vendor’s Hall gave event-goers a chance to purchase a wide selection of trading card packs, video games, and other collectibles. There was plenty to discover and admire between the two areas. Charlotte Reed, a senior who attended the event, said, “It was so cool seeing all the crazy art on display! Maybe I’ll get to have a table too one year.”
A charming yet unexpected attraction was the Whimsy Woods, a miniature Renaissance fair tucked near the entrance of the convention. This immersive human-sized fairy village treated visitors with live music, interactive art installations, and several vendors selling mainly handmade crafts and goods in thematically appropriate costumes. Visitors could even meet Santa Rosa legends Gryn and Grump, the charming goblin mascots of Goblin Bros, a local comic and game store co-founded by former ArtQuest Theater teacher Jereme Anglin.
SonomaCon offers a wonderful place for people to share their interests as well as discover new ones. Whether you attend for the games or simply for the community, there are plenty of opportunities for attendees to make long-lasting memories. If this year’s turnout is any indication, SonomaCon’s future looks bigger and better than ever.
