Summertime is all about living in our corner of Sonoma County. Late sunsets give way to long evenings, making days seem to last forever. Farmers’ markets are teeming with fresh produce; look closely and you might spot your favorite chefs shopping for items around which to build a menu. Out in the vineyards, grapes continue to ripen, getting themselves ready for harvest in the fall. Here is a sampling of our favorite ways to partake in the joy:

The community comes together for the weekly “Tuesdays in the Plaza” concert series downtown. Concerts run from 5-8 p.m. through the end of August and feature musical genres including soul, Spaghetti Western swing, traditional Mexican music and dance rock (to name a few). Get there early to set down a blanket and chairs; local chefs sell food all night long. There’s even a makeshift dance floor.

Celebrate the Wine Country lifestyle with the first-ever gourmet picnic lunch this weekend, Aug. 9 at Jordan Winery in Healdsburg. The experience starts with a glass of Jordan Cuvee by Champagne AR Lenoble. From there, guests fill picnic baskets with gourmet goodies such as salmon rilettes, salumi, citrus-marinated olives and more. A bottle of 2017 Jordan Chardonnay is delivered to every blanket and tastes of 2015 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon are available.

Reach for Home is an important organization that helps the homeless population of Sonoma County and advocates for housing on their behalf. Every year a significant portion of the group’s operating budget comes from the “Dinner in the Vineyard” fundraiser. This year’s shindig will be held Aug. 24 at Alexander Valley Hall in Geyserville. Mill District is a dedicated partner of the organization, and a sponsor of the event (last years auction is pictured below).