May is National Historic Preservation Month, when cities and towns throughout the nation host events that promote historic places and local history.
Petaluma has much to celebrate with a rich history and a treasure trove of historic structures and landmarks!
Although there are many opportunities year-round for connecting with Petaluma’s past, there are special events scheduled for May.
Download Your Schedule of 2026 NHPM Events Here
Throughout the year, there are many activities and ways to learn more about Petaluma’s History:
- Visit the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum: https://www.petalumamuseum.com/ (open Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 4:00 pm; free/donations appreciated)
- Visit our town’s own State Historic Park, the Petaluma Adobe (open daily 10-5; admission fees apply)
- Explore the wealth of information on the City of Petaluma’s Historic Preservation website, Preserving Petaluma’s Past
- Learn from the vast resources available at the Sonoma County Library’s Petaluma History Room
- Curious about the history of your house, or other historic property? View this beginner’s guide to Sonoma County Property Research provided by the History & Genealogy Library in Santa Rosa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cPvUyJySHo (available online on demand; free of charge) (For more specific information specific to Petaluma, contact the Petaluma History Room at the Petaluma Library, or the Petaluma Museum)
- Take an in-person tour of Historic Downtown Petaluma with the Petalumans of Yesteryear as your guide (Saturdays at 10:30, May through November 15) Find their monthly event listing here and RSVP to save your spot.
- Take a virtual or self-guided walking tour of the History Spots in Petaluma: https://www.petalumamuseum.com/history-spots/ (online or self-guided with a smartphone; free of charge)
National Historic Preservation Month events in Petaluma are provided thanks to the support of many volunteers and the following organizations:
The Petaluma Museum, the City of Petaluma, the Sonoma County Library, Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park, Petaluma Arts Center and The Petalumans of Yesteryear.
