Occidental Lodging - Occidental Restaurants - Occidental Activities View all listings in Occidental Occidental Facts Location / Terrain: Coastal foothills with wineries nearby. Population: 1272 Driving Time / Directions: Occidental Weather: View Current Weather Occidental Map: View Location On Map Occidental Zip Code: 95465 Occidental Elevation: 578 feet Occidental's Local Events Harvest Market Festival Top Picks for Occidental Occidental Arts and Ecology Center Occidental Chamber of Commerce Occidental Community Choir Howard Station Café Laurence Glass Works Specials near Occidental View all specials in Sonoma County... About Occidental Established in 1876, the historic town of Occidental, in the coastal foothills of the Russian River Valley, has long been a favorite stop for those exploring pristine Sonoma County. There are plenty of things to do and see here and Occidental has much to offer, from unique shops, art galleries, and excellent wineries to fine restaurants, choice lodgings, and a wealth of outdoor pursuits. Occidental is a town rich in the arts and culture. While you're there, enjoy a concert by the Occidental Community Choir or take in a chamber music presentation, sponsored by the local Redwood Arts Council. The Occidental Center for the Performing & Visual Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to finding a home for the arts in Occidental, sponsoring and promoting a variety of events throughout the year. Environmental enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, an 80-acre area that encompasses wildlands of meadows and mixed oak, fir and redwood forests. The center receives about 3,000 visitors per year and offers lectures and classes as well as tours. More outdoor activities can be enjoyed on and along the Russian River, including fishing, canoeing and kayaking, and much more. The area is also known for its organic gardens and Christmas tree farms. Many Bay Area residents make their way to Occidental each year to choose their family Christmas tree, a tradition that is passed from generation to generation. Each year, the residents of Occidental join together for their Harvest Market Festival, which attracts many visitors from neighboring towns. The festival, planned by the Occidental Chamber of Commerce, features a costume parade, scarecrow making, pumpkin carving, a haunted house, food demonstrations, and much more. Occidental lodging is quite varied and includes B&Bs, lodges, inns, campgrounds, and some small motels. Many provide beautiful views and excellent amenities. Occidental restaurants are also quite diverse and include local seafood and organically grown produce in addition to fine local wines found at the vineyards of the Russian River Valley.