One chilly morning Alfred L. Tubbs spaded over and inspected the soil where he thought of planting estate vineyards, and soon he acquired 254 acres of rugged land just two miles north of Calistoga at the base of Mount Saint Helena. The soils were well drained, stony and loose - perfect for the vines he would plant, and the place he would name Chateau Montelena. When the estate vineyard was launched in 1882, Calistoga was just a twinkle in an eye, but soon would become the driving force and city to support local commerce, trade, and tourism in northern Napa Valley.

It only took four years after Chateau Montelena began planting roots in the valley for the City of Calistoga to launch its very own legacy when founded in 1886. Today, both the wine estate and City of Calistoga are going strong. Throughout 125 years of growth, Calistoga and Chateau Montelena have shared many things as recognized institutions. Bo Barrett of Chateau Montelena Winery is credited with a six year campaign that helped Calistoga become an official Napa Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area) in 2009. Designated its own unique grape growing region, Calistoga was able to concrete its place in the world of wine. When you purchase wines that say Calistoga on the label, the products contain 85% grapes grown in this region.

Calistoga celebrates its good fortune and 125-year history all year long with a variety of events, each one highlighting a facet of this unique Napa Valley town. It the perfect time to visit and see the hidden gem of the Napa Valley, sample the Calistoga wines, and try one of the famous, rejuvenating spas.

From historic talks bringing the past to life to a rocking party hosted by 20 wineries, there's something for everyone. Known for being a down-to-earth place, Calistoga officially kicked off this celebratory year with a lively ceremony with Mayor Jack Gingles and the ghost of town founder Sam Brannan (lookalike/history buff Dean Enderlin) at the Sharpsteen Museum on January 6, 2011, the city's actual 125th anniversary.

Patriotic parades, art workshops, music festivals, even a luxurious E-lot at Auction Napa Valley are all part of Calistoga's special year, with a city-wide birthday party taking place on July 16, open to one and all. For a complete calendar of events, go to CalistogaVisitors.com.

April 16, 2011 Earth Day Festival
The Earth Day celebration is one of many such events held in California. It includes great local music, local eats and earth friendly vendors.
Time: 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Pioneer Park
1308 Cedar St.
Calistoga, Calif. 94515
ci.calistoga.ca.us

April 29-30, 2011 Kitchens in the Vineyards
On Saturday, April 30, five beautiful homes in Napa Valley will open their doors for the annual Kitchens in the Vineyards home tour. For the first time in its 14-year history, all five homes on this year's award-winning tour are located in picturesque Calistoga in honor of the town's 125th anniversary. The partially self-guided tour is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and features kitchens, dining rooms, entertainment areas and gardens of the five homes. Various Calistoga locations; $65 per person. Call: (707) 258-5559 or musicinthevineyards.org/kitchens

Calistoga Chamber of Commerce
1133 Washington St., Calistoga, CA 94515
Telephone: (707) 942-6333 Fax: (707) 942-9287
CalistogaVisitors.com

Calistoga Celebrates its 125th Anniversary all year long! CalistogaVisitors.com
Follow them on Facebook! www.Facebook.com/CalistogaVisitors