The Blessing of the Olives ceremony formally kicks off the Sonoma Valley Olive Festival in early December every year. The Blessing of the Olives  takes place at the historic Sonoma Mission, which sits right on the Historic Sonoma Square. The ceremony includes music, short speeches about the olive traditions in Sonoma County, and refreshments. It's a very laid back affair and a nice way to start off the day in the town of Sonoma.