When researching the history of Sonoma County, one would expect to read about the indigenous peoples, Mexicans, and Spaniards who all have called it home. But maybe less obvious is another key player: Russians. The annual Fort Ross Festival in Fort Ross explores how they got here and, with its Borsch Cook Off and Russian folk dance and music groups, also offers a glimpse into Russian culture. Besides Russian-oriented events, the festival features Kashia Pomo and Coast Miwok traditional dancing, musket and cannon firings, and demos by watch coopers, spinners, carpenters, woodworkers, and other craftspeople. The annual event will be held on July 27, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. General admission is $20 per car and may be purchased on Eventbrite (search on “Fort Ross Festival 2019”) or at the park entrance.