Hometown Hero: Sonoma Celebrates Tommy Thomsen
There are few faces as synonymous with the spirit of Sonoma as Tommy Thomsen. From his early days making forts in the bamboo near the Plaza duck pond to his induction into multiple Western Swing Halls of Fame, Tommy has spent his life as the ambassador and heartbeat of our local music scene.
This year, on March 30th at the Sonoma City Hall, that lifelong dedication was officially recognized in a big way. We are thrilled to share that Tommy has been recognized with a Lifetime Achievent Award, a tribute to his decades of artistry, community spirit, and his tireless work preserving the legacy of Western Swing.
March 30: Tommy Thomsen Day
In a move that has the whole town smiling, the community has officially designated March 30 as Tommy Thomsen Day. It is a fitting honor for a man who has traveled the world—from the streets of Kobe, Japan, to the historic "Church of Western Swing" in Turkey, Texas—only to always bring that music and magic back home to Sonoma.
Whether you know him from his Friday afternoon show Swingin’ Out West on KSVY or you’ve spent a Sunday dancing to Tommy Thomsen and the Ambassadors of Western Swing at the Grinstead Amphitheater, or Murphy’s Irish Pub,or the Sabastiani Theatre, you know that Tommy doesn’t just play music—he tells the story of who we are and our dancing spirit.
A Note from the Plaza
If you see Tommy around the square this season, be sure to tip your hat and offer a "Congratulations." As a true Sonoma native who grew up right behind the Plaza, this recognition isn't just about his gravelly baritone or his guitar skills—it’s about a neighbor who has spent 75 years making our town a more tuneful place to live.
"I’m a hippie who fell in love with this kind of music," Tommy often says with a grin.
Well, Tommy, Sonoma fell in love with you right back. Happy Tommy Thomsen Day!
Upcoming Celebrations:
• Tommy Thomsen Day: Every March 30
• Sonoma Sundays on the Plaza: Catch Tommy and the Ambassadors of Western Swing live on June 21, 2026.
• Sonoma County Fair: Join the party at Shade Park on Friday, August 8, 2026, for the Tommy Thomsen Band.
Tommy’s Certificate for Thommy Thomsen Day
Tommy had just performed the song “I Always Get Lucky With You” for his Recognition Ceremony