VALLEJO — “Bus Stop” opens this Friday at Bay Area Stage Theatre and will run for three weekends. The 1955 play by William Inge, which was popularized by the movie starring Marilyn Monroe, tells the story of bus passengers stranded at a diner during a storm.
Bay Area Stage Productions has assembled a fine cast from around the Bay Area – some veterans and others new to the stage. On opening night you can mingle with the actors and enjoy a glass of champagne after the show.
Then on Saturday, the Art of Community Art Fest will open at Mare Island Art Studios with a gallery exhibit and artist reception. The inaugural Art of Community event in 2024 was a big success that featured over 30 artists and drew hundreds of visitors.
This year’s collaboration between Artiszen Vallejo and Mare Island Art Studios is highly anticipated and includes work by Roberta Weir, art mentor to the late Jerry Garcia, and Jermaine Dante Burse, a talented artist with roots in Vallejo. Items from the estate of Adolfo Manuel, artist, performer, fashionista and art collector, will be on sale.
The last Bands and Brews event of 2025 on Friday evening at Blue Rock Springs Park will be headlined by the dance band Hip Service. Lawn seating is free, and an array of food trucks and beverages by Mare Island Co. will be on site.
Then on Saturday, the final 2nd Saturday Vallejo community marketplace will take place at the Barbara Kondylis Waterfront Green. The event features local shops and services, a wide selection of food trucks, a beer and wine garden, and live music by The Freeze 32 Degrees.
And there are yet more things to do in Vallejo! The 2nd Friday Art Walk will take place downtown on Friday evening, with artists and crafters lining the streets. The footprint of open venues is broad this month. The McCune Room on the ground floor of the John F. Kennedy library will rejoin Art Walk for the first time since 2023 and will feature an art exhibit curated by The Exchange. On the north side of downtown, Ethnic Notions Fine Art Gallery & Multicultural Bookstore will feature the artwork of Simone Nia Rae.
In between those two sites you can listen to live music by Earl "the Pearl" Stevens while you dine at Bambino’s, tap your feet to acoustic sets by z3th3r and Ed Masuga and the Mountain Love Songs at Autonomous Gallery in the Georgia Street breezeway, and sample wine from Vallejo Cellars at City Arts Gallery on Virginia Street.
There will be two Art Walk after parties to choose from if you feel like staying out late. The Voltones and Blue Cinema will perform at the monthly Indie After Dark show at the Red Men’s Hall, and 717 Integrity Project will host live music during and after Art Walk with Air Lift Underground and the Unidentified Flying Oscillators.
For those of you into local politics, Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce will host a town hall meeting at the Vallejo Museum on Wednesday evening. She will provide updates on her first 6+ months in office and take questions from the audience.
Roller derby fans can attend the Quad Days of Summer roller derby double-header at McCormack Hall on the Solano County Fairgrounds on Saturday afternoon.
Loma Vista Farm supporters can help raise money for the educational farm at the Pasta Feed & Auction at the Florence Douglas Center on Saturday evening.
Or if you’re interested in beer making, you can meet Andrew Conlon, head brewer at the Vallejo Brewing Company at their Meet the Brewer event on Saturday night.
Then on Sunday, you can catch a matinee screening of the film “Amal” by Moroccan-Belgian filmmaker Jawad Rhalib, in which a passionate and principled French teacher at a diverse high school in Brussels believes deeply in the power of literature to open minds and build bridges. She encourages her students to think critically, embrace tolerance, and speak freely, even when doing so makes her a target. In French and Arabic with English subtitles.
Some noteworthy events are happening outside of Vallejo city limits on Saturday. The daylong Benicia Peddlers Fair will span 11 blocks of downtown Benicia, and the Art & Wine Festival in downtown Crockett will run from 4 to 8 p.m.
These are just some highlights of upcoming events. Scroll down the list below for more live music, poetry, cultural and recreational activities, and be sure to check our events page for more kids’ activities and late-breaking updates.
Wednesday, August 6
Vallejo Run Club
Join the Vallejo Run Club on our weekly Saturday morning and Wednesday evening runs. Our group meets, rain or shine, next to the Vallejo Ferry Terminal. We run 1-3 easy miles. Beginners to ultra marathoners welcome.
- Wed, 6:20 to 7:20 p.m.
- Vallejo Ferry Terminal
- 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Kid Andersen and the Greaseland Allstars
Chris “Kid” Andersen, Norway’s gift to the blues, has racked up three Blues Music Award nominations for Guitarist of the Year.
- Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Empress Marquee Club
- 324 Virginia St., Vallejo
Town Hall meeting with Andrea Sorce
Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce will provide updates on her first 6+ months in office and take questions.
Her team will do their best to record and post a video for those who are unable to attend.
- Wed, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St., Vallejo
Wednesday Night Open Mic
A friendly space for both beginning musicians and seasoned professionals. Comedians and poets also welcome. First come, first serve sign-up. 3 songs or 15 minutes.
- Wed, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St., Vallejo
Thursday, August 7
Tracing San Francisco's Past: Archival Photos and Records of Mechanics' Institute
Join Librarian and Archivist Myles Cooper for a presentation exploring the rich history of the Mechanics' Institute, a San Francisco institution since 1854. Beyond its current role as a vibrant Library, Chess Room, and cultural center, the Institute played a significant role in the city's 19th-century development through its renowned Mechanics' Industrial Fairs. This presentation will focus on these grand fairs, showcasing the burgeoning industries of the era, and will feature unique photographic treasures from its archives.
- Thu, 1:30 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St., Vallejo
Pop-up Health Fair
Please join us for a pop-up health fair featuring community resources and services organized by the osteopathic doctors from Touro University California and the Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California. Also present, 211 Bay Area: emergency medical kit supplies, Solano Impact Care Team: enhanced care management, Empower Solano: providing access to opportunities, MOBEC: diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, COOKS: healthy snack boxes, Resource Connect: housing opportunities, and many more! Registration is not necessary, but highly encouraged so we can best accommodate everyone!
- Thu, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
Benicia Certified Farmers Market
This charming downtown market features farm-fresh produce from regional growers, artisanal foods and specialty items, handcrafted goods from local artisans, live music and entertainment, family activities, and community nonprofit booths.
- Thu, 4 to 8 p.m.
- First Street between B and D Streets
- 1st St., Benicia
Adult Craft Club
Hello all needlework and fiber art enthusiasts! Come join us for our monthly yarn & thread week every 1st Thursday of the month. All experience levels welcome, we will learn together while we work. We will have materials available for: embroidery cross-stitch, knitting, and crochet mending. We also encourage people to bring other non-yarn & thread projects they are working on and to come socialize.
- Thu, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
Steve Freund Band
This time the iconic Blues guitarist appears with a 4 piece group!
- Thu, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
- Lucca Bar & Grill
- 439 First St., Benicia
The Cut & Paste Society
Transform forgotten fragments into fresh narratives in our monthly collage workshop. Each session offers a chance to explore new techniques, experiment with composition, and create something uniquely yours in good company.
- Thu, 6:30 p.m.
- The Exchange
- 617 Marin St., Vallejo
Jazz Johnson Trio
Bay Area saxophonist and composer Jazz Johnson has performed with top ensembles including the award-winning SFJAZZ All-Stars, earning accolades from DownBeat Magazine, the Louis Armstrong Foundation, and major festivals like Folsom, Campana, Santa Cruz, and Stanford. The Trio features powerhouse “Women in Jazz” musicians Alissa Johnson on drums and Alexis Tsamoudakis on upright bass
- Thu, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Empress Marquee Club
- 324 Virginia St., Vallejo
Friday, August 8
2nd Friday Art Walk
Every 2nd Friday from 5pm-9pm, experience fine arts, music, craft boutiques, galleries, local shops, and the great restaurants of Downtown Vallejo.
The event is a vibrant celebration of local visual and performing arts, with a diverse range of offerings to appeal to all tastes. From jewelry and fashion to sculpture and paintings in oil and watercolor, attendees will have the chance to appreciate a wide array of artistic talent on display.
As always, the Artwalk remains committed to fostering inclusivity and creativity, making it an open and welcoming space for all. Visitors can explore local galleries, street performances, artisan vendors, and live entertainment throughout downtown Vallejo.
Check out the new headquarters at City Arts Gallery - 420 Virginia St.
- Fri, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo
Art Cafe at Art Walk
Craving a creative snack but not ready for a full workshop? Drop by our Art Café where creative projects are served on demand. Browse our menu of ready-to-make experiences, pick your project, and we'll bring everything you need right to your table - no shopping, no planning, no cleanup required.
- Fri, 5 to 9 p.m.
- The Exchange
- 617 Marin St., Vallejo
Old Skills, New Hands @ The McCune for August Artwalk
The Exchange is curating a special exhibit in celebration of the McCune Collection rejoining Artwalk. Artists include Arturo, Antwan Banks, Stephanie Brown, Moira Farrell, Kathy Farrell, Amanda Farrell, Cynthia Flock, Lorna Garano, Angela Hernandez, Rich Johnson, Jen Laursen, Marie Metran, Lony Maya Neubauer, Whitney Smith, Kristin Young and Susie Young. A variety of formats and media will be featured such as textiles, pottery, painting, sculpture, etc.
- Fri, 5 to 9 p.m.
- The McCune Collection
- 505 Santa Clara St. - lower level, Vallejo
Art Walk Afterparty - Live Music - Local Artists
We are the official after party location for Second Friday Artwalk in Vallejo. We'll be open late. We'll be feeding your head with hot, organic, nootropic teas and a coffee experience curated by coffeegundam along with fresh, original music by The David El 3-Oh!, Air Lift Underground, after party with The Unidentified Flying Oscillators and a very special fire performance from The Fire Cats!
Featured Artists:
Karen Garcia Merriott - multimedia
Bill Bloom - ceramics
Gilbert Johnson - multi media
Verlannia Manchester - multi media
T.J. Enrile - paintings
Super-Stitchin' Amana Mission - hemp jewelry and fiber arts.
- Fri, 5 to 11 p.m.
- 717 Integrity Project
- 717 Marin St., Vallejo
Vallejo Late Night Basketball
The Vallejo Late Night Basketball Program provides a safe, structured, and engaging space for youth ages 12–25 every Friday night during the summer. Through basketball, mentorship, and community connection, this initiative revives a once-thriving program that fostered safety, leadership, and unity in our city. Aug 8 is the last session for 2025.
- Fri, 6 p.m. to midnight
- Elite Public Schools
- 100 Whitney Ave., Vallejo
Earl the Pearl
Earl "the Pearl" Stevens is a gifted musician, strumming his guitar and singing original tunes that resonate with the soul. His music is a beautiful blend of heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies that you can’t help but sing along to. Whether it’s a lively tune or a heartfelt ballad, Earl's performances are always a treat!
- Fri, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino's Vallejo
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
The Art of Simone Nia Rae, Opening and Live Artist Demonstration
Join Ethnic Notions for an exciting weekend featuring the dynamic art collection by the Bay Area's own, Simone Nia Rae!
- Fri, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Ethnic Notions Fine Art Gallery & Multicultural Bookstore
- 930 Marin St., Vallejo
Deep Basement Shakers
Stompin’ barrelhouse, early blues and roots music with a unique sound featuring piano, washboard, suitcase and assorted DIY percussion.
- Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Coal Shed Brewery
- 850 Nimitz Ave., Vallejo
Jesse Brewster & Friends
Led by the prolific songwriter, bandleader, producer, multi- instrumentalist and dynamic performer.
- Fri, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
- Lucca Bar & Grill
- 439 First St., Benicia
Bands and Brews - Hip Service
The last Bands and Brews for 2025 features Hip Service, a dance band with five professional vocalists, a screaming horn section, a rock solid, funky rhythm section and four professional dancers. Free lawn seating, food and drinks available for a nominal fee. Limited parking available. Park gates open beginning at 5 p.m. Food trucks will be available beginning at 6 p.m.
- Fri, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Blue Rock Springs Park
- 650 Columbus Pkwy., Vallejo
Ed Masuga and the Mountain Love Songs w/ opening set by z3th3r
Folksy music by Ed Masuga and the Mountain Love Songs, and an acoustic set by multi-faceted experimental artist z3th3r .
- Fri, 7 to 9 p.m.
- autonomous gallery
- 419 Georgia St. Suite 8, Vallejo
The Voltones + Blue Cinema: @Indie After Dark
Indie After Dark’s monthly show will feature original music in an intimate venue with a full bar. The opening band is local staple The Voltones, who playmusic with a vintage swagger and a modern edge , The show is headlined by the dreamy riffs and moody grooves of Blue Cinema. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8:30 p.m. $15 in advance, $20 at the door.
- Fri, 7:30 p.m. to midnight
- 4th Corner SpeakEasy (Red Men's Hall)
- 431 Georgia St., Vallejo
Bus Stop
Love, laughter & loneliness collide at a roadside diner in Bus Stop by William Inge. Stranded by a blizzard in a rural Kansas diner, a busload of strangers is forced to confront their hopes, heartbreaks, and hidden truths. From the rugged cowboy chasing love to the disillusioned professor fleeing his past, Bus Stop is a touching, funny, and unforgettable portrait of ordinary people on a detour to destiny.
- Fri, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St., Vallejo
Saturday, August 9
Benicia Peddlers Fair
Since its modest beginnings in 1963 with just a handful of antique dealers outside St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, this volunteer-run event has grown into a massive outdoor fair featuring 300 select dealers from across the country. Spanning 11 blocks of the historic town, the fair offers a treasure trove of items, including period furniture, vintage textiles, pottery, jewelry, and more. Alongside the antiques, peddlers offer everything from toys to tapestries, and food vendors serve up treats like kettle corn, hot dogs, and shaved ice.
- Sat, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Downtown Benicia
- 120 East J St., Benicia
Vallejo Run Club
Join the Vallejo Run Club on our weekly Saturday morning and Wednesday evening runs. Our group meets, rain or shine, next to the Vallejo Ferry Terminal. We run 1-3 easy miles. Beginners to ultra marathoners welcome.
- Sat, 8 to 9 a.m.
- Vallejo Ferry Terminal
- 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Community Coffee Tasting with Live Music
Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes. Joslay Jose will play reggae infused pop fusion for your listening pleasure. Music from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Moschetti Coffee
- 11 Sixth St. (Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.), Vallejo
Vallejo Farmers’ Market
Shop here for a great selection of California-grown greens, fruits & veggies, as well as some nice specialty booths with baked goods, tamales and food trucks with down-to-earth prices. Sometimes you can find local honey, homemade soap and other goodies here.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo
Fresh Mart’s Annual Back-to-School Giveaway
This event brings together our community with the goal of equipping students with essential school supplies, backpacks, and Fresh sneakers —completely free of charge. It’s a vibrant day filled with smiles, community spirit, and hands-on support, made possible by members of the community, Solano Widenmann Leadership Academy, and Fresh Start Church. You can watch a recap of last year's giveaway here. Open to local students of all ages until all supplies are passed out.
- Sat, 11 a.m.
- Solano Widenmann Leadership Academy
- 1025 Corcoran Ave., Vallejo
2nd Saturday's Vallejo - FINAL SUMMER EVENT
Mark your calendars for the final @2ndsaturdaysvallejo summer series wrap-up at the Vallejo waterfront! We have an amazing opportunity for you to enjoy the waterfront with us, some amazing local shops and services, meet and connect with awesome people, savor and sample delicious food, wine and support Angels with Heart for every drink you purchase at the beer and wine garden during the event.
Register with Pura Vida Transformation Center for the ultimate Banda & Barbells fitness party to kickstart your day here! Get tickets and fitness waivers signed in advance to save time!
Live music by The Freeze 32 Degrees from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Vallejo Waterfront
- 298 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Back 2 School - Bookbag and supplies giveaway
Back to School Backpack and Supplies Giveaway. Kids must be present to receive supplies.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- North Vallejo Park
- 1121 Whitney Ave., Vallejo
Art of Community Art Fest - Opening Artist’s Reception
Warm greetings from Artiszen Vallejo and Mare Island Art Studios. Get ready for the 2nd Annual Art of Community Exhibit & Festival. Highlights on upcoming Saturdays include the Art of Community Awards on 8/16, honoring local visionaries who help Vallejo thrive through art, Fashion Show on 8/23, and an Ekphrastic Poetry Night on 8/24, where spoken word meets visual wonder.
- Sat, noon to 5 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St., Vallejo
Kitty Meet and Greet – Pet Adoptions
Come meet your next best friend! Evening appointments also available. All cats and kittens who are adopted out through Community Cat Advocates have been dewormed, treated for fleas, tested for Felv and FIV, vaccinated to age appropriate levels, microchipped and spayed or neutered.
- Sat, noon to 3 p.m.
- PetSmart
- 952 Admiral Callaghan Ln., Vallejo
Quad Days of Summer
A roller derby double-header featuring Carquinez Quad Squad v V Town Roller Derby, with a Get Off My Lawn! (40s+ mixer) Bad Hips v Bad Knees. There will also be an afterparty from 6 yo 9 p.m. at Mare Island Co. Coalshed Brewery.
- Sat, 12:30 to 5 p.m.
- McCormack Hall Solano County Fairgrounds
- 900 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo
Fog City Swampers
Bay Area favorites and Benicia-based Classic Rockers.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Lucca Bar & Grill
- 439 First St., Benicia
D'Groove Band
D'Groove's simple concept of playing the latest dance tunes, classic old school, and favorite standards assures a good time for all on the dance floor.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. #500, Vallejo
Community Sound Healing
A nourishing sound journey for relaxation and stress-relief, priced to make sound healing available to all. Please bring a yoga mat or beach towel to lie on the floor, and whatever you need to feel comfortable like blanket, pillow, water, eye mask, and any crystals you'd like charged.
- Sat, 3 to 4 p.m.
- South Vallejo Arts & Cultural Complex at Norman C King
- 545 Magazine St., Vallejo
Bryan Girard Jazz Trio
Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by two of his favorites --Tim Campbell on keyboard and Lorn Leber on guitar. Manny has great views and a full bar. Advance dinner reservation recommended.
- Sat, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Manny's Steakhouse
- 295 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Meet the Brewer
Andrew Conlon is the head brewer at Vallejo Brewing Company. He’s bringing big creativity and serious flavor to the tanks. Come grab a pint and say hey. Conlon has been brewing for a decade and a half and started with Heretic Brewing Company in 2013, alongside the award-winning original owner Jamil Zainasheff; he was Heretic’s Chief Operations Officer where he created hundreds of craft beer, canned cocktail and bottled spirit brands.
- Sat, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Vallejo Brewing Company
- 430 Virginia St., Vallejo
Friends of Loma Vista Farm Pasta Feed & Auction
Please join us as we raise money for the care and maintenance of Loma Vista Farm.
- Sat, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Florence Douglas Center
- 333 Amador St., Vallejo
Kristen Van Dyke
Inspired by emotions. Kristen is an indie/folk Influenced artist that enjoys pulling on your heart strings as much as she enjoys performing. some of Kristen’s influences include Ani Difranco, Tori Amos, Patsy Cline, Stevie Nicks, and Tracy Chapman.
- Sat, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Company - Ferry Taproom
- 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Ron McGee and the Jazz Bridge Band
Ronnie McGee and the JBG (Jazz Bridge Group) will be performing at Bambino’s in Vallej. $10 cover charge to sit near stage/dance area, first come, first serve. Always a party, bring your dancing shoes !
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino's Vallejo
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
Papa Joe & The New Deal
Top Bay Area dance band and your favorite music family!
- Sat, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
- Lucca Bar & Grill
- 439 First St., Benicia
Flippy Floppy and Radio Radio at Toot's Tavern
Mr. Hat Presents Flippy Floppy and Radio Radio at Toot's Tavern. Flippy Floppy is the Bay Area’s favorite Talking Heads tribute. They are currently recreating the seminal live concert film Stop Making Sense. Radio Radio—Elvis Costello tribute—have been igniting stages across Northern California with the energy and passion of Costello's iconic music since 2022, channeling the spirit of his explosive debut onto the UK music scene in the late 1970s.
- Sat, 8 to 11:30 p.m.
- Toot's Tavern
- 627 2nd Ave., Crockett
Bus Stop
Love, laughter & loneliness collide at a roadside diner in Bus Stop by William Inge. Stranded by a blizzard in a rural Kansas diner, a busload of strangers is forced to confront their hopes, heartbreaks, and hidden truths. From the rugged cowboy chasing love to the disillusioned professor fleeing his past, Bus Stop is a touching, funny, and unforgettable portrait of ordinary people on a detour to destiny.
- Sat, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St., Vallejo
Townhouse Divas Drag Show
Come join Vicodonia Knightingale, Charity Kase and Holotta Tymes every 2nd Saturday night at the Townhouse Cocktail Lounge. These are the Divas you want to see!
- Sat, 10:30 to 1 a.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St., Vallejo
Sunday, August 10
Church of Craft
August 10 is National lazy Day, Lion Day, and S'mores Day. Bring your best themed craft supplies accordingly. Together we will partake in the sacred acts of shared skills and creativity while communing with the muses. Wear your Sunday best or come in your favorite PJs - all are welcome here.
- Sun, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- autonomous gallery
- 419 Georgia St., Suite 8, Vallejo
Community Farmer's Market
Join us for a monthly act of community resistance disguised as a simple produce swap. Bring whatever's thriving in your garden—whether it's fragrant herbs, backyard citrus, or that inevitable zucchini surplus—and take home something fresh while helping rebuild our local food sovereignty.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- The Exchange
- 617 Marin St., Vallejo
Pilates for the Community with David El
Join David El for Pilates with the community. $20 Suggested donation.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to noon
- 717 Integrity Project
- 717 Marin St, Vallejo
St. Peter's Chapel - Self-guided Tour
St. Peter's Chapel is open to the public every second and fourth Sunday of the month. If you've never seen the interior be prepared to be astounded by the 29 stained-glass windows and the magnificence of the interior. Docents will be available to answer all your questions. All we ask is a $5 donation toward the chapel maintenance fund.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- St. Peter’s Chapel
- 1181 Walnut Ave., Vallejo
Art of Community Art Fest
The Mare Island Art Studios gallery will be open for viewing noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays in addition to the special events scheduled for Saturdays.
- Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St., Vallejo
Erik Yates
Erik Yates never met a song he didn't like. “There’s always something to love,” he recently told Paste magazine, “something to learn from.” His wide-open blend of soul, lyrical bluegrass and Americana has garnered him fans nationwide through both his solo recordings and his steady contributions to six-piece powerhouse Hot Buttered Rum.
- Sun, 1 to 3 p.m.
- First Street Taphouse
- 440 1st St., Benicia
Braulio Barrera & Somos el Son
Braulio Barrera comes from a family of traditional Peruvian music artists. Braulio began to explore salsa in 2002 in Los Angeles, California. He recorded a soundtrack for the film Diarios de un motociclista, directed by Gustavo Santoalaya, which won the Golden Globe Awards. He moved to San Francisco in 2011 and there he sang with the Pacific Mambo orchestra with which he won a Grammy for best Latin album, in the same category with Carlos Vives and Marc Antony. Gate opens at noon – salsa dance lessons available from noon to 1 p.m.
- Sun, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. #500, Vallejo
August Outdoor Sip & Paint
Treat yourself to a fun afternoon in our outdoor garden creating your very own masterpiece with local artist/instructor, Jena Webber. She will guide you as you paint your "Lover's Cove" painting on a 16x20 canvas. Unwind and celebrate a beautiful day with special friends while painting, sipping, listening to great music and enjoying an afternoon under the shade trees. Arrive early to enjoy a delicious lunch from Gaga's Rollin Diner, or jump in for complimentary Salsa lessons at noon, before your painting class begins at 1pm. While painting, enjoy music by Braulio Barrera & Somos el Son performing 1-4pm.
- Sun, 1 to 3:30 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. #500, Vallejo
Bryan Girard Jazz Trio
Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by his long-time compatriots Greg Sankovich on keyboard and Lorn Leber on guitar. The Cafe at the Inn is a beautiful old Victorian house transformed into an inn, with indoor and outdoor cafes serving good food, beer, wines and cocktails. The trio will play outdoors under the gazebo surrounded by shaded tables.
- Sun, 1:30 to 4 p.m.
- The Inn at Benicia Bay
- 145 East D St., Benicia
Foreign Film - Amal
Amal, a passionate and principled French teacher at a diverse high school in Brussels, believes deeply in the power of literature to open minds and build bridges. She encourages her students to think critically, embrace tolerance, and speak freely—even when doing so makes her a target.
- Sun, 2 p.m.
- Empress Theatre
- 330 Virginia St, Vallejo
Tea House Poetry
All are welcome to come, sip tea and read or listen to poetry in a safe, supportive place. Hosted by Vallejo Co-Poet Laureates Jacalyn Eyvonne and Kathleen Herrmann.
- Sun, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Integritea Space
- 717 Marin St., Vallejo
Susan Z & The Winding Road
Paying homage to Sheryl Crow, one of the most accomplished and gifted songwriters to emerge in the '90s.
- Sun, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
- Lucca Bar & Grill
- 439 First St., Benicia
Bus Stop
Love, laughter & loneliness collide at a roadside diner in Bus Stop by William Inge. Stranded by a blizzard in a rural Kansas diner, a busload of strangers is forced to confront their hopes, heartbreaks, and hidden truths. From the rugged cowboy chasing love to the disillusioned professor fleeing his past, Bus Stop is a touching, funny, and unforgettable portrait of ordinary people on a detour to destiny.
- Sun, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St., Vallejo
Art & Wine Festival
Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere where local artists showcase their talent, performing art and live jazz on one end of the street and a DJ spinning your favorite tunes on the other, bringing together all ages and all art forms. Enjoy food from our local restaurants too. Dress up in your favorite art form is encouraged.
- Sun, 4 to 8 p.m.
- 628 2nd Ave
- 628 2nd Ave,, Crockett
Sabroso Sundays
Latin Music Party Every Sunday! Fiesta Latina Todos Los Domingos! Dj Mobeezy and guest DJs bring you the best Top Latin Hits, salsa, bachata, reggaeton, hip-hop y mas! Salsa & bachata lessons by Cuban Rhythm and Rumba Dance Studio from 8 to 9 p.m. Party begins at 9 p.m. Dress to impress - dress code enforced: no baggy clothing, tank tops, hoodies, beanies, flip-flops, or backpacks allowed. 21+ event.
- Sun, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
- H Lounge
- 472 Benicia Rd., Vallejo
Monday, August 11
Shut Up and Write
Please join Benicia Literary Arts for an evening of focused writing time at the Benicia Library. All genres and experience levels are encouraged, and don't worry, no one will see what you've written! This is about getting your writing done and meeting other local writers. Shut Up and Write meets every other Monday (when the library is open).
- Mon, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Benicia Public Library
- 150 E L St., Vallejo
Tuesday, August 12
CreativiTea & Craft Club
Get together with your downtown arts community to work side by side on art projects while sipping tea and listening to music. Bring a project you're working on, or get inspired to start something fresh. We will have some art supplies available. Open to all ages and skill levels. Free, but donations to the 717 Integrity Project are appreciated.
- Tue, 6 to 8 p.m.
- 717 Integrity Project
- 717 Marin St, Vallejo
Make Fellows
Draw, paint, stitch, knit and make. All are welcome!
- Tue, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Odd Fellows Hall
- 342 Georgia St., Vallejo
Before you go...
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Gretchen Zimmermann
Gretchen Zimmermann founded the Vallejo Arts & Entertainment website, joined the Vallejo Sun to cover event listings and arts and culture, and has since expanded into investigative reporting.
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