Upcoming Vallejo Events — Dock of Bay Festival features Vallejo artists E-40, LaRussell, Baby Bash, and Con Funk Shun

VALLEJO — This year’s Mare Island Dock of Bay Festival features celebrity artists from Vallejo like E-40, LaRussell, Baby Bash, and Con Funk Shun. 

The annual festival will be on Saturday afternoon at the Mare Island Promenade, in front of the historic Coal Sheds on Mare Island. Also performing are upcoming local artists August Lee Stevens, Malachi, and Tyler Lauren. There may be a few other surprises as well. Be prepared to stand to watch the show unless you buy VIP tickets. General admission tickets are $108, and parking will cost an additional $10.

Some of the other live music events happening this week are W.M.P.H playing soul and groove at the Empress Marquee Club on Wednesday evening, singer/songwriter Erik Yates at the Coal Shed Brewery on Friday evening, Nathan X Moody, with a blend of funk, soul and pop music at the Ferry Taproom on Saturday evening, and the Git With It party dance band at Vino Godfather on Sunday afternoon.

If you love choral music, the Vallejo Choral Society's December concert rehearsals will begin on Wednesday evening at the Springbrook Masonic Temple. The program will feature Benjamin Britten's “A Ceremony of Carols” and Conrad Susa's “Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest.” If you’re interested in singing with the choir, now is the time to sign up.

A new book arts exhibit will open at Mare Island Art Studios on Saturday evening. “Palimpsests” is a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the art of the book. Meet the artists, enjoy a diverse range of work, and experience how books continue to inspire as objects of beauty, humor, and wonder.  Materials and guidance provided to create your own mini handmade book! Fun for all ages. Free admission and parking.

Also on Saturday evening, the Humane Society of the North Bay will hold a Disco Night Gala fundraiser at the Springbrook Masonic Temple. The shelter is full and depends on donations and volunteers. All proceeds from the evening will go directly to supporting the animals. Festivities include disco music and dancing, a buffet dinner with vegetarian and vegan options, a full cash bar, live and online auctions, and VIP seating options.

If you’re interested in local history, Dr. Thomas L. Snyder will speak about his book “A History of Mare Island Naval Hospital” on Thursday afternoon at the Vallejo Museum. The book delves into the hospital's development from a modest facility in the 1860s to a premier center for treating Marines and sailors, particularly those returning from the Pacific theater during World War II. It highlights the hospital's innovative approaches, such as the creation of tent hospitals during the Spanish flu pandemic and advancements in prosthetic limb development during World War II. The event is free. All are welcome

These are just some highlights of things to do in Vallejo and beyond. Scroll down the list below for more live music, crafting workshops, nature hikes and more. Be sure to check our events page throughout the week for late-breaking updates.

Wednesday, September 3 

Mentorship Workshop for ages 12-17

Kidz' N Charge Inc. is dedicated to empowering young people through mentorship and leadership programs with the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.

• Wed, 5 to 7 p.m.
• Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

Lawyers in the Library

The Vallejo JFK Library offers the Lawyers in the Library program on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. Each meeting is 15 minutes. Space is limited and slots fill up on a first come, first serve basis. Please call or come in-person at 9 a.m. on the day of the program to reserve a spot. If you would like more information, please call us at (866) 572-7587.

• Wed, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

Vallejo City Unified School District - Governing Board Meeting

School Board meeting, Public Session.

• Wed, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Vallejo City Unified School District
• 665 Walnut Ave, Governing Board Room, Vallejo

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

W.M.P.H

If you were cooking up a pot of soul, groove, and pure musical magic, this is the recipe: Start with bass powerhouse DeWayne Pate, stir in the smooth, smoky keys of David K. Mathews, .bring in the incomparable Glenn Walters on vocals, then kick it all into gear with Kevin Hayes on drums. Put it all together and you’ve got What Makes People Happy, a name that started as their initials and became a mission:

• Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Empress Marquee Club
• 324 Virginia St., Vallejo

Vallejo Choral Society’s December Concert Rehearsals Begin

We're thrilled to unveil Vallejo Choral Society's 108th Season. On September 3rd we begin rehearsals for "Carols and Lullabies," our December program featuring Benjamin Britten's A Ceremony of Carols and Conrad Susa's Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest. The Symphonic Chorus will be joined by a unique ensemble of harp and guitar, along with marimba and vibraphone. Please visit our website to register to sing with us. Whether from the audience or the risers, don’t miss out on this chance to be part of something truly special! 

• Wed, 7 p.m.
• Springbrook Masonic Temple 
• 101 Temple Way, Vallejo

Wednesday Night Open Mic

A friendly space for both beginning musicians and seasoned professionals. Comedians and poets also welcome. 

• Wed, 8 to 11 p.m.
• Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
• 401A Georgia St., Vallejo

Thursday, September 4 

English Conversation Club

Practice your English conversation skills with other adult learners in an informal and friendly setting. No registration required!

• Thu, 10 to 11 a.m.
• Vallejo Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo

A History of Mare Island Naval Hospital

U.S. Navy (Retired) Captain Thomas L. Snyder who is Author of "Mare Island Naval Hospital: A History, 1864-1957" will give an in-person presentation. His book is a comprehensive examination of the U.S. Navy's first West Coast hospital, chronicling its evolution from its establishment during the Civil War era to its significant role through World War II. The book delves into the hospital's development from a modest facility in the 1860s to a premier center for treating Marines and sailors, particularly those returning from the Pacific theater during World War II. It highlights the hospital's innovative approaches, such as the creation of tent hospitals during the Spanish flu pandemic and advancements in prosthetic limb development during World War II. The event is free. All are welcome

• Thu, 1:30 p.m. 
• Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
• 734 Marin 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 7 p.m.
• First Street between B and D Streets
• 1st 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 to 
• The Exchange
• 617 Marin St, Vallejo

Friday, September 5 

First Friday Lunch Mob

Join Vallejo Chamber of Commerce for lunch and support a locally owned restaurant. Come and eat with us, we arrive at 11:30am and stay until around 1pm, if you can't stay order something to-go and say hi! We'll see you there!

• Fri, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Hopulent
• 138 Tennessee St, Vallejo

Erik Yates

The California-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has spent the last two decades bringing that love to the world. 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. He’s worked all over the U.S. as a singer, sideman, soloist & songwriter, and has performed, taught and toured in Europe, Africa & the Caribbean.

• Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Coal Shed Brewery
• 850 Nimitz Ave, Vallejo

Ariel Marin Band

Colorfully invigorating and inspiring through musical expression!

• Fri, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
• Lucca Bar & Grill
• 439 First St., Benicia

Odd Fridays Salon

Step into an evening where small talk is banned and strange obsessions are celebrated. Once a month, three brave souls take the floor to share their most intriguing passions, peculiar discoveries, and unexpected expertise - about anything except their day jobs.Three 10-15 minute talks in a casual, supportive atmosphere with lively discussions and light refreshments.Whether you're passionate about armadillos, vintage cereal boxes, extinct alphabets, or the secret history of sock manufacturing, your weird and wonderful knowledge has a home here.

• Fri, 7 to 9 p.m.
• The Exchange
• 617 Marin St, Vallejo

Reflection - A Gothique Experience

A Unique Goth night with DJ Owen Owington Owensford curating the music and setting the mood for the night under the night sky. Classic goth - nu goth - industrial - goth metal - EBM - synth pop - cyberpunk - dark wave - new wave - post punk - classic alternative - 80s - 90s - and more. Free coffee and pastries, outdoor event - BYOB, art and food vendors. All ages - no cover. A Lady Lurid Production.

• Fri, 9 p.m. to midnight
• Moschetti Coffee Roaster
• 11 6th St. ( Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.), Vallejo

Saturday, September 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 are welcome.

• Sat, 8 to 9 a.m.
• Vallejo Ferry Terminal
• 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo

California Biodiversity Hike

Celebrate California Biodiversity Day with a hike! Join us for a hike at Newell Open Space on Saturday, September 6 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.! Explore nature as we see the unique trees, plants, birds, and insects that call Newell Open Space Preserve home. Don’t forget to bring your water, sunscreen, and curiosity.

• Sat, 9 a.m. to noon
• Newell Open Space Preserve
• 7000 Newell Dr., American Canyon

Nature Hike at Vallejo Swett-Ranches

Solano Land Trust docents will guide you through this area, known as the King-Swett Ranches. Docents will share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Hike level: Moderate to Moderately Strenuous Please note: Vallejo Swett is an undeveloped property with no formal trails. This is a rugged & an off trail hike. Participants could be climbing or going under fences, and tree branches. Free with registration.

• Sat, 9 to 11 a.m.
• Red Top Road
• 104 Red Top Rd., Fairfield

Community Coffee Tasting with live music by Joslay Jose

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. Jesse Loren Strickman will perform a free 5hr set of live music.

• Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Downtown Vallejo
• Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo

KHF Community Walk for Suicide Prevention

The Kyle Hyland Foundation will be hosting our Annual Community Walk for Suicide Prevention and Resource Fair on Saturday, 9/6/25. We will walk from the Hyland Teen Center on Church St. out to 9th St. Park for a brief ceremony and dove release. Proceeds will be donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This walk is dedicated to Kyle Hyland who we lost to suicide in 2014. Please join us. 

• Sat, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Hyland Teen Center of Benicia
• 1135 Church St., Benicia

Makers Market

Find an abundant variety of handmade goods from local artists and artisans while sipping on a cozy latte in a warm historic atmosphere. Connect with the Crockett community and browse artwork, jewelry, baked goods and more.

• Sat, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Revival Coffee
• 1 Rolph Park Dr., Crockett

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 Lane, Vallejo

Saturday Drawing Club

A casual weekly gathering. Hang out and draw together! Bring your own pencils, pens and paper. Limited supplies will be provided. For all ages and all experience levels. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please no ink or paints. The art gallery is open during the Drawing Club. Free, everyone is welcome! City Arts Gallery open hours: Thursdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays 4 to 8 p.m. and until 9 p.m. on 2nd Friday Art Walk, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m

• Sat, noon to 2 p.m.
• City Arts Gallery
• 420 Virginia St., Vallejo

2025 Mare Island Dock of Bay

The 2025 Mare Island Dock of Bay Festival is celebrating Vallejo and the many celebrity artists that have emerged from this northern city by the bay. Frazier Trager Presents and Good Compenny have partnered to bring you an amazing line-up of talent. LaRussell and Con Funk Shun are the first two artists we are announcing for the early bird presale tickets. This year is not a seated event as there is one main stage with a runway for the audience to crowd around. Be prepared to stand to watch the show unless you buy Premium VIP tickets.

• Sat, 1 to 6 p.m.
• Mare Island Promenade
• 860 Nimitz Ave, Vallejo

Quattro

Eclectic world music infused to melt your worries away!

• Sat, 1 to 3:30 p.m.
• Lucca Bar & Grill
• 439 First St., Benicia

Hispanic Heritage Day

Celebrate Hispanic Culture at the first American Canyon Hispanic Heritage Day. Enjoy food trucks, music, jumpers and a performance of Ballet Folklorico.

• Sat, 2 to 8 p.m.
• ABC Pumpkin Patch
• 4225 Broadway St., American Canyon

One Million Rising, Part II

Join us for our second One Million Rising Resistance Gathering. At this local community event we will continue our discussion addressing the real time threat America is facing as we quickly shift away from our democratic values and into an authoritarian regime. We will focus on actions to help stop this through local noncooperation techniques as well as partnering with Vallejo-Benicia Indivisible’s national strategic campaign. The meeting will be in a park so please bring lawn chairs or blankets if you can.

• Sat, 2 to 4 p.m.
• Alden Park
• 8th Street between Railroad and Walnut Avenues, Vallejo

9th Annual Evening at the Ruins

An Evening at the Ruins brings the community together for an unforgettable evening of music, fantastical light displays, and magical graffiti art at American Canyon's incredible outdoor venue - Napa Valley Ruins and Gardens. Proceeds from the event support the American Canyon Community & Parks Foundation  and efforts to build the Napa River Ecology Center. 

• Sat, 5 to 10 p.m.
• The Ruins American Canyon
• 1 Mallen Way, American Canyon

Book Arts Exhibit - Palimpsests

Join us for the Book Arts Exhibit at Mare Island Art Studios, a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the art of the book. This special show features artists exploring books as unique works of art — sculptural, expressive, and full of imagination. Meet the artists, enjoy a diverse range of work, and experience how books continue to inspire as objects of beauty, humor, and wonder. Hands-on Activity: Create your own mini handmade book! Materials and guidance provided — fun for all ages. Admission and parking.

• Sat, 5 to 9 p.m.
• Mare Island Art Studios
• 110 Pintado St., Vallejo

Humane Society of the North Bay Disco Night Gala Fundraiser

Save the date for the upcoming Humane Society of the North Bay Disco Night Gala fundraising event.

• Sat, 6 p.m. 
• Springbrook Masonic Temple
• 101 Temple Way, Vallejo

Live Music Saturday with Nathan X Moody

Nathan X Moody “ Moody”  born in Bay Area California is cancer survivor, lover of the arts, multi-instrumentalist performer and musician. Born in the 90’s and plays genres true to his upbringing of funk, soul, rock n roll, pop, soul, jazz, blues and everything in between. He loves the Groove and putting people in the mood.

• Sat, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Mare Island Brewing Company - Ferry Taproom
• 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo

Wasted Rangers

Kenny Leach and the boys are back! ***Note: Lucca’s is  unable to present their usual 1st Saturday ‘Camp Jeff’ show on this date.

• Sat, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
• Lucca Bar & Grill
• 439 First St., Benicia

The Good Ol' Days: A Comedy Show

Big stars Matthew Coe, Danny Niquette and Ellis Jones come up from LA and shock Benicia with their amazing comedy (thoughts on airports).

• Sat, 8 to 10 p.m.
• The Inn at Benicia Bay
• 145 East D St., Benicia

Sunday, September 7 

Git With It

Git With It, a premiere cover band based out of Solano County, ranges in all kinds of genres including: classic rock, funk, R&B, pop, and so much more. Gate opens at noon. Minors welcome, kids 12 and under are free. Well mannered and well managed puppy dogs are welcome in the outside venue area. We will have seating for everyone. Your own comfy folding chairs are welcome. 

• Sun, 1 to 4 p.m.
• Vino Godfather
• 1005 Walnut Avenue #500, Vallejo

RIVVRS

Through compelling songs & charismatic performance, indie-folk artist RIVVRS blends the authenticity of americana with the accessibility of pop. With more than 100 million streams and 100 features across film & tv (Suits, Reebok, Bates Motel), RIVVRS has graced thousands of stages across the United States, supporting artists such as Jewel, Brett Dennen, and Rickie Lee Jones.

• Sun, 1 to 3 p.m.
• First Street Taphouse
• 440 First St, Benicia

Bryan Girard Jazz Trio

Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be playing again at the lovely Inn at Benicia Bay on East D Street (just around the corner from 1st Street). It’s a beautiful old Victorian house transformed into an Inn with indoor and outdoor cafes serving exceptionally good food, beer, wines and cocktails. Girard will be joined by Greg Sankovich on keyboard and Dave Bell on guitar, playing outdoors under the gazebo surrounded by shaded tables. This is a terrific setting and people are loving it!

• Sun, 1:30 to 4 p.m.
• The Inn at Benicia Bay 
• 145 East D St., Benicia

Mark Karan’s Budz

Known for his long-term work with former members of the Grateful Dead, in RatDog, the Other Ones, Mickey Hart's band Planet Drum, and Phil Lesh and Friends!

• Sun, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
• Lucca Bar & Grill
• 439 First St., Benicia

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 Road, Vallejo

Monday, September 8 

Learn to Use the Internet with a Free Tablet

Learn to use the Internet and Android tablets in this 4-part class series with Solano Connected and digitalLIFT. Participants who attend all 4 classes receive a free Android tablet. Solano county residents 60 years or older and adults with disabilities age 18 or older and who do not own a device (computer, laptop, tablet) other than a phone are eligible. To sign up, call Independent Living Resources  at 707-435-8147

• Mon, 10 a.m. to noon
• Vallejo Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo

Vallejo Senior Roundtable

Please join us for a presentation from Mr. Rayvon Williamson from the IHART program Integrated Health and Response Team. IHART is a dedicated community resource team that provides timely and compassionate assistance to residents in need for mental health and behavioral needs. All are welcome!

• Mon, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Florence Douglass Center
• 333 Amador St., Vallejo

Movement with Mary Jane

Movement with Mary Jane is a guided movement flow to enhance the mind, body, spirit connection. 6 to 7 p.m. is the "Inhale Session", where we vaporize our herbal allies and unwind over freshly brewed tea. 7 to 8 p.m. is the "Exhale Flow", where we center our breath and find balance in our bodies through soft stretches, moving into gentle, breath-informed dance. This is an infused experience for people 21 and over, exceptions made if you have a doctor’s recommendation.

• Mon, 6 to 8 p.m.
• 717 Integrity Project
• 717 Marin St, Vallejo

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.

• Mon, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Benicia Public Library
• 150 E L St., Vallejo

Tuesday, September 9 

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

City Council Regular Meeting

City Council meetings are hybrid in-person and on Zoom. Agendas can be viewed on the City Agendas & Videos webpage at www.cityofvallejo.net and are posted a minimum of 72 hours in advance for regular meetings and 24 hours in advance for special meetings. There will be a video link at the left of the agenda page once the meeting begins. This will also serve as a future archive of the meeting. For better live video performance, use the direct Zoom link found in the first paragraph of the agenda window, on the second tab.

• Tue, 7 to 11 p.m.
• Vallejo City Hall
• 555 Santa Clara St, Vallejo

A more detailed list of upcoming events can be found here.

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