Upcoming Vallejo Events — Dock of the Bay festival and Vallejo Museum Gala

VALLEJO — The fourth annual Dock of the Bay festival will rock Mare Island this weekend, and the Vallejo Museum will celebrate their 50-year anniversary with a fundraising Gala and dinner. 

The Mare Island Dock of Bay Festival will take place on the Mare Island Promenade in front of the historic Coal Sheds on Saturday. The Average White Band, known for their diverse songwriting and unique approach to rhythm & blues, will headline on the main stage, preceded by The Commodores, Lenny Williams and Heatwave. 

Alternating performances of acoustic music by Melodius, Second Planet, West Coast Blues Society and Joyce Grant will take place on a second stage in the food court.

VIP tickets include prime seating near the stage, a drink ticket and a raffle entry for the Average White Band’s Greatest Hits Gold vinyl collection and backstage access to meet the band.

On Friday evening you can help celebrate 50 years of the Vallejo Museum at their annual gala and fundraiser. The event will include live and silent auctions, a three-course meal with a vegetarian option, drinks, dessert, and dancing to the sounds of 1974, the museum's founding year. The museum is dedicated to preservation of Vallejo’s history and to supporting the community with free cultural events and shows by local artists. 

Meanwhile, two events this week take radically different approaches to the celebration of free speech — the Comedy Uncensored show at the Empress Theatre Lounge, and the Causing Cultural Anarchy book arts opening at Mare Island Art Studios.

The Comedy Uncensored show at the Empress Theatre Lounge on Thursday evening will feature emerging comedy sensation Calen Genobaga. No topic is off limits at these monthly shows hosted by Bay Area Comics, where an engaged audience seated near the stage comes prepared for some bawdy repartee.

The Causing Cultural Anarchy VI art show opens this Saturday evening at Mare Island Art Studios. This annual event is the one show where the studio posts a warning about potentially offensive content on the door of their otherwise family-friendly gallery. The theme this year is book arts and censorship, with themes that incorporate the written word with collages, constructions and abstracts, and/or allusions to personal narratives. 

Former Vallejo Poet Laureate D. L. Lang will read at the opening event. The show will also be open on Sunday afternoons throughout the month of September.

For an extra perk of live music while you dine at Manny’s Steakhouse on the waterfront, check out jazz Saxophonist Bryan Girard, with Greg Sankovich on keys and Dave Bell on guitar this Saturday evening. Manny's has turned out to be a popular spot for these jazz shows, with a lot of regulars coming by for the music and ambiance, so dinner reservations are recommended. 

Or if psychedelic rock music is more your style, check out the Groovy Judy Band’s dinnertime show at Bambino’s Restaurant on Saturday and soak up their love-infused rock while dining on Italian-inspired cuisine. Arrive early to get a table near the stage.

These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, literary, educational and recreational activities.

Wednesday, September 4

Storytime at Children's Wonderland

Join us for storytime at Children's Wonderland Park at every Wednesday. Admission to Children's Wonderland is free to all Vallejo residents.

• Wed, 11:15 am to 11:45 am
• Children’s Wonderland
• 360 Glenn St.

DIY Friendship Bracelets

Join us and learn to make friendship bracelets for yourself and all your friends.

• Wed, 2 to 3 p.m.
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave.

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. Call (866) 572-7587 or come in-person at 9am on the day of the program to reserve a spot.

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

Mare Island Infrastructure Assessment Project Community Informational Meeting

Learn about the current state of infrastructure on Mare Island, including roads, dry utilities, and flood control systems, and discover how these factors may impact future infrastructure needs, including: roads, sanitary sewer, dry utilities, water storm drain and flood control systems.

• Wed, 6 to 7 p.m.
• Mare Island Marketing Center (AKA Conference Center)
• 375 G St. (Mare Island Causeway @ Nimitz Ave.)

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 pm to 7:20 pm
• Vallejo Ferry Terminal
• 289 Mare Island Way

Takezo Takeda, The Soul Man from Japan & His Killer Band

Takezo Takeda has performed as a rhythm and blues singer/guitarist with artists such as Elvin Bishop, Angela Strehli, Joe Louis Walker, Norton Buffalo, and many others. “Takezo sings the blues as naturally as someone born in Oakland, raised in a church, and studied with Junior Parker. He was meant to live the blues.” Tom Mazzolini, producer of the San Francisco Blues Festival.

• Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Empress Theatre Lounge
• 324 Virginia St.

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.

Thursday, September 5

Finding the Hardest Ones, Part 1 (Genealogy Speaker Series)

James M. Baker, PhD. will use case studies to illustrate and discuss his seven strategies to find the most challenging genealogical data: collaborating with other genealogists, search engine research, digging in giant tomes, checking property and tax records, and analyzing DNA evidence.

• Thurs, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
• Online Event
• Email for Zoom registration

Vallejo Mayoral Candidates Forum

Hosted by Vallejo Seeking Solutions

• Thurs, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St.

Comedy Uncensored with Calen Genobaga

Get ready to laugh your socks off  at the Empress Theatre in downtown Vallejo! This exclusive standup comedy show features the hilarious Calen Genobaga, an emerging comedy sensation who has taken his act to stages around the world. Genobaga will be joined on stage with his dad Jimmy Earll and Mario Castillo from the Naked Cat Podcast.

• Thurs, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
• Empress Theatre Lounge
• 324 Virginia St.

Hear 3 Guests Speak on Int'l Travel @ Toastmasters Open House

Get ready to embark on a virtual journey around the world with Mare Island Toastmasters. Our speakers will share their experiences with different cultures, languages from Mexico, Eithiopia and India. You will also hear tips on public speaking skills. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just looking for some adventure from the comfort of your home, this event is perfect for you.

• Thurs, 7:30 to 9 p.m.
• Online Event
• Zoom Registration

Friday, September 6

DBC Retirement Sale & Mini Pop-up

Come to Dillon Bread Company for sweets, savories and preserves along with vintage goods too. They’ll have vintage kitchenware, vintage cookbooks, vintage barware, vintage entertaining items, vintage garden and of course an assortment of vintage oddments. Dillon Bread Company will close for good after their Sept.21 popup event. Order in advance or arrive early for the best selection.

• Fri, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Dillon Bread Company
• 451 Ryder St., Suite B

Family Storytime

Our screen-free storytimes are great for families. Have children of different ages? Bring them all! These stories and activities are for everyone.

• Fri, 10 a.m. to 10:35 am
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave.

The Makery: Open Use Hours & Make it Fridays!

The Makery! Equipment includes: 3D printer, vinyl cutter, digital production equipment, and much more! Drop-in and discover what we have, or make an appointment to use specific equipment. Don't know what to make? Check out 'Make it Fridays!' we will have a special activity to get your creative muscles working.

• Fri, 2 to 4:45 pm
• John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St.

Vallejo Museum 50th Anniversary Gala

This year's Golden Gala will include live and silent auctions, a three-course meal, dancing and more. The annual gala auction has become one of the best parties in town and will be even better for our big birthday! All monies raised are not only tax deductible, they help keep the museum alive and thriving.

• Fri, 6 to 10 p.m.
• Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
• 734 Marin St.

The Jazzy Comedy Show Champagne Party

Get ready to be entertained by hilarious comedians and enjoy the smooth tunes of our jazz band. It's the perfect combination for a fun night out with friends. Headliner Jacie Rowe will be joined by Michael Garcis, Leo Horta and musical performances by Bhold the General and Honey Gold Jasmine. Grab your tickets and get ready to sip on some champagne while laughing your hearts out!

• Fri, 8 to 10:30 p.m.
• Be Bubbly Lounge & Bistro
• 1407 Second St.
• Napa

Reflection, A Gothique Experience

DJ Owen Owington Owensford will curate the music and set a unique goth night mood under the new moon sky with classic goth, nu goth, industrial, goth metal, EBM, synth pop, cyberpunk, dark wave, new wave, post punk, 80s, 90s and more. The Bizarre Bazaar Talent Society will offer artworks that advance the creative experimentation and practice of the decorative artist community.

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

Saturday, September 7

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 a.m. to 9:00 am
• Vallejo Ferry Terminal
• 289 Mare Island Way

Community Coffee Tasting with live music by Sobre Cuerdas

Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes. Sobre Cuerdas will play an eclectic mix of original music and cover tunes that bring notes of Venezuela with pop sensibilities to your ears.

• Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Moschetti Coffee
• 11 Sixth St. (Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.)

DBC Retirement Sale & Mini Pop-up

Come to Dillon Bread Company for sweets, savories and preserves along with vintage goods too. They’ll have vintage kitchenware, vintage cookbooks, vintage barware, vintage entertaining items, vintage garden and of course an assortment of vintage oddments. Dillon Bread Company will close for good after their Sept.21 popup event. Order in advance or arrive early for the best selection.

• Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Dillon Bread Company
• 451 Ryder St., Suite B

Farmers' Market

Shop here for a great selection of California-grown greens, fruits & veggies, ethnic varieties, as well as some nice specialty booths with baked goods and such at  down-to-earth prices. t

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

Vallejo Harvest Fair

Bing your summer’s harvest and yourself to celebrate the fall harvest and Hispanic Heritage Month and plan your fall and winter gardens. Chef Lisa Núñez-Hancock will host a cooking demo that celebrates the bounty of the harvest season and indigenous culinary and planting traditions.

• Sat, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St.

Bilingual Family Storytime

Swing by and dive into a whirlwind of tales in English and Spanish, spiced up with a dash of singing, dancing and playtime! Disfruta de los cuentos, canciones, y rimas con tu familia.

• Sat, 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 am
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave.

He[ART] of the Bay - Art & Car Show

Join us for a day filled with classic cars, stunning art, and great vibes at the 2nd Annual He[ART] of the Bay Art & Car Show! Vibe to performances by talented local musical artists, admire a range of beautifully restored classic cars, discover unique items from local artists and crafters, and enjoy delicious bites and refreshing beverages

• Sat, noon to 7 p.m.
• Carnalito’s Customs
• 905 Tennessee St.

4th Annual Dock of Bay Festival

The 2024 Mare Island Dock of Bay Festival is a memorable experience where attendees can explore the waterfront, promenade and historic coal sheds while listening to the headline bands on the main stage and acoustic music in the Chef de Cuisine Food Court. General admission $120, VIP $187.

• Sat, 1 to 9:30 p.m.
• Mare Island Promenade
• 850 Nimitz Ave.

Soul'd Out Band

This talented band will take you on a musical journey through the decades with their eclectic mix of genres and styles. From the soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder to the upbeat rhythm of Bruno Mars, they've got something for everyone.

• Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
• Vino Godfather
• 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St.

Threads in Motion: Hands-On Textile Art Experience with Bodil Fox

NY2CA Gallery is thrilled to present ‘Threads in Motion: Hands-On Textile Art Experience with Bodil Fox and members of the Treadles to Threads Spinners Guild, an engaging and interactive event that invites art enthusiasts and curious minds alike to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of textile arts. This unique experience will bring the gallery to life with the vibrant energy of spinning, knitting, and weaving in action.

• Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
• NY2CA Gallery
• 617 First St.
• Benicia

Bryan Girard Jazz

Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by Greg Sankovich on keys and Dave Bell on guitar. Manny's has turned out to be a popular spot for jazz, with a lot of regulars coming by to soak up the music and the ambiance. Dinner reservations recommended.

• Sat, 5 to 8 p.m.
• Manny’s Steakhouse
• 295 Mare Island Way

Causing Cultural Anarchy VI Opening Reception

This annual event is the one show where the studio posts a warning about potentially offensive content on the door of their otherwise family-friendly gallery. The theme this year is book arts and censorship, with themes that incorporate the written word with collages, constructions and abstracts, and/or allusions to personal narratives. Former Vallejo Poet Laureate D. L. Lang will read at the opening event. The show will also be open on Sunday afternoons throughout the month of September.

• Sat, 5 to 8 p.m.
• Mare Island Art Studios
• 110 Pintado St.

Live Music with Groovy Judy

Enjoy an evening of great food, drinks and atmosphere while listening to the love-infused rock music brought by Groovy Judy and her band. No cover with dinner.

• Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Bambino’s
• 301 Georgia St. #122

Live Music with Richard March

The breezy roots-based musicality of Richard March recalls the heart-on-your-sleeve tradition of Jason Isbell, Patti Griffin, Tom Petty, Paul Simon, and Jackson Brown.

• Sat, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
• 289 Mare Island Way

Sunday, September 8

Kayak Practice and Fun

Paddle around Lake Chabot, weather permitting. Kayak provided if you don’t have one. $10 suggested donation. Check the Facebook Kayaking Biking group for updates because dates and times may change because of weather or volunteer availability. Bring your kayak, PFD, and gear, or we will provide you with what you need free of charge to help you decide what is best for you.

• Sun, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Lake Chabot
• Dan Foley Park
• 1461 N Camino Alto

St. Peter's Chapel, Self-guided Tour

A museum by itself, St. Peter's Chapel, built in 1901, is known for its large collection of stunning Tiffany windows, vaulted ceilings with exposed redwood beams, and historic plaques. You’ll find yourself in awe of the craftsmanship on display. Docents will be available to answer questions. A $5 donation toward the chapel maintenance fund is requested.

• Sun, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• St. Peter’s Chapel
• 1181 Walnut Ave.

Causing Cultural Anarchy VI

This annual event is the one show where the studio posts a warning about potentially offensive content on the door of their otherwise family-friendly gallery. The theme this year is book arts and censorship, with themes that incorporate the written word with collages, constructions and abstracts, and/or allusions to personal narratives.

• Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
• Mare Island Art Studios
• 110 Pintado St.

Tea House Poetry Open Mic

Join Co-Poets Laureate Jacalyn Yvonne and Kathleen Herrmann for a poetry open mic every second Sunday at IntegriTea.

• Sun, 2 to 4 p.m.
• IntegriTea
• 717 Marin St.

Monday, September 9

Vallejo Senior Roundtable with Rayvon Williamson from IHART

Rayvon Williamson from the Integrated Health and Response Team will speak at this month's Senior Roundtable. IHART is a dedicated community resource team that provides timely and compassionate assistance to residents in need for mental health and behavioral needs.

• Mon, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
• Florence Douglas Center
• 333 Amador St.

City Council Candidates Forum

Hosted by Vallejo Seeking Solutions

• Mon, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara S

Movement with Mary Jane

Movement with Mary Jane is a guided movement flow to enhance the mind, body, spirit connection. Let’s conspire to inspire. This is an infused experience for people 21 and over, unless you have a doctor’s recommendation. IntegriTea Art Space fundraiser

• Mon, 6 to 9 p.m.
• IntegriTea
• 717 Marin St.

Speakeasy Expressions Poetry Open Mic

Join host Remo Valentino for Speakeasy Expressions Poetry Open Mic every other Monday night. Come share your spoken word poetry on stage to a live audience, or just grab a few drinks and watch the show. 21+ venue. This open mic is a friendly, casual atmosphere where you can expand your poetic horizons. Free — no cover charge, drinks available for purchase.

• Mon, 7 to 9 p.m.
• Chris’ Club
• 656 Benicia Rd

Tuesday, September 10

Ribbon Cutting, Disc Golf at Hanns Park

Even though the Disc Golf course at Hanns Park opened for play back in 2021, the finishing touches have just been completed and GVRD is officially ready to cut the ribbon.

• Tues, 4 to 5 p.m.
• Hanns Park
• 198 Skyline Dr. @ Redwood Parkway

Game Night

Bring the whole family and get out of the house and enjoy a board game! BYO snacks, njoy a classic like Clue, Candyland, or even chess. Try a new game, like Herstory or Cat Lady. Maybe even enjoy a small snack while you play.

• Tues, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave.

Vallejo Doodle and Draw Night

Come together with local artists to doodle and draw together. This free event is open to all ages and skill levels, but donations are welcome to to keep the doors open at this essential community space.

• Tues, 6 to 8 p.m.
• IntegriTea
• 717 Marin St.

City Council Regular Meeting

City Council meetings are hybrid in-person and on Zoom. The agenda will be posted on the City Agendas & Videos web page a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the meeting – that usually means Thursday.

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

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

Submit your event listings for inclusion to events@vallejosun.com

Advertise your events on the Vallejo Sun website by contacting ads@vallejosun.com

Editor's note — this story was updated to add the Art & Car show at Carnalito's Customs and the Candidates Forums at the John F. Kennedy Library.