VALLEJO — Vallejo’s Second Friday Art Walk is expanding this month, with a two-block street closure, a Dia de los Muertos preview and a beer garden, and fall is ramping up with pumpkins and harvest festivals.
Marin Street will be closed between Georgia and Capitol Streets in a celebration of art, culture, and community during Friday evening’s Art Walk block party. A beer and wine garden will be open and the Solano AIDS Coalition will give a preview of next month’s Dia de los Muertos festival in vibrant costumes and traditional face paint.
The Solano Pride Center will host a Poetry Slam and Talent Show fundraiser at the Vallejo Museum, and IntegriTea on will be open late into the night as the home of Art Walk’s official after party, with local live music headlined by David El 3-Oh! and fire dancers after dark. You can also catch great live music at the Snap-U-Clear Jam Session on the corner of Marin and Virginia Streets
Art Walk activities will sprawl well beyond the Marin Street epicenter, from Ethnic Notions at Marin and Florida Streets, Creative Reuse of Vallejo on Capitol Street, to Georgia Street, where Red Men’s Hall, the Neighborhood Plant Dealer, LaDell’s Shoes and Vintage Vagabond and other sites will be part of the party.
Fall is upon us and the pumpkins are emerging. The Great Pumpkin Patch at Children's Wonderland is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Tuesdays through the end of the month. Kids can pick a pumpkin ($5 - $8), play in the hay maze and get into the autumn spirit.
Loma Vista Farm is also open for pumpkins sales during school hours and the next three Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a great excuse to take the kids to see the farm and visit the animals, and to get a hint of what will be in store at the farm’s upcoming Harvest Festival on Oct. 19.
The 5th Annual Family Fall Fest at Benicia City Park on Sunday afternoon will feature a pop-up pumpkin patch, delicious food trucks and live music performances
A new event, We The Vibe, will feature performances from poets, street artists, hip-hop talents, and cultural creators on Saturday evening at Enthaloop on Springs Road.
Arc-Solano’s Sprout Film Festival fundraiser will be held at the Vallejo Museum on Sunday in the early afternoon. It will feature short films from around the world, by and starring talented people with intellectual/developmental disabilities, a silent auction and a no-host bar.
These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, art, and recreational activities.
Wednesday, October 9
Paper Flower Crowns - Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by dropping in October 1st-October 15th to create your own Frida-inspired flower crown. Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City, Mexico. She was a Mexican painter and was most well-known for her use of bright colors and self-portraits. The flowers in her in flower crown represent the natural beauty of Mexico and her deep appreciation for bringing nature to life.
- Wed, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Storytime at Children's Wonderland
Join us for storytime at Children's Wonderland Park at every Wednesday at 11:15 AM! Admission to Children's Wonderland is free to all Vallejo residents.
- Wed, 11:15 to 11:45 am
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St., Vallejo
Zombie Barbies!
Only you can transform these haunted dolls into their true form, unveiling their inner torment. Dolls, paint, glitter, glue, and fabric are provided. Please leave your sister's dolls at home. They aren't ready for this kind of company.
- Wed, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., 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
Andy Santana Benefit Concert
Join us on October 9 for a concert to benefit musician Andy Santana, who has been diagnosed with a progressive illness. The Empress Theatre and his many musician friends are donating their talent and time to support Andy. Here are some of the musicians who will be performing: Rick Estrin Kid Andersen Terri Odabi Anthony Paule Willy Jordan Steve Freund Mark Hummel June Core Bob Welsh Randy Bermudes Jon Otis and surprise guests.
- Wed, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
- Empress Theatre Lounge
- 324 Virginia St., 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, October 10
Paper Flower Crowns - Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by dropping in October 1st-October 15th to create your own Frida-inspired flower crown. Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City, Mexico. She was a Mexican painter and was most well-known for her use of bright colors and self-portraits. The flowers in her in flower crown represent the natural beauty of Mexico and her deep appreciation for bringing nature to life.
- Thu, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Adult Craft Club - Meditative Banig Drawing Workshop
Please join us for a very special edition of Make-it-Together to celebrate Filipino American History Month. This month, we will be inviting a guest artist, Kenneth Tan from the Lola x Kenneth Collaboration. Kenneth will be guiding us through a Meditative Banig Drawing Workshop which is a one-hour drawing workshop inspired by Filipino tattoos and woven patterns. Make-it-together is the Adult Craft Club's monthly guided start to finish craft.
- Thu, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St, Vallejo
Vallejo Vibez - Unfiltered Visions film night
Unfiltered Visions – A special film night at the Vallejo Museum featuring experimental films by local filmmakers, exploring social justice narratives. Free, but seating is limited. Please RSVP to lori@3palmsgroup.com. Refreshments provided.
- Thu, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St., Vallejo
October Book Club: "Trick Mirror" by Jia Tolentino
This isn’t exactly a memoir, but rather essays like our old friend Joan Didion. It has so many rave reviews it will be a pleasure to read this and celebrate Filipino American Heritage Month.
- Thu, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Alibi Bookshop
- 624 Marin St., Vallejo
Friday, October 11
Paper Flower Crowns - Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by dropping in October 1st-October 15th to create your own Frida-inspired flower crown. Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City, Mexico. She was a Mexican painter and was most well-known for her use of bright colors and self-portraits. The flowers in her in flower crown represent the natural beauty of Mexico and her deep appreciation for bringing nature to life.
- Fri, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
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 10:30 am
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Harvest Party
Come celebrate the season with us at Children's Wonder-land, play some games and do some crafts! There will be plenty of pumpkins available for purchase and decorating as we welcome autumn.
- Fri, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St., Vallejo
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
2nd Friday Art Walk
This special Art Walk is expanding with a block party on Marin Street, a special preview of the Dia De Los Muertos festival, and a beer and wine garden in front of IntegriTea, which host the official Art Walk Afterparty until midnight, with live music and fire dancers. A Poetry Slam and Talent Show with the Solano Pride Center and friends will be held at the Vallejo Museum. There will be a lot going happening on Georgia Street too, at LaDell’s shoes and Vintage Vagabond on the south side of Marin, and at the Georgia Street Breezeway, Red Men’s Hall and beyond at the north side of Marin.
- Fri, 5 to midnight
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo
Fright Fest
Experience the transformation and prepare for nights of frights into a realm of haunted horrors and eerie entertainment. With haunted mazes, terrifying scare zones, and hair-raising shows, it's a scream-inducing extravaganza for thrill-seekers. Enjoy the park's rides in the dark, making it the ultimate destination chills of the Halloween season.
- Fri, 6 to 10 p.m.
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
- 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo
Live Music Friday with 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.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
- 850 Nimitz Ave., Vallejo
GVRD Homecoming Boutique
GVRD Boutique is open for any young person in need of a dress or suit for Homecoming. This is a free event for students of all Vallejo schools. Please register in advance online as space is limited. The event will be held while supplies last. Advanced registration is encouraged, but walk-ins will be welcomed.
- Fri, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Vallejo Community Center
- 225 Amador, Vallejo
Poetry Slam & Talent Show
Poetry Slam & Talent Show! Fun and Fundraising Night with the Solano Pride Center & Friends. Bay Area Queer Writer’s Association will be launching their new anthology “Together.” Refreshments, and a silent auction will benefit Solano Pride Center. Do you have a talent to share, or a poem you'd like to read or share? Contact will@solanopride.org for more information.
- Fri, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St., Vallejo
80's Night with DJ Zero Effs
DJ Zero Effs takes you back to the 80s every second Friday after Art Walk
- Fri, 8:30 to midnight
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St., Vallejo
Vallejo Art Walk AfterParty at the 4th Corner SpeakEasy
Join the Red Men after the Vallejo Art Walk. No cover, cash bar, alcohol served to Age 21 and Above. Entertainment provided by The Usual Suspects. Come to see and be seen!
- Fri, 8:30 to 11 p.m.
- Red Men’s Hall
- 431 Georgia St, Vallejo
Saturday, October 12
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, Vallejo
Community Coffee Tasting with live music by Duo Gadjo
Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes. Sample coffees from around the world, develop your palate and discover coffees you love that you never knew existed. Duo Gadjo’s ‘Gypsy Jazz’ is largely inspired by the sounds of the 20’s and 30’s, when jazz was the new thing and Paris was the place to be. The Bizarre Artists Talent Society is hosting another "Bizarre Bazaar" market during the event.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Moschetti Coffee
- 11 Sixth St. (Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.), 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 and such at down-to-earth prices. t
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo
Paper Flower Crowns - Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by dropping in October 1st-October 15th to create your own Frida-inspired flower crown. Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City, Mexico. She was a Mexican painter and was most well-known for her use of bright colors and self-portraits. The flowers in her in flower crown represent the natural beauty of Mexico and her deep appreciation for bringing nature to life.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Fright Fest
Experience the transformation and prepare for nights of frights into a realm of haunted horrors and eerie entertainment. With haunted mazes, terrifying scare zones, and hair-raising shows, it's a scream-inducing extravaganza for thrill-seekers. Enjoy the park's rides in the dark, making it the ultimate destination chills of the Halloween season.
- Sat, noon to 11 p.m.
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
- 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo
Kitty Meet and Greet - pet adoptions
Come meet your next best friend! All cats and kittens who are adopted out through Community Cat Advocates have been tested, vaccinated to age appropriate levels, microchipped and spayed or neutered.
- Sat, noon to 3 p.m.
- PetSmart
- 952 Admiral Callaghan Ln., Vallejo
GTS Band - Got the Soul!
GTS band has been performing under different names since 1985. They play mostly Latin, Funk and Soul music.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St., Vallejo
Echoes of Alchemy: Bridging Past and Present - Opening Reception
This exhibition connects the past and present through the eyes of two remarkable artists. Jane Yuen Corich and Kathy Kearns’s works are grounded in history yet resonate deeply in the here and now. Their pieces remind us of the alchemy of time, art, and human experience. Meet the artists and enjoy an evening of art, reflection, and connection.
- Sat, 5 to 7 p.m.
- NY2CA Gallery
- 617 First St., Benicia
Plan B
Plan B brings an eclectic mix of R&B, Rock, Latin and Soul for your listening pleasure. Grab your partner, your friends or just a night out alone and enjoy free music, amazing drinks and delicious food
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
Vallejo Vibez - We The Vibe
We The Vibe – will feature performances from poets, street artists, hip-hop talents, and cultural creators who capture the heart of Vallejo’s underground arts scene. Ticket Info: Free, but RSVP required due to venue capacity. Food trucks and merchandise booths will be available on-site.
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Enthaloop
- 2172 Springs Rd., Vallejo
Live Music with Shelby Ann
Inspired by artists ranging from Johnny Cash to Nirvana, Shelby’s songwriting style blends the angst and energy of 90’s alt-rock/grunge with the sensibility of Americana and roots rock. With a wealth of her own material and a group of carefully selected covers, Shelby’s high energy performances will remind you why you fell in love with rock & roll in the first place.
- Sat, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
- 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Johnny & The B'Goods
Johnny Ramos and his B' Goods band are back at Gentleman Jim's to play R&B pop and funk. Get in early, get your drink and a piece of the dance floor, and let Johnny do the rest! $10 cover after 10pm
- Sat, 9 p.m. to midnight
- Gentleman Jim’s
- 1324 Lincoln Rd. E, Vallejo
Holotta Tymes Drag Show
Come join Vicodonia Knightingale, Charity Kase and Holotta Tymes every 2nd and 4th Saturday night at the Townhouse Cocktail Lounge! These are the Divas you want to see!
- Sat, 10:30 to 1:00 am
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St., Vallejo
Sunday, October 13
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. 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, Vallejo
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 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
5th Annual Family Fall Fest
Come join us at City Park for a day filled with fun activities for the whole family. From pumpkin decorating to a pop-up pumpkin patch with Mau & Associates, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on the delicious food trucks and live music performances throughout the day.
- Sun, noon to 5 p.m.
- Benicia City Park
- 150 Military West, Benicia
Den Kittelson Memorial Service
Dennis Kittelson died unexpectedly with his family by his side, on July 27 at Sutter Roseville Medical Center at the age of 61. He was widely known in Vallejo for his volunteer work. Den’s niece Roxanne and nephew Ron will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Den’s life.
- Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
- Empress Theatre Lounge
- 324 Virginia St., Vallejo
Fright Fest
Experience the transformation and prepare for nights of frights into a realm of haunted horrors and eerie entertainment. With haunted mazes, terrifying scare zones, and hair-raising shows, it's a scream-inducing extravaganza for thrill-seekers. Enjoy the park's rides in the dark, making it the ultimate destination chills of the Halloween season.
- Sun, noon to 10 p.m.
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
- 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo
Relatively Small Works
A group art show featuring art 12 inches and under. & José Martinez solo art show in the small gallery.
- Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St., Mare Island, Vallejo
Sprout Film Festival 2024
Please join us for an entertaining and intriguing afternoon featuring short films from around the world, by and starring talented people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. This is Arc Solano’s primary fundraiser for the year and we would love your support!
Silent Auction • No-host Bar • Refreshments
- Sun, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St., Vallejo
Tea House Poetry Open Mic
Join Co-Poets Laureate Jacalyn Yvonne and Kathleen Herrmann for a poetry open mice every second Sunday at IntegriTea.
- Sun, 2 to 4 p.m.
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St., Vallejo
Community Forum - Vallejo City Council And Mayoral Races
Community Forum Vallejo-city Council And Mayoral Races A Hosted by the League of Women Voters of the United States. Live-stream at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAIsnQmtmlzLIHVQjsTbce
- Sun, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Rehoboth World Outreach Center
- 245 Holly St., Vallejo
Monday, October 14
Paper Flower Crowns - Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by dropping in October 1st-October 15th to create your own Frida-inspired flower crown. Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City, Mexico. She was a Mexican painter and was most well-known for her use of bright colors and self-portraits. The flowers in her in flower crown represent the natural beauty of Mexico and her deep appreciation for bringing nature to life.
- Mon, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Tuesday, October 15
Paper Flower Crowns - Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by dropping in October 1st-October 15th to create your own Frida-inspired flower crown. Frida Kahlo was born in 1907 in Mexico City, Mexico. She was a Mexican painter and was most well-known for her use of bright colors and self-portraits. The flowers in her in flower crown represent the natural beauty of Mexico and her deep appreciation for bringing nature to life.
- Tues, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
"I Need A Mic" writing workshop
Ray Davis @poetdavis hosts the I Need a Mic Writing Workshop. Writers of all genres welcome.
- Tues, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
Road to Employment
Get help with your job search by meeting with a representative from Solano County's Work Force Development Board.
- Tues, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Campanelli Youth Chorus after-school class
The youth chorus class empowers students to find their voice and develop an appreciation for singing and its power to lift the human spirit. Students gain a foundation in the choral arts, including musicianship, sight singing, and pitch and vocal training. The class concludes with a recital and performance with the Vallejo Choral Society. The class is open to children ages 7 through 17 throughout Vallejo and surrounding communities, and no audition or previous music experience is required. Scholarships available, drop-ins welcome.
- Tues, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
- Vallejo Community Center
- 225 Amador, Vallejo
Solano County Library 3rd Tuesday Book Club
Bring a book and talk with other adults at this local establishment This club meets at the Coal Shed location of Mare Island Brewery 850 Nimitz
- Tues, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
- 850 Nimitz Ave., Vallejo
Vallejo CreativiTea Club
Vallejo CreativiTea Club (previously called Doodle and Draw) is now every Tuesday night. 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. This free event is open to all ages and skill levels.
- Tues, 6 to 9 p.m.
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St., Vallejo
Family Friendly Comedy
Bay Area Comics present family-friendly comedy from a fresh lineup of comedians at every show. First and third Tuesdays at Bambino's. No cover with dinner.
- Tues, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
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 Duo Gadjo to Saturday's coffee tasting event.
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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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