Upcoming Vallejo Events — Author Dave Eggers meet and greet at Alibi Bookshop

VALLEJO —  Award-winning author Dave Eggers will make an appearance at Alibi Bookshop to promote the release of his latest book on Saturday afternoon.

Eggers, who is best known for his 2000 memoir “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,” has authored many other books for both adults and children and is the founder of nonprofit organizations that promote literacy and debt-free higher education for low-income students. He is also a co-founder of Voice of Witness, a nonprofit book series that uses oral history to illuminate human rights crises around the world.

Eggers will be at Alibi Bookshop this Saturday afternoon and signing his new book, "The Comebacker," his 2023 Newbery Award-winning young adult novel "Eyes and the Impossible," and his other beloved favorites.

Also, California Assemblymember Lori Wilson, who represents Solano County, will help pass out 1,500 turkeys and turkey vouchers at “Operation Gobble Gobble” at the Solano County Fairgrounds on Saturday afternoon. Information about legislative resources and services provided by the district office will be available at this event.

Live music around town begins this week with Aki Kumar at the Empress Lounge on Wednesday evening. Kumar is known for his cutting-edge multi-cultural mash-up of Indian music and the blues. Then on Thursday evening at the Empress Lounge, saxophonist Ron Burris will deliver smooth jazz as part of the venue’s smooth jazz & wine series.

Kiel Williams and Owen Ridings will blend original music with covers that reflect their diverse influences. from rock and folk to funk, indie, and Americana at Mare Island Brewing Co.’s Coal Shed Brewery on Friday evening.

Enjoy a funky jazz groove along with your evening meal on Saturday with the Bryan Girard Jazz Trio at Manny’s Steakhouse on the Vallejo waterfront. Griard’s rotating musical group will feature Tim Campbell on keyboard and Lorn Leber on guitar. 

That same evening you can be serenaded by indie/alternative singer-songwriter Zak Fennie at the Mare Island Brewery Taproom in the Ferry building. The brewery has a full kitchen and a broader menu than their Coal Shed location on the island. 

Later on Saturday evening evening, one of the Philippines’ most prolific songwriters, Ms. Cecile Azarcon will celebrate her birthday and 45th anniversary in the Philippine music industry at the Empress Theatre. Azarcon will be joined by several special guest musicians and the After Six Dance Band Rewind.

For late-night dancing on Saturday night, catch the Level:Set Band and their lively mix of pop, R&B, funk and rock music at Gentleman Jim’s. 

This is the closing weekend of Verismo Opera’s performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera La Traviata at the Mira Theatre. Shows are scheduled for Saturday night and a Sunday afternoon matinee. La Traviata tells the story of a passionate romance marred by tragedy. The performers sing in Italian, but the audience can follow the plot by reading supertitles in English projected over 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, art, spoken word, educational and recreational activities. 

Wednesday, November 20

STEAM with Miss Christine

Join us for a STEAM activity where we explore different projects that spark curiosity and creativity. November activity: Potato races! Construct a vehicle out of a potato, and see how far you can get it to go down the 12 foot long ramp! Age group: children.

• Wed, 2 to 4 p.m.
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave., 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 (866) 572-7587 or come in-person at 9 a.m. 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., 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 p.m. to 7:20 p.m.
• Vallejo Ferry Terminal
• 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo

Aki Kumar

One of the hardest working artists on the music scene today, Aki Kumar has successfully blended elements of Indian music into his musical and visual presentation, making for a multi-cultural mash-up that sounds like no one else, yet never loses touch with the inspiration it draws from the blues.

• Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 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, November 21

Speaker Series: Local Native American Heritage with 7 Generations Intertribal Council

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, please join us in welcoming Melissa Mendoza, Council Chair of 7 Generations Intertribal Council, to present on the topic of Local Native American Heritage. This event is free and open to the public. Hosted by Carquinez Village and co-sponsored by Benicia Public Library. Coffee and donuts will be provided.

• Thurs, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Benicia Public Library
• 150 East L St, Benicia

Vallejo's Economy to 2030: Strategic Planning

In 2023, the City of Vallejo hosted meetings with businesses and residents to gather input on the City's Economic Development Strategic Plan. Through 2024, the Consultant team along with City staff used that feedback and much more, to draft an updated Strategic Plan with goals and action steps supporting Vallejo's economic development growth. Join the Economic Development team to learn about the draft initiatives and vision outlined for Vallejo.

• Thurs, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• JFK Library – Joseph Room
• 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

Ron Burris

Join us for another unforgettable evening featuring Saxophonist Ron Burris, delivering smooth jazz vibes that will wrap you in a blissful state of relaxation.

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

Alibi Bookshop November Book Club:
The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson

Please join us for Alibi Bookshop's November Book Club discussion of "The Seed Keeper" by Diane Wilson. Weaving together the voices of four indelible women, The Seed Keeper is a beautifully told story of reawakening, of remembering our original relationship to the seeds and, through them, to our ancestors.

• Thurs, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
• Alibi Bookshop
• 624 Marin St., Vallejo

Friday, November 22

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 a.m.
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave., 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 p.m.
• John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

Pound - Workout

Please join us for a full-body workout featuring light-weighted drumsticks! Pound is a mixture of plyometrics and pilates, but the most important part is to have fun! The workout will consist of a warmup song, 2 squat songs, 2 lunge songs, 2 ab songs and a cooldown. Sticks and yoga mats will be provided. We encourage you to bring water bottles!

• Fri, 4 to 4:30 p.m.
• JFK Library – Joseph Room
• 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

Live Music with Kiel Williams and Owen Ridings

Kiel Williams and Owen Ridings have been musical collaborators for years, performing as a duo and as members of the bands The Hot Dark and Descendants of Prospectors. Their repertoire spans a wide range of genres, blending original music with covers that reflect their diverse influences. From rock and folk to funk, indie, and Americana, their performances offer an eclectic mix of sounds that captivate any audience.

• Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
• 850 Nimitz Ave., Vallejo

Saturday, November 23

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 a.m.
• Vallejo Ferry Terminal
• 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo

Community Coffee Tasting - Live music by Sobre Cuerdas

Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes while listening to Sobre Cuerdas, a reggae pop fusion duo from Venezuela. You don’t need to understand Spanish to appreciate the rich vocals of the lead singer.

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

Farmers' Market

Shop here for a great selection of California-grown greens, fruits and 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

Julie Voice (Serial Muse) Book Signing

Julie Voice (Serial Muse) will celebrate the launching of her new book “Forthcoming: And Serial Muse Chronicles Revisited. An anthology of Voice's life through the poetic lens of Serial Muse from 2016-2024. Julie's poetry is a journey of self-discovery, reflection and resilience. She didn’t choose poetry; poetry chose her. This powerful form of creative expression is her way of healing herself and inspiring others.

• Sat, 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
• Vintage Vagabond
• 310 Georgia St., 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 dewormed, treated for fleas, tested for Felv and FIV, vaccinated to age appropriate levels, microchipped and spayed or neutered. Evening appointments also available.

• Sat, noon to 3 p.m.
• PetSmart
• 952 Admiral Callaghan Lane, Vallejo

Operation Gobble Gobble

Learn about legislative resources and the services provided by the district office. Attendees will receive a free* frozen turkey or voucher while supplies last. *Limit one per household. given on a first-come, first-served basis. Event by Lori D. Wilson, Assemblywoman, District 11

• Sat, noon to 2 p.m.
• Solano County Fairgrounds
• 900 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo

Dee Dee Simon (unconfirmed)

Dee Dee Simon has been considered one of the show’s best singers during her run on America’s Got Talent and was moved to the finals when she received a Golden Buzzer during the competition. Her soaring vocals had the audience in tears and left the normally chatty Judges temporarily speechless.
This event appears on the Vino Godfather Facebook page but not on their website. Attempts to reach Vino Godfather to confirm this event have been unsuccessful.

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

Author Dave Eggers meet and greet

Dave Eggers will be stopping by and signing his new book, "The Comebacker," his new short stories, his Newbury Award Winning "Eyes and the Impossible," and his other beloved favorites. Please join us in welcoming him, and pick up some signed books for the holidays.

• Sat, 2:30 to 4 p.m.
• Alibi Bookshop
• 624 Marin St., Vallejo

Bryan Girard Jazz Trio

Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by Tim Campbell on keyboard and Lorn Leber on guitar, so they'll be doing a lot of funky groove music (but always in a jazz vein). Manny's has turned out to be a great spot for jazz with a lot of regulars coming by to soak up the music and the ambiance. Advance dinner reservation recommended.

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

Small Works Holiday Boutique - Artists Reception

Discover the joy of handcrafted artistry this holiday season. Explore a diverse selection of textiles, ceramics, fused glass, handcrafted wood boxes, jewelry, mixed media mandala paintings, monotype prints, and Solarplate etchings. This boutique is your destination for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts that will delight everyone on your list. Boutique Dates: Nov. 21 – Dec. 29.

• Sat, 5 to 7 p.m.
• NY2CA Gallery
• 617 First St., Benicia

Carnalitos Customs Car Club - 2nd Annual Friendsgiving Celebration

Carnalitos Customs Car Club 2nd Annual Friendsgiving Celebration. Join us for a potluck-style gathering! Bring your favorite dish to share and enjoy a great time with family. We will have games, music and fun! We are accepting donations! We will have some raffle items as well.

• Sat, 6 to 10 p.m.
• Carnalito’s Customs
• 905 Tennessee St., Vallejo

Jeremy Crandall

Jeremy Crandall brings instrumental covers in multiple genres spanning from classic rock to folk and jazz. We hope to have y'all join us for another great evening of music! No cover with dinner.

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

Live Music Saturday with Zak Fennie

Zak Fennie is an indie/alternative singer-songwriter based out of the Napa Valley with over fifteen years of experience singing and performing in a multitude of professional environments. He is influenced by a wide range of musicians including Dashboard Confessional, Elliot Smith, The Police, The Killers, Johnny Cash, and Death Cab For Cutie.

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

Cecile Azarcon and O.P.M. (Original Pilipino Music)

Prepare to be serenaded by Cecile Azarcon as she sings and plays on the piano her beloved hits and some of her hidden musical treasures. Joining her as special guests are Jam Morales, Tim Pavino, Miriam Pantig, Jullez, Pia Villahermosa, and the After Six Dance Band Rewind. The concert will feature the legendary and iconic composer who is celebrating her birthday and 45th anniversary in the Philippine music industry. The evening will also showcase popular and well-loved O.P.M. (Original Pilipino Music) songs.

• Sat, 7 to 10 p.m.
• Empress Theatre
• 330 Virginia St., Vallejo

Verismo Opera - La Traviata

Mira Theatre is excited to present Verismo Opera’s brand-new production of La Traviata. The opera will be sung in its original language but we offer supertitles in English so you won’t miss a beat, word, or the story. The performances include costumes, set, and a chamber orchestra in an intimate setting.

• Sat, 7 to 10 p.m.
• Mira Theatre
• 51 Daniels Ave., Vallejo

Level:Set Band

Since 2016 the Level:Set Band regularly performs in & around, but is not limited to, the Bay Area. Their lively mix of pop, R&B, funk and rock music will surely have you on the dance floor! Come in early! $10 cover after 10 p.m.

• Sat, 9 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
• Gentleman Jim’s
• 1324 Lincoln Rd. E, Vallejo

Serve it to 'Em Saturdays

Ava LaShay hosts Serve it to 'Em Saturdays drag show, 4th Saturdays. With Mia Fierce.

• Sat, 10:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
• Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
• 401A Georgia St., Vallejo

Sunday, November 24

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

Poetry Party (and Live Music)

Let's explore the spoken word as we commune over poetry, music, tea, and community.

• Sun, 2 to 11:45 p.m.
• IntegriTea
• 717 Marin St., Vallejo

Miss Meatface Book Signing (sold out)

Join Kat Toronto, aka "Miss Meatface" at Alibi Bookshop in Vallejo for a very special book signing & meet-and- greet for her new book. This event is particularly special, as Vallejo is not only Kat’s hometown but also the birthplace of her larger-than-life photographic persona, “Miss Meatface,” and where many of her iconic images were created. This is also your exclusive opportunity to purchase “Queen Doll” before its official release on Dec. 2.

• Sun, 3 to 6 p.m.
• Alibi Bookshop
• 624 Marin St., Vallejo

Verismo Opera - La Traviata

Mira Theatre is excited to present Verismo Opera’s brand-new production of La Traviata. The opera will be sung in its original language but we offer supertitles in English so you won’t miss a beat, word, or the story. The performances include costumes, set, and a chamber orchestra in an intimate setting.

• Sun, 3 to 6 p.m.
• Mira Theatre
• 51 Daniels Ave., Vallejo

Monday, November 25

Commission on Culture & the Arts monthly meeting

The Commission on Culture & the Arts supports the cooperative promotion of visual and performing arts in Vallejo and the surrounding area. 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. Check the agenda page before attending - these meetings are frequently canceled.

• Mon, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Vallejo City Hall
• 555 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

Movement with Mary Jane

Movement with Mary Jane is a guided movement flow to enhance the mind, body, spirit connection. This is an infused experience for people 21 and over, unless you have a doctor’s recommendation. 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 in our breath and find balance in our bodies through a guided series of yoga-inspired movements and stretches, moving into gentle, breath-informed dance.

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

Tuesday, November 26

Campanelli Youth Chorus after-school class

The Campanelli Youth Chorus class, sponsored by Vallejo Choral Society and administered by Greater Vallejo Recreation District, offers an enriching choral education and performance experience to school-age children throughout Solano County and beyond. The youth chorus class empowers students to find their voice and develop an appreciation for singing and its power to lift the human spirit.

• Tues, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
• Vallejo Community Center
• 225 Amador St., 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

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

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