VALLEJO — Baseball is back again in Vallejo. Kat’s Lounge opens a long-shuttered venue. Vallejo Main Street’s Spring Social will enliven the downtown district. A new art show opens at Temple Art Lofts Gallery. And Sustainable Solano teaches advanced composting at Vallejo People’s Garden.
The Vallejo Seaweed will host the Marysville Drakes this Sunday afternoon at Wilson Park for their first home game of their second season. The Seaweed revived baseball in Vallejo last year after the Vallejo Admirals stopped playing in 2020, primarily because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kat’s Lounge will celebrate their opening this Saturday afternoon with live music by the Salinas Bro’ Trio. The refurbished lounge is on Couch Street at the site of the old Kesler’s Cocktail Lounge, which closed in 2021. In addition to hosting live music, the lounge features two pool tables, a new jukebox and several large TVs.
Vallejo Main street will celebrate the arrival of Spring this Friday evening in downtown Vallejo with wine samples from local vineyards, live music, lounging areas and local artisan offerings.
The Vallejo Center for the Arts (VCA) and Arts Benicia will unveil their “Brushstrokes for Earth” art exhibit with an artist reception on Saturday at Temple Arts Gallery. The exhibit will showcase new works by artists and poets from Vallejo and Benicia, and aims to shed light on critical environmental issues and spark conversations about sustainability and social justice.
Two Sustainable Solano events this week will address food insecurity and sustainable gardening.
The Faith and Food roundtable discussion about enhanced food access through food pantries and food production gardens will take place at Heritage Presbyterian Church in Benicia on Thursday, and a class about advanced composting methods will be held at Vallejo People’s Garden on Saturday.
The Vallejo Police Department will hold their first public town hall meeting about their use of military equipment this [Wednesday] evening in the Vallejo Room at the John F. Kennedy Library. The department, which has been out of compliance for two years, is required to publish it’s military use policy and hold annual community engagement meetings to comply with state law.
These are just some of the highlights of this week’s happenings. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, poetry readings, art, theater and recreational activities.
Wednesday, May 22
Vallejo PD Town Hall on military equipment use policy
VPD failed to disclose their use of military equipment for roughly two years and must still fulfill several other transparency requirements to use that equipment without violating state law. They will host a community discussion on their new "Assembly Bill (AB) 481 - Military Equipment Use" policy. Vallejo residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend this upcoming town hall meeting. The recorded meeting will be posted the following day on vallejopd.net.
- Wed, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Vallejo Room – Lower level of the JFK Library
- 505 Santa Clara St.
Vallejo Run Club
The Run Club 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
Quique Gomez & The All-Stars
Spanish harmonica master and vocalist Quique Gomez has put together a rhythm and blues dream team for this very special “East Coast meets West Coast” blues event. He’ll be joined by guitarists Duke Robillard and Kid Andersen, drummer June Core and keyboardist Lorenzo Farrell.
- Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Empress Theatre Lounge
- 324 Virginia St.
Poetry by the Bay
Join us live at the Mira Theatre every 4th Wednesday of every month. This is the spot where poets gather to share their work and to hear the work of others. Tickets are free, but seating is limited so reserve yours today.
- Wed, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Mira Theater
- 51 Daniels Ave.
Wednesday Night Open Mic
A friendly space for both beginning performers and seasoned professionals. Comedians and poets also welcome.
- Wed, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St.
Thursday, May 23
Solano Faith and Food Roundtable
Join Sustainable Solano for an engaging roundtable discussion about the intersection of faith and food. The event aims to inspire collaboration and exchange of ideas on how to enhance food access through initiatives such as food pantries, prepared meals, and food production gardens.
- Thurs, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Heritage Presbyterian Church
- 1400 East 2nd St.
- Benicia
Introduction to the Intuitive Mind
Learn about the energy of thought and of the body, according to science. Consciously build a thought pattern that provides a psychic perception. Topics include a broad review of matters pertaining to the mystic and healing arts.
- Thurs, 7 to 10 p.m.
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St.
Friday, May 24
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.
- Fri, 2 to 4:45 pm
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St.
Vallejo Spring Social
Get ready for a fun-filled evening of beer, wine, food, and music at the Vallejo Spring Social. Explore downtown businesses. There will be offerings from local wineries, an activity hub, artisans, musical entertainment and a free portrait experiance.
- Fri, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets
Joyce Grant
Vallejo local singer, Joyce Grant returns to the Ferry Taproom with her powerful mix of jazz, blues, and R&B.
- Fri, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
- 289 Mare Island Way
The Voltones
The Voltones, perform original and retro "Surf-a-Delic" music.. $5.00 Suggested Donation This is a benefit for the 717 Integrity Project- a group of artists that came together to keep the doors open at this essential community space.
- Fri, 7 to 10 p.m.
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St.
Shiva in the Garden of Eden
In this new play by Daphne White, estranged family members, a contested will and an enraged ghost collide in this dysfunctional family play set in a post-pandemic New York. Shiva in the Garden of Eden is the story of an immigrant family unraveling after the death of an unhinged matriarch.
- Fri, 8 to 10 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St.
Fired Up Fridays
Fired Up Fridays ridin’ at the Chris Club with our Final Phase before the summer kicks off. We got the hometeam DJ @hypheethedj rockin the 1s and 2s firin’ it up with live performances by @shorty_b_california @choogfoeu @big55x @peace_love_and_funds @silent.shipp @tuhseaa @markydoo_berry @cadazone @prb_prettyrichbarbie @binobaby_thabossqueen @rsr.sev and PUBLICAN you know how it go... Come early! First 10 free then $10 cover before 10 p.m. and $15 after.
- Fri, 9 to 2:00 am
- Chris’ Club
- 656 Benicia Rd.
Saturday, May 25
Vallejo Run Club
The Run Club 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
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 side-by-side, develop your palate and discover coffees you love that you never knew existed!
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Moschetti Coffee
- 11 Sixth St. (Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.)
Farmers' Market
Shop here for a great selection of California-grown greens, fruits & veggies, as well as some nice specialty booths and food trucks – all with down-to-earth prices.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets
Introduction to Advanced Composting Methods- Thermophilic Composting
This Sustainable Solano class will be an interactive opportunity for participants to learn about how to start a thermophilic compost pile and the benefits of this more maintenance-heavy form of composting, which breaks down pathogens and weed seeds with the help of the correct organic matter.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Vallejo People’s Garden
- 1055 Azuar Dr.
Brushstrokes for Earth
The Vallejo Center for the Arts (VCA) and Arts Benicia are excited to unveil the collaborative exhibition, Brushstrokes for Earth and Solano Water Stories: Artists Voices. Opening reception from noon to 2 p.m. This unique project aims to shed light on critical environmental issues and spark conversations about sustainability and social justice, showcasing a vibrant collection of new works by artists and poets from the Vallejo and Benicia.
- Sat, noon to 4 p.m.
- Temple Art Lofts Gallery
- 340 Virginia St.
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 tested, vaccinated to age appropriate levels, microchipped and spayed or neutered.
- Sat, noon to 3 p.m.
- PetSmart
- 952 Admiral Callaghan Ln.
Papa Joe and the New Deal
Papa Joe and the New Deal will move you with soul, R&B, reggae, old school funk and Latin rock.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave.
Kat's Lounge Official Opening Celebration
Kat’s Lounge is has reopened the old Kesler’s Lounge location. Listen to music and enjoy a cold beverage! -21 and over. Live music by the Salinas Bro’ Trio and special guests from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
- Sat, 2 to 8 p.m.
- Kat’s Lounge
- 125 Couch St.
Ode to Joy: Beethoven’s Ninth & Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue
Celebrate three BIG birthdays with the Golden Gate Symphony and Music Director Urs Leonhardt Steiner! This classical music birthday bash salutes the 200- and 100-year anniversaries of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, and Maestro Steiner’s native state of Graubünden, Switzerland., which celebrates its 500th anniversary this year .
- Sat, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Benicia Clock Tower
- 1189 Washington St.
Bryan Girard Jazz Trio
Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by some terrific musicians: Tim Campbell on keyboard and guitarist Lorn Leber. Buy dinner and get listen to a live jazz show free. 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
8 years without Pearl
Please bring candles or balloons to release and light in memory of Pearl Pinson, who was abducted at gun point on her way to school.
- Sat, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Abduction Site
- 1000 Lewis Ave.
Shiva in the Garden of Eden
In this new play by Daphne White, estranged family members, a contested will and an enraged ghost collide in this dysfunctional family play set in a post-pandemic New York. Shiva in the Garden of Eden is the story of an immigrant family unraveling after the death of an unhinged matriarch.
- Sat, 8 to 10 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St.
Hired Guns
All sights are set on the dance floor with the "Hired Guns" Band! Come early - $10 cover after 10 p.m.
- Sat, 9 to 1midnight
- Gentleman Jim’s
- 1324 Lincoln Rd. E
Sunday, May 26
Kayak Practice and Fun
Paddle around Lake Chabot, an easy, fun kayaking site that’s safe for beginners. Kayak provided if you don’t have one. $10 suggested donation. Check the Facebook Kayaking Biking group for updates - dates and times may vary because of weather or volunteer availability.
- Sun, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Lake Chabot, Dan Foley Park,
- 1461 N Camino Alto
Brushstrokes for Earth
The Vallejo Center for the Arts (VCA) and Arts Benicia are excited to unveil the collaborative exhibition, Brushstrokes for Earth and Solano Water Stories: Artists Voices. Opening reception from noon to 2 p.m. This unique project aims to shed light on critical environmental issues and spark conversations about sustainability and social justice, showcasing a vibrant collection of new works by artists and poets from the Vallejo and Benicia.
- Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
- Temple Art Lofts Gallery
- 340 Virginia St.
Spring Show - Mare Island Artists
Mare Island Artists Group Show Open all Sundays in May.
- Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
Vallejo Seaweed VS Marysville Drakes
The Vallejo Seaweed is back at Wilson Park. They face the Marysville Drakes in their first home game of the season
- Sun, 2 to 10 p.m.
- Wilson Park
- 1007 Solano Ave.
Shiva in the Garden of Eden
In this new play by Daphne White, estranged family members, a contested will and an enraged ghost collide in this dysfunctional family play set in a post-pandemic New York. Shiva in the Garden of Eden is the story of an immigrant family unraveling after the death of an unhinged matriarch.
- Sun, 3 to 5 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St.
Tuesday, May 28
The Flavor Town Tuesday's
Flavor Town will feature some of Vallejo's most popular and hidden gem eateries. We hear those food trucks revving their engines — you know what that means: Join us on Tuesday evenings at Children’s Wonderland Park throughout the summer for dinner. Let the kids play while you enjoy food, desserts, cocktails and more.
- Tues, 4 to 8 p.m.
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St.
Spent Grain Breadmaking Class
Grainbakers offers spent grain baking classes at your favorite brewery, allowing you to unwind, learn a skill and take in the brewery experience. At the end of the brewer’s day, we will use their fresh, spent grain and work it into a beautiful artisan bread. Tickets $50.00 Each ticketholder will make one recipe.
- Tues, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
- 289 Mare Island Way
City Council Regular Meeting
Vallejo’s new City Manager Andrew Murray will attend his first city council meeting in his new role. The agenda can be viewed on the City Agendas & Videos webpage a minimum of 72 hours in advance. 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.
- Tues, 7 to 11 p.m.
- Vallejo City Hall
- 555 Santa Clara St.
Before you go...
It’s expensive to produce the kind of high-quality journalism we do at the Vallejo Sun. And we rely on reader support so we can keep publishing.
If you enjoy our regular beat reporting, in-depth investigations, and deep-dive podcast episodes, chip in so we can keep doing this work and bringing you the journalism you rely on.
Click here to become a sustaining member of our newsroom.
THE VALLEJO SUN NEWSLETTER
Investigative reporting, regular updates, events and more
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.
follow me :