VALLEJO — More than 50 artists will display their work at nearly 20 Vallejo locations on Saturday and Sunday, and you can catch a preview of some of the open studios participants during the Vallejo Second Friday Art Walk.
Vallejo Open Studios is a free, self-guided tour of Vallejo artist exhibitions. Some artists will open up their home studios to the public, while others will display their works at shared spaces, galleries and community centers.
Open Studios sites span Vallejo from Mare Island to Hiddenbrooke. The Vallejo Museum’s Open Studios exhibit is a good place to plan your tour by browsing the art and picking up a directory before you venture forth. Another central location for Open Studios is the Norman C. King Community Center, where in addition to several local artists, the Young Artists Makers Space, supported by Vallejo Teaching Artists, will display the works of artists 12 to 19 years old.
Second Friday Art Walk on Friday evening in downtown Vallejo will include Open Studios artists at Temple Arts Lofts and Ethnic Notions Gallery on Marin Street, and The W.O.R.K.S on Georgia Street. The 717 Integrity Project on Marin Street will host live music all night, with performances by Sobre Cuerdas, Brian Travis, Air Lift Underground, and the Unidentified Flying Oscillators. The works of seven local artists will be on display and there will be a special fire performance from the Fire Cats after dark
Verismo Opera will launch a new production of Giuseppe Verdi’s “La Traviata” at the Mira Theatre on Saturday. This eternally popular opera spins the tale of a conflicted courtesan, her devoted lover, and his disapproving father. Violetta dares to break society’s rules by allowing herself to be kept by men of means, but her way of life comes with a terrible price.
The opera will be performed in the original Italian with English supertitles projected above the screen, and includes period costumes, sets, and a chamber orchestra. The show will run Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees through Nov. 24.
Verismo is a cooperative opera group whose singers, musicians and artists collaborate to present low-cost but quality opera productions in a variety of settings in the San Francisco Bay Area.
These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, art, educational and recreational activities.
Wednesday, November 6
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 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
AC Miles
Blues-rock guitarist and vocalist AC Myles’ song selections vary from originals and choice covers, ranging from traditional electric blues of the 60's and 70's into southern rock and soul. His live appearances showcase a healthy dose of humor, along with superb musicianship.
- Wed, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
- Empress Theatre Lounge
- 324 Virginia 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 to 7:20 p.m.
- Vallejo Ferry Terminal
- 289 Mare Island 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, November 7
Shakin’ Out the Smiths - Researching common surnames
The Genealogy Society of Vallejo-Benicia's featured speaker this month is Nancy Calhoun. Her topic is “Shakin’ Out the Smiths - Researching common surnames” Common surnames can lead to the dreaded “brick walls” in genealogy, when researchers try to trace the family roots of common surnames. Nancy will include examples of research from her own Smith family, which begins in Oklahoma, goes back to Texas, and finally to Tennessee.
- Thurs, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Online Event
November Memoir Book Club: Heart Berries by Terese Marie Mailhot
Please join us for Alibi Bookshop's November Memoir Book Club: "Heart Berries" by Terese Marie Mailhot. A powerful, poetic memoir of an Indigenous woman’s coming of age on the Seabird Island Band in the Pacific Northwest―this New York Times bestseller and Emma Watson Book Club pick is “an illuminating account of grief, abuse and the complex nature of the Native experience . . . at once raw and achingly beautiful (NPR).
- Thurs, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Alibi Bookshop
- 624 Marin St., Vallejo
Friday, November 8
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
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
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!
- Fri, 4 to 4:30 p.m.
- JFK Library – Joseph Room
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
2nd Friday Art Walk
The Vallejo Art Walk takes place all over the downtown area and includes local merchants, street vendors, musicians and galleries. Looking to support an energizing downtown of creative businesses and local artists? Grab a friend to join us, or meet some new ones!
- Fri, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo
Art Walk Party and After Party
The official Vallejo Art Walk after party will feature fresh, original music by Sobre Cuerdas, Brian Travis, Air Lift Underground and the Unidentified Flying Oscillators. The works of seven local artists will be on display here, and there will be a special fire performance from The Fire Cats after dark.
- Fri, 5 p.m. to 2:00 am
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St., Vallejo
A Veil In The Wind - A Belly Dance & Live Music Experience
Join us as we welcome back A Veil In The Wind for an evening of live music and eclectic dancing. Paired with Vallejo Art Walk, this will be a wonderful night out with the family and friends! Enjoy arts and entertainment in our lovely community.
- Fri, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
Live Music with Jimbo Scott
Jimbo Scott has been entertaining audiences far and wide for more than a decade, including 2 years as a member of the famed NorCal Jamgrass band, Poor Man’s Whiskey. His solo work evokes traditions of Tennessee country and bluegrass, Oakland soul in sepia toned California landscapes and life-scapes.
- Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
- 850 Nimitz Ave., Vallejo
Tribute to the Bee Gees
Our tribute pays homage to the Bee Gees at the peak of their fame, showcasing the energy, creativity, and appeal that took the world by storm. You’ll be out of your seat dancing, enjoying soaring falsettos, beautiful ballads, and unforgettable memories.
- Fri, 8 to 10:30 p.m.
- Empress Theatre
- 330 Virginia 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
Saturday, November 9
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 to 9:00 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
- 11 Sixth St. (Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.), Vallejo
Farmers' Market
Shop here for a great selection of California-grown greens, fruits & veggies at down-to-earth prices. The market also has specialty booths with baked goods, tamales and food trucks. You’ll also find random goodies like local honey and homemade soap here.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo
Magical Glass: A Hands-on Workshop Exploring Stained Glass for Kids
Geared for children aged 6 - 9 and their adult companion, the world of stained glass will come alive in this fun, interactive workshop at St. Peter’s Chapel on Mare Island. The session will start with a look at the Chapel’s luminous stained glass windows, which include 25 by Tiffany Studios. Next, everyone will make their own tissue paper stained glass window using templates, some of which are holiday-themed.
- Sat, 10 to 11:30 am
- St. Peter’s Chapel
- 1181 Walnut Ave., Vallejo
Vallejo Open Studios Exhibit
This exhibit features sample works from Vallejo Open Studios artists. Start your tour here by browsing the art, pick up a directory, then venture forth.
- Sat, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St., Vallejo
Citywide Vallejo Open Studios
Over 50 artists display their work at nearly 20 Vallejo art exhibition locations. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 and Nov. 10.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Various
- Multiple Locations, Vallejo
One People Tribe Presents: Youth Art Makers Space
Come see what the next generation of young artists are creating in a supportive space for artists 12-19 years old. Vallejo Teaching Artists, Inc. gives support to young artists through an exciting opportunity to exciting opportunity to exhibit and sell their artwork. Presented in conjunction with Vallejo Open Studios.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Norman C King Community Center
- 545 Magazine St., Vallejo
Zuni Water Jugs
Learn about the Zuni tribe from North Western New Mexico and create your own Zuni water jar drawing and miniature clay jar. The Zuni people have created pottery for centuries. Learn about the significance of their water jugs, and create a design of your own. Rachel-Anne Palacios teaches cultural and folk arts education programming throughout the Bay Area for people of all ages.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to noon.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., 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 Lane, Vallejo
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. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, hip-hop or R&B, Soul’d Out has got you covered.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St., Vallejo
The Spirit of Isadora Duncan: Legacy of a New Dance
Through dance and story, Lois Flood will present a stunning historical program about world-renowned California native, Isadora Duncan, 1877-1927, the originator of modern dance. This 2-hour program, presented at museums, colleges, libraries, and women's groups, will dazzle audiences of all ages: children, young adults, history buffs, dance lovers, and those concerned with women's issues.
- Sat, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
Vince Charming Band
Come on down for an evening of music in the styles of Folk, Americana Roots, Country & more! Vince Charming Band has an amazing collection of covers & original music lined up for the evening at a show you don't want to miss. No cover with dinner.
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
Joyce Grant
Vallejo singer Joyce Grant returns to the Ferry Taproom with her powerful mix of jazz, blues, and R&B.
- Sat, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
- 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Vallejo Open Studios After Party
Mingle with the artists and unwind at the Vallejo Open Studios after party, both Saturday and Sunday.
- Sat, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Norman C King Community Center
- 545 Magazine St., Vallejo
Verismo Opera - La Traviata
Mira Theatre is excited to be presenting 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
Rendishun Band
Come and enjoy Rendishun and their Latin, pop, soul & rock inspired music with us! Rendishun's mission... To put music the air from Pablo Cruise, Allman Brothers, John Forgerty, AWB, James Brown, Jim Croce, Steve Miller, EWF, Chic, Doobie Brothers, Boz Scaggs, Stephen Stills, Cold Blood, Dire Straits, Marvin Gaye and more. $10 Cover after 10 p.m., so get here early!
- Sat, 9 p.m. to midnight
- Gentleman Jim’s
- 1324 Lincoln Rd. E, Vallejo
Town House Divas Drag Show
Come join Vicodonia Knightingale, Charity Kase and Holotta Tymes every 2nd Saturday night at the Townhouse Cocktail Lounge! These are the Divas you want to see!
- Sat, 10:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St., Vallejo
Sunday, November 10
Citywide Vallejo Open Studios
Over 50 artists display their work at nearly 20 Vallejo art exhibition locations. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 and Nov. 10. If you didn’t pick up a directory at the Vallejo Museum on Saturday, they can be found at the Norman King Community Center in South Vallejo, or downloaded here.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Various
- Multiple Locations, Vallejo
One People Tribe Presents: Youth Art Makers Space
Come see what the next generation of young artists are creating in a supportive space for artists 12-19 years old. Vallejo Teaching Artists, Inc. gives support to young artists through an exciting opportunity to exciting opportunity to exhibit and sell their artwork. Presented in conjunction with Vallejo Open Studios.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Norman C King Community Center
- 545 Magazine St., 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
Modalité
Aperitifs, Son de Metzli Grupo Folklorico dancers, Verismo Opera, and runway fashion by Skyler Wear.
- Sun, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Red Men’s Hall
- 431 Georgia St., Vallejo
From the Old World to the New: String Quartets in America
Benicia Chamber Players presents “From the Old World to the New: String Quartets in America,” in November. The program features Dvořák’s beloved "American" String Quartet, written during his stay in Spillville, Iowa, where he was inspired by American folk melodies and the local Bohemian community. Also featured is the dramatic and lyrical B minor String Quartet by Teresa Carreño, a virtuoso pianist and composer famously known as the “Valkyrie of the Piano.”
- Sun, 3 to 4:30 p.m.
- Benicia Community Congregational Church
- 1305 W 2nd St., Benicia
Verismo Opera - La Traviata
Mira Theatre is excited to be presenting 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
Vallejo Open Studios After Party
Mingle with the artists and unwind at the Vallejo Open Studios after party, both Saturday and Sunday.
- Sun, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Norman C King Community Center
- 545 Magazine St., Vallejo
Monday, November 11
Veterans Day Ceremony
Speakers: Solano County Supervisors Monica Brown & Erin Hannigan, and keynote by National Cemetery Administration Executive Director Michele Kwok.
- Mon, 9 to 10 a.m.
- Mare Island Naval Cemetery
- Imhoff Rd. at Azuar Drive, Vallejo
Veterans Day Ceremony
Speakers: Robin Mueller Of The American Legion and keynote by Mayor Robert McConnell
- Mon, 11 a.m. to noon
- Veteran's Memorial Flagpole behind Vallejo City Hall
- 3 Capitol St., Vallejo
Tuesday, November 12
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
Adult Craft Club - Collaging with Melissa
Springstowne library hosts events where adults can craft and feel creative. Join Melissa for "An Evening of Gratitude" as she walks you through the art of collaging.
- Tues, 6 to 7:45 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood 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
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.
- Tues, 7 to 11 p.m.
- Vallejo City Hall
- 555 Santa Clara St., 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 Nov. 11 Veterans Day events
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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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