VALLEJO — A new play opens Friday at Bay Area Stage Theatre, Artiszen’s Art of Community will host a fashion show on Mare Island Saturday, and this week’s installment of August Summer Nights will liven up the streets of downtown Vallejo Thursday.
The new play at Bay Area Stage, “How to Survive an Apocalypse,” is a romantic comedy by Jordan Hall about a young and successful urban couple who become obsessed with prepping for the apocalypse. The show will run on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons through Sept. 1.
If you missed Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park’s free shows last month, you can catch their fundraiser production of “The Winter's Tale” at Vino Godfather this Friday or Saturday evening. Tickets are $25 online or at the door.
Artiszen’s Art of Community Exhibit will host a fashion show on Saturday afternoon at Mare Island Art Studios. The show will feature local talent and sustainable fashions on the runway, and vendors offering fun vintage, recycled, steampunk and homemade clothing, accessories and jewelry. The fashion models are Verlanñia Manchester, Erynn Lynn, Saint Maurice, Katherine of Blue Moon Designs. Mario Saucedo, Adolfo AKA ”Asia,” and Katie Vardijan of Lulu Deux Millinery.
August Summer Nights will infuse downtown Vallejo with live music, DJs, food trucks, street performers and other surprises on Thursday evening. Papa Joe & The New Deal will perform on the Georgia Street stage in front of Bambino’s restaurant, and DJ Black Ice and Down by Dawn will perform on the Marin Street stage.
The Vallejo Museum’s monthly Free Family Day is this Saturday. Their current exhibit, “Submarines! Submerged Stories from the Silent Service” features photographs, artworks, and audio interviews covering over a hundred years of naval history. Children's story-time, presented by First 5 Vallejo, Alibi Bookshop and Angels with Heart, will take place at 11 a.m.
These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, literary and recreational activities.
Wednesday, August 14
Adaptive Recreation Tea Party
It's Tea Time! Enjoy refreshing tea, cookies, games and dancing. This is an adaptive activity and is designed specifically for individuals with disabilities as well as their friends and family.
- Wed, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St.
LGBTQ+ Book Club: Time's Undoing by Cheryl Head
This month Richard May will lead a discussion about "Time's Undoing" by Cheryl A. Head. A searing and tender novel about a young Black journalist’s search for answers in the unsolved murder of her great-grandfather in segregated Birmingham, Alabama, decades ago—inspired by the author’s own family history.
- Wed, 4 to 5:30 p.m.
- Alibi Bookshop
- 624 Marin St.
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
Jr. De Ville Blues Band
“With his magical stage presence, soulful vocals and searing guitar solos Jr. De Ville will be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come’ -Dan Ackroyd (House of Blues radio show).
- Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Empress Theatre Lounge
- 324 Virginia St.
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, August 15
Vallejo Community Institute: Inaugural Meet-Up for Nonprofit Leaders
The Vallejo Community Institute invites leaders of Vallejo based nonprofit organizations to join us for an inaugural meeting where we will begin our journey of enhancing our collective strength, engaging with cutting edge efforts around the Bay Area, identifying funding strategies, and strengthening our collaborations.
- Thurs, 9:30 a.m. to noon
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St.
August Summer Nights - Papa Joe & The New Deal
August Summer Nights is a free party hosted in Downtown Vallejo every Thursday night in August from 5-8pm. This week’s musical acts are Papa Joe & The New Deal on the Georgia Street stage, and DJ Black Ice and Down by Dawn on the Marin Street stage.
- Thurs, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets
Organic Groove Lounge
Unwind and groove with us this summer at our brand new monthly event at the Museum of History Benicia (MoHB) for an evening of laid-back vibes and curated music sets by local DJs. Sip on artisanal cocktails while you relax in our gallery space, plus, enjoy special exhibits and explore the rich history of Benicia in a whole new light.
- Thurs, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Museum of History Benicia Downtown Gallery
- 900 E 2nd St.
- Benicia
DOJ Vallejo Police Evaluator Community Listening Session
The Vallejo Police Evaluator is hosting a Community Listening Session on the Agreement between the California Department of Justice and the City of Vallejo and Vallejo Police Department. This an opportunity for the community to hear about the Stipulated Agreement between the Vallejo Police Department and the California DOJ and to provide insight and experiences with the Vallejo Police Department and the goals of the community.
- Thurs, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Online Event
- Zoom Registration
Friday, August 16
Treetopia 2024
A mixture of training and fun - Treetopia is a mixture of world-class arborist training and unique games and competitions! Earn CEUs from industry leaders in classes like: Certified arborist crash course, the business of PHC: bidding, staffing, and more, practical rigging applications, chipper safety, skid steer safety and much more. Plus games and food, and a massive after-party.
- Fri, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Alden Park, Mare Island, California
- 8th Street between Walnut and Nimitz Avenues
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.
Dakota Linn
Dakota Linn rocks the Town House Cocktail Lounge starting at around 7 p.m. Great music, tasty new beers, and No Cover Charge.
- Fri, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St.
The Winter’s Tale - Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park Fundraiser
Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park will perform “The Winter's Tale.” Produced and Directed by Dalia Vidor and Assistant Director, Nez Gray-Freeman.
- Fri, 7 to 10 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave.
How to Survive an Apocalypse
An apocalyptic romantic comedy by Jordan Hall, directed by by Matthew Goff. A young and successful urban couple becomes convinced that their lifestyle is coming to an end. They become “preppers,” hoarding supplies and learning to hunt. But their obsession takes its toll, and they are both forced to imagine the apocalypse without the love of their life.
- Fri, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St
Saturday, August 17
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 - Live music by Duo Gadjo
Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes while listening to live music by Duo Gadjo. Duo Gadjo’s style is often called ‘Gypsy Jazz’ as pioneered by the great guitarist Django Reinhardt.
- 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, ethnic varieties, as well as some nice specialty booths with baked goods and such at down-to-earth prices.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia and Marin Streets
Treetopia 2024 Presented by A Plus and TreeStuff
A mixture of training and fun - Treetopia is a mixture of world-class arborist training and unique games and competitions! Earn CEUs from industry leaders in classes like: Certified arborist crash course, the business of PHC: bidding, staffing, and more, practical rigging applications, chipper safety, skid steer safety and much more. Plus games and food, and a massive after-party.
- Sat, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Alden Park, Mare Island, California
- 8th Street between Walnut and Nimitz Avenue
Free Family Day
Free admission all day the third Saturday of every month. With children's story-time at 11 a.m. brought to you by First 5 Vallejo, Alibi Bookshop and Angels with Heart.
- Sat, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St.
Paper Shredding
The City of Vallejo and VALCORE Recycling sponsor shredding events on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Watch while your paper is shredded on site. Cost: $.50/lb with a $10 minimum charge.
- Sat, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- VALCORE Recycling
- 38 Sheridan St.
Artiszen's Art of Community Exhibit - Fashion Show
This show brings the community together and celebrate that magical "Vallejo Art Renaissance" that began 10 years ago, while looking forward to a future filled with even more community art. Fashion Bazaar and Timeless Threads Fashion Show showcases local talent and sustainable fashions on the runway; vendors offering fun vintage/recycled/steampunk/homemade clothes, accessories, and jewelry; as well as delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a selection of beer and wine.
- Sat, noon to 5 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
Community Drum Circle
The community drum circle is back on the 3rd Saturday of each month. As usual, bring your favorite drum or borrow one of ours. Bring a beverage, maybe a snack if you like, most importantly, bring your smile.
- Sat, 1 to 3 p.m.
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St.
Papa Joe & The New Deal Ultimate Family Dance Party!
Papa Joe and the New Deal will entertain you with feel good music that you are sure to recognize and love. They 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. @ Kansas St.
Vallejo Jazz Jam
Vallejo Jazz Jam's mission is to provide a supportive and non-competitive environment for musicians of all levels to explore our rich heritage of jazz standards. The Vallejo Jazz Jam welcomes musicians of all ages, genders and levels. They develop a consensus of tunes to play for two-hour sessions. $10 donation to cover rental space.
- Sat, 5 to 7 p.m.
- Mira Theatre
- 51 Daniels Ave.
Casino Royale Gala - VCAF Fundraiser
Casino Royale is a night filled with entertainment, delicious cuisine, and opportunities to bid on fabulous experiences. Enjoy signature cocktails, shaken, not stirred, and savor gourmet delights. Dress to impress in your best black-tie attire or channel your inner Bond girl or secret agent for a night of sophistication and style. As the night unfolds, expect surprises, live music, and maybe even a few secret agents roaming the venue. Proceeds benefit the Vallejo Community Arts Foundation
- Sat, 5:30 to 11 p.m.
- Green Valley Country Club
- 35 Country Club Drive
- Fairfield
Celebrate, Sip, and Snack - OTF Youth
Join us for a reception celebrating On The Fringe Youth and Artistic Director Maria Stats. The reception will feature entertainment by members of On the Fringe's award winning youth theater group. Delicious beverages and bites will be provided.
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St.
Red's Blues
Red's Blues brings traditional blues, original Americana roots and dance music together for your listening pleasure. No cover with dinner.
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122
The Winter’s Tale - Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park Fundraiser
Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park will perform “The Winter's Tale.” Produced and Directed by Dalia Vidor and Assistant Director, Nez Gray-Freeman.
- Sat, 7 to 10 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave.
How to Survive an Apocalypse
An apocalyptic romantic comedy by Jordan Hall, directed by by Matthew Goff. A young and successful urban couple becomes convinced that their lifestyle is coming to an end. They become “preppers,” hoarding supplies and learning to hunt. But their obsession takes its toll, and they are both forced to imagine the apocalypse without the love of their life.
- Sat, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St.
Jonathan B. Pryor & A Pryor Engagement at Gentleman Jim's
Jonathan Pryor's band has grown with new singers and players. Get in early, get your drink and claim your piece of the dance floor! $10 cover after 10 PM
- Sat, 9 to midnight
- Gentleman Jim’s
- 1324 Lincoln Rd. E
Sunday, August 18
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
Artiszen's Art of Community Exhibit
Mare Island Art Studios and Artiszen Cultural Arts Center are joining to celebrate the Art of Community, featuring guests from Artiszen’s past shows, along with some exciting new artists and a sneak peak at Erin Bakke’s beautiful upcoming book. Embracing the old school Artiszen 'Art of Community' style, we aim to bring the community together and celebrate that magical "Vallejo Art Renaissance" that began 10 years ago, while looking forward to a future filled with even more community art.
- Sun, noon to 4 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
Petty Theft - Tom Petty tribute band
San Francisco-based Petty Theft has been touring the Western United States performing Tom Petty’s songs true to the originals and in the spirit of the Heartbreakers' live shows.
- Sun, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave.
How to Survive an Apocalypse
An apocalyptic romantic comedy by Jordan Hall, directed by by Matthew Goff. A young and successful urban couple becomes convinced that their lifestyle is coming to an end. They become “preppers,” hoarding supplies and learning to hunt. But their obsession takes its toll, and they are both forced to imagine the apocalypse without the love of their life.
- Sun, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Bay Area Stage Theatre
- 515 Broadway St.
Speaker Series: Telesforo Trinidad and Filipinos in the US Navy
Join us for an insightful afternoon at Mare Island Historic Park Foundation's Speaker Series on August 18th at 3 PM in St. Peter's Chapel. We are honored to host our distinguished speaker, Cecilia I. Gaerlan, the proud daughter of a Bataan Death March survivor, who will present Telesforo Trinidad and Filipinos in the US Navy. Vallejo’s population is over 20% Filipino, and a significant reason for that is the United States Navy. On January 15, 1921, aboard USS San Diego [...]
- Sun, 3 to 4 p.m.
- St. Peter’s Chapel
- 1181 Walnut Ave.
Monday, August 19
Movement with Mary Jane
Movement with Mary Jane is 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.
Townhouse Ramblers
Acoustic Evening of Americana, Folk and Blues featuring Don Bassey, Pato Milo, Jeff Campitelli, Rich Adams, Mark Reed, Eric Wood, Erin Bakke, plus some very special guests - now 1st & 3rd Mondays
- Mon, 7 to 10 p.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St.
Tuesday, August 20
"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 Doodle and Draw Night
Open to all ages and skill levels. This is a free event. Donations appreciated. All donations go to the 717 Integrity Project to keep the doors open at this essential community space.
- Tues, 6 to 8 p.m.
- IntegriTea
- 717 Marin St.
Family Friendly Comedy
Bay Area Comics - Family Friendly comedy and Italian inspired cuisine - first and third Tuesdays at Bambino's. No cover with dinner.
- Tues, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122
A more detailed list of upcoming events can be found here.
Submit your event listings for inclusion to events@vallejosun.com
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![Gretchen Zimmermann](/content/images/size/w600/2022/10/11234975_1279367208755770_3473053989735599562_n.jpg)
Gretchen Zimmermann
Gretchen Zimmermann started volunteering with Vallejo Open Studios in 2010, launched the Vallejo Arts and Entertainment website in 2014 and creates mixed media sculpture at Mare Island Art Studios.
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