Upcoming Vallejo Events — L.A. Fire Fundraiser at the Empress Theatre

VALLEJO — The Empress Theatre will host a benefit concert to benefit LA fire victims on Sunday, with many popular local musicians contributing to the cause.

The fundraising concert will be hosted by actress and philanthropist Jennifer Garner and two dozen local musicians will donate their talent, including Tia Carrol, Alvon Johnson, Marina Crouse and Eamonn Flynn. The fundraiser was organized by former Empress Theatre manager Don Bassey and founder of the Empress Lounge blues nights Geoff Drake.

On Friday, the hilarious Broadway comedy, “Social Security,” opens at Bay Area Stage Productions. The play involves a married couple who are art dealers and their domestic tranquility is shattered upon the arrival of the wife’s goody-goody nerd of a sister, her uptight CPA husband, and her archetypal Jewish mother. The comic sparks begin to fly when the mother hits it off with the elderly minimalist artist, who is the art dealers’ best client. The play opens Friday night and will run at Bay Area Stage Productions on Broadway Street on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons through March 9.

Black History Month events continue this week. Learn about local Black-owned businesses and organizations in Vallejo and Solano County at the Black-owned Business Fair, mid-day on Saturday. The event will be hosted by Jameelah Hanif of Watch Me Grow, Inc. in the Vallejo Room on the ground floor of the John F. Kennedy Library.

On Saturday afternoon, the movie “Paris is Burning” will be shown at Ethnic Notions. This documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag-ball scene. 

A tribute to Vallejo pioneers James and Ursula Williams will take place at the Vallejo Museum on Saturday afternoon. The couple were lifelong residents of Vallejo and activists dedicated to the core values of family, education and community. An exhibit dedicated to their work will be on display through March 1.

Later on Saturday evening, a discussion about the decline of Diversity Equity and Inclusion and its impact on our community will be held at the Vallejo Museum. Speakers include civil rights attorney John Burris, Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce and Solano County Supervisor Cassandra James.

Then on Sunday afternoon, Vallejo Building Black Power will host “From Black History to Black Futures in Vallejo.” The event will honor the rich legacy of Vallejo’s Black community with speakers, cultural and artistic performances and a community vision board activity. Suite 224 in the Vallejo Village shopping center on Sonoma Boulevard. 

The Springstowne Library will host two Black History-themed arts and crafts displays during their open hours for the rest of the month. The Black History Month Tiny Art Show is on view, with works submitted by local artists. The library is also hosting a Freedom Quilt craft activity. Participants will learn about the Freedom Quilt and its significance to American history and the Underground Railroad, and may craft their own piece of the quilt.

These are just some highlights of upcoming events. Scroll down the list below for more live music, cultural and recreational activities, and check our events page for late-breaking updates.

Wednesday, February 19

Volker Strifler

German-born guitarist-singer Volker Strifler plays with a rare blend of fire, restraint and clarity. His creative style is rooted in the blues but offers innovative explorations into rock, jazz, and Latin rhythms, with several stops in New Orleans along the way! The pace can be fast and raucous or laid back and down-home, but most of all - it's FUN!

• Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Empress 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, February 20

The Makery

Come experience Solano County Library's makerspace- The Makery! Equipment includes: 3D printer, vinyl cutter, digital production equipment, drawing tablets and much more! Drop-in and discover what we have. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Thu, 3 to 7 p.m.
• Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo

Indie After Dark

Indie After Dark returns to the Empress Marquee Club with three killer bands:
If You Say So, Pro-Pain! and The Living Castles. Doors open at 6, Show starts at 7

• Thu, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
• Empress Theatre
• 330 Virginia St, Vallejo

Intuitive Mind with Dr. G

Join us as we learn about the intuitive faculties of the mind with a conversation that will remind you that the world is indeed a magical place with opportunity to change what you face, with creativity and dreams. 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 & Healing Arts.

• Thu, 7 to 9 p.m.
• 717 Integrity Project
• 717 Marin St, Vallejo

Friday, February 21

Family Storytime

Our family storytimes are great for the whole family. Have children of different ages? Bring them all! These stories and activities are for everyone.

• Fri, 10 a.m. to 10:35 a.m.
• Vallejo Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Avenue, Vallejo

The Makery

Come experience Solano County Library's makerspace- The Makery! Equipment includes: 3D printer, vinyl cutter, digital production equipment, drawing tablets and much more! Drop-in and discover what we have. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Fri, 2 to 4:45 p.m.
• Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo

Date night paint and sip- Milestones of Development fundraiser

Join Milestones of Development for an unforgettable evening of art, wine, and fun at our adults-only Paint Party Fundraiser! Milestones is recognized as an outstanding leader among community-based organizations serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Fri, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
• Milestones of Development
• 1 Florida Street, Vallejo

"Social Security," a play by Andrew Bergman

This hilarious Broadway comedy surrounds a married couple who are art dealers. Their domestic tranquility is shattered upon the arrival of the wife’s goody-goody nerd of a sister, her uptight CPA husband, and her archetypal Jewish mother. They are there to try to save their college-student daughter from the horrors of living only for sex. The comic sparks really begin to fly when the mother hits it off with the elderly minimalist artist who is the art dealers’ best client! Come early to peruse the art show by Mare Island Art Studios in the lobby.

• Fri, 8 to 10 p.m.
• Bay Area Stage Theatre
• 515 Broadway, Suite H, Vallejo

Saturday, February 22

Farmers’ Market

Shop here for a great selection of California-grown greens, fruits & veggies, as well as some nice specialty booths with baked goods, tamales and food trucks with down-to-earth prices.

• Sat, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Downtown Vallejo
• Georgia and Marin Streets, Vallejo

Community Coffee Tasting with Sobre Cuerdas

Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes while listening to reggae pop fusion by the documented, law abiding, tyranny fleeing, Venezuelan duo Sobre Cuerdas. Join us to 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.), Vallejo

Vallejo Gem and Mineral Show

Adults $6.00 - Children under 12 free. Free Return Admission on Sunday with Wrist Band. Vendors - Wheel of Fortune - Grab Bags - Hourly Drawings - Demonstrators - Silent Auction Tickets at door only.

• Sat, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Solano County Fairgrounds, McCormack Hall
• 900 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo

Black-owned Business Fair

Come out to learn about local Black-owned businesses and organizations in Vallejo and Solano County! Hosted by Jameelah Hanif of Watch Me Grow, Inc. This will be a family-friendly day of fun!

• Sat, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Vallejo Room, John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo

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 dewormed, treated for fleas, tested for Felv and FIV, vaccinated to age appropriate levels, microchipped and spayed or neutered.

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

Paris is Burning

This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag-ball scene.

• Sat, 1 to 3 p.m.
• Ethnic Notions Fine Art Gallery & Multicultural Bookstore
• 930 Marin St., Vallejo

Black History Month:
Tribute to Vallejo Pioneers – James and Ursula Williams

During Black History Month, this exhibit serves as a tribute to the remarkable lives of James and Ursula Williams, lifelong residents of Vallejo and dedicated community activists. Their core values were dedication to Family, Education, & Community. In addition to attending this special tribute program, the exhibit runs from 2/8/25 – 3/1/25 during Museum hours: Tues-Friday, noon-4 pm; Saturday, 10 am-4pm; Closed Sunday & Monday. Admission is: Adults $5 - Senior & Students $3 - Children under 12 Free.

• Sat, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
• Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
• 734 Marin St, Vallejo

The decline of 'DEI' and its impact on our community

Discussion of the decline of 'Diversity Equity and Inclusion' and its impact on our community for Black History Month. Speakers will be Civil Rights Attorney John Burris, Civil Right Activist Kris Kelley, Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce, Solano County Supervisor Cassandra James, and Vallejo Civil Right Activist Darrel Edwards.

• Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
• 734 Marin St, Vallejo

"Social Security," a play by Andrew Bergman

This hilarious Broadway comedy surrounds a married couple who are art dealers. Their domestic tranquility is shattered upon the arrival of the wife’s goody-goody nerd of a sister, her uptight CPA husband, and her archetypal Jewish mother. They are there to try to save their college-student daughter from the horrors of living only for sex. The comic sparks really begin to fly when the mother hits it off with the elderly minimalist artist who is the art dealers’ best client! Come early to peruse the art show by Mare Island Art Studios in the lobby.

• Sat, 8 to 10 p.m.
• Bay Area Stage Theatre
• 515 Broadway, Suite H, Vallejo

Serve it to ‘Em Saturdays

Ava LaShay hosts Serve it to ‘Em Saturdays drag show, 4th Saturdays, with Queera Nightly and Avery Night.

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

Sunday, February 23

R&B Brunch

Sip on margaritas, mojitos, mimosas, and more while enjoying tacos, nachos, rolls, and the best R&B hits. Presented by Heartbroken Entertainment Group, Charmed Events, and Free Music Collective. We are creating a family friendly environment that celebrates the best food, R&B music, and parts of our community.

• Sun, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• El Barbas Restaurant & Bar
• 444 Broadway St., Vallejo

St. Peter's Chapel - Self-guided Tour

If you've never seen the interior be prepared to be astounded by the 29 stained-glass windows and the magnificence of the interior. Docents will be available to answer all your questions.Learn about Mare Island through the lens of the oldest Navy Chapel in the country. All we ask is a $5 donation toward the chapel maintenance fund. St. Peter's Chapel is open to the public every second and fourth Sunday of the month.

• Sun, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• St. Peter’s Chapel
• 1181 Walnut Ave., Vallejo

Lake Chabot Kayaking

The first warm dry Sunday in a while is coming up and Vallejo Kayaking and Biking is back! They will bring all the gear, you just bring your friends and family and a snack to share if you would like. You may bring your own boats and gear but you don’t need to. A $10 donation is welcome but not necessary.

• Sun, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Lake Chabot, Dan Foley Park
• 1461 N Camino Alto, Vallejo

Literacy, Consciousness & Digital Book Design

University of San Francisco professor and award-winning graphic artist with a specialty in book design, Diane Hume has been an environmental activist for over thirty years. Diane received two Congressional Commendations while acting as president and board member of Bay Area Friends of Tibet in addition to being a winner of the Gourmand 2005 award for 'Best Wine Photography/Illustration' for her book design of Imagery: Art for Wine.

• Sun, 2 to 4 p.m.
• McCune Room, John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St, Vallejo

From Black History to Black Futures in Vallejo

Join us for an inspiring community event celebrating Black excellence, resilience, and the power of collective vision. “From Black History to Black Futures in Vallejo” will honor the rich legacy of Vallejo’s Black community while envisioning a future rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and leadership.

• Sun, 2 to 5 p.m.
• Occasions
• 4380 Sonoma Blvd, Suite 224, Vallejo

LA Fire Fundraiser

Join Us for a Night of Music and Hope at the Empress Theatre! Beloved actress and philanthropist Jennifer Garner will welcome our guests with an inspiring message, setting the tone for this extraordinary night of compassion and community. Featuring live performances by Don Bassey, Jeff Campitelli, Tia Carroll, Marina Crouse, Steve Ehrmann, Eamonn Flynn, Frazier Connection, Jordan Frazier, Steve Freund, Kevin Hayes, Alvon Johnson, Willy Jordan, Alabama Mike, Terrie Odabi, Anthony Paule, Mighty Mike Schermer, Erik Schramm, David Sikes, Charles Spikes, Sweet Marie & The Suspects, Volker Strifler, Jeff Tamelier, Timm Walker, and Stabe Wilson. Every ticket purchased and every donation made will directly support relief efforts for those impacted by the Los Angeles fires.

• Sun, 2 to 5:30 p.m.
• Empress Theatre
• 330 Virginia St, Vallejo

Poetry Open Mic & Live Music

Explore the spoken word as we commune over poetry, music, tea, and community.

• Sun, 2 to 4 p.m.
• 717 Integrity Project
• 717 Marin St, Vallejo

"Social Security," a play by Andrew Bergman

This hilarious Broadway comedy surrounds a married couple who are art dealers. Their domestic tranquility is shattered upon the arrival of the wife’s goody-goody nerd of a sister, her uptight CPA husband, and her archetypal Jewish mother. They are there to try to save their college-student daughter from the horrors of living only for sex. The comic sparks really begin to fly when the mother hits it off with the elderly minimalist artist who is the art dealers’ best client! Come early to peruse the art show by Mare Island Art Studios in the lobby.

• Sun, 3 to 5 p.m.
• Bay Area Stage Theatre
• 515 Broadway, Suite H, Vallejo

Salsa & Bachata Class

Salsa & Bachata Class by Cuban Rhythm and Rumba Studio, every Sunday!

• Sun, 8 to 9 p.m.
• H Lounge
• 472 Benicia Road, Vallejo

Vallejo Gem and Mineral Show

Adults $6.00 - Children under 12 free. Free Return Admission on Sunday with Wrist Band. Vendors - Wheel of Fortune - Grab Bags - Hourly Drawings - Demonstrators - Silent Auction Tickets at door only.

• Sun, 10 to 5 p.m.
• Solano County Fairgrounds, McCormack Hall
• 900 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo

Monday, February 24

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, exceptions made if 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, February 25

The Makery

Come experience Solano County Library's makerspace- The Makery! Equipment includes: 3D printer, vinyl cutter, digital production equipment, drawing tablets and much more! Drop-in and discover what we have. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Tue, 3 to 7 p.m.
• Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo

Vallejo CreativiTea Club - Every Tuesday night

Vallejo CreativiTea Club (AKA Doodle & Draw) is now every Tuesday night though we frequently stay later. Open to all ages and skill levels. 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 is a free event. Donations are appreciated.

• Tue, 6 to 8 p.m.
• 717 Integrity Project
• 717 Marin St, Vallejo

City Council Regular Meeting

City Council meetings are now hybrid in-person and on Zoom. Agendas can be viewed on the City Agendas & Videos webpage at www.cityofvallejo.net and are posted a minimum of 72 hours in advance for regular meetings and 24 hours in advance for special meetings. 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. For better live video performance, use the direct Zoom link found in the first paragraph of the agenda window, on the second tab. City Council meetings are also broadcast on Vallejo’s cable channel, VCAT.

• Tue, 7 to 11 p.m.
• Vallejo City Hall
• 555 Santa Clara St, Vallejo

Ongoing Black History Month art at Springstowne Library

Black History Month Tiny Art Show

Stop by the library to see the submitted art work by other participants in the Black History Month Tiny Art Show. Open to all.

• Tues, Feb. 18 to Fri, Feb. 28
• Hours: Tues, Thurs – 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wed, – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fri, Sat – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Vallejo Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Avenue, Vallejo

Freedom Quilt

Join us as we celebrate Black History Month with this month's craft activity. Learn about the Freedom Quilt and its significance to American history and the Underground Railroad. Using paper template designs, participants can color and arrange the patterns, which were secret codes to guide people to freedom. Drop in for this activity during the library's open hours for the month of February.

• Tues, Feb. 18 to Fri, Feb. 28
• Hours: Tues, Thurs – 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wed, – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fri, Sat – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Vallejo Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Avenue, Vallejo