VALLEJO — Mare Island Brewing Co. will celebrate their 10 year anniversary this Saturday with live music by the jazz/funk, psychedelic soul band Collectivity, games and activities for kids of all ages, and the introduction of a special beer brewed just for this occasion.
The festivities will kick off at the Coal Shed Brewery on Mare Island at 3 p.m. Food options in addition to the brewery's pie truck include several local food trucks offering gyros, BBQ, and shaved ice.
Also this week, on Thursday the weekly August Summer Nights will kick off in downtown Vallejo. The annual event was resurrected last year after a decade-long pause and will take place every Thursday in August on four downtown blocks, between Georgia and Virginia streets and Sacramento and Marin.
This week’s musical headliners are Lab Ratz who will play on the Georgia Street stage and IgoSpiritual on the Marin Street stage. There will be a beer garden, food trucks, a kid zone and a variety of local artists and artisans.
Also on Thursday, the latest Comedy Uncensored show at the Empress lounge will be headlined by Terrell "Big-T" Butler, one of the funniest comics to make waves in the Bay's comedy scene. He’ll be accompanied on stage by comedians Frankie Marcos, Alvin Duke and Guile Mosher.
Mare Island Art Glass teaches the art of glass blowing first Friday evening of each month at their Hot Glass, Cold Beer event. You can make your own art glass piece in 20 minutes or less.
This is the closing weekend for the gallery shows at Mare Island Art Studios. The CoalShed3 photography exhibit explores the unexpected in our urban environment, and the mid-century themed Form and Flow show will be open on Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
Call for Art for the Visions of the Wild festival ends today, July 31. Visions of the Wild seeks art that celebrates the resilience of nature, and/or explores themes of environmental rebirth, renewal, and revitalization. The festival will take place at the Temple Art Lofts Gallery Sept. 13-14. Email info@visionsofthewild.org to apply.
Carquinez Quad Squad’s six-week Summer Roller Derby Boot Camp meets Sundays and Wednesday evenings and starts this Sunday at Solano County Fairgrounds. Whether you are interested in joining "the squad", learning about roller derby skating, sharpening your skate skills, and/or learning to skate, Carquinez Quad Squad will teach you the basics.
These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, poetry, art and recreational activities.
Wednesday, July 31
Visions of the Wild Festival - Call for Art application deadline
Call for Art for the Visions of the Wild festival ends July 31. Seeking art that celebrates the resilience of nature, and/or explores themes of environmental rebirth, renewal, and revitalization. The festival will take place at the Temple Art Lofts Gallery Sept 13-14.
JNW Reptile Show
Get a hands-on experience with all kinds of reptiles from JNW Reptile Rescue. This will be a hands-on event (if you want it to be)! Participants will get the chance to pet critters and take lots of photos.
- Wed, 1 to 2 p.m.
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara 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
Mari Mack & Livin' Like Kings
Mari Mack is a powerhouse singer who can belt out the blues or soothe you with soft, sultry jazzy tones.
- 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 1
August Summer Nights
August Summer Nights is a free party hosted in Downtown Vallejo every Thursday night in August from 5-8pm. Get ready for live music, DJs, dancing in the street, food trucks, street performers and other surprises.
- Thurs, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Downtown Vallejo
- Georgia, Marin, Sacramento and Virginia Streets
Adult Craft Club - Needlework & Mending Circle
Bring in items that need a little TLC or maybe a new cross stitch or embroidery project. All experience levels welcome, we will learn together while we work. Some materials available while supplies last. In the Program Room. Age group - seniors and adults.
- Thurs, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St.
Movies On The Deck : Kung Fu Panda 4
GVRD's Movies on The Deck event, originally scheduled for July 27, has been moved to Thursday, Aug 1. As dusk settles, our pool deck transforms into an open-air theater perfect for families and friends. Two pools available: the Olympic size pool and the toddler pool! No swimming experience needed; Lifeguards will be on deck. the toddler pool! No swimming experience needed; Lifeguards will be on deck.
- Thurs, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Cunningham Pool
- 801 Heartwood Ave.
Comedy Uncensored with "Big-T" Butler
Big-T" Butler is one of the funniest comics to make waves in the Bay's comedy scene. Also featuring comics Frankie Marcos and Alvin Duke. Hosted by Guile Mosher.
- Thurs, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Empress Theatre Lounge
- 324 Virginia St.
Friday, August 2
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.
Hot Glass - Cold Beer
Join us on the first Friday of the month for a hot glass blowing experience and make your own art glass piece. We have over 25+ projects in 20 minutes or less, all created so that you have success your first time.
- Fri, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Glass
- 860 Nimitz Ave.
Jason Morvich
Jason Movrich shares his music, influenced by his love of Soul, Funk, Rock, Blues, Jazz and Reggae. His strong vocals blend his bluesy and soulful lends itself well with a wide array of music genres.
- Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
- 860 Nimitz Ave.
Reflection - A Gothique Experience
A Unique Goth night with DJ Owen Owington Owensford curating the music and setting the mood for the night under the New Moon sky. Classic goth, nu goth, industrial, goth metal, EBM, synth pop, CyberPunk, dark wave, new wave, post punk, 80s, 90s and more. The Bizarre Bazaar Talent Society will be curating the Bizarre Bazaar.
- Fri, 9 to 12:00 am
- Moschetti Coffee
- 11 Sixth St. (Curtola Pkwy. & Solano Ave.)
Saturday, August 3
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
Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes.
- 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
Play Day Fun Day
Angels With Heart and I Hart Present Play Day Fun Day Kick ball and games, jump rope and more. Arts and crafts, food and snow cones.
- Sat, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Washington Park
- 900 Ohio St.
CoalShed3 Photography Exhibit
The group exhibit CoalShed3, in the Little Galley features the work of three Bay Area photographers: Philip Krayna, Tim Passaro and Desi Baytan. Their images explore color and the unexpected in our urban environment.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
First Saturdays Fitness - Yoga
Yoga is a great way to de-stress, build up strength, and increase flexibility. Instructor Amy Raupach will guide the group through a beginner/intermediate-friendly session. No yoga mat? No problem! We have one you can borrow.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- JFK Library – Joseph Room
- 505 Santa Clara St.
Form & Flow - Art Show
Experience a captivating collection by talented artists Lony Maya Neubauer, Melissa Taylor, and Susan Lane. Dive into a realm of mid-century vibes and abstract creativity, featuring ceramic functional ware and sculptures, drawings evolving into paintings, and fiber art.
- Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
Back to School Glam Jam: Free Haircuts & School Supplies
Let's glam up for a fantastic school year! Our Back-to-School Glam Jam event is your one-stop-shop for free haircuts and essential school supplies. Expert stylists and barbers will be available to provide youth with hair makeovers while they enjoy a fun, festival atmosphere with DJs and food vendors. Meanwhile, parents can pick up complimentary school supplies to ensure their little ones are fully prepared. Ages 6-17
- Sat, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St.
Hey Jude
Get ready to experience the magic of the Beatles live on stage with Hey Jude, an exciting Beatles tribute band. With their remarkable talent, great harmonies, and passion for the music of the Beatles, Hey Jude will take you on a journey through the timeless classics that defined a generation. From "Hey Jude" to "Let it Be", every song is performed with accuracy and energy that will have you dancing and singing along.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St.
10 Year Anniversary Party - Mare Island Brewing Co.
Come celebrate 10 years of Mare Island Brewing Co. with us at our anniversary party! Bring the whole family! We’ve got face painting for the kids, games for all ages, and a tie dye station. Get loose to the jazz/funk, psychedelic soulful sounds of Collectivity. Sip on our special 10 Year Anniversary Beer – brewed just for this occasion. Feast on Gyros, BBQ, and Shaved Ice from several local food trucks, in addition to our own pie wagon.
- Sat, 3 to 7 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
- 860 Nimitz Ave.
Embracing Earth: Allen Birnbach Artist Talk
"Embracing Earth: Allen Birnbach & Emil Yanos," is an extraordinary exhibition showcasing the synergy of art and nature through the eyes of two remarkable artists. Birnbach will give a talk about his photography from 3 to 4 p.m.
- Sat, 3 to 4 p.m.
- NY2CA Gallery
- 617 First St.
Camping Under The Stars
Campers will be treated to: a cookout, lawn games and other activities, s'mores and a light breakfast. Staff will be on-site during overnight stay for any questions and concerns. Pr-registration required
- Sat, 6 to 8:00 am
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St.
Danilo Y Grupo Universal
Danilo Y Grupo Universal will be lighting up the stage with an evening of live salsa music. This is a family friendly event, all ages and walks of life are welcome. Drinks and dinner will be served throughout the evening.
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122
Maria in the City: A Celebration
Come help us honor and support the work of Maria Stats, Artistic Director of On the Fringe. Join us for a reception welcoming Stats home from her exciting New York trip as winner of the Freddie G. Fellowship. The reception will feature entertainment by members of On the Fringe's award winning youth theater group, as well as other past cast members and friends. Delicious beverages and bites will be provided!
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum
- 734 Marin St.
Live Music Saturday with S.R. Laws
S.R. Laws serves up an original style of Rock, Roll, Rhythm, and Soul. It is through uplifting songs and heartfelt-inspiring performances that allows him and the characters in his songs to connect with any toe-tapping crowd
- Sat, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
- 289 Mare Island Way
Gud Tymez
Gud Tymez dance band plays a mix that emphasizes dance pop hits and smooth R&B. DJ Tron will also be there to keep you dancing during band breaks! Get in early, get your drink and claim your piece of the dance floor! $10 cover after 10pm.
- Sat, 8:30 to 12:30 am
- Gentleman Jim’s
- 1324 Lincoln Rd. E
Sunday, August 4
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.
- Sun, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Lake Chabot
- Dan Foley Park
- 1461 N Camino Alto
CoalShed3 Photography Exhibit
The group exhibit CoalShed3, in the Little Galley features the work of three Bay Area photographers: Philip Krayna, Tim Passaro and Desi Baytan. Their images explore color and the unexpected in our urban environment.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
CQS Summer Roller Derby Boot Camp 2024
Whether you are interested in joining "the squad", learning about roller derby skating, sharpening your skate skills, and/or learning to skate, Carquinez Quad Squad will teach you the basics to get you rolling. Sundays 11a.m.to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays 6 to 8 p.m.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Solano County Fairgrounds
- 900 Fairgrounds Drive
Form & Flow - Art Show
Experience a captivating collection by talented artists Lony Maya Neubauer, Melissa Taylor, and Susan Lane. Dive into a realm of mid-century vibes and abstract creativity, featuring ceramic functional ware and sculptures, drawings evolving into paintings, and fiber art.
- Sun, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Mare Island Art Studios
- 110 Pintado St.
GTS Band - Got the Soul!
GTS band plays mostly Latin, funk and soul music. Members of GTS have performed with members of Tower of Power, Annie Sampson, Forest Wilson, Maria Muldaur, Pete Escovedo, and Con Funk Shun, to name a few.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St.
Monday, August 5
Community Drum Circle
This is a monthly gathering spot for community drumming and friends. Drumming is a great way to release stress, boost immunity, brighten mood, and have tons of fun. All ages, cultures, genders, and abilities are welcome. Bring a drum, shaker, or other instruments and a beverage or snack.
- Mon, 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Mira Theatre
- 51 Daniels Ave.
Vallejo Senior Roundtable
This month’s speaker is Food Bank Philanthropist, Patricia Randolph, who's non-profit, "Incredible Blessings 4 U" provides "pop-up" food resources for the disadvantaged in our community.
- Mon, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
- Florence Douglas Center
- 333 Amador St.
Movement with Mary Jane
Movement with Mary Jane is a 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 6
"I Need A Mic" writing workshop
Ray Davis @poetdavis hosts the I Need a Mic Writing Workshop at the JFK Library. Writers of all genres welcome.
- Tues, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St.
The Flavor Town Tuesday's
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 from local businesses.
- Tues, 4 to 8 p.m.
- Children’s Wonderland
- 360 Glenn St.
First Christian Church National Night Out
Come and eat BBQ, share your favorite dessert, listen to music, and play some games! Meet your neighbors and help build relationships between police and the community. National Night Out is an annual crime prevention event and community-building campaign that is sponsored nationally by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Vallejo Police Department.
- Tues, 5 to 8 p.m.
- First Christian Church
- 1035 Indiana St.
Vallejo Heritage Neighborhood National Night Out
Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness. Come out and send a message to criminals letting them know that our neighborhood is organized and fighting back! We’ll have Food, Fun and Activities, and live music. Obtainium Works will be on hand with their imaginative art cars, contraptions, and fun gadgets.
- Tues, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Heritage Neighborhood
- 800 block of Virginia Street.
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.
- 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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