VALLEJO — Young women will compete for Miss Vallejo/Tri-City and Miss Napa County titles, and reimagined classical music will be performed by the New Century Chamber Orchestra at the Empress Theatre this weekend.
Contestants from Solano and Napa Counties will compete for the coveted titles of Miss Vallejo/Tri-City, Miss Vallejo/Tri-City Teen and Miss Napa County at the Empress Theatre this Saturday afternoon. Contestants will be judged on their interviews, talent, fitness routine and evening gown competition.
On Friday evening, the New Century Chamber Orchestra will present centuries-old classics in a completely new light, also at the Empress Theatre. The show will open with the festive splash of one of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s “Novelletten for Strings,” then in “Lully Loops,” David Bruce uses brief sequences from the music of Jean-Baptiste Lully to create a vibrant kaleidoscope of sound.
The performance will close with “Vivaldi: Recomposed” by Max Richter, a complete reinterpretation of Antonio Vivaldi's “Four Seasons” which preserves the original’s emotional depth and enduring appeal.
Live music around town begins this week with celebrated blues guitarist Jonn Del Toro Richardson at the Empress Lounge on Wednesday evening, then Whiskey & Honey will play country hits old and new, along with a dash of classic rock at Vino Godfather on Saturday afternoon.
Enjoy some musical ambiance along with your evening meal on Saturday with the Bryan Girard Jazz Trio at Manny’s Steakhouse on the Vallejo waterfront, or with salsa music by Danilo y Grupo Universal at Bambino’s Restaurant.
For late-night dancing on Saturday night, catch A Pryor Engagement at Gentleman Jim’s. Jonathan Pryor's band has grown with new singers and players. They play R&B, funk, smooth jazz and classic rock covers.
On Sunday afternoon, Papa Joe and the New Deal will play soul, R&B, reggae, old school funk and Latin rock at Vino Godfather.
Verismo Opera will perform Giuseppe Verdi’s opera La Traviata at the Mira Theatre on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. La Traviata tells the story of a passionate romance marred by tragedy. The performers sing in Italian, but the audience can follow the plot by reading supertitles in English projected over the stage.
The goal of Verismo Opera is to offer high quality, low-cost productions in various settings in the Bay Area, making this supposedly elite musical art accessible for all. General admission is $30, seniors and students pay $20, and tickets are free for kids under 12. The show will run through Nov. 24.
This Saturday is the third Saturday of the month, which means it’s free admission day at the Vallejo Museum. The current temporary exhibit there is Reclaiming Home: Uprooting and Replanting to Grow Community - photography by Harvey Castro, which will be on display through Nov. 23. The museum also has permanent exhibits of Vallejo History and a Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame. Story time for kids runs from 11 a.m. to noon.
These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more art, spoken word, educational and recreational activities.
Wednesday, November 13
Thanksgiving Cookie Decorating
Learn how to decorate Thanksgiving-themed cookies. Registration required. Recommended for ages 9 & up.
- Wed, 2 to 3:30 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
LGBTQ+ Book Club: "Dancer From the Dance" by Andrew Holleran
Please join us for the LGBTQ+ Book Club discussion of "The Dancer From the Dance" by Andrew Holleran, led by local author Richard May! When May announced this was the next book, there was a collective cheer from the book club because people love it so much. Considered by Harper's magazine to be "the best gay novel written by anyone of our generation", “this 1978 classic is holds a sacred place in gay literary history for its seductive glimpse of post-Stonewall and pre-AIDS New York City.” (The Nation).
- Wed, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
- Alibi Bookshop
- 624 Marin St., Vallejo
Jonn Del Toro Richardson
Jonn Del Toro Richardson is a celebrated blues guitarist and vocalist from Houston, Texas. Known for his powerful voice and guitar skills, he blends traditional and contemporary blues styles. He has earned accolades such as the Blues Music Award and has performed worldwide, sharing the stage with blues legends.
- 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 performers and seasoned professionals. Comedians and poets also welcome.
- Wed, 8 to 11 p.m.
- Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
- 401A Georgia St., Vallejo
Thursday, November 14
Art Beat Radio Show – Literary Dialogues with Nina Serrano
Local author, activist and educator Nina Serrano interviews other writers every second Thursday.
- Thurs, 10:30 a.m. to noon.
- Ozcat Radio
- 89.5 FM KZCT, Vallejo
Adult Craft Club - Make It Together
Come join us for a guided start-to-finish craft night at the Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library every second Thursday of the month! Each month the JFK library plans a different craft to make together.
- Thurs, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
November Sip & Paint - Fall into Fall
Local artist Jena Webber will guide you as you paint your very own masterpiece! Your "Fall into Fall" themed image will be done on a 16x20 canvas. The class will be held inside The Great Room of the mansion, or weather permitting, the outdoor garden area. Your first glass of wine is included with admission. All art supplies will be provided.
- Thurs, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave., Vallejo
Friday, November 15
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 to 10:30 am
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
Somatic Art for Children
Somatic Art activity for children presented by Jie-Jie's Art Box. Somatic Art Therapy uses movement and body awareness, mindfulness, ritual and art making – drawing, painting, clay, assemblage, collage – to help heal by accessing the pictures we hold about ourselves and our body.
- Fri, 11 a.m. to noon.
- 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
Vivaldi Recomposed
Rediscover centuries-old classics in a completely new light, with two works that infuse music of the Baroque period with shimmering contemporary flourishes, when the New Century Chamber Orchestra debuts at the Empress Theatre. Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Allegro Moderato from Four Novelletten for String Orchestra David Bruce - Lully Loops for Violin and String Orchestra U.S. Premiere - Max Richter Vivaldi: Recomposed– The Four Seasons
- Fri, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
- Empress Theatre
- 330 Virginia St., Vallejo
Saturday, November 16
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
Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes. Coffee cupping, or coffee tasting, is the practice of observing the tastes and aromas of brewed coffee. 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 3 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, 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
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., Vallejo
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. This event will happen rain or shine! Cost: ~$.50/lb with a $10 minimum charge. Payment: Cash or check only.
- Sat, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- VALCORE Recycling
- 38 Sheridan St., Vallejo
Vallejo Jazz Jam
The Vallejo Jazz Jam welcomes musicians of all ages, genders and levels. Monthly they develop a consensus of tunes to play for two-hour sessions, held on the third Saturday of the month. There is no formal hierarchy. Fee: $10 donation to cover rental space (pay in-person).
- Sat, noon to 2 p.m.
- Mira Theatre
- 51 Daniels Ave., Vallejo
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., Vallejo
Whiskey & Honey
Whiskey & Honey has been performing Country hits old & new, along with a dash of Classic Rock for well over ten years now across Solano, Napa & Sonoma counties. The music they perform gets people moving and dancing and they love the line dancers! Lasagna con Amore Chef Massimo from Italy and his wife Sonia, will be serving sumptuous Lasagna Bolognese and tantalizing Lasagna Pesto, along with a selection of Italian Paninis, and authentic Italian desserts.
- Sat, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St., Vallejo
FutureFair: Crafting a Vision for Solano
Join FutureFair for an interactive, free, and family-friendly event. Presented by Solano Together, the FutureFair in Vallejo invites you to envision a Solano County where communities can thrive. At this interactive event, participants will learn about Solano’s existing housing plans, agricultural industry and natural resources, environment, economic development opportunities, and will explore themed stations led by partners and experts who will be available to answer questions and guide you through visioning activities.
- Sat, 3 to 5 p.m.
- Riverbank
- 332 Georgia Street, Vallejo
Miss Vallejo/Tri-City Competition
Join us for an evening of talent, beauty and grace as contestants from Solano and Napa Counties compete for the coveted titles. The Miss Vallejo/Tri-City program is a scholarship and mentorship program that promotes sisterhood, community advocacy, empowerment, and academic achievement.
- Sat, 4 to 7 p.m.
- Empress Theatre
- 330 Virginia St., Vallejo
Bryan Girard Jazz Trio
Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by terrific musicians pianist Laura Klein and Karl Hartmann on bass. Manny's has turned out to be a great spot for jazz with a lot of regulars coming by to soak up the music and the ambiance. Come check us out in this fabulous new location! 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, Vallejo
Joy Is An Act of Resistance: A Group Art Show - Opening Reception
Opening reception for Joy Is An Act of Resistance: A Group Art Show at Autonomous Gallery located in the Georgia St Galleria.
- Sat, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Autonomous Gallery
- 419 Georgia St., Suite 8, Vallejo
Danilo y Grupo Universal
Come on down and enjoy a night of live Salsa music and dancing. We will be serving up delicious food and drinks all evening to keep you going while you dance the night away! No cover with dinner.
- Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Bambino’s
- 301 Georgia St. #122, Vallejo
Verismo Opera - La Traviata
Mira Theatre is excited to present 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
A Pryor Engagement
Bigger and better, Jonathan Pryor's band has grown with new singers and players. We are excited to have them on stage here at Gentleman Jim's. Get in early, get your drink and claim your piece of the dance floor! $10 cover after 10 PM
- Sat, 9 p.m. to midnight
- Gentleman Jim’s
- 1324 Lincoln Rd. E, Vallejo
Sunday, November 17
Guided Birds of Prey Hike
Join Larry Broderick for a Bird of Prey Hike at Lynch Canyon Open Space Park. Take advantage of this special opportunity to discover, observe and learn about eagles, hawks and other raptors. This hike will offer raptor identification tips and views of resident and over-wintering birds of prey. During this viewing season, bring your binoculars and join a group to see the magnificent bids that rely on our protected agricultural open spaces for habitat. Birders of all levels of experience are welcome.
- Sun, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Lynch Canyon
- 3100 Lynch Road, Fairfield
Echoes of Alchemy: Bridging Past and Present
This exhibition connects the past and present through the eyes of two remarkable artists. Jane Yuen Corich and Kathy Kearns’s works are grounded in history, yet resonate deeply in the here and now. The exhibition will be on view through November 17, with gallery hours from noon to 5 p,m,, Thursday through Sunday.
- Sun, noon to 5 p.m.
- NY2CA Gallery
- 617 First St., Benicia
Open Mare Island Tour
Join Mare Island Historic Park Foundation and Mare Island Co. for Open Mare Island, featuring self-guided walking & shuttle tours of historic Mare Island. Docents will be stationed at five locations to present the area and answer questions, including St. Peter's Chapel and the Naval Cemetery. And, for the first time, SolTrans will sponsor a free shuttle that will run between the staffed stations.
- Sun, noon to 2 p.m.
- The Quarters Coffee House
- 1015 Walnut Ave., Vallejo
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 give you a show that might touch 60 to 80 songs because of their ability to move in and out of songs with the greatest of ease. They will move you with soul, R&B, reggae, old school funk and Latin rock.
- Sun, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Vino Godfather
- 1005 Walnut Ave. @ Kansas St., Vallejo
Mechanics' Institute: a Cornerstone of San Fransisco's History & Future
Join Myles Cooper, Librarian and Archivist, to learn about Mechanics' Institute, one of California's oldest cultural institutions, offering a Library, Chess Room, and Programs. Discover its rich history, from its 1854 inception to its pivotal role in the aftermath of the 1906 earthquake and fire.
- Sun, 2 to 4 p.m.
- McCune Room, John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
Verismo Opera - La Traviata
Mira Theatre is excited to present 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
Monday, November 18
Speakeasy Expressions Poetry Open Mic
Join host Remo Valentino for Speakeasy Expressions Poetry Open Mic every other Monday night. Come share your spoken word poetry on stage to a live audience, or just grab a few drinks and watch the show. 21+ venue.
- Mon, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Chris’ Club
- 656 Benicia Road, Vallejo
Townhouse Ramblers
Acoustic evening of Americana, folk and flues 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., Vallejo
Tuesday, November 19
"I Need A Mic" writing workshop
Ray Davis @poetdavis hosts the I Need a Mic Writing Workshop on select Tuesdays. Writers of all genres welcome.
- Tues, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- John F. Kennedy Library
- 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo
Road to Employment
Get help with your job search by meeting with a representative from Solano County's Work Force Development Board.
- Tues, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Springstowne Library
- 1003 Oakwood Ave., Vallejo
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
Books on Tap - Springstowne Library Bookclub
Join the Springstowne Library at Mare Island Brewery. The theme this month will be: Thriller.
- Tues, 6 to 7:45 pm
- Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
- 850 Nimitz 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
Members of the Public may provide public comments during the City Council Meeting in person, via ZOOM or by phone, by dialing (669) 900-6833. Agendas can be viewed on the City Agendas & Videos webpage and are posted a minimum of 72 hours in advance for regular meetings and 24 hours in advance for special meetings.
- 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
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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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