Upcoming Vallejo Events — Obtainium Cup and Shakespeare in the Park

VALLEJO — Several fun outdoor events are happening in Vallejo parks this weekend, with the Obtainium Cup Contraptor’s Rally, Latin Rock on the Dock on Mare Island, free Shakespeare at Hanns Park, Papa Joe and the New Deal at Blue Rock Springs Park, and blues and R&B at Richardson Park.

The free annual Obtainium Cup Contraptor’s Rally is a mad-cap gathering of artistically modified cars, bikes and scooters that will compete for prizes. They’ll be joined by Mad Hatters, flying monkeys, zombies, robots, and a new show by the Music Pandemonium at Mare Island Art Studios on Sunday afternoon.

Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park will perform “The Winter’s Tale” at Hanns park with free shows on Saturday and Sunday evening. One of Shakespeare’s final plays, “The Winter’s Tale” is a romantic comedy with elements of tragedy. Future free performances will be held in Benicia, Fairfield, Martinez and Piedmont during the first two weekends in August. Fundraiser shows will take place at Vino Godfather on Aug. 16 and 17.

Latin Rock on the Dock will feature Ozomatli, Joe Bataan, Puro Bandido, Thee Sinseers, Dakila, The Band August, Sacred Fire and Los Cochinos at the Mare Island Promenade on Saturday. This long show will run from midday into the night. General admission is $102. VIP tickets are $160 and allow early entry, nearby parking, and access to exclusive food and beverages.

Two free live music shows are also happening this week. You can groove to Papa Joe and the New Deal  playing soul, R&B, reggae, old school funk and Latin rock at the free Bands and Brews free event at Blue Rock Springs Park on Friday.

The new Blues and R&B Soulful Vibe Experience at Richardson Park on Saturday will feature music by Alvon, Tia Carroll, BEEBO, Dee Dee Simon SHIMA, Rick Alexander and Charles Barksdale. There will also be a Native American drumming circle, Aztec dancers, food giveaways and kid’s games and activities.

Cool off the kids at Cunningham Pool’s open air theater on Saturday evening with Kung Fu Panda 4 on the pool deck and two pools to splash in.

Vallejo offers plenty of indoor nightlife too. Poetry by the Bay’s open mic will be at the Mira Theatre tonight. DownByDawn’s EP release party at Canalito’s Customs and Nzuri Soul’s  Gladys Knight tribute show at the Empress Theatre will both take place on Saturday night.

Further afield, the 7 Generations Intertribal Council will hold their free annual Big Time Powwow on the Solano Community College grounds in Fairfield. The festival will host authentic Native handcrafts and artwork, food, music, and dancers.

Or attend the Benicia Waterfront Festival on Saturday and Sunday afternoon and enjoy live music, craft beers, wine, food, a vendor village, and kids’ bounce houses. The Red and White Fleet is offering cruises of the Carquinez Strait as part of this event.

These are just some of the highlights of this week’s events. Be sure to check the list below for more live music, baseball, art and recreational activities.

Wednesday, July 24

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 pm
• Vallejo Ferry Terminal
• 289 Mare Island Way

Tony "Macaroni" Lufrano

Pianist Tony Macaroni has recorded and gigged with a multitude of well-known musical artists, including Bonnie Raitt, The Whispers, Bill Champlin, Robben Ford, Zigaboo Modeliste, Taj Mahal, Todd Rundgren, Boz Scaggs, Eddie Money and James Cotton.

• Wed, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Empress Theatre Lounge
• 324 Virginia St.

Poetry by the Bay

This is the spot where poets gather to share their work and to hear the work of others. Come experience what’s been created, curated, and aged for nearly two decades. Tickets are free, but seating is limited so reserve your seat today.

• Wed, 7 to 9 p.m.
• Mira Theatre
• 51 Daniels Avenue

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, July 25

Art Beat Radio Show – Poetry Hour

Former Benicia Poet Laureate Thomas Stanton hosts this live show featuring readings by local poets.

• Thurs, 10:30 a.m. to noon.
• Ozcat Radio
• 89.5 FM KZCT

Sizzle

The five-piece band consists of Earnest Nation on keyboards, Donnie Rogers on bass, Manny Melchor on saxophone, Bobby Jones on drums, and Steve Jackson on guitar. These talented musicians deliver a soothing mixture of Jazz, R&B, Blues, and Rock playing tunes from Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, George Benson, Grover Washington, David Sanborn, and more.

• Thurs, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Empress Theatre Lounge
• 324 Virginia St.

Vallejo Police Chief Recruitment Community Meeting

Join Executive Recruiters Bob Hall & Associates and City Manager, Andrew Murray to discuss what you would like to see in Vallejo’s next Police Chief.

• Thurs, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Vallejo Room – Lower level of the JFK Library
• 505 Santa Clara St.

Friday, July 26

Boys and Girls Empowerment Safety Day

The Boys and Girls Empowerment Group's Safety Day stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, especially in light of the violence that has plagued many Black leaders in Vallejo.

• Fri, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Boys and Girls Empowerment Group
• 1638 Fairgrounds Dr., Suite A

End of Summer Ice Cream Party

It's time to celebrate! Come join us at the Springstowne Library to cool off at the end of summer ice cream party. Enjoy ice cream while celebrating your summer of reading.

• Fri, 10 a.m. to noon
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave.

Matinee: Mayor Humphrey of Minneapolis

Documentary film with director Mick Caoutte joining over video for post show conversation. In 1945 Humphrey became the youngest Mayor elected by the largest majority in city history. With little administrative power against a corrupt and uncooperative city council, Mayor Humphrey instead used the office as a bully pulpit, bringing the fight directly to the people by forming citizen committees to the confront the discrimination of minorities, restructure the police department, and solve dozens of other municipal problems.

• Fri, noon to 2 p.m.
• Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
• 734 Marin St.

Teen End of Summer Celebration

The 2024 Summer Reading Challenge is coming to a close. Let's celebrate all the reading we did, enjoy some sweet treats, and craft a cute frappuccino keychain.

• Fri, noon to 1 p.m.
• Springstowne Library
• 1003 Oakwood Ave.

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 p.m.
• John F. Kennedy Library
• 505 Santa Clara St.

Sip & Paint - Texture

Come explore movement through texture. Dozens of unique methods of painting do not require a brush. Found objects like leaves, flowers, and sticks to home items like tin foil, bubble wrap, clothespins, sponges, cups, bottles, and much more. Let your imagination fly! You will be provided with different items and brushes to play with to create texture.

• Fri, 5 to 7 p.m.
• Vino Godfather
• 1005 Walnut Ave.

Anthony Arya

Anthony Arya is an Americana rock performing & recording artist from the San Francisco Bay Area, California. From his soulful lyrics to gritty guitar riffs, some say Arya is at the forefront of the next generation of singer / songwriter / guitar-players once defined by musical icons like Neil Young and Tom Petty.

• Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Mare Island Brewing Co. – Coal Shed Brewery
• 850 Nimitz Ave.

Bands and Brews - Papa Joe and the New Deal

Live Music in the Park with free lawn seating, food, and beverages for sale.

• Fri, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Blue Rock Springs Park
• 650 Columbus Parkway

Vallejo Seaweed VS Dublin Leprechauns

The Vallejo Seaweed battle the Dublin Leprechauns.

• Fri, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
• Wilson Park
• 1007 Solano Ave.

Saturday, July 27

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

Community Coffee Tasting

Sample coffee from around the world, browse crafts and confections by local vendors, or enjoy made-to order crêpes. 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.)

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

Benicia Waterfront Cruises

Embark on an adventure as we cruise through the beautiful waters of the Carquinez Strait.

• Sat, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Benicia Marina
• 266 East B St.

Annual Summer BigTime and Powwow

Coming back to campus this summer and ready to dance! The festival will host authentic Native handcrafts and artwork, food, music, and dancers.

• Sat, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Solano Community College
• 4000 Suisun Valley Rd .

Benicia Waterfront Festival 2024

Benicia will celebrate its picturesque waterfront with live music, craft beers, wine, food festival, vendor village, and kids’ bounce houses. Live music by Other People’s Money (Tribute to Classic Rewindz), Wake the Neighbors (Classic to Modern Rock), and In Living Cover (90s favorites).

• Sat, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• First Street Green
• 90 First St.
• Benicia

CoalShed3 Photography Exhibit

The group exhibit CoalShed3, in the Little Galley  features the work od 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.

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.

Kitty Meet and Greet - pet adoptions

Come meet your next best friend! Evening appts 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, 12 to 3 p.m.
• PetSmart
• 952 Admiral Callaghan Ln.

Latin Rock on the Dock

Live music on the Vallejo waterfront by Ozomatli, Joe Bataan, Puro Bandido, Thee Sinseers, Dakila , The Band August, Sacred Fire, and Los Cochinos. VIP tickets available.

• Sat, 1 to 9:30 p.m.
• Mare Island Promenade
• 850 Nimitz Ave.

Blues & R&B Soulful Vibe Experience

Grab your chairs, umbrellas, and blankets as you groove to the music of Alvon, Tia Carroll, BEEBO, Dee Dee Simon (current America's Got Talent contestant), SHIMA, Rick Alexander, Charles Barksdale, Native American Sweet Medicine drumming circle, teen poetess Noa Santa, Anahuak Aztec Dancers and more. The event will also feature games, soccer by Vallejo United Soccer Program, vendors, a free Butterfly-Express train , food giveaways, and much more!

• Sat, 12:30 to 7 p.m.
• Richardson Park
• 325 Richardson Dr.

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.

Embracing Earth: Emil Yanos 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. Yonos will give a talk demonstrating his construction methods from 3 to 4 p.m.

• Sat, noon to 5 p.m.
• NY2CA Gallery
• 617 First St.

The Winter’s Tale - Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park

Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park will be mounting The Winter's Tale. Produced and Directed by Dalia Vidor. Assistant Director, Nez Gray-Freeman. One of Shakespeare’s final plays, “The Winter’s Tale” is a romantic comedy with elements of tragedy.

• Sat, 4 to 7 p.m.
• Hanns Park
• Skyline Dr.

Light the Fuse! EP release Party

Are you ready for an electrifying show?! DownByDawn will be putting on a show to celebrate the release of their EP, LIGHT THE FUSE! They will be joined by a few dope supporting artists including Jay De La Cruz & JACQ. Come out and enjoy this experience with us at Carnalito’s Customs. Doors open at 4:30pm to every one of all ages.

• Sat, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m.
• Carnalito’s Customs
• 905 Tennessee St.

Live Music with Idlewild West

Come and enjoy your favorite covers from the Allman Brothers brought to you by Idlewild West. Enjoy dinner, drinks and dancing. Free show with dinner.

• Sat, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Bambino’s
• 301 Georgia St. #122

Arriane Del

Arriane Del is a versatile performer who specializes in Top 40 covers, pop, dance, soul, R&B, classics, jazz, and more. Her dynamic repertoire caters to diverse audiences.

• Sat, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Mare Island Brewing Co. Ferry Taproom
• 289 Mare Island Way

Benicia Waterfront Sunset Cruise

Get ready to embark on an adventure as we cruise through the beautiful waters of the Carquinez Strait.

• Sat, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
• Benicia Marina
• 266 East B St.

Movies On The Deck : Kung Fu Panda 4

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.

• Sat, 7:20 pm to 9:15 pm
• Cunningham Pool
• 801 Heartwood Ave.

Nzuri Soul Tribute to Gladys Knight & Queens of Soul

Nzuri Soul brings to life the timeless anthems that Gladys Knight immortalized. This musical odyssey is further enriched by the presence of special guests, each paying homage to the legendary divas of soul who have also inspired countless artists.

• Sat, 8 to 10 p.m.
• Empress Theatre
• 330 Virginia St.

Dynamite Dave & The Detonators

Get ready to boogie on the dance floor with Dynamite Dave & the Detonators! Funky blues, rock, and R&B to get your groove on. Get in early, get a seat, your drink and a piece of the dance floor! $10 Cover after 10 p.m.

• Sat, 9 to midnight
• Gentleman Jim’s
• 1324 Lincoln Rd. E

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 1:00 am
• Townhouse Cocktail Lounge
• 401A Georgia St.

Sunday, July 28

Benicia Waterfront Cruises

Embark on an adventure as we cruise through the beautiful waters of the Carquinez Strait.

• Sun, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Benicia Marina
• 266 East B St.

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

Annual Summer BigTime and Powwow

Coming back to campus this summer and ready to dance! The festival will host authentic Native handcrafts and artwork, food, music, and dancers.

• Sun, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Solano Community College
• 4000 Suisun Valley Rd.

Benicia Waterfront Festival 2024

Benicia will celebrate its picturesque waterfront with live music, craft beers, wine, food festival, vendor village, and kids’ bounce houses. Live music by the Michelle Lambert Band, Tin Man (Classic Rock), and Tortilla Soup (Latin Funk).

• Sun, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• First Street Green
• 90 First St.
• Benicia

CoalShed3 Photography Exhibit

The group exhibit CoalShed3, in the Little Galley  features the work od 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.

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.

Obtainium Cup Contraptor's Rally

The Obtainium Cup is a mad-cap gathering of art vehicles, bicycles, and scooters that will be meeting up with Mad Hatters, Flying Monkeys, Zombies, Robots and new this year, the Music Pandemonium. Vehicles from around the Bay Area will be competing based on creativity, tenacity, and participation. The festival includes food trucks, beer garden, and entertainment. This event is free and family friendly.

• Sun, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Mare Island Art Studios
• 110 Pintado St.

Yoga and Begonias

Join us for a relaxing and rejuvenating Sunday of yoga and your favorite slow jams. Come connect with self, nature and the rhythm of music. The event will be led by experienced and certified yoga instructor Lindsey Hardy. All skill levels are welcome to join. Please bring your own yoga mats and props. After the yoga session, we’ll have a mixer with light refreshments available for you to enjoy while mingling with other guests and exploring our plant studio.

• Sun, 12 to 2 p.m.
• Neighborhood Plant Dealer
• 419 Georgia St. Suite 10

Vallejo Seaweed VS Bakersfield Train Robbers

The Vallejo Seaweed face off against the Bakersfield Train Robbers.

• Sun, 2 to 5 p.m.
• Wilson Park
• 1007 Solano Ave.

Speakers Series: USS Langley

The Mare Island Historic Park Foundation hosts Dr. David Winkler, renowned naval historian and retired Commander of the U.S. Navy, for a captivating discussion on his latest book, “America’s First Aircraft Carrier: USS Langley,” . Dr. Winkler will delve into the pivotal role of the USS Langley in the development of U.S. naval aviation and its impact on naval warfare.

• Sun, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• St. Peter’s Chapel
• 1181 Walnut Ave.

Bryan Girard Jazz Trio

Saxophonist Bryan Girard will be joined by terrific musicians Greg Sankovich and Greg German. Buy dinner and get listen to a live jazz show free. Advance dinner reservation recommended.

• Sun, 4 to 7 p.m.
• Manny’s Steakhouse
• 295 Mare Island Way

The Winter’s Tale - Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park

Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park will be mounting The Winter's Tale. Produced and Directed by Dalia Vidor. Assistant Director, Nez Gray-Freeman. One of Shakespeare’s final plays, “The Winter’s Tale” is a romantic comedy with elements of tragedy.

• Sun, 4 to 7 p.m.
• Hanns Park
• Skyline Dr.

Monday, July 29

Movement with Mary Jane

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.

• Mon, 6 to 9 p.m.
• IntegriTea
• 717 Marin St.

Tuesday, July 30

Vallejo Doodle and Draw Night

This free event is open to all ages and skill levels. Donations to keep the doors open at this essential community space are appreciated.

• Tues, 6 to 8 p.m.
• IntegriTea
• 717 Marin St.

‌A more detailed list of upcoming events can be found here.

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