The Napa Valley Weekender
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — Welcome to the Napa Valley Features Weekender, your guide to local events and experiences. With our valley-wide section and a dedicated segment highlighting volunteer opportunities, we aim to provide an overview of activities throughout the valley. Delivered every Friday in our convenient Scan and Plan format, this resource provides concise yet informative summaries with valuable links to streamline your planning.
Our commitment to inclusivity ensures a range of options, from complimentary to cost-effective, to accommodate all interests. For those looking for any newly added events, we’ve now included (N) for entrants added since the last Weekender and (R) for events that are repeating.
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Napa Valley-Wide
(R) Paws for Peace Campaign at Napa Valley Restaurants, Wineries and Hotels
Through the end of October. Jameson Humane, NEWS and Ruthless Kindness partner for the Paws for Peace campaign, raising funds to support survivors of domestic violence and their pets by providing safe, pet-friendly housing. Participating Napa Valley locations will donate $1 for every drink, bottle of wine or tasting fee sold. To learn more and obtain the list of participating businesses, visit their website.
(R) Napa Valley Wine Train Grape Stomp at Grgich Hills
Through Oct. 25, 2:30 p.m. (Monday to Friday only). Enjoy a traditional grape stomp at Grgich Hills Estate with a gourmet lunch aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train and a tasting of reserve wines at the winery. Tickets are $578. Advance booking recommended. For more information, call 707-253-2111, email reservations@winetrain.com or visit their website.
(R) St. Helena High School Class of 1984 40th Reunion at Rutherford Grange Hall
Saturday, Oct. 26, 5 p.m., with optional Friday events including a homecoming parade, alumni gathering at Crane Park and varsity football game. Join fellow alumni to celebrate the 40th reunion. Tickets are $60 per person. For more details or financial assistance, contact Tish Wagner at tishwagner@gmail.com or call/text 707-225-7223. Payment options include Zelle (SHHSreunion1984@gmail.com), Venmo (@SHHSreunion1984). Grange Hall, 8550 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford.
(R) 2024-25 Secured Property Tax Bills Now Available
The first installment of the 2024-25 secured property taxes is due Nov. 1 and can be paid online, by mail, in person or by phone. Delinquent payments after Dec. 10 will incur a 10% penalty. For details visit the Napa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s webpage or call 707-253-4311. 1195 Third St., Suite 108, Napa.
(R) Napa Valley Wine Library Association Wine Seminar at Inglenook
Saturday, Nov. 2, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the Napa Valley Wine Library Association’s annual Wine Seminar, focusing on "Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon From the Alluvial Fans of the Mayacamas, Oakville to Saint Helena." The seminar will be moderated by Tegan Passalacqua of Turley Wine Cellars, with panelists including winemakers from Corison, Inglenook, JJ Cohn Estate, MacDonald Vineyards and Spottswoode. The event includes wine-tastings and a chef-prepared buffet lunch. Tickets are $375, with a $50 discount for NVWLA members. For more information, visit their website or email editor@napawinelibrary.com.
(R) Voter Registration Deadline for November General Election
The deadline to register to vote by mail for the Nov. 5 general election is Monday, Oct. 21. Eligible citizens can register to vote online or in person. After the deadline, voters can still register in person at any Napa County Vote Center through Same-Day Voter Registration. For more information visit registertovote.ca.gov or call 707-253-4321.
(R) Economic Outlook Conference at Redwood Credit Union, Napa Community Room
Thursday, Nov. 7, 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Napa Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Economic Outlook Conference, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Christopher Thornberg of Beacon Economics, to discuss economic trends and opportunities for the Napa Valley region. The event includes panels on business growth, advocacy and innovation. Tickets are $195 per person, non-refundable. For more information, call 707-337-4975, email Jeri@NapaChamber.com, or visit their website. 480 Devlin Road, Napa.
(N) CanDo Napa Valley Give!Guide Launches Online
Wednesday, Nov. 15 to Sunday, Dec. 31. The 12th annual Napa Valley Give!Guide provides an easy way to support 67 Napa County nonprofits with donations starting at $10. All funds raised stay within Napa County. For more information, visit their website.
(R) Decadent Truffle and Barolo Dinner at La Toque
Sunday, Nov. 24, 5:45 p.m. La Toque hosts its 12th annual Decadent Truffle & Barolo Dinner with guest chef Carlo Zarri from Villa San Carlo in Piedmont, featuring a five-course truffle-accented menu paired with rare Barolos dating back to 1979. The evening begins with a reception at 5:45 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $750+ per person. For more information, visit their website or call 707-257-5157. 1314 McKinstry St., Napa.
(R) Mike Thompson's Annual Holiday Celebration at The Culinary Institute of America
Sunday, Dec. 8, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (VIP reception from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m.) Join Rep. Mike Thompson for a festive evening with culinary treats, local wines and a silent auction at the historic Culinary Institute of America. Individual tickets are $120, with sponsorship levels available, including Gold Host for $475, which includes six tickets and VIP access. The deadline for sponsorship recognition is Oct. 31. Visit the website, contact sfreedy10@gmail.com or call 707-484-6007 for more information. The Culinary Institute of America, 2555 Main St., St. Helena.
American Canyon (And Nearby)
American Canyon Chamber of Commerce Calendar
American Canyon Library Events
Napa-Vallejo Flea Market
(N) American Canyon Library Events
Friends of the American Canyon Library Book Donation Day. Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donate your gently used books and contribute to a great cause during this special event.
Halloween Open House. Thursday, Oct. 31, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Drop by for candy, crafts, costumes and Halloween movies during this family-friendly open house.
Scammers and Their Tricks. Monday, Nov. 4, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn how to protect yourself from internet scams in this informative discussion.
Saturday Crafternoons: Pumpkin Truck Magnets. Saturday, Nov. 9, 12 to 2 p.m. Create festive pumpkin truck magnets to celebrate the fall season at this family-friendly arts and crafts event. Registration required.
The library, located at 300 Crawford Way, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from noon to 8 p.m. on Wednesday and closed on Sunday. These are just a couple of the many events on offer. Visit the calendar to see more or call 707-644-1136 for more information.
(N) Halloween Meowsquerade Ball at Napa Junction Community Center
Saturday, Oct. 26, 5 to 9 p.m. Join the first Halloween Meowsquerade Ball to benefit American Canyon Community Cats. Costumes are encouraged and tickets are $55, which include appetizers and one drink. Additional drinks will be available for purchase, along with a dessert auction and live DJ entertainment. For more information, visit their website. Napa Junction Community Center, 300 Napa Junction Rd.
(R) Halloween in the Canyon Plaza
Thursday, Oct. 31, 3 to 5 p.m. A free trick-or-treat event for the community to safely enjoy Halloween with local businesses. Participation is open to chamber members. For more information, visit their website. 3417 Broadway St.
Calistoga
Calistoga Farmers' Market on Washington Street, weekly
Chamber of Commerce events
Picayune Cellars events
The Moonshine Theater events
UpValley Family Centers events
(R) Eleve Studio Fall Dance Classes
Directed by Napa Valley native Elaine Johns, Eleve Studio offers a range of dance classes that include ballet, jazz, lyrical and musical theater for ages 3 through adult. Tuition ranges from $60 to $115 per month, based on class length and frequency, with family discounts available. For more information, visit their website or email dancing@eleve.studio. 1201 Tucker Road at Highway 29.
(N) Calistoga Library Events
Day of the Dead Skeleton Craft. Monday, Oct. 28, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Celebrate Día de los Muertos by creating a skeleton paper puppet in this family-friendly craft event. Registration required.
Adult Game Hour. Thursday, Nov. 7, 2 to 3 p.m. Enjoy card and board games while meeting new people at this monthly event for adults.
Adult Guitar Lessons. Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 to 11 a.m. Join this beginner-friendly guitar class for adults, with loaner guitars available for those without one. Register by calling 707-942-4833.
Beaded Corn Craft. Saturday, Nov. 16, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Create colorful beaded corn decorations at this family-friendly arts and crafts event.
These are just a few of the offerings. The complete countywide calendar can be found here. Visit the library at 1108 Myrtle St. with weekly hours of operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on most days and extended hours until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. Call 707-942-4833 for more information. The library is closed on Sundays.
(R) Volunteer Opportunities in Calistoga With Celebrate Napa Valley
Celebrate Napa Valley invites volunteers to participate in a variety of events that support the Calistoga community, including the Harvest Fair and Halloween Parade (Saturday, Oct. 26) and the Calistoga Christmas Faire and Tree Lighting (Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6-7). These opportunities offer a rewarding way to engage with local traditions. For more information, call 707-942-2780 or email info@celebratenapavalley.org. All volunteers must complete an online form.
(N) Third Annual Calistoga Harvest Fair at Pioneer Park
Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate Napa Valley presents the Calistoga Harvest Fair, featuring a maker’s market, local food, wine, beer, fall-themed activities, family costume contests and live performances. Admission is free and registration for the costume contests is available online. For more information, visit their website or email info@celebratenapavalley.org. Pioneer Park, 1308 Cedar St.
(R) Calistoga Art Center — Art, Wine and House Tours at Villa CA’ TOGA
Saturday, Oct. 26, 4 to 6 p.m. Tour the stunning Villa CA’ TOGA, home and studio of renowned artist Carlo Marchiori, featuring period-style murals and Venetian-inspired interiors and gardens. Wine will be provided by LOLA. Proceeds support the Calistoga Art Center. For more information and tickets, visit the website, email info@calistogaartcenter.org or call 707-942-2278.
(N) Champagne Gala at Picayune Cellars & Mercantile
Friday, Nov. 1, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Picayune Cellars & Mercantile hosts a Champagne Gala to celebrate the release of its new Grand Cru Champagne, featuring oysters, caviar, salmon blinis, tuna tartar and live music. Tickets are $100 for non-members and $75 for members. For more information, visit their website, call 707-341-3410 or email info@picayunecellars.com. 1440 Lincoln Ave.
(R) Holiday Shopping Party at Schramsberg Vineyards
Saturday, Nov. 9, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with wine, food and a tour of the historic Schramsberg caves. Enjoy Schramsberg sparkling and Davies Vineyards still wines paired with bites from local chefs and participate in a riddling contest. Tickets are $175 per person, including tax. All attendees must be 21 or older, and valet parking will be provided. Tickets available online. 1400 Schramsberg Road.
(N) Calistoga Food & Wine Returns for Fifth Year to Solage, Auberge Resorts
Calistoga Food & Wine, Friday, Nov. 15, through Sunday, Nov. 17. Guests and locals can enjoy creations from Napa Valley’s top culinary talent, perfectly paired with Calistoga’s finest wines along with a Rachel Antonoff weekend-long pop-up shop featuring the New York designer’s vibrant Edibles Collection. Attendees can purchase a Three-Day Pass ($475) for the full experience or book events individually.
Friday, Nov. 15 at 5 p.m., the Collaborative Chefs’ Dinner: Gustavo Rios of Solbar, Christopher Kostow of The Charter Oak and Anthony Stagnaro of Bear will craft their signature dishes for an unforgettable evening at Solbar ($210 per person, including gratuity/fees; booking link here).
Saturday, Nov. 16 from 1 to 4 p.m., Grand Tasting & Food Pairing: Experience wines from 30 Calistoga AVA wineries and small bites from seven acclaimed California restaurants; ($250 per person, including gratuity/fees; booking link here).
Sunday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. - 1p.m., Farewell Brunch & Bubbles: Brunch complete with sparkling wines from local wineries and unique dishes from Napa favorites Solbar, Picobar and Loveski’s Deli and St. Helena’s Charlie’s, helmed by former French Laundry Executive Sous Chef Elliot Bell ($95 per person, including gratuity/fees; booking link here).
(N) Calistoga Winter in the Wineries Passport
Dec. 7, 2024, to Feb. 9, 2025. The 15th annual Winter in the Wineries Passport offers access to tastings at 19 wineries in Calistoga and upper Napa Valley, along with discounts on lodging, dining and spa services. Passports go on sale Oct. 26 at noon for $80, with digital options available. For more information, visit their website or call 707-942-6333. 1457 Lincoln Ave.
Napa
Downtown Napa’s “Do Napa” calendar of events
Napa County Historical Society events
Napa Farmers Market
Napa Valley College events
UC Master Gardeners of Napa County events
(N) 2024-2026 Napa Art Walk: Climate Action and Sustainability
The 8th Napa Art Walk features nine sculptures by artists from the U.S. and Canada that explore the theme of climate action and sustainability. This public art series aims to inspire individual and collective stewardship of Napa Valley’s unique ecology. All sculptures are for sale, with 10% of sales supporting future exhibitions. For more information, visit their website or email napaartwalk@cityofnapa.org. Various locations in downtown Napa.
(N) "The Valley Beautiful: Architecture" Exhibit at Goodman Library
Now through March 22, 2025. The Napa County Historical Society presents "The Valley Beautiful: Architecture," an exhibit exploring the architecture of Napa Valley, including commercial, residential and sacred spaces. Presented in association with Napa County Landmarks, this exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, visit their website. 1219 First St.
(N) Champagne Day Masterclass at Napa Valley Wine Academy
Friday, Oct. 25, 6 p.m. Monika Bielka-Vescovi, DipWSET, teaches a Champagne masterclass covering different types of Champagne, from single varietals to blends, and vintage to non-vintage. Tickets are $129. Reserve online. 2501 Oak St.
(N) Napa Valley Fall Triathlon at Lake Berryessa
Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Alpha Win Napa Valley Fall Triathlon takes place around Lake Berryessa, with expected water temperatures in the high 60s. Registration closes on Oct. 25. For more information, visit the website. Putah Canyon Recreation Area, 7600 Knoxville Road.
(N) Napa Hometown Halloween
Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Trick-or-treat in downtown Napa as over 100 businesses display black and orange balloons to invite kids for candy. Admission is free and families are encouraged to dress in their Halloween costumes. For more information, visit their website. Various locations in downtown Napa.
(N) Be Bubbly Celebrates Champagne Weekend
Saturday, Oct. 26 and Sunday, Oct. 27. Be Bubbly continues its Champagne celebration with a Champagne and Caviar Masterclass on Saturday and a Bubbles & Brunch on Sunday. The masterclass features Regiis Ova Caviar and three Grand Cru Champagnes for $155, while the brunch pairs four Champagnes with bites from Chef Ari for $125. For more information, visit their website or call 707-637-4532. 1407 Second St.
(N) Halloween Masquerade and Haunted After Party at Buena Vista Winery
Saturday, Oct. 26, starting at 7 p.m. Begin the night at Buena Vista Winery’s Halloween Masquerade in the haunted Champagne Cellars, where ghostly clowns, fortune tellers and dancing await. Tickets are $175 per person or $150 for members, with optional VIP parking for $25. After the masquerade, head to the Haunted After Party at Chateau Buena Vista in downtown Napa at 10:30 p.m., where the spooky fun continues. Your after-party ticket includes a glass of wine with additional wines available for purchase. Tickets for the after-party are $25 per person or $20 for members. For tickets and more information, visit their website. Buena Vista Winery, 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma. Chateau Buena Vista, 1142 First St., Napa.
(R) Mentis Wellness Campus Tour
Fridays at 4:30 p.m. Mentis offers weekly tours of its new Wellness Campus, showcasing mental health resources and services for the Napa Valley community, while seeking to raise $1 million to complete the project. The tour is free, and reservations are required. For more information, visit their website, call 707-615-5003 or email Charlotte Hajer at chajer@mentisnapa.org. 1272 Hayes St.
(N) NVYS: A Spooktacular Symphony at Jarvis Conservatory
Saturday, Oct. 26, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The Napa Valley Youth Symphony, led by conductor Alan Anibal De Souza Ramos, performs a Halloween-themed concert featuring ghoulish grooves and festive surprises. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for youth. For more information, visit their website. 1711 Main St.
(N) The Art of the Headshot with Philip Shoots at Napa Valley Photographic Society
Monday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m. Join the Napa Valley Photographic Society (NVPS) for a presentation by photographer Philip Shoots on the art of the headshot. He will also provide tips for capturing eerie, October-themed images in line with All Hallows' Eve. Members are encouraged to bring their own photos for critique. For more information, visit their website. Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St.
(N) Napa Library Events
Day of the Dead Altar. Tuesday, Oct. 29, all day. In honor of Día de los Muertos, the Napa Library will have a community altar open to the public from Oct. 26 to Nov. 3.
“Eek-O-Friendly" Costume Exchange. Tuesday, Oct. 29, all day. The City of Napa is offering gently used Halloween costumes for free at the Napa Library, available through Oct. 31 for all to take home.
NaNoWriMo! Write-In Napa Valley Writers Writing Workshop. Tuesday, Oct. 29, 12 to 1:30 p.m. Join Napa Valley Writers for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) to set writing goals and discuss creative ideas with fellow writers.
Registration required.Yarn Club. Friday, Nov. 1, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Bring your yarn, hooks and needles to meet fellow yarn enthusiasts, work on projects and get support.
Author Talk: A Navajo Investigator’s Search for the Unexplained (Virtual Library). Thursday, Nov. 7, 4 to 5 p.m. Join an online conversation with Navajo Ranger Stanley Milford Jr. as he discusses his memoir on investigating unexplained cases in Navajoland. Register required.
Make it Vegan: Holiday Cookies. Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6 to 7 p.m. Learn how to bake festive vegan holiday cookies at this fun cooking class for teens and adults.
These are just a few of the offerings. The complete countywide calendar can be found here. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Call 707-253-4241 for more information. 580 Coombs St.
(R) di Rosa Makers Market at di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art
Saturday, Nov. 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The di Rosa Makers Market features more than 50 Bay Area artists and vendors offering handcrafted goods like jewelry, ceramics and textiles. Tickets are $10, free for members, and include gallery admission. Tickets may be purchased upon arrival. For more information visit their website. 5200 Sonoma Highway.
(R) Boyd Meets Girl at Sleeping Giant Winery
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 5 p.m. Australian guitarist Rupert Boyd and American cellist Laura Metcalf perform an eclectic program ranging from Debussy to Radiohead as part of Festival Napa Valley’s Olivia Decker Power of Music series. Tickets are $85. For more information visit their website or call 707-944-2054. 2258 Las Amigas Road.
(R) Boyd Meets Girl at Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center
Friday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m. Guitarist Rupert Boyd and cellist Laura Metcalf perform an admission-free concert for local school groups as part of Festival Napa Valley’s Novack Concert for Kids series. Open to school groups only. For more information visit their website or contact Festival Napa Valley’s Education Department at cathy@festivalnapavalley.org. 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway.
(N) Film Screening: "Common Ground" at CIA at Copia
Saturday, Nov. 9, 5 p.m. CIA at Copia will host a screening of “Common Ground,” a 2023 documentary about regenerative agriculture, followed by a farm-to-table dinner and discussions with sustainability experts. Tickets are $165 and include wine and non-alcoholic beverages. For more information and tickets, visit their website or call 707-967-2500. 500 1st Street.
(R) Napa Valley Orchid Society Annual Orchid Auction
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 6 p.m. The Napa Valley Orchid Society will hold its Annual Orchid Auction at the Napa Senior Center. Attendees can bid on a wide selection of orchids, including rare and unusual specimens, with live auctioneer Tom Pickford. This fundraiser supports the Napa Valley Orchid Society, which has served the community since 1958. Admission is free, and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact Larraine Ewing at info@thenapavalleyorchidsociety.com. Instagram @napavalleyorchidsociety. Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St.
(R) ‘Seussical’ at Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center
Friday, Nov. 15 and 22, at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 16, 17, 23 and 24 at 2 p.m. Napa Valley College Performing Arts and Cafeteria Kids Theater present “Seussical,” a family-friendly musical featuring beloved Dr. Seuss characters such as The Cat in the Hat and Horton the Elephant. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for students, seniors and military, and $15 for youth under 12 or groups of 15 or more. For more information, visit their website or call 707-256-7500. 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway.
(R) Napa Valley Tours
The Napa Valley Tour app offers a self-guided tour of historic landmarks throughout the Napa Valley and is available on Google Play and the Apple Store for $7.99. Another self-guided history tour, created by the Napa Valley Shakespeare Festival, is available through Otocast, “Echoes of the Napa Valley: The Tulocay Project.” This tour features monologues from the perspective of historic residents of the valley performed by professional actors. Download the Otocast app and search for “Napa history” or search by location. For more information call 707-963-3333, email info@napahistory.org or visit their website. 1700 First St.
St. Helena (And Nearby)
Clif Family Winery events
Rianda House events
St. Helena Chamber events
St. Helena Striders upcoming walks
UpStage Napa Valley presents
UpValley Family Centers events
(N) St. Helena Farmers' Market at Crane Park
Friday, Oct. 25, 7:30 a.m. to noon. The final St. Helena Farmers' Market of the season offers fall produce, flowers and health services including flu vaccines and COVID-19 boosters. A seed-saving demonstration will take place at 10:30 a.m., and kids can pick up a free take-home activity. For more information, visit their website. 360 S. Crane Ave.
(N) Nimbus Arts Spooky Halloween Craft Night
Friday, Oct. 25, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Nimbus Arts hosts a night of spooky crafts and ghoulish games for all ages. The cost is $45, and preregistration is required. Children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. For more information or to register, visit their website. 649 Main St.
(N) Owl and Raptor Encounter at Frog’s Leap Winery
Sunday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Frog’s Leap Winery hosts West Coast Falconry for a hands-on experience with trained owls and raptors. Learn about the art of falconry and the role of these birds in the ecosystem, with a hawk's aerial demonstration. Adult admission includes a tasting flight of Frog’s Leap wines. The event is outdoors, and dressing in layers is recommended. Tickets are $75. For more information, visit their website. 8815 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford.
(N) Pumpkin Master Carving 101 at Nimbus Arts
Sunday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m. to noon. Eric Muensterman will teach a master pumpkin carving class, covering pumpkin selection, carving techniques, template creation, lighting and preservation methods. Pumpkins and tools are provided. Registration is $45. For more information, visit their website or call 707-963-5278. Nimbus Arts, 649 Main St.
(N) Día de los Muertos Community Celebration
Sunday, Oct. 27, noon to 4 p.m. at the Upper Valley Campus of Napa Valley College, 1088 College Ave. Family Centers and Nimbus Arts will host the 16th Annual Día de los Muertos Community Celebration. “Day of the Dead” is a pre-Columbian Mexican holiday that honors life, death and the memories of those no longer with us. Join this time-honored tradition, taking this holiday as an opportunity to bring neighbors together and celebrate the cultural diversity that enriches our local community. The festival will include children’s arts and craft activities, live music and dance performances, and beautifully decorated altars. Food trucks featuring Latin American cuisine will be on hand as well.
(R) UpStage Napa Valley Presents PlayFest 2024 at Grace Episcopal Church
Runs through Sunday, Oct. 27, various times. UpStage Napa Valley’s fourth annual PlayFest features a series of short plays each weekend that showcase 184 entries, including works by local playwrights. Audience talkback sessions follow each performance. Tickets are $30 or $75 for three nights at their website. Grace Episcopal Church, 1314 Spring St.
(N) Movies / Events at Cameo Cinema
On Monday, Oct. 28, 5 p.m., celebrate Italian Heritage Month with a screening of "It Started in Naples" starring Clark Gable and Sophia Loren. Tickets are $5 and guests can enjoy free pizza and wine, sponsored by the Sons & Daughters of Italy in America.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, 1 to 3 p.m., a masterclass with Foley Artist John Roesch will demonstrate how to create spine-chilling sound effects for horror films.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, 7 to 9:30 p.m., actor Joel Courtney will join for a Q&A following a screening of "Super 8."
On Sunday, Nov. 3, 1 to 3 p.m., Andrew Gordon leads a Workshop on AI Filmmaking geared toward students and aspiring filmmakers.
For most films and these events, general admission is $10, with discounts for students and seniors. For details call 707-963-9779 or visit their website. 1340 Main St.
(N) Clif Family’s Street Food Napa Valley
Enjoy themed menus every Wednesday from the Clif Family Bruschetteria Food Truck, with service available until 7 p.m. for most events. Pre-orders start the prior Sunday evening.
Southern Menu: Wednesday, Oct. 30, 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy Southern classics like Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits and Country Ham with Mixed Farm Pickles.
Portuguese Menu: Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Savor Portuguese-inspired dishes like Bifana, Bacalhau and Caldo Verde.
Sip & Support With Burmese Menu & Live Music: Wednesday, Nov. 13, 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Experience Burmese flavors with dishes like Pumpkin Curry, Mohinga and Laphet Thoke. Live music from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. 20% of wine and food sales will benefit the Suscol Intertribal Council.
New England Menu: Wednesday, Nov. 20, 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Treat yourself to New England favorites, including Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll and Fish and Chips.
Post-Turkey Day Brunch Menu: Friday, Nov. 29, 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Celebrate the season with Turkey Day-inspired dishes like Smoked Turkey Sandwich, “Dressing” Fritters with Cranberry Chutney, Turkey Poutine and Pumpkin Pie.
Contact Clif Family at 707-301-7188 or order at their website. 709 Main St.
(R) Cook St. Helena 20th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, Nov. 9, 2 to 6 p.m. Celebrate 20 years of Cook St. Helena, a beloved locals' go-to for Northern Italian cuisine, with music, food and drinks in the parking lot at Hunt Avenue and Railroad Avenue. For more information, call 707-963-7088. 1310 Main St.
(R) Pumpkin Painting at Pope Valley Farm Center
Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join the second annual pumpkin painting event, with paint and pumpkins provided, free for all ages. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes and bring something to protect clothing from paint. Snacks and drinks will be available. For more information, visit the website or email pvfarmcenter@gmail.com. 5820 Chiles Pope Valley Road.
(N) St. Helena Library Events
Story Time. Every Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. Children are invited to enjoy a fun story time followed by a craft activity in the children's room.
Halloween Fun House. Oct. 29 to 31. Explore a spooky Halloween Land in the library's meeting room during this special Halloween Fun House event.
Halloween Crafts for Children. Wednesday, Oct. 30, 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Children and their caregivers are invited to join in for fun Halloween-themed crafts.
These are just a few of the offerings. To learn more, visit the library’s calendar of events or call 707-963-5244. The library is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and is closed on Sunday. 1422 Library Lane.
(R) Mixed Media Painting Class With Nancy Willis at Napa Valley College
Tuesdays in October, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nancy Willis teaches a mixed-media painting class featuring collage, gel transfers, stencils and more through in-class projects and take-home assignments. The cost is $350 plus a $30 materials fee. For more information, email nancy@nancywillis.com or visit the website. Upper Valley Campus, 1088 College Ave.
(N) Fundraiser and Film Screening of "Inside Out 2" at Cameo Cinema
Monday, Nov. 4, 5:30 p.m. The Spring Mountain Fire Safe Council hosts a benefit screening of "Inside Out 2" at Cameo Cinema to raise funds for Beacon Boxes, a tool for fire preparedness in the Spring Mountain area. Tickets are $50, and attendees will enjoy complimentary wine and a raffle. For more information, visit their website. 1340 Main Street.
Yountville (And Nearby)
Napa Valley Museum events
Valley Players present
Yountville Art Walk
Yountville Chamber of Commerce calendar
Yountville Community Hall events
(R) Friday Night Dances Groove Into Yountville
Yountville Community Center at 6516 Washington St. invites guests 21 and over to its Friday Night Dances, happening the last Friday of each month. Each dance session, priced at $10, features Geoffrey Leigh spinning golden oldies and more. Light refreshments will be provided, and attendees can register at their website or pay at the door. More info at their website or 707-944-8851.
(R) Pizza Sundays on the Patio at Silver Oak
Sundays in October, noon to 4 p.m. Silver Oak in Oakville hosts Pizza Sundays featuring wood-oven pizza, DJ music and cabernets by the glass, bottle or flight. Pizza and a wine flight costs $80, while pizza alone is $20 per person, with wine charged separately. Each Sunday offers a different pizza option, and guests must be 21+, except for designated drivers ages 16-20. For more information, visit their website or call 707-942-7022. 915 Oakville Cross Road.
(R) Valley Players Present ‘Ripcord’ at Yountville Community Center
Now open with shows on Oct. 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 20 and 27 at 2 p.m. Valley Players bring David Lindsay-Abaire’s comedy “Ripcord,” directed by June Alane Reif, exploring rivalry and unexpected connections at a senior living facility. Tickets available at their website or by calling 707-948-6273. 6516 Washington St.
(N) One Fore Classic at Vintners Golf Club
Saturday, Oct. 26, noon to 9 p.m. The Horn Heart Foundation presents the 1st annual "One Fore Classic," a fun-filled day of golf, games, costumes, dinner and karaoke in honor of Daryl Horn. The event includes a 14-hole golf tournament, starting with registration at noon and a shotgun tee-off at 1 p.m. Dinner and karaoke begin at 5 p.m. Tickets for golf plus dinner are $150 per person, and dinner-only tickets are $45. For more information, visit their website. 7901 Solano Ave.
(R) Yountville Library Events
Napa Valley Haunts at Yountville Library. Tuesday, Oct. 29, noon to 1 p.m. Local historian Rebecca Yerger presents a program on Napa Valley’s paranormal activity, featuring tales such as the phantom of Yount Mill Hill and George Yount's eternal stroll. Light refreshments will be served.
Isadora Duncan: Life into Art. Saturday, Nov. 2, 12 to 1 p.m. Lois Ann Flood performs dances by Isadora Duncan and shares how California shaped her journey to becoming the mother of modern dance. Register required.
Documentary Days: Discover and Discuss. Friday, Nov. 15, 12 to 1:30 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon documentary screening followed by a discussion at this engaging event for adults. Register required.
These are just a couple of the offerings. The complete countywide calendar can be found here. The library is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. For more information, contact the library at 707-944-1888. 6516 Washington St.
(R) Veterans Day Quintet at Yountville Veterans Home
Monday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Elaine Jennings Duo will perform an eclectic mix of songs by Peggy Lee, Norah Jones and Adele, along with classic jazz from the Great American Songbook, to honor veterans at the Yountville Veterans Home. The event is open to residents and guests. More information can be found at their website. 260 California Drive.
Astrological Events This Month
Earth’s Temporary Mini-Moon: Asteroid 2024 PT5’s Brief Orbit
Asteroid 2024 PT5, recently discovered by NASA-funded telescopes, will temporarily orbit Earth until Nov. 25. During this time it will perform a horseshoe-shaped loop around the planet before escaping Earth’s gravitational pull and continuing its journey through space.
This rare event highlights how some asteroids, instead of simply passing by or colliding with Earth, can briefly become a part of our planet’s gravitational dance. Measuring just 33 feet long, 2024 PT5 is too small to pose any danger but serves as a valuable opportunity for scientists to study the behavior of near-Earth objects. These fleeting mini-moons offer insights into the composition and movement of space rocks, contributing to planetary defense research and future plans for asteroid mining.
October: Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) display
Throughout October (after sunset PDT), Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is expected to become a spectacular sight. Initially visible only with telescopes, it will approach the sun and Earth, potentially becoming visible to the naked eye or through binoculars, especially low in the eastern sky before sunrise and higher in the evening sky in the Northern Hemisphere. While predicting a comet's behavior is difficult, Tsuchinshan-ATLAS shows promise of being an impressive spectacle in the night sky.
Nov. 1: New moon
November's new moon on the 1st (5:49 a.m.) provides another night of dark skies, ideal for observing the fainter objects in the celestial sphere.
Nov. 4, 5: Taurids meteor shower
The Taurids meteor shower peaks on the night of Nov. 4 (after midnight). This long-running minor shower, consisting of two separate streams, produces about five to 10 meteors per hour. The first-quarter moon will block out all but the brightest meteors, but a dark location after midnight offers the best chance to catch these slow-moving meteors radiating from the constellation Taurus.
Nov. 15: Full Beaver Moon and supermoon
The full moon on Nov. 15 (1:30 p.m.) is known as the Beaver Moon and is the last of three supermoons in 2024. Traditionally this moon signified the time to set beaver traps before the swamps and rivers froze over. As it is near its closest approach to Earth, it will appear slightly larger and brighter in the sky.
Nov. 16: Mercury at its greatest eastern elongation
On Nov. 16 (2:50 p.m.), Mercury reaches its greatest eastern elongation, becoming visible low in the western sky just after sunset. It's another excellent opportunity to view this planet as it reaches its highest point above the horizon.
Nov. 17: Uranus at opposition and Leonids meteor shower
A double event occurs on Nov. 17 with Uranus at opposition (all night) and the peak of the Leonids meteor shower (after midnight). Uranus will be at its closest approach to Earth and fully illuminated by the sun, making it the best time to view this distant planet. The Leonids, known for their cyclonic peaks every 33 years, will offer up to 15 meteors per hour. The nearly full moon will obstruct the fainter meteors, but a dark location after midnight offers a chance to see these fast and bright meteors radiating from the constellation Leo.
Please click here to view the entire list of night-sky events for 2024.
Napa Valley Volunteering+
Napa Valley Unitarian Universalists Community Singing Circle. Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Join the NVUU Community Singing Circle for a no-pressure, collaborative environment focused on rounds and harmonies. Open to all, the group fosters shared leadership and opportunities to teach songs. For more information, contact the NVUU office at 707-226-9220.
Bel Canto Scholarship for Napa County High School Seniors. Applications are open to Napa County high school seniors interested in pursuing a music education, with emphasis on voice, piano accompaniment, choral conducting or choral composition. Four recipients will be awarded $1,500, with optional mentorship opportunities from professional ensemble members. Application deadline is Nov. 1. For more information and to apply, visit their website.
Volunteer Tutors Needed by UpValley Family Centers. UpValley Family Centers is seeking volunteer tutors for students at St. Helena Primary School, St. Helena Elementary, Calistoga Elementary and RLS Middle School. Volunteers are needed to support students in grades though the eighth with reading, math or general classroom assistance for at least one hour per week; bilingual Spanish speakers are encouraged to apply, but being bilingual is not required. For more information or to sign up, visit their website or email rgasparyan@upvalleyfamilycenters.org. 707-965-5010
Napa Bookmine Literary Foundation is looking for donations for their Books4Kids program, aiming to provide free books to first-graders throughout Napa County. They’ve already given books to 700 students this year and aim to reach 500 more by year’s end. Each $25 donation provides five free books to a child in need.
Napa County Seed Library encourages local sustainable gardening. Founded by Lauren Buffaloe-Muscatine and her daughter, Lavender, in 2020, the Napa County Seed Library promotes sustainable gardening by allowing residents to borrow seeds for free. The Seed Library offers workshops on seed-saving, organic gardening and sustainable agriculture. For more information on how to contribute or volunteer, visit their website.
Become a volunteer firefighter or EMS responder in Napa County. This role offers a chance to protect lives, property and the environment while working collaboratively with a dedicated team. For those interested in contributing to the safety and resilience of their community, please fill out the interest form available online.
Community Health Napa Valley is seeking volunteers for various programs that include their Adult Day Health Care in Napa, Act Two retail store in St. Helena and their Hospice Program. Contact Anne House at 707-254-4172 for more information or visit Community Health Napa Valley Volunteer.
The Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition. To volunteer, complete the sign-up form and get subscribed to their monthly newsletter. The Vine Trail office is located at 3299 Claremont Way, No. 5, Napa, phone 707-252-3547.
Napa Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of volunteer activities, including park cleanups, guiding, coaching, teaching and special-event assistance. These opportunities cater to various interests and schedules. Apply through their online Volunteer Interest Form.