The Napa Valley Weekender
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — Welcome to the reimagined Napa Valley Features’ Weekender, your guide to local events and experiences. With a new 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 new convenient Scan and Plan format, you'll discover 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 (thank you Norman Manzer for the nudge for this useful addition).
If you come across an event or opportunity that we haven't featured, don't hesitate to let us know. You can easily submit it through our online submission form or email us at napavalleyfeatures@gmail.com.
Napa Valley-wide
(N) Napa County 2024 Primary Election Day, March 5
California's primary election day is March 5, when voters will decide major party candidates for the Presidential race and local elections. Napa is a "vote by mail" county, with ballots to be mailed to registered voters the week of Feb. 5. Unique this election, only two candidates are vying for each of the three Board of Supervisors seats, potentially allowing primary winners to be elected outright in Districts 2, 4 and 5. Voting options include mail, drop boxes and vote centers. For more information, contact the Napa County Election Division at elections@countyofnapa.org or 707-253-4321.
(N) Invitation to Napa County Candidates: Present Your Platform to Local Voters
Local candidates running for office in Napa County are encouraged to submit a letter detailing their vision and reasons why they should earn voters' support. Please send your letters to napavalleyfeatures@gmail.com and we will share them with the community as they arrive.
(N) MLK Jr. Celebration
“MLK Jr. Celebration of our Beloved Community” is set for Jan. 14 and 15. On Sunday, Jan. 14, at 4 p.m., the community commemoration will be held at Crosswalk Community Church, featuring speakers like Kim Hester Williams, Yesha Sacatani and Laura Keller, along with music by the Vintage High School Choir. Attendees are encouraged to bring a pie to share. On Monday, Jan. 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., community service projects will take place at Justin-Siena High School, including habitat restorations, trail clean-up and more. Register here.
(N) Swing with Elaine Jennings, Jazz Vocalist
Elaine Jennings will perform her jazz repertoire in Napa County: at The Hydro Grill, Calistoga, on Jan. 14, 6-9 p.m.; The Saint, St. Helena, on Jan. 27, 7-10 p.m.; and Be Bubbly Napa Valley, Napa, on Feb. 1, 5-8 p.m. No cover charge is required, but audience members are encouraged to support the venues by purchasing food and drinks. For more information, visit her website or contact The Hydro Grill, The Saint or Be Bubbly Napa Valley directly.
(N) Napa Valley Marathon Set for March 3
The Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon are scheduled for March 3, with the full marathon stretching from Calistoga to Napa along the scenic Silverado Trail at a cost of $205. The half marathon, starting at Conn Creek Winery on the Silverado Trail, is priced at $160. Additionally, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Napa 5K, starting from the marathon's finish line and supporting local community funds, has a registration fee of $55. Runners can register at their website.
(R) Napa Valley Restaurant Week
Jan. 19 to 28. Indulge in the culinary excellence of Napa Valley during Restaurant Week. This annual event offers a unique opportunity to savor the region's finest cuisine. Visit the website for more details and a list of participating restaurants.
(R) Napa Neighbors Weekend
Jan. 19 to 28. If you're a Napa Valley resident, don't miss Napa Neighbors Weekend. Participating wineries are offering special offers exclusively for locals. Take advantage of these deals. Visit the website for more information.
American Canyon
(N) Final Practice for Flash Mob Event
The last practice session for the Jerusalema dance flash mob is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Shenandoah Park, located at 100 Sonoma Creek Way, American Canyon, CA 94503. Participants will gather near the parking lot by the children's playground and move to an open area for practice. In case of rain, the meet-up will be in the covered area between the picnic tables. The actual Flash Mob Dance Event is set for Saturday, Feb. 17 at 1:00 p.m. at 1300 1st St, Napa, CA. More info at their website.
(R) Napa-Vallejo Flea Market
Open Sundays from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round at 303 S Kelly Road, American Canyon. This large and long-lived flea market is a trove of “treasures.” Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for something different and inexpensive, this market probably has it. For more information visit the website, call 707-226-8862.
Calistoga
(N) Soroptimist int'l of Calistoga Crab Feed and Auction
This annual event is scheduled for Saturday, March 2 in Calistoga. The event includes auctions, a wine raffle and a menu featuring crab and other delicacies. Proceeds benefit local community initiatives. For tickets and more information, visit their website or call 707-548-3726.
(N) Napa Valley Mustard Celebration
Calistoga is celebrating mustard season with a series of events, including art showings, exclusive mustard-inspired meals and specials at wineries and restaurants. Find more info at their website. Events includes:
Children's Landscape Art: Jan. 22-28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Calistoga Welcome Center, 1457 Lincoln Ave.
Art & Sip: Art Walk and Wine Tastings: Jan. 27, 12-4 p.m., at various locations along Lincoln Ave.
CAMi Art + Wine Mustard Celebration Dinner: Jan. 27, 6 p.m., at CAMi Art + Wine, 1333B Lincoln Avenue.
Paint & Sip: Mustard Flower Landscapes (ages 21+): Jan. 28, 2-4 p.m., at Calistoga Art Center, 1435 N Oak St.
(R) Calistoga Farmers’ Market
Year-round every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located on Washington Street next to the Community Center and across from City Hall. The market is a gathering of local producers offering fresh vegetables, local fish, arts, crafts, baked goods and live music. It's a great place to experience the flavors and culture of Calistoga. More information at their website.
(R) Winter in the Wineries Passport
Available until Feb. 4, the Winter in the Wineries Passport offers a tour of 19 wineries across Calistoga, Lake County, Pope Valley and St. Helena for $75 per person. This 14th annual event provides complimentary wine tastings, exclusive restaurant corkage waivers and discounts at local accommodations, spas and shops, presenting an experience valued at over $900. More information at the website.
(R) Grove 45 High Tea
Jan. 21, 2 to 4 p.m., at 965 Silverado Trail North, Calistoga. Grove 45's High Tea is a monthly event held every third Sunday, offering an afternoon of personal tea blending, sandwiches and olive oil-infused desserts. Tickets are $65 per adult and $45 for children 12 and under (use code UNDER12). For more information and to reserve tickets, visit their website.
(R) Karaoke Night at Maria Concetto Winery
Join Maria Concetto Winery for free Karaoke Night every Sunday from 7 to 10 p.m. at 1367 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga. Sing your heart out while enjoying wine by the glass or bottle, and savor Italian meals from Bricco Osteria. It's an evening of music and fun.
Napa
(R) Jessel Gallery Art Classes in Napa:
Acrylic: Starting on Jan. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jessel Gallery in Napa, you can dive into the world of acrylic painting with these classes. You have the flexibility to drop in for $75 per class or opt for a package of four classes for $200. To secure your spot, RSVP by emailing jesselgallery@napanet.net or calling 707-257-2350.
Watercolor: Commencing on Jan. 9, these watercolor classes provide a creative outlet for artists of all levels. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1019 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, you can choose to attend single classes at $75 each or save with a package of four classes for $200. For more information, you can get in touch with them by emailing spinpope@sbcglobal.net or calling 707-483-4926.
Beginning Watercolor Classes: Starting in February and taking place each Thursday afternoon from 2 to 5 p.m. at Jessel Gallery in Napa, these classes offer an excellent opportunity to explore watercolor painting. The cost for this series is $275 and RSVP is required. You can reserve your spot by emailing jesselgallery@napanet.net or calling 707-257-2350.
(N) Elks Lodge Crab Feed in Napa
The Napa Elks Lodge #832 crab feed is on Jan. 13, starting with cocktails at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m., including live music and an auction. Tickets are $85. For details, visit their website or contact 707-255-4522. Location: 2840 Soscol Ave, Napa.
(N) Blind Tasting at Bay Grape
Bay Grape in Napa offers blind tasting flights every Monday from noon to 8 p.m. for $25 and guided tasting classes on Jan. 9 and Feb. 6 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for $45. These classes cover four classic wines and cater to all experience levels. Located at 2999 Solano Ave., Napa, further details can be found at their website or by calling 707-699-2135.
(N) Jake Rizzly's Stand Up Comedy at Napa Valley Distillery
Catch Jake Rizzly's comedy event on Jan. 12, from 7 to 10 p.m. at Napa Valley Distillery. Chelsea Bearce headlines, Matt Walker features and seating is first-come, first-served. A $5 fee applies with food and drinks menu. The venue is at 2485 Stockton St., Napa. More info at their website.
(N) Film Screenings at The Jarvis Conservatory
The Jarvis Conservatory presents a series of documentary and classic films in January and February. "Lucian Freud: A Self Portrait" will screen on Jan. 13, offering insights into Freud's life and his self-portraits. On Jan. 20, "Carving the Divine" explores a 1,400-year-old Buddhist woodcarving tradition in Japan. The international film "Driving Madeleine" will be shown on Jan. 27, depicting the story of 92-year-old Madeleine and her taxi driver in Paris. Lastly, "A Night at the Opera" featuring the Marx Brothers will be presented on Feb. 10. All screenings are scheduled at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., held at The Jarvis Conservatory. Tickets for each film are priced at $15. For more information, visit the website, call 707-255-5445 or email info@jarvisconservatory.com. 1711 Main Street.
(N) Outer Space Wines Events in Napa
Winemaker Night with Belharra Wines (Jan. 19): Experience an evening with winemakers Anne Fogerty and Camille Gaio, featuring a detailed exploration of Belharra wines. This informative tasting event, priced at $25, allows guests to engage directly with the winemakers.
Guess The Grape Wine Tasting Quiz (Jan. 18, 4:30-7 p.m.): Challenge your senses in this blind tasting quiz, ideal for both novices and experienced wine enthusiasts, with a focus on classic wine varieties. Participation costs $20 cash or $22 on credit.
Taste A Dozen French Wines (Jan. 26, 4:30-7:30 p.m.): Delve into the diverse world of French wines, sampling selections from renowned regions, in a relaxed and educational setting. The tasting fee is $20 cash or $22 credit.
For more details on these events, ticket purchases and general inquiries, visit Outer Space Wines' website or contact them at 707-657-7401. Tickets for specific events can be purchased here.
(R) The Art of Eating: The Life of M.F.K. Fisher
The Culinary Institute of America at Copia presents "The Art of Eating: The Life of M.F.K. Fisher," a film by Gregory Bezat, on Saturday, Jan. 20, with a screening at 3 p.m. followed by a wine and food reception at 5 p.m. This 2023 documentary delves into the life and influence of California food writer M.F.K. Fisher, featuring interviews with culinary and literary figures like Alice Waters and Jacques Pepin. A post-screening Q&A will include Fisher's daughter, Kennedy Golden, and chefs Tanya Holland and Dominica Rice-Cisneros. The screening is priced at $10 per guest, while the post-screening reception costs $85 per guest (screening not included). Limited availability for the reception. For more details, visit CIA website.
(R) Mostly Mozart in Napa Valley
On Jan. 28, Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center hosts the 29th Annual Mostly Mozart in Napa Valley at 2:30 p.m. The event, by Napa Valley Music Associates, showcases "Cantabile" with artists like Elena Casanova celebrating Mozart's works. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for students with RSVPs suggested. Email info@napavalleymusicassociates.org or call 707-252-8671 or visit the website for more details.
(R) Chinese New Year Celebration at Empress M
Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to noon at CIA at Copia, 500 First St., Napa, and luncheon at Empress M, 221 Silverado Trail, Napa. Celebrate the Chinese New Year with this special event. Contact 707-927-5485 or email cstepps@californiacenter.us for more details.
(N) Author event at Napa Bookmine
Ray Isle will be at Napa Bookmine on Friday, Feb. 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. to discuss his book "The World in a Wineglass." The event, at 1625 2nd Street in Napa, is free but requires RSVPs. Exploring the impact of wine-making processes and their creators, Isle's presentation promises insights for both novice and seasoned wine lovers. For details or to RSVP, visit Eventbrite, email events@napabookmine.com, or call 707-733-3199.
(R) Napa Lighted Art Festival 2024
Illuminate downtown Napa from Jan. 20 to Feb. 18, with the festival running from 6 to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 6 to 10 p.m. on weekends. Celebrate creative arts, technology and light as an art medium with 10 lighted sculptures and a Projection Art display from Jan. 20 to 28 and an Artist Meet & Greet on Jan. 20, 4:30-6:00 p.m. at Aerena Gallery. Join the Lantern Parade on Feb. 10, starting at 6:30 p.m., with lantern-making workshops on Feb. 3 and 7. This family-friendly event is free. Visit the event website for more details.
(N) Mixologist classes at the CIA
CIA at Copia in Napa is offering a series of cocktail classes led by beverage director Traci Dutton. Held on Thursdays at 5 p.m., the classes include "Three Essential Techniques: Hands on Mixology Class" on Jan. 25, "Tequila Masterclass and Tasting" on Feb. 22, "Bitter Love: Amaro Cocktails from Classic to Contemporary" on March 28, and "A Celebration of Bourbon and Cocktails from The New South" on April 25. Priced at $85, these sessions blend demonstration, mixology and entertainment. For tickets and information, visit the website. The venue is located at 500 First St., Napa, and can be contacted at 707-967-2500.
(R) Almost, Maine Fundraiser at Lucky Penny
Although the show runs from Jan. 26 through Feb. 11, there is a special performance on Jan. 24, 7 p.m. that benefits the Napa County Historical Society. Tickets are $30 for members and $35 for general admission. Get your tickets here for the fundraiser or here for future shows.
(R) Cheese & Wine: Happily Ever After
Feb. 13 at Winston's Café, 1517 Third Street, Napa. Janet Fletcher resumes her "World Cheese Tour" classes offering ten themed tasting sessions from February through November. Each class is $80 or $225 for any three. Visit the website or call 707-637-3299 for more information.
(N) BottleRock 2024 line up
The 2024 BottleRock Napa Valley, headlined by Pearl Jam, Stevie Nicks, Ed Sheeran, and Maná, is scheduled for May 24 to 26 at the Napa Valley Expo. The festival will present over 75 musical acts, including a culinary stage by Williams Sonoma. Tickets are available, starting at $456, on their website. Updates and additional information can be found on BottleRock's social media channels @BottleRockNapa.
(R) Festival Napa Valley Summer Season
July 6-21. Festival Napa Valley presents a diverse array of performances across various Napa Valley venues. Tickets and more information are available at their website. It’s a cool collection of events.
St. Helena
(N) St. Helena Crab Feed Event
Join the crab feed by Native Sons of the Golden West #53 on Jan. 13 at Native Sons Hall, St. Helena, with dinner and drinks included. Tickets are $85 with proceeds for hall maintenance. Contact Phil Murphy at 707-326-9701 or philipjmurphy@sbcglobal.net for tickets. Address: 1313 Spring St.
(N) Dine and Donate at Cook
From Jan. 22 to 25, Cook St. Helena will participate in the Give BIG! St. Helena initiative by donating a portion of sales to support local public schools. This collaborative effort benefits St. Helena’s primary, elementary, middle and high schools, funding diverse educational programs like STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math), arts and foreign language instruction. Reservations are highly recommended. 1310 Main St.
(R) Cameo Cinema's January Movie Lineup
Cameo Cinema in St. Helena screens a variety of films from Jan. 5-25. "Napoleon" plays Jan. 9-11, "The Boys in the Boat" Jan. 12-18, "The Boy and the Heron" Jan. 19-21, and "Maestro" Jan. 23-25, with showings typically at 2 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7:45 p.m. Tickets are $10 at 1340 Main St., St. Helena. For detailed times and open captioned showings, call 707-963-9779 or visit their website.
(R) Winter Farmers' Market at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch
Every Friday from 8 a.m. to noon through April at 738 Main St., St. Helena. This market offers fresh produce, artisanal products and a lively atmosphere. It's a good way to start your weekend with locally sourced goods. More info on their website.
(R) Sip and Support: Soroptimist St. Helena Sunrise + Korean Street Food and Live Music
Jan. 24, 4 to 7 p.m., at Clif Family Winery. This event features a Korean menu, live music, and supports women's education and empowerment by donating 20% of sales. Orders are available from noon to 6:30 p.m. for on-site dining or takeout. Contact 707-968-0625 or visit their website.
(R) St. Helena Bookmine Book Club
Jan. 25, 6 to 7 p.m. at Health Spa Napa Valley, 1030 Main St. This book club offers a chance to discuss literature and connect with fellow book enthusiasts. RSVP is required or email events@napabookmine.com.
(R) bASH Wine and Food Pairing Competition
March 23, 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, St. Helena. Early Bird pricing at $175 per person until Jan. 31. This event promises an evening of wine and food pairings. Visit the event page for more details.
Yountville
(N) Bardessono + Loco Tequila Dinner
The Bardessono Hotel & Spa will host a special dinner with Loco Tequila on Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. at Lucy Restaurant and Bar. The evening features a menu by chef Rick Edge and Loco Tequila co-founder Juan Pablo Torres Padilla, including pairings with Loco Tequila. Prices start at $200 per person. Reservations required; contact Adam Kerr at adamkerr@remingtonhotels.com or 707-204-6030. 6526 Yount Street.
(N) Movie Night
Dan Goodman's film "So, You Think They Were Better Than Me" premieres at Yountville Community Hall on Thursday, Jan. 25, with doors at 6:30 p.m. and the movie at 7 p.m. This tribute to the golden age of entertainment offers free tickets, with donations suggested for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Tickets are available at their website. 6516 Washington St.
(N) Glow Pickleball Nights lLght Up Yountville
Yountville Community Hall will host Glow Pickleball events on Thursday, Jan. 26 and Thursday, Feb. 23 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The evening includes music, snacks, drinks and of course, pickleball, all under the glow of neon lights. Open to those 18 and over, the entry fee is set at $25 per night. More info at their website or 707-944-8851. 6550 Yount Street.
(N) The Heart of Friendship Opens Mustard Celebration
Yountville Arts initiates the Napa Valley Mustard Celebration with "The Heart of Friendship Gallery Show" at Steve Rogers Gallery on Jan. 18, featuring works by 40 artists. The exhibit, celebrating artist friendships, runs through March 29. Visit yountvillearts.com for details. The gallery, at 6516 Washington St, Yountville, is open weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more celebration events, check out their website.
(N) Yountville Short Film Festival returns
The 7th Annual Yountville Int’l Short Film Festival is set for Feb. 1-4, showcasing over 100 short films in 20 screening blocks, with filmmaker Q&A sessions and wine tasting events. Screenings will be held at the Yountville Community Center and The Estate Yountville. Tickets start at $15, with options up to $199 for an All-Access VIP Pass. For more details and tickets, visit the website.
(N) Friday Night Dances Groove into Yountville
Yountville Community Hall invites guests 21 and over to its Friday Night Dances, happening the last Friday of each month, with upcoming events on Feb. 23, March 22, April 26, and May 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. Each dance session, priced at $10, features Geoffrey Leigh spinning Golden Oldies and more. Light refreshments will be provided, and attendees can register at www.yvilleparksandrec.com or pay at the door. More info at their website or 707-944-8851. 6550 Yount Street.
(N) Yountville Arts Offers Improv Classes
Yountville Arts is hosting Improv Classes every Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. between March 12 and April 23. Instructors Richard Talvera and Geoffrey Leigh will guide participants through the principles of improvisation. The program is free but requires registration at yvilleparksandrec.com. The final session on April 23 will include a public performance. For more information, visit the Yountville Arts website or follow them on Instagram (@yvillearts) and Facebook (@Yountville Arts) or their website.
(N) Explore Yountville Art Walk
The Yountville Art Walk offers a free audio tour via QR codes at each sculpture, providing detailed descriptions. For a more in-depth experience, docent-led tours are available with a suggested $25 donation. Maps can be picked up at the Yountville Community Center or Welcome Center. The walk features diverse artists, and some artworks are available for purchase. Interested artists can apply to display their work. For tour requests or purchase inquiries, contact 707-696-4420or email yountvillearts@yville.com.
(R) Astrological events this month
Jupiter and moon conjunction: Jan. 18 after sunset. Jupiter and a half-moon appear close, with future pairings on Feb. 14, March 13 and April 10. Spot Jupiter's four largest moons with binoculars.
New moon: Jan. 11 at 3:59 a.m. Ideal for stargazing and observing deep-sky objects without moon glare.
Mercury at greatest western elongation: Jan. 12 at 3:59 a.m. Mercury will be visible above the eastern horizon before sunrise.
Full Wolf Moon: Jan. 25 at 9:55 a.m. The first full moon of the year offers a bright nighttime spectacle.
(R) Napa Valley volunteering
Festival Napa Valley: Offers various volunteer roles like housing hosts and concert ushers. They appreciate diverse skills and aim to provide a positive volunteering experience. Community participation is essential for program and event success. Sign up via their website or email volunteers@festivalnapavalley.org.
Napa Parks and Recreation: Offers a wide range of volunteer activities, including park clean-ups, guiding, coaching, teaching and special event assistance. These opportunities cater to various interests and schedules. Apply through their online Volunteer Interest Form.
Volunteer Match: An online platform connecting nonprofits with volunteers since 1998. Highlights local opportunities, including those at Molly's Angels in Napa Valley, which provides essential transportation services.