The Napa Valley Weekender
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — Welcome to Napa Valley Features’ Weekender. Every Friday morning we provide a selection of activities and experiences around the region that has been curated by the Napa Valley Features team. Our goal is to provide at least a few free or low-cost events and to cover every town in our valley. This is an eclectic list, ranging from theatrical readings to musical concerts, from wine celebrations to art gallery tours, from charitable walks to astronomical marvels. Our goal is for both locals and visitors to find this list valuable, engaging and complete with sufficient details to eliminate the need for extensive searches for times, locations or any associated costs.
If you've identified an event you think deserves broader attention, we encourage you to use our straightforward event submission form so that we can include it in upcoming Weekenders. We're enthusiastic about spotlighting such gatherings for the benefit of our community.
American Canyon
Napa-Vallejo Flea Market: Open Sundays from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round, this may be the largest and longest-lived flea market in Northern California. If you haven’t been, think community garage sale on steroids. 303 S Kelly Road, American Canyon, 707-226-8862.
Calistoga
The “Calistoga Wine Tasting Event” is set for Saturday, Nov. 18, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Solage Resort & Spa in Calistoga. This yearly gathering offers an opportunity to sample a diverse array of fine wines from renowned local wineries such as CAMi, Chateau Montelena, Fisher, Kenefick Ranch, Lawer Estates, Phifer Pavitt, Poggi and more. Guests can also savor delectable dishes prepared by acclaimed restaurants, including Solbar, TRUSS, Little Saint and Loveski Deli, featuring items like seafood paella and potato croquettes with California caviar. Tickets are priced at $250 per ticket and reservations can be made through CalistogaWineGrowers.com or by calling (707) 266-1296. The event will be hosted at Solbar, located at 755 Silverado Trail North in Calistoga. For additional details and ticket purchase, visit Calistoga Food & Wine 2023.
The Rotary Club of Calistoga will host its 83rd Annual Calistoga Community Bingo Night on Saturday, Nov. 18, at the Boys and Girls Club located at 1401 North Oak St. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the games kick off at 6 p.m. Keegan Barrett will serve as the Bingo caller for the evening Other features will be raffles, silent auctions, and casual food and drinks available for purchase. The cost to play all 12 games is $40 for the first Bingo packet, and seating is limited to 300; therefore, advance reservations by purchasing the first Bingo packet are recommended. All packets will be available for pickup at the will-call table on the day of the event. Email bobbifrioli@gmail.com for more info.
Hearts and Hands Preschool’s Holiday Wreath Fundraiser is now through Saturday, Nov. 18. Wreaths are $50 each. Reserve your one-of-a-kind holiday wreath featuring decorations painted by the students of Hearts and Hands. Fresh wreaths donated by Trader Joe’s on Cleveland Avenue, Santa Rosa. Pickup is from 2-6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 1 at Hearts and Hands. To purchase a wreath, click here. Sales end at 11:59 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 18.
Live music every Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Calistoga’s Picayune Cellars, 1440 Lincoln Ave. We are serving our wines by the glass and culinary goodies from our kitchen. No cover, always fun and delicious. Check out the lineup or reserve your plat du jour ($25 per person, with or without wine) here. For details call 707-341-3410 or visit picayunecellars.com.
Calistoga Farmers’ Market: This year-round market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday. The Calistoga Farmers’ Market, managed by a Market Advisory Committee under the umbrella of the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce, is full of fresh vegetables, local fish, arts, crafts, baked goods and music. It's located on Washington Street adjacent to the Community Center and across from City Hall.
At Maria Concetto Winery, we're not just about exceptional wines; we're also about creating unforgettable experiences. That's why we invite you to our Karaoke Night every Sunday from 7 to 10 p.m., at 1367 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga. Whether you're a solo star in the making or looking for a fun night out with friends, our karaoke night is the perfect destination. Admission is free. While you're serenading the crowd with your favorite tunes, enjoy our wines available by the glass or by the bottle. Feeling hungry? We've partnered with the nearby restaurant Bricco Osteria to bring you Italian meals right to Maria Concetto Winery Tasting Salon. Join us for a night of music, laughter and camaraderie.
Napa
An artist’s reception for photographer MJ Schaer, will be 5:30 to 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17 at Eye Specialists of Napa Valley, 800 Trancas Street in Napa. This complimentary event showcases the distinctive work of MJ Schaer, emphasizing the theme “How I See - What I See.” Attendees are invited to explore Schaer’s unique photographic perspectives. To confirm attendance at this free event, guests are asked to RSVP to Laura at (707) 255-6212.
Music in the Vineyard’s California Festival Concert, curated by artistic director Daria Adams, is set for 5 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 18, at Napa Methodist Church, 625 Randolph St. The one-hour program will showcase a diverse array of compositions, featuring works by Hildegard von Bingen, Michi Wiancko, John Dowland, J.S. Bach and Caroline Shaw. Tickets are priced at $40, with a discounted rate of $10 for students and those under 18. For more information, contact Napa Methodist Church or visit www.cafestival.org. The concert is part of the 2023 California Festival – A Celebration of New Music, which runs from Nov. 3-19.
The Napa Farmers Market is held from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays at 1100 West St. at Pearl, also on Tuesdays at the same time and place.
St. Helena
The Saint in St. Helena presents a weekend of live music, featuring Elaine Jennings on Friday, Nov. 17, and Chris Wiser on Saturday, Nov. 18, both from 7 to 10 p.m. Jennings, a jazz vocalist, will be accompanied by pianist Wayne de la Cruz, offering a mix of jazz standards and contemporary pieces. The following night, Chris Wiser brings his blend of Americana, soul and blues-rock to the stage. There is no cover charge for these events, but a wine tasting purchase is required. The Saint is located at 1351 Main St., St. Helena. For more details, call (707) 302-5130 or email info@thesaintnapavalley.com.
The amazing House Jacks are back in St. Helena at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17 at the St. Helena Performing Arts Center. Known as a "vocal rock band", the House Jacks instantly redefine what people think of as "vocal music." Combining their virtuosic harmonies with spectacular stagecraft, these world-class performers continue to push the boundaries of the human voice. Local favorites Jazz@7 will open the show. Tickets are $20 adults/$10 students. Visit here for pre-sale tickets or purchase at the door. Email shcs2007@gmail.com with any questions.
The Nimbus Arts 5th Annual Winter Open House & Art Market will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 18-19 at Nimbus Arts, 649 Main St. in St. Helena. Enjoy art classes, free activities, demonstrations, and an artisan sale featuring ceramics, paintings, mosaics and many other beautiful items from our Nimbus Arts artists. Meet the makers, wander through our art market for one of a kind, hand-crafted gifts, and enjoy some holiday cheer. For more information visit here, contact emily@nimbusarts.org or call (707) 963-5278.
Shop Till You Drop For a Cause, Sunday, Nov. 19, 3 to 5 p.m., presents a collaborative shopping event at elysewalker, 1381 Main Street, St. Helena, CA. Hosted by Elyse Walker and Amanda Harlan Maltas, this event supports Jameson Humane, an organization dedicated to fostering harmony between humans, animals and the planet. By attending, shoppers contribute to causes like domestic animal rescues during wildfires, pet food distribution across 25 states, local spay and neuter programs and broader animal welfare initiatives. Ten percent of profits from the event will aid Jameson Humane in their mission to create a more compassionate world. Details can be found at elysewalker.com.
Every Tuesday from 4-5 p.m., Ric Morgan will be playing music at the Rianda House, 1475 Main St. in St Helena. "Music With Ric" is a nostalgic journey through the tunes of the 1930s to the 1960s, hosted by the talented Ric Morgan. Join us every Tuesday for a delightful sing-along program. Rediscover the joy of music from your youth and create new memories in a harmonious atmosphere. Don't miss out on this musical trip down memory lane. For more information, call the Rianda House, (707) 963-8555.
Meuse Gallery in St. Helena presents "A Walk Through the Woods: Simon Bull Paints the Colors of Fall," a new exhibition that began Oct. 28 and continues through Sunday, Nov. 26. This exhibition of paintings is an immersive experience in the world of redwoods and aspen groves through Bull’s inspired art. Known for his bold style, innovative techniques and love of nature, Bull explores new modes of creative expression. This collection captures the essence and majesty of our sacred woodlands, reminding every visitor of the glory of our natural world. Meuse Gallery, located at 1331 Main St., features the works of Bull along with contemporary works from both emerging and established artists. For details, contact Katherine Salinas, gallery director, via email at kat@meusegallery.com or by cell at 831-224-3717.
Yountville
Every Friday and Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. Hotel Villagio in Yountville hosts live music in its lobby. The free event takes place at 6481 Washington St.
Sunrise yoga at Bardessono Hotel and Spa rooftop pool deck: The event takes place every Saturday from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. This morning yoga session focuses on breath work and meditation, providing a serene start to the weekend. The cost is $30 per person, and reservations are required due to limited space. For more information or to make a reservation, contact the Bardessono front desk.
Upcoming Events
Tree lighting events around the valley (mostly from Visit Napa Valley):
Nov. 18: Tree Lighting Celebration at the Meritage Resort and Spa
Nov. 19: Yountville's Town & Tree Lighting at downtown Yountville
Nov. 22: St. Helena's Christmas Tree Lighting at downtown St. Helena
Nov. 23: Thanksgiving Day (What will be open)
Nov. 24: Post Turkey Day Brunch at Clif Family Winery & Bruschetteria
Dec. 2/3: Wreath Making Workshop at Forni Farm & Nursery (Santa Rosa)
Hanukkah celebrations:
Dec. 7-14: St. Helena hosts nightly menorah lighting at Lyman Park, inviting the community to participate each evening at 6 p.m.
Dec. 7: Menorah Lighting at Silverado Resort
Dec. 8: Hanukkah Shabbat Service and Dinner at Congregation Beth Shalom
Dec. 15: Latke Throwdown at Yountville’s Bardessono
Dec. 22: Veterans Park Menorah Lighting at Napa
(If you know of any other holiday-related events please add them to the comments below or via our online form so that we can update next week)
Yountville’s Community Thanksgiving 2023 is set for Wednesday, Nov. 22, for prep and setup and Thursday, Nov. 23, for the main event that includes setup, delivery service and cleanup. The event will consist of home deliveries and a sit-down lunch that relies on donations and volunteer efforts for food, wine and monetary contributions. The event aims to bring the community together during the holiday season and is seeking contributions ranging from home-cooked cranberry sauce, hors d’oeuvres and desserts to larger donations from restaurants and businesses such as turkey, vegetables, stuffing and more. Monetary donations may be made out to the Yountville Community Foundation. Special information: This is a community event and not a town-sponsored occasion. Please direct all questions, reservations or donations to Jeff Durham to streamline the process. For further details or to contribute, email him at jeff@theyountvillian.com or text 415-706-6011.
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church presents Christmas Bingo and Bazaar, from 4-8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25 at the church, 1504 Myrtle St. in Calistoga. Besides bingo cards and raffle tickets, which are available at the door, the event includes wine, dinner, refreshments, prizes and a live auction. Tickets are $49 per person available at the door or register by U.S. mail to P.O. Box 952, Calistoga, CA 94515. Proceeds to help the ministries of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
Everyone is invited to the first ever Cameo Day from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday, Nov. 27. It is the kickoff of our fall fundraising and a celebration to support the mission and vision of the Cameo Cinema. Free to everyone, including complimentary popcorn and concession drinks. Followed by Faces of St. Helena Short Film Showcase. No tickets or RSVPs are needed.
Faces of St. Helena Short Film Showcase will be 7 to 9:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 27 at Cameo Cinema in St. Helena. This special event is free to attend and is a celebration of Napa Valley’s “everyday heroes.” It features short films by local residents, highlighting the people who enrich St. Helena and the wider community. Attendees will have the opportunity to appreciate and honor the unique stories and contributions of these community members. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.
A POP-UP Artists' Holiday Studio Sale, featuring the work of four Napa Valley artists, will be the first three days in December. Hours are 5 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 1; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 3 at 1830 Soscol Ave. #D in Napa. Curated around the theme of Home and Garden, viewers will discover specially priced works on paper, collages, paintings and ceramics. Browse Arminée Chahbazian’s colorful renderings of fruit, Sue Bradford’s layered mixed media collages, Nancy Willis’ monoprints of dinner tables in ambient light, and Anne Pentland’s charming ceramic bunnies. Libations and holiday treats will nourish visitors at Willis’ spacious studio in Napa. Free to the public. For further information, visit here.
Gott’s Roadside is gearing up for the Dungeness crab season debut in December, featuring their popular Dungeness crab sandwich and crab & shrimp Louie options, providing a budget-friendly and mess-free crab experience. Alongside the crab dishes, they are reintroducing the festive candy cane shake, blending organic vanilla ice cream and milk with crushed candy cane, topped with organic whipped cream. These offerings will be available in-store only. Dungeness crab will be available the first week of December, pending the official start of the commercial fishing season. Visit their Napa Valley locations in St. Helena and Napa’s Oxbow Public Market.
Bel Canto Napa Valley will host “The World at Christmas,” a holiday concert with performances on Friday, Dec. 1, at 7:30 p.m. at Napa Methodist Church and Sunday, Dec. 3, at 3:30 p.m. at Mont La Salle. The concert promises an eclectic mix of music, featuring everything from traditional carols and Bach to hip-hop-inspired new works and even a dash of rap. A cappella and instrumental performances will round out the festive occasion. Tickets are priced at $35 for adults and $15 for students and can be purchased at belcantonv.org. Due to limited seating that tends to sell out quickly, early ticket purchase is strongly recommended. For more information, reach out to belcantonv@gmail.com.
ONEHOPE Holiday Wine Workshop, Saturday, Dec. 2, 2 to 4 p.m., welcomes guests to a celebratory holiday workshop and wine tasting at ONEHOPE Winery in Napa. This event is for wine enthusiasts of all levels, offering a chance to enhance wine knowledge and discover the role of a “Cause Entrepreneur” with ONEHOPE. Additionally, 10% of purchases during the event will benefit Jameson Humane. Space is limited and attendees can register here.
The 20-Year Longfellow Wines Retrospective Tasting is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2, at 4 p.m. at Vintner's Collective in Napa. Founders Mark Smith and Craig Whitney, alongside winemaker Kale Anderson, will host a seated tasting event featuring Longfellow's library wines, including the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, each paired with culinary creations by chef Patrick Merkley. The exclusive gathering is capped at 24 guests, with tickets priced at $195 per person. Members can access a discounted rate of $165 using the code VCMEMBERS. For tickets and more details contact info@vcnv.com or call (707) 255-7150. The venue is located at 1245 Main St., Napa.
Calistoga First Saturday Art Walk occurs on the first Saturday of each month, including Dec. 2, from 3 to 6 p.m. The free event includes 10 local galleries and aims to foster community engagement while showcasing local art. No special reservations are required. For further details, contact the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce.
The annual Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is set for 7-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2, on Lincoln Avenue in downtown Calistoga. The event offers an evening where vintage tractors illuminate the night as a tribute to the town's agricultural and historical roots. The parade is a community affair, attracting both locals and visitors. Participation in the parade requires filling out a form, which can be found on the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce website. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can also find a form on the same site.
Picayune Cellars celebrates the Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade, 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 at Picayune Cellars, Calistoga. Join the festive atmosphere at Picayune, featuring live music from DJ “Cali” B. In partnership with Sarmentine Bakery, the evening includes a French-themed dinner. Tickets are priced at $60 per person, covering a glass of wine, a French appetizer, a sandwich, and Bûche de Noël for dessert, along with a prime view of the parade. For more details and ticket purchases, visit here.
Discover unique holiday gifts at the Rail Arts District Holiday Market, hosted at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia, located adjacent to Napa’s Oxbow Market. This is a two-day event, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 3. An exclusive preview showcasing the work of more than 20 local artists from Napa and Sonoma counties is 10 a.m., Dec. 2. Featured items include handmade pottery, textiles, jewelry and more, with notable works by ceramic artists Jeff Nebeker and Marc Lancet. RAD members get early access and complimentary treats from Kitchen Door and Ohm Coffee Roasters. For more information, visit CIA at Copia's website. Admission is free.
Behind the Camera with David Hemingson, will be 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 6 at the Cameo Cinema in St. Helena. This unique event, part of an ongoing series, provides an in-depth look at the filmmaking process. The session features David Hemingson, acclaimed for his work in television series like “Whiskey Cavalier” and “Kitchen Confidential.” Hemingson will discuss his latest film, “The Holdovers,” celebrated for its poignant storytelling and generating Oscar buzz. The event offers a rare opportunity to hear from Hemingson about his transition from television to film. Tickets are $30, available here.
We Care Animal Rescue’s Ribbon Cutting and Open House will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9 at their St. Helena facility at 1345 Charter Oak Ave. Special guests vice mayor Eric Hall, councilmember Anna Chouteau, Stephanie Iacobacci from the St. Helena Chamber of Commerce and our Board of Directors, Sean McVity and Robin Ishmael, cut the ribbon at noon to open the new cat rescue facility. Guided tours will follow allowing everyone to explore the sanctuary. Delicious treats and wine will be served. No tickets needed, but please RSVP at shelter@wecareanimalrescue.org or call (707) 963-7044.
Join us from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9 at the historic Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park for “Old Mill Holidays,” a 19th century style holiday celebration. Enjoy making a clove pomander or wreath of rosemary for your home, string popcorn and cranberries for the tree, write a letter to Santa in calligraphy and seal with red wax, and pursue other activities to help get in the holiday spirit. Children especially enjoy decorating gingerbread cookies or cutting paper snowflakes. There are demonstrations throughout the day on things like lace making, wool spinning, waxed egg decorating and milling demonstrations. Cookies and cider will be served too. The Bale Grist Mill is located at 3369 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, halfway between Calistoga and St. Helena.
Handel's Messiah: A St. Helena Christmas Concert will take place on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. Celebrating Craig Bond's 50 years of musical service, the St. Helena Choral Society will perform Handel's Messiah, featuring the Chamber Singers, a local chamber orchestra, and renowned soloists at the Performing Arts Center, St. Helena High School. Tickets are available for $25 in advance at Napa Valley Roasting Company or online, with a limited number at the door for $30, and student/youth tickets for Saturday at $15 online. Parking is free, with the venue located at 1401 Grayson Ave, St Helena. For more information, contact director Craig Bond at craigbond007@yahoo.com or (707) 963-7712.