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
Cheers to Two Years takes place Monday, Nov. 13, from 5-7 p.m., at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley. This second anniversary celebration coincides with World Kindness Day and features an evening of wine, bites and community crafting. Attendees can create a kindness plate with NBC Pottery, sample delicacies from TRUSS, Auro and CAMPO, and enjoy a selection of local wines. The entry fee is $25 per person, which includes light bites and beverages, with proceeds supporting the Calistoga and St. Helena Boys and Girls Clubs. The event is hosted at the Calistoga Ballroom, 400 Silverado Trail. Reservations are required, and tickets are available here. For more information, visit here or call (707) 709-2100.
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.
Buster’s BBQ Jazz and Blues: Enjoy free music (tips appreciated!) every Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. Listen to jazz and blues on the back patio at Buster's Southern BBQ, weather permitting.
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
Mount Veeder Wine Tasting is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 10, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, Tucson, Ariz. The tasting showcases wines from eight Mount Veeder AVA Napa Valley wineries and includes gourmet bites. Tickets are $100 in advance, with only 100 available, and $200 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 707-266-1296 or visit the website.
The 29th Annual Angel Bazaar fundraiser, hosted by Napa’s St. Apollinaris Catholic Church, will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 11, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 12, at 3700 Lassen St. in Napa. You will find gorgeous themed baskets, a silent auction that includes high-end Napa Valley wines and some fun surprises. Get a jump start on your Christmas, Hanukkah and other gifts for family and friends. You might even find something special for yourself. Take a break to enjoy some goodies and coffee or tea at the Heavenly Café or get something from the food truck to sustain your shopping energy. Admission is free.
The Napa Chamber of Commerce will host its Economic Outlook Conference on Thursday, Nov. 16, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Silverado Resort. Aimed at equipping attendees with insights into economic trends and strategies, the conference will feature experts such as keynote speaker Dr. Christopher Thornberg. Topics to be discussed include workforce development, the economic value of tourism and emerging market opportunities. Admission is open to all for a fee of $190 per person. For more details, visit the website or contact the Napa Chamber of Commerce at 707- 226-7455.
Celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau 2023! Alliance Française de Napa Valley and Outer Space Wines invite you to take a tasting tour of France (with a nod to Nouveau) from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, at Outer Space Wines, 974 Franklin St. in Napa. Dan Dawson, owner of Outer Space, will take you on the best tasting tour in the galaxy — beginning with a Nouveau from the venerable Georges DuBoeuf, then venturing into other parts of Beaujolais and beyond. Come savor a grand French tradition and explore delectable offerings from La Belle France. Tickets are $30 for AF Napa members and $40 for non-members. To purchase tickets, go here. Questions? Contact Sally Seymour at sallyseymour@mac.com.
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
Live Kai Lyons Afro-Caribbean Quintet, Sunday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. at the Cameo Cinema, 1340 Main St. in St. Helena. The concert promises an afternoon filled with world-class music led by San Francisco native guitarist Kai Lyons and featuring the powerhouse vocals of Christelle Durandy. The Afro-Caribbean Quintet, including artists raised in diverse cultures from Haiti to Mexico, delivers a mix of Afro-Caribbean and jazz genres, exploring the wide-ranging musical energy of the African diaspora. The ensemble also features Jeff Pierre on percussion/drums, Julio de la Cruz on bass, Miguelito Martinez on flute, and Einar “Tito” Leliebre on vocals and bongo. Tickets are priced at $40 and the event lasts for 130 minutes. Box office phone: 707-963-9779.
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
Jazz cocalist Elaine Jennings returns to The Saint with Wayne de la Cruz on piano from 7-10 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17. The Saint is located at 1351 Main St. in St. Helena. For more information call (707) 302-5130 or send an email to 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.
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 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
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.
The first annual Cameo Day will take place from 3-5 p.m., Monday, Nov. 27, at the Cameo Cinema, 1340 Main St. in St. Helena. The event is focused on promoting the mission of the Cameo Cinema and aims to familiarize attendees with upcoming 2024 programming. Guests can meet board members of the Cameo Cinema Foundation and enjoy complimentary popcorn and fountain drinks. Admission is free, and no tickets or reservations are necessary. Contributions to the 2023 Annual Fundraising Campaign made during the event will be acknowledged with a movie pass and a Cameo button. Budget-friendly monthly pledges are encouraged as a sustainable way to support the cinema's diverse array of programs. For more details, contact the Cameo Cinema Foundation at info@cameocinema.com or visit their website.
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.
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. The deadline to enter is Friday, Nov. 3. For further inquiries, contact the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce at 707-942-6333 or jenna@calistogachamber.com.
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.
Napa Valley Hanukkah Celebrations
Silverado Resort and Spa Menorah Lighting. Thursday, Dec. 7, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the Silverado Resort will host its Menorah Lighting event. The festive gathering will offer holiday treats, hot beverages and music. This welcoming event is open to the public, inviting all to share in the spirit of Hanukkah.
Hanukkah Shabbat Service and Dinner. Congregation Beth Shalom invites the community to their Hanukkah Shabbat Service and Dinner on Friday, Dec. 8. Taking place at the synagogue on 1455 Elm Street in Napa, this event will start the Hanukkah celebration with a service followed by a dinner, welcoming members, children and the public.
Veterans Park Menorah Lighting. The longstanding tradition continues at Veterans Park Menorah Lighting on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 5 p.m. in downtown Napa. The 18th annual event promises a memorable evening with a public menorah lighting, and festivities including latkes, donuts and crafts for children. There is no charge for attending, making it accessible for everyone to join.
Latke Throwdown. On Thursday, Dec. 14, from 5 to 7 p.m., the Latke Throwdown will be held at the Bardessono Hotel and Spa located at 6526 Yount Street, Yountville. A $20 ticket grants access to a competitive latke-making event judged by local celebrities, including Rabbi Goldstein. Proceeds will go to ParentsCAN and attendees are encouraged to contribute to a supply drive.