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. We hope both locals and visitors 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
American Canyon’s Magic of the Season tree lighting and holiday fair will take place on Friday, Dec. 1, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Shenandoah Park. The event includes a holiday gift marketplace, food vendors and performances by community groups, with the community tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. Find more information, register, or call (707) 648-7275 for details. Shenandoah Park is located at 100 Sonoma Creek Way.
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.
(If you know of any other American Canyon events please add them to our online form so that we can add them here next week. )
Calistoga
The Calistoga First Saturday Art Walk is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2 from 3 to 6 p.m. This free event features 10 local galleries. No reservations are needed. More information is available on their Facebook page.
The annual Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is set for 7 to 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.
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.
Calistoga’s Picayune Cellars has released its live music line up for December, every Friday from 5-7 p.m. Wines by the glass and small bites available for purchase. Dec. 1, Greg Leupp, acoustic jazz guitar; Dec. 8, Ricky, alternative rock; Dec. 15, Crush 29, rock ’n’ roll; Dec. 22, Swollen Pines, country and Dec. 29, Jacob Philip Benning, acoustic rock. For details visit here.
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 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
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.
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.
The Napa Valley Horsemen's Association is hosting the Cowboy Christmas Artisan Market on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1200 Foster Road, Napa. The market offers a chance to shop from local handcrafted artisans. Admission is free. For more information, email NVHACowboyChristmas@gmail.com or call (707) 738-2283.
Dungeons & Dragons Game will begin at noon, Saturday, Dec. 2 at Napa Masonic Lodge, 4125 Solano Ave. Pre-teens and teens are invited to learn about the Napa Masonic youth organizations, including Job’s Daughters, Rainbow Girls and DeMolay Boys. The event offers an engaging opportunity to explore these groups through a shared interest in the popular role-playing game. Attendance is free and refreshments will be provided. For further details, contact Sue Glenn at (707) 738-1926 or via email at toobusysue@msn.com.
The Uptown Theatre at 1350 Third St., Napa, will feature stand-up comedian Felipe Esparza on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 8 p.m. Esparza is known for his specials on Netflix and HBO and his popular podcast "What's Up Fool?" For more details, visit the website or call (707) 259-0123.
Longfellow Wines will hold a 20-year retrospective tasting at Vintner's Collective, 1245 Main St., Napa, on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 4 p.m. The event features library wines paired with snacks by chef Patrick Merkley. Tickets are $195 per person. For more information, contact info@vcnv.com or call (707) 255-7150.
Matthiasson Winery in Napa, California, Sunday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., will host a makers fair featuring a variety of local artisans and products. Visitors can enjoy a book signing with Ray Isle, explore ceramics by Sam Baron, sample Yumeboshi plum condiments, and indulge in baked goods from the Tish. The event includes access to the winery's library collection. Admission is free, but RSVPs are suggested. 3175 Dry Creek Rd., Napa, CA. For more information, contact the winery at (707) 637-4877 or email visit@matthiasson.com.
The Jessel Gallery at 1019 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, is hosting a handmade contemporary and vintage holiday event on Saturday, Dec. 2, and Sunday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event includes author appearances, artist demonstrations, refreshments and a charity table supporting Ukraine. For more information, visit the website or call (707) 257-2350.
Join chef Jennifer Smith for a social scone class at the Ackerman Heritage House, 608 Randolph St., Napa, on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 10 to 11 a.m. The class costs $55. For more information, visit ackermanfamilyvineyards.com, email events@ackermanfamilyvineyards.com or call (855) 238-9463.
Upcoming Napa Valley College Performing Arts events
Holiday Happenings, Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 3 at 2 p.m., Studio Theater: This world premiere play by Jennifer Le Blanc, directed by Jennifer King, offers a series of vignettes reminiscent of "Love, Actually" and "Almost Maine," capturing the holiday spirit through human connections. Tickets are $25 for general admission, with discounts for students, seniors, military, youth under 12 and groups.
Es Una Vida Maravillosa, Dec. 1-2 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 3 at 2 p.m., Mainstage: Directed by Aisha Rivera, this Spanish-language adaptation of "It's a Wonderful Life" features the story of a Mexican folkloric dancer. This play is performed in Spanish with English subtitles. Tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can basis.
NVC Jazz Ensemble Concert, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m., Mainstage: Led by Peter Estabrook, this concert showcases NVC students and community members performing various jazz styles. Reserve tickets on a pay-what-you-can basis.
2nd Annual Cookies and Carols Concert, Dec. 10 at 2 p.m., Mainstage: Conducted by Dr. Christina Howell, the NVC Chorale celebrates the holiday season with carols, crafts and cookies. Tickets range from $15 to $25, with discounts for students, seniors, military and groups.
For tickets and to learn more about all these upcoming events, visit Napa Valley College Performing Arts.
The Meritage Resort in Napa invites guests to its Winter Wonderland event, running from Friday, Nov. 17, through Sunday, Jan. 7. This seasonal transformation includes an ice-skating rink where visitors can enjoy skating sessions with friends and family. Beyond the rink, the resort offers beer and wine from onsite tasting rooms, along with the option to reserve an igloo or fire pit for a more intimate experience. Ticket prices for ice skating are $25, which includes skate rental and a 90-minute session. Special skate nights feature discounted rates for different groups, including Napa kids, local residents, first responders and those contributing toy donations. Hours of operation vary, with the rink open from 4 to 10 p.m. starting Nov. 17 and extended hours during the winter holiday break from Dec. 16 to Jan. 7. Additional attractions include s'mores fire pits, rinkside igloos and Santa's Story Time on weekends until Dec. 25. 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA, (707) 251-1900, or email icerink@meritageresort.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.
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.
The Silverado Resort in Napa offers a festive Santa Train experience on Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 25 to Dec. 24, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Families can enjoy a magical journey around the Mansion Circle, which is beautifully decorated with a glittering holiday tree. The train rides are complimentary, adding to the holiday spirit. The Silverado Resort is located at 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa. (707) 257-5400.
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.
The Grill at Silverado Resort in Napa invites families to a delightful breakfast with Santa Claus every Saturday from Nov. 25 until Dec. 23. The event features two sessions, one from 9 to 10 a.m. and another from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. In addition to Santa's presence for family photos, the buffet menu includes a variety of breakfast options. The cost for adults is $24 and $12 for children, not including an 18% service gratuity charge and sales tax. Reservations can be made online. The Grill is located at 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa. (707) 257-5400.
From Friday, Nov. 24 to Friday, Dec. 22, Cuvaison vineyard in Napa offers a festive experience with its "Bright Nights" event. Every Friday and Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m., guests can enjoy the enchanting view of the vineyard adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. The experience is available for $50 per person and can be booked online. 1221 Duhig Road, Napa. (707) 942-2455.
Rutherford
Elizabeth Spencer Winery at 1165 Rutherford Road, Rutherford, will host a holiday open house on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event includes music, small bites and wine. Entrance is $35 per person. For more details, visit the website or call (707) 963-6067.
Join Ray Isle as he signs his new book, “The World in a Wine Glass,” from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 at Rutherford’s Grgich Hills Estate. The event is free and books will be available for purchase at the signing. Please reserve your spot here as space is limited or email info@grgich.com. You can preorder your copy by calling (707) 200-9574.
Winter fun at Grgich Hills, Saturday, Dec. 2, 1 to 4 p.m. Grgich Hills invites families and their pets for an afternoon of holiday festivities, including caroling, a pet costume contest, an ugly sweater contest, and a range of seasonal treats such as mulled wine and hot cocoa. Highlights include a meet and greet with Food & Wine editor Ray Isle, who will be signing copies of his new book, “The World in a Wine Glass,” along with activities like cookie-decorating and ornament-making. Entry is priced at $25, while children 12 and younger can attend for free. Additional offerings include complimentary gift wrapping with purchase. 1829 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford. (707) 963-2784.
St. Helena
Gott’s Roadside is gearing up for the Dungeness crab season debut in December, featuring their popular Dungeness crab sandwich and crab and 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.
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 such as “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.
Every Tuesday from 4 to 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.
Yountville
Hill Family Estate in Yountville offers a grapevine wreath-making class on Saturdays between Nov. 25 and Dec. 23, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Participants will learn how to craft wreaths using grapevine canes from the estate's vineyards. The class includes a glass of Hill Family wine and breakfast pastries. The price is $40 per person and can be booked online. 6512 Washington St., Yountville. (707) 947-7218.
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 holiday events
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.)
Donation and Volunteer Opportunities (new section)
This week the Napa Valley Features Friday Weekender introduces a special section dedicated to giving back to our community. It highlights local volunteer and donation opportunities, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to Napa Valley. If you're aware of or organizing volunteer or donation events, please inform us at napavalleyfeatures@gmail.com. Your participation will enhance our content and strengthen community ties.
Donation opportunities
Celebrate the holidays with the Drink and Donate Wine Club's Holiday Case from Outer Space Wines. For $250 you'll receive six hand-picked, small-production wines, perfect for festive gatherings. With each purchase, $25 is donated to a local nonprofit or school of your choice. This unique offer combines the joy of fine wines with the spirit of giving. Discover more at Outer Space Wines, 974 Franklin St., Downtown Napa. (707) 657-7401.
Another donation opportunity in Napa Valley is the 2023 Give!Guide campaign, organized by Napa Valley CanDo. This initiative, running from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, supports 76 local nonprofits covering a broad range of causes that include animals, arts and culture, community, education, environment, health and wellness, and support for seniors and youth. The campaign has been instrumental in raising nearly $5 million for Napa nonprofits to date. The Give!Guide offers a user-friendly website where you can browse nonprofits by category, view an alphabetical list of all participating organizations or download a donation form for mailing in contributions. Donations start at $10, allowing everyone to participate according to their capacity, and are tax-deductible. The real-time ticker on the website displays current donation totals, bringing a dynamic aspect to the giving process.
Volunteer opportunities
Festival Napa Valley: Festival Napa Valley offers a range of volunteer roles, from community housing hosts for summer educational programs to concert ushers, ensuring public events run smoothly. They value the unique skills and backgrounds of their volunteers and are committed to providing a positive experience. Volunteers are essential for the success of their programs and events. For more information or to volunteer, you can fill out an online form on their website or contact them at volunteers@festivalnapavalley.org.
Napa Parks and Recreation: Napa Parks and Recreation offers various volunteering opportunities fitting different schedules and interests. Whether it's assisting with a park clean-up, tree planting, acting as a park docent/guide, coaching a sports team, teaching a class, assisting with special events, or being a Napa Lighted Art Festival Ambassador, there's something for everyone. To find the right fit for you, complete their online Volunteer Interest Form.
VolunteerMatch, established in 1998, is an online platform that connects thousands of nonprofits with volunteers, fostering community engagement. VolunteerMatch currently highlights a few local opportunities like those at Molly's Angels in Napa Valley, a vital organization offering transportation to those in need.
Local upcoming events
Karen Winograde Pottery Annual Holiday Open Studio will be held Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 9-10 and Dec. 16-17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event showcases the artist's newest work in functional pottery, suitable for table, kitchen, floral and garden use. Visitors can enjoy snacks and libations at this free event while browsing the pottery collection. The studio is located at 2394 Big Ranch Road, Napa.
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 will be 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 skills 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.
Upstage Napa Valley will conduct auditions for both its upcoming winter and spring 2024 productions on Monday, Dec. 11 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Westminster Hall, First Presbyterian Church, 1428 Spring St. in St. Helena. If you are an experienced or amateur actor interested in joining our creative team this season, please come to the auditions. Headshot and resume are not necessary, but please bring if you have them. Sides (chosen scenes from plays we are casting) will be given to read. Winter performances will take place weekends, Feb. 24 through March 10. The company will present “Dead Accounts” by Theresa Rebeck. Spring performances will take place weekends from May 3-19. The company will present “The Sound Inside” by Adam Rapp. If you cannot make these auditions, we can arrange another time for you to read. For more information, please visit here.
Toys for Tots Benefit Concert will be Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Blue Note Napa. It will feature the Terry Family, a local Bay Area band. The event encourages attendees to bring an unwrapped toy to support the Toys for Tots program. The evening includes a happy hour from 6 to 7 p.m., with the kitchen open until 8 p.m. Napa County residents, upon showing a local ID, receive free admission, while others must purchase tickets. Prices vary and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The event, suitable for ages 8 and older, has a two-drink minimum policy and does not allow babies. For reservations and additional details, contact Blue Note Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa, at (555) 123-4567 or visit the website.
The 2nd Annual Greystone Winter Faire, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 17, from noon to 3 p.m., offers a festive family experience at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. The event features holiday music, hot drinks, festive food and a range of activities suitable for all ages, including cookie-decorating and a visit with Santa. Attendees can explore the Barrel Room, enjoy seasonal offerings, and shop from local vendors and artisans. Admission is $25, with free entry for children 6 and younger. Guests are encouraged to participate in the Toys for Tots raffle by bringing a new unwrapped toy. 2555 Main Street, St. Helena. (707) 967-2530.
Grove 45's High Tea, taking place on Sunday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 4 p.m., offers afternoon tea for tea enthusiasts. Guests can experience blending their own tea, complemented by a selection of sandwiches and olive oil-infused desserts. Rosé from Museion by Napa will be available for purchase by the glass or bottle. Priced at $65 per person, this event promises a relaxing and tasteful experience. Grove 45's High Tea will be a recurring event, held on the third Sunday of every month. The event takes place at Grove 45, located at 965 Silverado Trail North, Calistoga.
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 Co. 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.