The Napa Valley Weekender
Sept. 27, 2024
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. Those providing special offers for Napa Valley Features subscribers now have an asterisk (*).
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.
For about 16 cents a day, a paid subscription grants complete access to all our content and supports our commitment to providing exceptional local journalism. Join us and become a part of a community that values thorough local information and storytelling.
Napa Valley-Wide
(N) Open Studios Napa Valley Continues This Weekend
Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 28 and 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open Studios Napa Valley features about 75 artists at various locations, offering a chance to view and purchase art. Organized by the Art Association of Napa Valley, catalogs are available at artnv.org, Art Gallery Napa Valley at 1307 First St. and Jessel Gallery at 1019 Atlas Peak Road. Jessel Gallery will also host artists creating art in the parking lot from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and three artists will be exhibiting at Yountville Community Center. For details visit openstudiosnapavalley.org or jesselgallery.com.
(R) Harvest Dinner at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Saturday, Sept. 28, 5:30 to 9 p.m. Experience an evening of food, live music and community at the historic Bale Grist Mill, with a live auction supporting local parks. Tickets are $250; sponsorships are also available. For tickets or sponsorship information, visit their website or email association@napavalleystateparks.org. 3369 N St. Helena Highway.
(N) Napa Day Against Hate at Westwood Hills Park
Sunday, Sept. 29, 2 p.m. The City of Napa hosts Napa Day Against Hate with a rally and walk, featuring a performance by the Vintage High School Choir and sidewalk art by local schoolchildren. Community leaders and speakers, including Vice Mayor Bernie Narvaez, Councilwoman Beth Painter, Supervisor Joelle Gallagher, Rabbi Niles Goldstein and others will discuss ways to counter hate and foster inclusion. For more information visit their website. Westwood Hills Park, 3107 Brown’s Valley Road, Napa.
(N) Elaine Jennings Upcoming Concerts Throughout Napa Valley
Events are free; visit Jennings’ website or contact venues for more details.
At Romeo Vineyards, Jennings performs with her quartet featuring David Austin, Bob Blankenship and Ruth Ahlers on Sunday, Sept. 29, 3 to 5 p.m., 1224 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga.
At The Saint, St. Helena, Jennings performs in a duo with Wayne de la Cruz on Saturday, Oct. 5, 7 to 10 p.m., 1351 Main St.
Jennings performs with her trio featuring David Austin and Bob Blankenship at The Calistoga Depot on Sunday, Oct. 6, 6 to 9 p.m., 1458 Lincoln Ave.
(R) Classes at the Fatted Calf in Napa
Whole Lamb Butchery on Sunday, Sept. 29, Sausage 101 on Sunday, Oct. 13, and Whole Hog Butchery on Sunday, Oct. 20, each provide hands-on butchery instruction with a snack and meaty goodies to take home. Classes cost $275 per person and are limited to eight participants. Visit their website for more information. Email classes@fattedcalf.com to reserve a spot. 644-C First St.
(R) Napa County Election Division Observation Opportunities
Beginning Monday, Sept. 30, the public is invited to observe all phases of the Nov. 5 presidential election. Vote-by-mail ballot processing starts on Oct. 18, while ballot counting begins on Oct. 26 and continues through Election Day. A 24-hour notice is required for observation. For more information call 707-253-4322 or email elections@countyofnapa.org. 1127 First St., Suite E, Napa.
(R) California Wine Month Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Throughout September, wineries across California will host a variety of events to celebrate the state’s wine industry, including wine and food festivals, tastings, grape-stomps and more. For details on events and activities, visit the website.
(R) Napa Humane’s Pet Photo Contest
Through Sept. 30. Enter your pet in Napa Humane’s photo contest for a chance to be featured on the 2025 calendar cover or as a Pet of the Month. Each vote equals a dollar donated to Napa Humane, supporting their life-saving programs for dogs, cats and rabbits. All participants receive a free calendar, and you can also reserve a special date to honor your pet. For more details and to enter, visit their website.
(R) The Valley Beautiful: Architecture at the Goodman Library
Thursday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Valley Beautiful, a series of exhibits presented by the Napa County Historical Society in association with Napa County Landmarks begins with an exploration of Napa Valley architecture at the historic Goodman Library. Free admission. For more information, visit napahistory.org or napacountylandmarks.org. 1219 First St.
(N) Ukrainian Consul General to Speak at Yountville Community Center
Thursday, Oct. 3, wine reception at 5:30 p.m., talk at 6 p.m. The Napa Valley Chapter of the Commonwealth Club World Affairs presents Ukraine Consul General Dmytro Kushneruk for a discussion and Q&A, followed by a community reception with wine from Bremer Family Winery. Tickets are $40 at commonwealthclub.org. For more information call 707-738-4500 or email napavalley@worldaffairs.org. Heritage Room, Yountville Community Center, 6516 Washington St., Yountville.
(R) Napa Blues, Brews & BBQ Adds Classic Car Show
Saturday, Oct. 5, noon to 6 p.m. The 14th Annual Napa Blues, Brews & BBQ returns to Napa Valley Expo with the new addition of a Classic Car Show, featuring pre-1999 classic cars. Enjoy live blues music from artists such as Alvon Johnson and Terrie Odabi, more than 40 microbrews in the beer garden and a variety of barbecue food vendors. Admission is free, but beer garden bracelets are $50 in advance and $60 on the day of the event. Proceeds support the Napa Food Bank in partnership with Community Action Napa Valley. For more information, visit their website. Napa Valley Expo, Napa.
(R) Water-Wise Workshops
Presented by City of Napa Water in partnership with Napa County Resource Conservation District and UC Master Gardeners.
Soils, compost and mulch: Wednesday, Oct. 9, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Explores soil types, composting and mulch to improve watering efficiency and garden health.
Water-Wise Plant Show: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. See that drought-tolerant is colorful and beautiful. Trees, shrubs, perennials, grasses, vines, groundcovers.
All workshops are free, but registration is required. For more information email ashley@naparcd.org or call 707-690-3117. 2296 Streblow Drive. Napa.
(R) California Native Plant Society Fall Plant Sale at Skyline Wilderness Park
Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The California Native Plant Society, Napa Valley Chapter, will host its Fall Plant Sale with hundreds of native and drought-tolerant plants available, along with expert advice. CNPS members receive a 10% discount and early access on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. Free admission to Skyline Park during the sale. For more information, visit their website. 2201 Imola Ave., Napa.
(R) Napa County Hispanic Network 40th Anniversary Gala at Charles Krug Winery
Saturday, Oct. 5, 5 to 10 p.m. The Napa County Hispanic Network hosts "Vamos Napa Valley," a gala featuring Latin cuisine, live and silent auctions, and music by a Mexican trio and Latin Rock band Maya to raise scholarship funds for Latino youth in Napa County. Tickets available online; elevated western wear or semiformal attire encouraged. For more information, visit their website or email gala@napacountyhispanicnewtork.org. 2800 Main St., St. Helena.
(R) ‘Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch’ at Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center
Saturday, Oct. 5, 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. E & M Presents brings the heartwarming puppet play "Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch," based on the award-winning children's book by Irene Spinelli, to life. Tickets are $15 for adults, with free admission for children ages 3 to 11. For more information or to buy tickets visit their website. Napa Valley 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway.
(R) Gordon Valley Car Show Benefiting Gordon Valley Volunteer Fire Department
Sunday, Oct. 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature cars, food, drinks, raffle prizes and a wine-bottle ring toss, with free admission and parking. For more information, call Pattie at 707-331-5846. 6485 Gordon Valley Road, Napa.
(R) Clos du Val Harvest Farmers Market
Sunday, Oct. 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Clos du Val will host its Harvest Farmers Market, featuring live music, food and wine stations, and local vendor pop-ups, with special access to fresh produce, flowers and more. Tickets are $125 with a $30 pass available for children 12 and under. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their website. 5330 Silverado Trail, Napa.
(R) Water-Wise Workshops
Presented by City of Napa Water in partnership with Napa County Resource Conservation District and UC Master Gardeners.
Soils, compost and mulch: Wednesday, Oct. 9, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Explores soil types, composting and mulch to improve watering efficiency and garden health.
Water-Wise Plant Show: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. See that drought-tolerant is colorful and beautiful. Trees, shrubs, perennials, grasses, vines, groundcovers.
All workshops are free, but registration is required. For more information email ashley@naparcd.org or call 707-690-3117. 2296 Streblow Drive. Napa.
(R) Grgich Hills Estate Croatian Harvest Festival
Saturday, Oct. 12, 4 p.m. Grgich Hills Estate celebrates its 47th anniversary with the Croatian Harvest Festival, featuring great food, wine, friendship and grape stomping for all attendees. Tickets are $250 or $200 for members. For tickets and more information, visit their website, or call 707-963-2784. Grgich Hills Estate, 1829 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena.
(R) Napa County Bicycle Coalition Hosts "Going for Gold" Fundraiser at Action Ave.
Sunday, Oct. 20, 4 to 6 p.m. A fundraiser to support the Napa County Bicycle Coalition’s efforts to improve cycling infrastructure and achieve Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community status, with guest speakers including Rep. Mike Thompson, Supervisor Anne Cottrell and Lucas Euser. Tickets available online. For more information, call 323-806-5900 or email Rebecca@RideNapaValley.com. 1621 Action Ave.
(R) Community Wine Hospitality Training Course at Napa Valley College
Oct. 22 to Dec. 5, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 to 9:30 p.m. This course offers a comprehensive look at wine, covering viticulture, enology, wine-tasting and table service, led by instructor Paul Wagner. Pre-registration is required. $120. For more information or to register, visit their website. Napa Valley College, Main Campus.
(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 with payment due by Oct. 6. 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.
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, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donate your good-condition books and DVDs to support the Friends of the American Canyon Library at this special event held in the Community Meeting Room.
Youth Chess Club. Wednesday, Oct. 9, 3 to 5 p.m. Teens and school-age children are invited to play chess with other enthusiasts in a fun, welcoming environment. All skill levels are welcome, and an instructor will be available to teach the basics to newcomers.
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.
(R) Mayor/City Council Candidates Forum at Boys and Girls Club
Thursday, Oct. 3, 6 to 8:30 p.m. A free forum to meet and learn about the candidates running for mayor and city council in the upcoming election. For more information, visit their website. Boys and Girls Club at 60 Benton Way.
(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) Calistoga Art Center's Art + Wine + House Tours at Merchant House
Saturday, Sept. 28, 4 to 6 p.m. Tour the transformed Merchant House, a former church turned modern home, featuring a serene yet vibrant space filled with fine art and artifacts. Wine is sponsored by Jean-Charles Boisset. Tickets are $125 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit their website or call 707-942-2278.(N)
Calistoga Art Center'Calistoga Library Events
Family Storytime. Tuesday, Oct. 1, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Join them for Family Storytime at Calistoga Library, where they will share stories, sing songs, learn fingerplays and enjoy puppet fun. Perfect for preschoolers, babies, toddlers and their families to discover a lifelong love of books.
Children's Guitar Lesson. Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 to 11 a.m. School-age children interested in learning guitar are invited to a beginner's lesson. No guitar? No problem! The library has a guitar you can borrow.
These are just a couple 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) Calistoga Ghost Tours From Pioneer Park
Tours run Friday and Saturday evenings through October at 7 p.m., with special tours on Sunday, Oct. 27, Wednesday, Oct. 30, Thursday, Oct. 31, Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2. Experience the haunted history of Calistoga with guide Tiffany Turner as she shares local history and ghostly tales on this 1.5-hour walking tour. Flashlights are available for borrowing. Tickets are $30 and available at their website. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Tours begin at the Gazebo in Pioneer Park, 1308 Cedar St.
(R) Calistoga Fairgrounds Community Clean-Up Day
Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Calistoga invites the community to help clean and improve the fairgrounds, with tasks focused on key areas such as the Tubbs Building, RV Park and racetrack. No RSVP is required, but volunteers must sign a waiver and are encouraged to bring their own water and cleaning supplies. For more information, call 707-942-2780 or email swright@calistogaCA.gov. 1232 Washington St.
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) Documentary Film: ‘Matisse from Tate Modern and MoMA’ at Jarvis Conservatory
Saturday, Sept. 28, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Experience the life and work of modern art giant Henri Matisse through a documentary celebrating the sell-out exhibitions at Tate Modern and MoMA. The film showcases Matisse’s vibrant cutouts and artistic legacy. Tickets are $15, available online or at the box office starting at 6 p.m. For more information, visit their website or call 707-255-5445. Jarvis Conservatory, 1711 Main St.
(R) UC Master Gardeners 4th Annual Fall Faire
Saturday, Sept. 28, 1 to 4 p.m. UC Master Gardeners of Napa County host a free, family-friendly Fall Faire, featuring educational booths, demonstrations, kids' activities and giveaways such as seed packets, bulbs and more. La Condesa Taqueria food truck will be onsite. For more information, visit their website or email mastergardeners@countyofnapa.org. 707-253-4060. 1710 Soscol Ave.
(R) Linda Joy Meyers Memoir Workshop at Napa Valley College
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. "Writing About Truth, Power and Real People in Your Memoir," a workshop with Linda Joy Meyers sponsored by the Napa Valley Writer's Club. Registration is $35 for members, $45 for non-members and $15 for students. Space is limited. Register at their website. For more information, call 707-694-5486 or email napavalleywriters@gmail.com. 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway, Community Room 1731.
(R) ‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ at Lucky Penny
Sunday, Sept. 29, Lucky Penny presents the musical adaptation of “Legally Blonde,” where Elle Woods, played by Kirstin Pieschke, follows her ex to Harvard Law, bringing laughs and memorable songs. Directed by Dae Spering, with music direction by Debra Chambliss and choreography by Staci Arriaga. Tickets range from $20 to $45 at their website. 1758 Industrial Way, Suite 208.N) Napa Library Events
(N) Napa Library Events
Memory Lab. Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Memory Lab offers a free, do-it-yourself space to digitize personal archives, including VHS tapes. Multiple appointment times are available each week. Registration required.
This is just one 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.
(N) Gordon Valley Car Show at Chimiles Association
Sunday, Oct. 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Gordon Valley Car Show features classic cars, food, drinks, a raffle and a wine-bottle ring-toss benefiting the Gordon Valley Volunteer Fire Department. Free admission and parking. For more information call Pattie at 707-331-5846. 6485 Gordon Valley Road.
(R) Kellie Fuller and Mike Greensill Present ‘A Night at the Dream Bowl’ at Blue Note Napa
Thursday, Oct. 10, 7 p.m. Kellie Fuller and Mike Greensill, along with a seven-piece band, take audiences back to the 1940s with classic hits from the era, featuring a pre-show interview on the history of the iconic Dream Bowl. Tickets range from $20 to $45. For more information, visit their website. 1030 Main St.
(R) ‘Kaiser Steel and Basalt Rock’ Lecture by Dr. Ric A. Dias (via Zoom)
Thursday, Oct. 17, 7 to 8 p.m. Join Dr. Ric A. Dias for a free Zoom lecture on Kaiser Steel’s connection to Napa’s Basalt Rock Co. in the 1950s. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link. For more information, call 707-224-1739 or email info@napahistory.org. Hosted by the Napa County Historical Society.
(R) Napa Humane October Mixer at Napa Yard
Thursday, Oct. 24, 4 to 6 p.m. Napa Humane hosts a mixer featuring conversation, Q&A with Pet Education Manager Alyssa Vincent and raffle prizes; specialty drinks will benefit Napa Humane. Free to attend; RSVP requested. Friendly dogs welcome. For more information and to RSVP visit their website. 585 First St.
(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) Movies at Cameo Cinema
"Lee" will be playing from Friday, Sept. 27, through Thursday, Oct. 3. "Live! Marvin - A1 Woman Show" will be on Monday, Sept. 30. General admission is $10, and tickets for students and seniors are $8. For details call 707-963-9779 or visit their website. 1340 Main St.
(N) Frog’s Leap Presents West Coast Falconry
Saturday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Frog’s Leap Winery welcomes West Coast Falconry for a hands-on experience with trained raptors and owls, showcasing the art of falconry and the ecological importance of birds. Enjoy a hawk’s aerial demonstration from the Garden Bar, with adult admission of $75 that includes a tasting flight of Frog’s Leap wines. Fellowship of the Frog members receive discounted pricing when logged into their Tock profile. Children are welcome; no dogs allowed. Dress in layers for this outdoor event. Tickets and more information at their website. 8815 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford.
(N) The Spirits of St. Helena Cemetery Tour: Through the Eyes of Veterans
Sunday, Sept. 29, at 1 and 2:30 p.m. The St. Helena Historical Society’s 20th annual Spirits of St. Helena Cemetery Discovery Walk features veterans' stories from five wars, including the Bear Flag Rebellion, Mexican American War, Civil War, World War I and World War II. Admission is $20, $10 for students and members. For more information visit their website. St. Helena Cemetery, 2461 Spring St.
(R) Richard Howell at The White Barn
Sunday, Sept. 29, 4 p.m. Saxophonist Richard Howell and a group of young musicians from the Monterey Jazz Festival perform in an outdoor setting at The White Barn. Tickets are $35, with unreserved seating. For more information visit their website or call 415-558-0474.
(R) Valerie Caccia’s “Marvin - A1 Woman Show” at The Cameo Cinema
Monday, Sept. 30, 7 p.m. Local comedian, real estate agent and writer Valerie Caccia returns with her one-woman show “Marvin,” sharing humorous insights on real estate and more. Tickets are $20 and available in advance. For more information call 707-963-9779, email info@cameocinema.com or visit their website. 1340 Main St.
(N) St. Helena Library Events
Marvin Humphrey Artist Reception. Thursday, Oct. 3, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Join artist Marvin Humphrey, who has been creating oil paintings for nearly 60 years, for a reception showcasing his landscapes, still lifes and pet portraits, many with a humorous twist. Refreshments will be served.
This is just one 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) Charles Krug Tasting on the Lawn
Saturday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Charles Krug Winery hosts its 72nd annual Tastings on the Lawn during the Mondavi family's 80th harvest. Enjoy Napa Valley, Limited Release and Family Reserve wines alongside pasta, pizza, chili and more, with live music from Lucky Devil. Glassblowing and pumpkin-carving demonstrations are included. Tickets are $145 at their website. Charles Krug Winery, 2800 Main St.
(R) St. Supéry Estate Luncheon Series Featuring the Big Green Egg
Saturday, Oct. 19, noon to 2:30 p.m. St. Supéry in Rutherford hosts an estate luncheon series with food prepared on the Big Green Egg kamado grill by Estate Chef Vince Sanchez, featuring meats, seafood or poultry paired with their latest wine releases. Event includes lunch, wine pairings, a grilling demonstration and a Big Green Egg gift bag. $150 per person plus 15% service charge. Reserve a spot online. 8440 St. Helena Highway.
(R) 25th Tres Sabores Harvest Party: Pomegranate & Paella
Saturday, Oct. 19, 4 to 7 p.m. Tres Sabores celebrates its 25th harvest with a Pomegranate & Paella Party featuring live fire paella by ZuZu, pomegranate-inspired dishes, a pomegranate tasting and wines from the cellar. Enjoy live music and great company with Julie Johnson and the Tres Sabores team. Tickets are $125, or $60 for nondrinkers. For tickets, visit their website, call 707-967-8027 or email visitus@tressabores.com. 1620 S. Whitehall Lane.
(R) Mixed Media Painting Class With Nancy Willis at Napa Valley College
Tuesdays in October (except Oct. 8), 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.
(R) St. Helena Farmers’ Market at Crane Park
Fridays 7:30 a.m. to noon. The St. Helena Farmers’ Market offers produce from various growers. For more information visit the website. 360 S. Crane Ave.
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.
(N) The Unexpected Journey of Artist Mario Chiodo at Priest Ranch
Monday, Sept. 30, 6 to 8 p.m. Priest Ranch hosts a reception with artist Mario Chiodo, known for his “Remember Them: Champions for Humanity” monument in Oakland. The evening includes an exploration of Chiodo’s art, Priest Ranch wines and bites from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch. Tickets are $55 at their website. Priest Ranch, 6490 Washington St.
(N) Yountville Library Events
Book Buzz Book Club. Thursday, Oct. 3, 10 to 11 a.m.
Join this casual, no-obligation book club to discuss what you’ve read this month; meets the first Thursday of each month.
Bow Wow for Books – Read to Henli. Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 to 11 a.m.
Young readers are invited to practice their reading skills by reading to Henli, a certified listening dog, in a welcoming environment.
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) Yountville November 2024 Election Forum at Yountville Community Center
Wednesday, Oct. 9, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Yountville Chamber of Commerce hosts a moderated forum with the town council candidates. Advanced registration is encouraged. For more information, visit their website or email info@yountville.com. 6516 Washington St.
(N) Valley Players Present “Ripcord” at Yountville Community Center
Opens Friday, Oct. 11, with shows through Oct. 27; 7 p.m. on Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26, and 2 p.m. on Oct. 13, 20, and 27. 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.
(R) Legacy Roundtable: Authors of the Napa Valley at Yountville Community Center
Thursday, Oct. 17, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Featuring authors Bonny Meyer, Janet Fletcher, Jessel Miller, Sarah Scott and Pam Strayer, with rotating small group discussions and a wine reception. Tickets are $35, and guests must be 21 or older. For more information visit their website or call 707-948-2627. 6516 Washington St.
Astrological Events This Month
(N) Earth’s Temporary Mini-Moon: Asteroid 2024 PT5’s Brief Orbit
Asteroid 2024 PT5, recently discovered by NASA-funded telescopes, will temporarily orbit Earth from Sept. 29 to 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.
September and October: Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) display
In September and 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. By Oct. 12, it should rise higher in the evening sky, becoming more visible 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.
Oct. 2: New moon and Ring of Fire solar eclipse
Oct. 2 is a day of dual significance with a new moon (11:51 a.m.) and an annular solar eclipse. During the eclipse, the moon will be too far from Earth to completely cover the sun, resulting in a ring of light around the darkened moon. This event, known as the "ring of fire," will be partially visible from Napa Valley.
Oct. 7: Draconids meteor shower
The Draconids meteor shower peaks on the night of Oct. 7 (after sunset). This minor meteor shower, produced by debris left behind by comet 21P Giacobini-Zinner, offers about 10 meteors per hour. The best viewing is in the early evening from a dark location, with meteors radiating from the constellation Draco.
Oct. 17: Full Hunter's Moon and supermoon
The full moon on Oct. 17 (4:28 a.m.) is known as the Hunter's Moon and is also one of three supermoons in 2024. It will be near its closest approach to Earth, appearing slightly larger and brighter than usual. This moon is traditionally associated with the time of year when game is fattened and ready to hunt.
Oct. 21, 22: Orionids meteor shower
The Orionids meteor shower peaks on the night of Oct. 21 (after midnight) and the morning of Oct. 22. While the waning gibbous moon may obscure fainter meteors, a dark location after midnight could still offer a view of this shower, which is produced by dust grains left behind by Comet Halley.
Please click here to view the entire list of night-sky events for 2024.
Napa Valley Volunteering+
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 TK-8 with reading, math, or general classroom assistance for at least one hour per week; bilingual Spanish speakers are encouraged to apply but not required. For more information or to sign up, visit their website or email rgasparyan@upvalleyfamilycenters.org. 707-965-5010
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.
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.