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.
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
(R) Paws for Peace Campaign at Napa Valley Restaurants, Wineries and Hotels
Through the end of October. Jameson Humane, NEWS and Ruthless Kindness partner for the Paws for Peace campaign, raising funds to support survivors of domestic violence and their pets by providing safe, pet-friendly housing. Participating Napa Valley locations will donate $1 for every drink, bottle of wine or tasting fee sold. To learn more and obtain the list of participating businesses, visit their website.
(R) Napa County Bicycle Coalition Hosts "Going for Gold" Fundraiser
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) United Against Fentanyl: Opioid Awareness Rally and Memorial at Veterans Memorial Park
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 5 p.m., at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Napa. This rally raises awareness about the opioid crisis, features community leaders and families impacted by illicit fentanyl, and includes a memorial vigil to honor those lost to opioid poisoning. The event also marks the launch of the Know the Risks Save a Life Video Contest, open to all Napa County youth, giving them the opportunity to use their voices to educate others and help prevent fentanyl-related tragedies. Live Spanish interpretation and resources on prevention will be available. Free admission. For more information, visit their website or call 707-963-3333. 800 Main St.
(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. 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.
(R) 2024-25 Secured Property Tax Bills Now Available
The first installment of the 2024-25 secured property taxes is due Nov. 1 and can be paid online, by mail, in person or by phone. Delinquent payments after Dec. 10 will incur a 10% penalty. For details visit the Napa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s webpage or call 707-253-4311. 1195 Third St., Suite 108, Napa.
(R) Napa Valley Wine Library Association Wine Seminar at Inglenook
Saturday, Nov. 2, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the Napa Valley Wine Library Association’s annual Wine Seminar, focusing on "Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon From the Alluvial Fans of the Mayacamas, Oakville to Saint Helena." The seminar will be moderated by Tegan Passalacqua of Turley Wine Cellars, with panelists including winemakers from Corison, Inglenook, JJ Cohn Estate, MacDonald Vineyards and Spottswoode. The event includes wine-tastings and a chef-prepared buffet lunch. Tickets are $375, with a $50 discount for NVWLA members. For more information, visit their website or email editor@napawinelibrary.com.
(R) Voter Registration Deadline for November General Election
The deadline to register to vote by mail for the Nov. 5 general election is Monday, Oct. 21. Eligible citizens can register to vote online or in person. After the deadline, voters can still register in person at any Napa County Vote Center through Same-Day Voter Registration. For more information visit registertovote.ca.gov or call 707-253-4321.
(N) Economic Outlook Conference at Redwood Credit Union, Napa Community Room
Thursday, Nov. 7, 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Napa Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Economic Outlook Conference, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Christopher Thornberg of Beacon Economics, to discuss economic trends and opportunities for the Napa Valley region. The event includes panels on business growth, advocacy and innovation. Tickets are $195 per person, non-refundable. For more information, call 707-337-4975, email Jeri@NapaChamber.com, or visit their website. 480 Devlin Road, Napa.
(R) Decadent Truffle and Barolo Dinner at La Toque
Sunday, Nov. 24, 5:45 p.m. La Toque hosts its 12th annual Decadent Truffle & Barolo Dinner with guest chef Carlo Zarri from Villa San Carlo in Piedmont, featuring a five-course truffle-accented menu paired with rare Barolos dating back to 1979. The evening begins with a reception at 5:45 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $750+ per person. For more information, visit their website or call 707-257-5157. 1314 McKinstry St., Napa.
(R) Mike Thompson's Annual Holiday Celebration at The Culinary Institute of America
Sunday, Dec. 8, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (VIP reception from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m.) Join Rep. Mike Thompson for a festive evening with culinary treats, local wines and a silent auction at the historic Culinary Institute of America. Individual tickets are $120, with sponsorship levels available, including Gold Host for $475, which includes six tickets and VIP access. The deadline for sponsorship recognition is Oct. 31. Visit the website, contact sfreedy10@gmail.com or call 707-484-6007 for more information. The Culinary Institute of America, 2555 Main St., St. Helena.
American Canyon (And Nearby)
American Canyon Chamber of Commerce Calendar
American Canyon Library Events
Napa-Vallejo Flea Market
(N) American Canyon Library Events
Poetry Workshop: Create a Poem with the Poet Laureate. Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 to 11 a.m. Napa County Poet Laureate Aisha Rivera will lead a workshop to help participants create their own poems.
Friends of the American Canyon Library Book Donation Day. Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donate your gently used books and contribute to a great cause during this special event.
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) Halloween Nerf Battle at Napa Junction Community Center
Saturday, Oct. 19, 6 to 7 p.m. Kids in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to join a Halloween Nerf Battle at the Napa Junction Community Center. Come dressed in costume and bring your Nerf blasters — darts and bunkers will be provided. The event costs $5 for residents and $6 for non-residents. For more information, call 707-648-7275 or visit the website. 300 Napa Junction Road.
(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) Eleve Studio Fall Dance Classes
Directed by Napa Valley native Elaine Johns, Eleve Studio offers a range of dance classes that include ballet, jazz, lyrical and musical theater for ages 3 through adult. Tuition ranges from $60 to $115 per month, based on class length and frequency, with family discounts available. For more information, visit their website or email dancing@eleve.studio. 1201 Tucker Road at Highway 29.
(N) Calistoga Library Events
Calistoga 100th Birthday Celebration. Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join the celebration of 100 years of library services in Calistoga with food, entertainment, crafts and more.Day of the Dead Skeleton Craft. Monday, Oct. 28, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Celebrate Día de los Muertos by creating a skeleton paper puppet in this family-friendly craft event. Registration required.
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.
(N) Volunteer Opportunities in Calistoga With Celebrate Napa Valley
Celebrate Napa Valley invites volunteers to participate in a variety of events that support the Calistoga community, including the Calistoga Fairgrounds Clean-Up Day (Saturday, Oct. 19), the Harvest Fair and Halloween Parade (Saturday, Oct. 26) and the Calistoga Christmas Faire and Tree Lighting (Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6-7). These opportunities offer a rewarding way to engage with local traditions. For more information, call 707-942-2780 or email info@celebratenapavalley.org. All volunteers must complete an online form.
(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.
(R) Calistoga Art Center — Art, Wine and House Tours at Villa CA’ TOGA
Saturday, Oct. 26, 4 to 6 p.m. Tour the stunning Villa CA’ TOGA, home and studio of renowned artist Carlo Marchiori, featuring period-style murals and Venetian-inspired interiors and gardens. Wine will be provided by LOLA. Proceeds support the Calistoga Art Center. For more information and tickets, visit the website, email info@calistogaartcenter.org or call 707-942-2278.
(R) Holiday Shopping Party at Schramsberg Vineyards
Saturday, Nov. 9, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with wine, food and a tour of the historic Schramsberg caves. Enjoy Schramsberg sparkling and Davies Vineyards still wines paired with bites from local chefs and participate in a riddling contest. Tickets are $175 per person, including tax. All attendees must be 21 or older, and valet parking will be provided. Tickets available online. 1400 Schramsberg Road.
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) Mentis Wellness Campus Tour
Fridays at 4:30 p.m. Mentis offers weekly tours of its new Wellness Campus, showcasing mental health resources and services for the Napa Valley community, while seeking to raise $1 million to complete the project. The tour is free, and reservations are required. For more information, visit their website, call 707-615-5003 or email Charlotte Hajer at chajer@mentisnapa.org. 1272 Hayes St.
(R) New Sculptures on View at di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art
Several new temporary sculptural works are on display this fall, including pieces by Ana Teresa Fernández, Nina Katchadourian, Philip Krohn and Nathan Lynch. Installations such as Katchadourian’s "Monument to the Unelected" and Lynch’s "We Are Speaking" will be on view through November and December. Visitors can also explore di Rosa’s permanent outdoor sculpture collection. For more information visit their website. 5200 Sonoma Highway.
(N) Los Lobos at 50 at the Uptown Theatre
Friday, Oct. 18, 8 p.m. JaM Cellars presents Los Lobos celebrating 50 years of music at the Uptown Theatre. For five decades Los Lobos has performed more than 100 gigs a year, recorded 17 studio albums and toured the world while maintaining their original lineup. Don’t miss this chance to see the legendary band live. For more information and tickets, visit their website. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Third St.
(N) Pizza Cooking Class With Chef Frank Pinello at CIA at Copia
Friday, Oct. 18, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. CIA alum and founder of Best Pizza in Brooklyn, Chef Frank Pinello, will host a one-time pizza-cooking class at The Grove at CIA at Copia. Learn the secrets to making authentic New York-style pizza with techniques you can apply in your home oven. The class is $175 and is for adults 18 and over. A pop-up appearance will follow on Oct. 18 and 19. For more information and tickets, visit their website. CIA at Copia, 500 First St.
(N) ‘Women in Jeopardy’ at Lucky Penny Community Arts Center
Friday, Oct. 18, to Sunday, Nov. 3 Lucky Penny’s second show of the 2024-25 season, "Women in Jeopardy," is a 2016 comedy about two divorcées who suspect their friend’s new boyfriend might be a serial killer and attempt to save her. The cast is led by Taylor Bartolucci, Sarah Lundstrom, LC Arisman and John Browning. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, with pay-what-you-can seating available for remaining Thursday tickets at curtain time. Tickets are also on sale for future productions. For more information visit their website. 1758 Industrial Way.
(R) Freaky Friday Halloween Dance at Napa Senior Center
Friday, Oct. 18, 6 to 8 p.m. In partnership with Special Olympics Northern California, the Napa Senior Center hosts a Halloween dance for individuals with special needs, featuring DJ music, spooky snacks and a costume party. Registration is $5, with capes provided for free. For more information, call 707-257-9529 or visit the website. 1500 Jefferson St.
(N) Napa Valley Youth Symphony at Jarvis Conservatory
Saturday, Oct. 19, 7 p.m. The Napa Valley Youth Symphony’s Sinfonia and Napa Youth Chamber Ensemble will perform an evening of classical music at the Jarvis Conservatory. Tickets are $15. The symphony will also hold a special Halloween concert on Oct. 26. For more information, visit their website. 1711 Main St.
(N) Napa Writers’ Forum at Jessel Gallery
Saturday, Oct. 19, 5 to 7:30 p.m. The fall Napa Writers’ Forum will feature local authors Raymond Guadagni, Jeffrey Kingman and Bill Moore along with honorary local James Conaway, who will read from and discuss their works. The event begins at 5 p.m. with a chance to meet the writers over wine, followed by readings and discussions from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Admission is $10, with 10 scholarships available for students and teachers, and kids are free. RSVP required at jesselgallery@napanet.net, visit their website or call 707-257-2350. 1019 Atlas Peak Road.
(N) Enchanted Village Faire at Stone Bridge School
Saturday, Oct. 19, noon. Stone Bridge School hosts its annual Enchanted Village Faire, a magical event featuring live music, artisan vendors, exciting booths, homemade baked goods and delicious food. This community event, open to the public, serves as a fundraiser for the school and offers a variety of activities for all ages, from sneaking gems from the Sleeping Giant to creating fairy dust. For more information, visit their website or contact 707-252-5522. 1019 Second Ave.
(N) Napa Police K9 Team at Winston’s Café and Bakery
Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet the Napa Police Department's K9 team and their handlers at Winston’s Café and Bakery. The event will feature K9 demonstrations and a fundraiser to support retired police dogs, including K9 Mike. Proceeds will help cover veterinary care and other needs for retired K9s. For more information about the Napa K9 Association, visit their website. 1517 Third St.
(N) ‘Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink’ at Napa Valley College
Sunday, Oct. 20, 1 to 4 p.m. Join a special screening of Rick Goldsmith's documentary, "Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink," which examines the impact of hedge-fund takeovers of newspapers and the journalists fighting to save them. The event includes a Q&A and meet-and-greet with the filmmaker moderated by Chris Fusco, executive editor of The Press Democrat. Tickets are $18 ($20.73 with fees). Doors open at 12:30 p.m. For more information, visit napavalley.edu. Napa Valley College Studio Theater, 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway.
(N) Connolly Ranch Education Center's Harvest Festival
Sunday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Connolly Ranch hosts its annual Harvest Festival, offering family-friendly activities such as farm-animal visits, garden tours and seasonal nature-based activities. Special events include apple-tastings, pumpkin ice cream making ($30 per person) and fall-themed crafts. Sliding scale ticket pricing is available: Adults $25 or $20, children (over 2) $15 or $10, and children under 2 are free. For more details, visit their website. 3141 Browns Valley Road.
(N) Napa Women’s Club Evening Edition at Napa Women’s Clubhouse
Tuesday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m. The Napa Women’s Club Evening Edition hosts a “Harvest Festival” themed meeting featuring a talk by Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley, along with homemade casseroles, salads, dessert and wine. The event is free to new guests. RSVP to Christine Jameson at 707-696-7629 or cajameson@sbcglobal.net. 218 Franklin St.
(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.
(N) Napa Library Events
Day of the Dead Altar. Tuesday, Oct. 29, all day. In honor of Día de los Muertos, the Napa Library will have a community altar open to the public from Oct. 26 to Nov. 3.
“Eek-O-Friendly" Costume Exchange. Tuesday, Oct. 29, all day. The City of Napa is offering gently used Halloween costumes for free at the Napa Library, available through Oct. 31 for all to take home.
NaNoWriMo! Write-In Napa Valley Writers Writing Workshop. Tuesday, Oct. 29, 12 to 1:30 p.m. Join Napa Valley Writers for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) to set writing goals and discuss creative ideas with fellow writers.
Registration required.
These are just a few 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) di Rosa Makers Market at di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art
Saturday, Nov. 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The di Rosa Makers Market features more than 50 Bay Area artists and vendors offering handcrafted goods like jewelry, ceramics and textiles. Tickets are $10, free for members, and include gallery admission. Tickets may be purchased upon arrival. For more information visit their website. 5200 Sonoma Highway.
(R) Boyd Meets Girl at Sleeping Giant Winery
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 5 p.m. Australian guitarist Rupert Boyd and American cellist Laura Metcalf perform an eclectic program ranging from Debussy to Radiohead as part of Festival Napa Valley’s Olivia Decker Power of Music series. Tickets are $85. For more information visit their website or call 707-944-2054. 2258 Las Amigas Road.
(R) Boyd Meets Girl at Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center
Friday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m. Guitarist Rupert Boyd and cellist Laura Metcalf perform an admission-free concert for local school groups as part of Festival Napa Valley’s Novack Concert for Kids series. Open to school groups only. For more information visit their website or contact Festival Napa Valley’s Education Department at cathy@festivalnapavalley.org. 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway.
(N) Napa Valley Orchid Society Annual Orchid Auction
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 6 p.m. The Napa Valley Orchid Society will hold its Annual Orchid Auction at the Napa Senior Center. Attendees can bid on a wide selection of orchids, including rare and unusual specimens, with live auctioneer Tom Pickford. This fundraiser supports the Napa Valley Orchid Society, which has served the community since 1958. Admission is free, and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact Larraine Ewing at info@thenapavalleyorchidsociety.com. Instagram @napavalleyorchidsociety. Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St.
(R) ‘Seussical’ at Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center
Friday, Nov. 15 and 22, at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 16, 17, 23 and 24 at 2 p.m. Napa Valley College Performing Arts and Cafeteria Kids Theater present “Seussical,” a family-friendly musical featuring beloved Dr. Seuss characters such as The Cat in the Hat and Horton the Elephant. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for students, seniors and military, and $15 for youth under 12 or groups of 15 or more. For more information, visit their website or call 707-256-7500. 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway.
(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) St. Helena Farmers’ Market at Crane Park
Friday, Oct. 18, 7:30 a.m. to noon. The St. Helena Farmers’ Market runs every Friday at Crane Park through Oct. 25, offering a variety of fall produce and flowers from local growers including Beffa Springs, Long Meadow Ranch and more. Chef Elliot Bell of Charlie’s in St. Helena will present a cooking demonstration at 10:30 a.m. Attendees can enjoy coffee and pastries from Naysayer Coffee Roasters, visit Molly’s Angels, We Care Animal Rescue and Rianda House to learn about their programs, and pick up a free kids' activity from the market classroom. For more information, visit their website. 360 S. Crane Ave.
(N) Ghost Quilt Craft and Story at Wild Plum Books
Friday, Oct. 18, 4 to 5 p.m. Wild Plum Books presents local artist Erin Gennow reading from "The Ghost Who Was a Quilt," followed by a craft session where kids can create their own Quilt Ghost. This fun, creative event is perfect for children ages 3 and up. The cost is $20, and tickets are available online. Wild Plum Books, 1315 Main St.
(N) ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ at St. Helena Performing Arts Center
Friday, Oct. 18, through Sunday, Oct. 20. St. Helena High School Drama presents "The Play That Goes Wrong," a comedy about an ill-fated drama troupe struggling to produce a murder mystery, directed by Patti Coyle. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at the St. Helena Performing Arts Center. Tickets range from $10 to $20, available online. 1401 Grayson Ave.
(R) UpStage Napa Valley Presents PlayFest 2024 at Grace Episcopal Church
Friday, Oct. 18, to Sunday, Oct. 27, various times. UpStage Napa Valley’s fourth annual PlayFest features a series of short plays each weekend that showcase 184 entries, including works by local playwrights. Audience talkback sessions follow each performance. Tickets are $30 or $75 for three nights at their website. Grace Episcopal Church, 1314 Spring St.
(N) Movies / Events at Cameo Cinema
On Friday, Oct. 18, 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m., catch a screening of "White Bird: A Wonder Story." The story follows Julian as he is transformed by his grandmother's tale of her escape from Nazi-occupied France.
On Saturday, Oct. 19, enjoy three screenings of "White Bird: A Wonder Story" at 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.
On Sunday, Oct. 20, "White Bird: A Wonder Story" will play again at 2 p.m. (open captions) and 5 p.m.
On Monday, Oct. 21, 5:30 p.m., Cinemabites will present "Tokyo Cowboy." This culinary event features treats from Panevino inspired by the film and supports the St. Helena Farmers' Market. Tickets are $35 inclusive of food and the film.
On Tuesday, Oct. 22, 1 p.m., join the Film Class for a screening of "The Mouse That Roared" (1959), a satirical comedy starring Peter Sellers. Tickets are $10 at the door.
On Wednesday, Oct. 23, watch "The Wild Robot" at 2 p.m., 5 p.m. (open captions) and 7:45 p.m. This epic adventure follows the journey of a shipwrecked robot adapting to life on a remote island.
On Thursday, Oct. 24, "The Wild Robot" returns with showings at 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.
On Monday, Oct. 28, 5 p.m., celebrate Italian Heritage Month with a screening of "It Started in Naples" starring Clark Gable and Sophia Loren. Tickets are $5 and guests can enjoy free pizza and wine, sponsored by the Sons & Daughters of Italy in America.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, 1 to 3 p.m., a masterclass with Foley Artist John Roesch will demonstrate how to create spine-chilling sound effects for horror films.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, 7 to 9:30 p.m., actor Joel Courtney will join for a Q&A following a screening of "Super 8."
On Sunday, Nov. 3, 1 to 3 p.m., Andrew Gordon leads a Workshop on AI Filmmaking geared toward students and aspiring filmmakers.
For most films and these events, general admission is $10, with discounts for students and seniors. For details call 707-963-9779 or visit their website. 1340 Main St.
(R) Clif Family’s Street Food Napa Valley
Enjoy themed menus every Wednesday from the Clif Family Bruschetteria Food Truck, with patio dining available until 7 p.m. Pre-orders start the prior Sunday evening.
Oct. 23, Italian Menu: Parmigiana e Melanzane, Supplì and Cicoria e Fagioli. 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 30, Southern Menu: Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits and Country Ham With Mixed Farm Pickles. 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Contact Clif Family at 707-301-7188 or order at their website. 709 Main St.
(N) St. Helena Hometown Harvest Festival and Pet PAWrade
Saturday, Oct. 19, 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. St. Helena celebrates its annual Hometown Harvest Festival with a day full of activities, including a 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run starting at 7:45 a.m., followed by the Pet PAWrade at 10 a.m. The main festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oak Avenue and features live music, food, wine and beer, a kids zone, a car show, pumpkin patch, and arts and crafts vendors. For more information, visit their website or call 707-968-9222.
(N) Napa County Historical Society Open House at Henry Haus Blacksmith Shop
Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Napa County Historical Society will host an open house at the historic Henry Haus Blacksmith Shop, located across from the Pope Valley Market. Local blacksmiths Ken Maxfield and Bob Fulton will give educational demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the blacksmithing craft and the history of the shop, which served the community for nearly five decades. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit their website. 5850 Chiles Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley.
(R) Texas Takes Napa Valley: Singer-Songwriter Dinner in the Vineyards at Pope Valley Winery
Saturday, Oct. 19, 6 to 9 p.m. Pope Valley Winery presents an evening of Texas BBQ by Tim Biasotti and live music from Mark Powell in the Estate Cabernet Vineyard. Enjoy a seated dinner paired with Pope Valley wines. Tickets are $100 per person. For more information, call 707-965-1246 or visit the website. 6613 Pope Valley Road.
(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.
(N) Pumpkin Painting at Pope Valley Farm Center
Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join the second annual pumpkin painting event, with paint and pumpkins provided, free for all ages. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes and bring something to protect clothing from paint. Snacks and drinks will be available. For more information, visit the website or email pvfarmcenter@gmail.com. 5820 Chiles Pope Valley Road.
(N) St. Helena Library Events
Story Time. Every Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. Children are invited to enjoy a fun story time followed by a craft activity in the children's room.
Halloween Fun House. Oct. 29 to 31. Explore a spooky Halloween Land in the library's meeting room during this special Halloween Fun House event.
Halloween Crafts for Children. Wednesday, Oct. 30, 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Children and their caregivers are invited to join in for fun Halloween-themed crafts.
These are just a few 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) Mixed Media Painting Class With Nancy Willis at Napa Valley College
Tuesdays in October, 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.
(N) Cook St. Helena 20th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, Nov. 9, 2 to 6 p.m. Celebrate 20 years of Cook St. Helena, a beloved locals' go-to for Northern Italian cuisine, with music, food and drinks in the parking lot at Hunt Avenue and Railroad Avenue. For more information, call 707-963-7088. 1310 Main St.
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.
(R) Pizza Sundays on the Patio at Silver Oak
Sundays in October, noon to 4 p.m. Silver Oak in Oakville hosts Pizza Sundays featuring wood-oven pizza, DJ music and cabernets by the glass, bottle or flight. Pizza and a wine flight costs $80, while pizza alone is $20 per person, with wine charged separately. Each Sunday offers a different pizza option, and guests must be 21+, except for designated drivers ages 16-20. For more information, visit their website or call 707-942-7022. 915 Oakville Cross Road.
(R) Valley Players Present ‘Ripcord’ at Yountville Community Center
Now open with shows on Oct. 18, 19, 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 20 and 27 at 2 p.m. 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) Yountville Library Events
Documentary Days: Discover and Discuss. Friday, Oct. 18, noon to 1:30 p.m. Enjoy an engaging documentary screening of “I Am Big Bird: The Carroll Spinney Story,” followed by a discussion at this afternoon event for adults. Registration required.
Napa Valley Haunts at Yountville Library. Tuesday, Oct. 29, noon to 1 p.m. Local historian Rebecca Yerger presents a program on Napa Valley’s paranormal activity, featuring tales such as the phantom of Yount Mill Hill and George Yount's eternal stroll. Light refreshments will be served.
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.
(N) Macaron Demonstration and Luncheon at Inglenook
Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 a.m. Madeline’s Macarons of Yountville will present a macaron-making demonstration at Inglenook, where attendees can learn the art of crafting these delicate French confections. After the demonstration, guests will enjoy a seasonally inspired lunch and take home a six-pack of Madeline's Macarons. The cost is $125, and tickets are available online. Inglenook, 1991 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford.
(N) Yountville Halloween Carnival at Yountville Community Center
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2 to 4 p.m. Yountville hosts a fun-filled Halloween Carnival for kids 10 and under at the Yountville Community Center. The event includes games, crafts, snacks and a costume contest at 3:15 p.m. (no weapons or gory costumes allowed). All children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free. For more information, visit their website or call 707-944-8712. 6516 Washington St.
(R) Blessing of the Animals at Yountville Veterans Memorial Park
Sunday, Oct. 20, 3 p.m. A free annual event organized by Carol Fink for the past 25 years, welcoming pets of all species to receive a blessing; all animals must be leashed, caged or reined. For more information, contact Carol Fink at 707-363-9310 or skyemum@comcast.net. 6465 Washington St.
(R) Veterans Day Quintet at Yountville Veterans Home
Monday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Elaine Jennings Duo will perform an eclectic mix of songs by Peggy Lee, Norah Jones and Adele, along with classic jazz from the Great American Songbook, to honor veterans at the Yountville Veterans Home. The event is open to residents and guests. More information can be found at their website. 260 California Drive.
Astrological Events This Month
Earth’s Temporary Mini-Moon: Asteroid 2024 PT5’s Brief Orbit
Asteroid 2024 PT5, recently discovered by NASA-funded telescopes, will temporarily orbit Earth until 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.
October: Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) display
Throughout 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 and higher in the evening sky 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. 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+
Napa Valley Unitarian Universalists Community Singing Circle. Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Join the NVUU Community Singing Circle for a no-pressure, collaborative environment focused on rounds and harmonies. Open to all, the group fosters shared leadership and opportunities to teach songs. For more information, contact the NVUU office at 707-226-9220.
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.
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 though the eighth with reading, math or general classroom assistance for at least one hour per week; bilingual Spanish speakers are encouraged to apply, but being bilingual is not required. For more information or to sign up, visit their website or email rgasparyan@upvalleyfamilycenters.org. 707-965-5010
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.