There is never a lack of things to do in Napa Valley, but summer brings the region to life with a mix of free community events and long-standing ticketed traditions that appeal to locals and tourists alike. Here is a taste of the seasonal offerings you’ll want to put on your calendars.
CALISTOGA CONCERTS IN THE PARK
Thursdays through Aug. 14:
Pioneer Park in Calistoga hosts live music every Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. June through August. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner, and food and wine vendors are available each week to keep the party going through the evening. This summer’s lineup includes Traveling Wilburys Revue (July 2); Boys of Summer (July 9); Kid Galaga (July 16); Second Hand Funk (July 23); The Humdinger Band (July 30); Jane Blonde and the Goldfingers (Aug. 6); Miko Marks (Aug. 13); and MAYA (Aug. 20). Pioneer Park is located at 1320 Cedar St. Info: visitcalistoga.com/concerts-in-the-park.
YOUNTVILLE MOVIES IN THE PARK
July 31 and Aug. 28:
The Town of Yountville’s Parks and Recreation Department hosts its annual Movies in the Park series at Yountville Community Park, 2900 Lincoln Ave. Concessions open at 6:30 p.m.; films begin at dusk. This year’s film slate includes “Elio” (July 31); and “The Incredibles” (Aug. 28). The July 31 showing coincides with Yountville’s annual community camp out where guests are invited to set up tents for a full evening of festivities. Info: townofyountville.com.
MEET ME IN THE STREET
July 8, Aug. 12 and Sept. 9:
American Canyon’s beloved summer tradition Meet Me in the Street transforms the heart of the city into a lively celebration featuring Napa County’s largest public food truck rally, a classic car show, local business and vendor booths, live community performances, kids’ activities, magicians and street performers and the popular Street Side Saloon. The free family-friendly street festival is held along West American Canyon Road from 5-8 p.m. Info: americancanyon.gov/Live/Community-Calendar.
FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY SUMMER SESSION
July 4-19:
Festival Napa Valley’s mission is to enrich lives through the power of music, and the Summer Session — celebrating its 20th season — gives music lovers a variety of ways to engage with the arts across Napa Valley. In addition to live music, Summer Session includes Taste of Napa on July 11 at Meritage Resort in Napa — highlighting the best of food and wine in our region. Ticket prices range per event, but there are also free concerts, so this event has something for everyone at every price point. Multi-day passes and VIP Patron experiences available. Info: festivalnapavalley.org.
SOFI BATTLE OF THE BANDS
July 26:
Local bands perform throughout downtown Napa as part of the third annual Battle of the Bands, hosted by the SOFI (South of First) District. This year’s event is scheduled from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and will feature multiple stages with up to 20 performers. Free admission. For the latest details, visit napasofidistrict.com.
MUSIC IN THE VINEYARDS
Aug. 2-23:
Music in the Vineyards is Napa Valley’s signature chamber music festival, which showcases distinguished musicians and emerging young talent during its four-week season. With complimentary wine tastings at each intermission, this unique combination of wine country ambiance and musicianship allows audiences to experience chamber music in the small intimate settings. The event includes more than 20 events held throughout the Napa Valley, including open rehearsals that are free to the public. Info: musicinthevineyards.org.
OPEN STUDIOS NAPA VALLEY
Sept. 19-20, 26-27:
Open Studios Napa Valley, hosted by Art Association Napa Valley, returns for two consecutive weekends in September. This free event is a self-guided, art discovery tour through the creative art spaces of Napa Valley. This year’s event features dozens of local artists at more than 40 locations. Whether you’re an avid collector or just curious about art, this is your opportunity to peer into the creative spaces of Napa Valley, meet the artists, watch demonstrations and buy local art right from the source. Hours of operation are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: artnv.org/open-studios-home.
