Free events in Butte County, CA

A neighborhood market at North Valley Plaza Mall in Chico features local food and handmade goods from area producers. Multiple local farms bring seasonal fruits and vegetables, microgreens, and raw honey produced locally. Shoppers can find staples such as eggs straight from the farm and beef raised nearby. Prepared food is available too, including hot empanadas, tamales, and other small meals and snacks to enjoy while browsing. The Mockingbird Coffee trailer is often on site serving hot drinks. Beyond groceries, explore artisan soaps and hand sewn aprons, suitable as gifts. Reusable bags are helpful for carrying purchases.

Aunt Sherrie’s Preschool hosts a free Halloween open house for families and the community. Children can trick-or-treat through the classrooms with a passport, enjoy Halloween games and activities, make crafts, listen to music, and visit a Halloween photo spot. Guests can also meet the teachers and explore the preschool. Costumes are welcome.

Nick Henderson and The Kingdom Table offer a food giveaway in Oroville, continuing a community effort that has been going on for more than five years. Food is available while supplies last.

Whiskey River Band brings a playful Halloween eve performance to The Commons Chico, adding a lighthearted spooky twist to the festivities. This family-friendly show is open to all ages and is free to attend. Expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of boogie-ready energy.

In downtown Chico, the Chico Certified Farmers Market brings together seasonal produce, artisan goods, and a welcoming community of local vendors. Browse farm fresh fruits and vegetables, discover handmade items, and enjoy a lively atmosphere in any weather. Treat yourself to ready-to-eat favorites like burritos and tamales, then sip a coffee, chai, or tea from local drink makers as you explore. Live music adds to the experience with performances from singer songwriters, jazz groups, ukulele players, and others. During the warmer months, Chico Velo offers free bike valet so it is easy to shop hands free. Remember to bring reusable bags and the family, and please leave pets at home.

Divine Sundays brings back the fourth annual Chico Day of the Dead Festival, offering a welcoming mix of cultural learning and community celebration with free entry. Hosted at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds Pavilion, the festival features a lowrider showcase in partnership with the Chico Impalas car club, with vehicle registration available through @verocastro530. Guests can enjoy a complimentary photo booth by Fernweh Photobus, take part in a scavenger hunt that highlights the traditions and meaning of Día de Muertos, and watch live mural creation. A bar will be located by the main stage. Pets are welcome if kept on a leash or carried. On-site screen printing invites you to bring your own clothing for a custom print for $10.

Kick off the week with a free group mountain bike ride in Bidwell Park. Riders of all ability levels are welcome, and the no-drop ride is led by a staff member. The route varies, with the ride starting and finishing at the shop.