Events in Butte County today

Designed for beginners and intermediate or returning artists, these classes build foundational acrylic painting skills and help participants refine their work in a relaxed, fun setting. Bring your own materials and art project, then paint independently with Christine’s guidance as needed. Occasionally, the group will work on a shared piece to practice techniques. No prior experience is necessary. Classes cost $20 each, with payment accepted in advance by Venmo or credit card, or at class.

An intermediate gravel group ride departs from North Rim Adventure Sports and finishes at Ramble West Brewing, which co-hosts the event. The route varies, with about 20 miles covered in roughly an hour and a half. For questions, please contact the shop.

Take part in an open pottery studio session. Admission is $3 for members and $6 for non-members. The facilitator is Sally Shea.

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.

DeGarmo Park transforms into a festive outdoor cinema for a Halloween-themed movie night featuring Hocus Pocus 2. Costumes are encouraged, and blankets and lawn chairs help make the screening comfortable. Before the film, attendees can take part in spooky activities suitable for all ages, pick up treats from local food trucks, and grab complimentary popcorn. A Halloween costume parade and contest add to the celebration. Admission is free.

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.

A Halloween-themed bluegrass night unfolds at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. in Chico with AJ Lee & Blue Summit and Broken Compass Bluegrass. AJ Lee & Blue Summit, a virtuosic four-piece shaped by California’s festival circuit and early Santa Cruz gigs, deliver progressive picking and close-knit vocals. After two self-released albums, they partnered with Signature Sounds for City Of Glass, drew widespread praise, and secured slots at Telluride, MerleFest, High Sierra, and RockyGrass, where Rolling Stone noted their ease moving among bluegrass, country, western swing, and folk-rock with AJ Lee’s commanding voice at the core. Broken Compass Bluegrass brings Northern California roots and crisp arrangements from Kyle Ledson, Django Ruckrich, Mei Lin Heirendt, and Sam Jacobs. Formed in 2021, they have quickly reached stages such as MerleFest, High Sierra Music Festival, Strawberry Music Festival, WinterWonderGrass, and Bluegrass in La Roche in France, blending tradition with forward-looking acoustic energy. Together, these bands set the scene for a spirited night of live music, rich harmonies, and fleet-fingered instrumentals.

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.

The haunted house returns to The Broom Closet, paired with a witch-themed market for a spooky seasonal gathering. It offers an eerie, festive atmosphere that blends marketplace browsing with haunted thrills. Vendor opportunities are available upon inquiry.

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.

Enjoy Halloween chili dogs and treats with Sierra Steel Harley-Davidson.

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.

Learn about eating for a healthy heart with Food for Life instructor Sherry Morgado. The class includes tasting and cooking plant-based vegan recipes such as lemon-berry pancakes, white bean dip, and quinoa salad with orange-soy dressing. The class is offered through the Food for Life Program by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The cost is $20, payable at the event, and preregistration is required.

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.

Learn the basics of dance in a beginner-friendly class. Drop-in and class-pack payment options are available, and payment can also be made at the door. Reservations are encouraged.