Free events in Chico, CA

Start the week on the trails with a free group mountain bike ride in Bidwell Park. Riders of all experience levels are welcome, and the pace is set so no one gets left behind. A shop staff member leads the ride. The route changes each time, and both the rollout and finish happen at the shop. This outing occurs every other Monday.

Browse a neighborhood market at North Valley Plaza Mall featuring produce straight from area farms, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, microgreens, and raw local honey. Stock up on staples such as farm eggs and locally raised beef, then pick up a hot empanada, tamale, or other ready-to-eat bite while you shop. The Mockingbird Coffee trailer is typically on site pouring hot drinks, and makers offer handcrafted goods like artisan soaps and hand-sewn aprons for thoughtful gifts or everyday use.

Downtown Chico comes alive as the streets transform into a lively open-air marketplace showcasing local vendors and the community’s sights, sounds, and flavors. Explore fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and a wide range of tasty food while live music and street performers create a festive atmosphere that welcomes families and friends. City Plaza features rotating themed expos each month, so there is always something new to discover. Whether meeting for dinner, browsing local makers, or simply soaking in the energy of downtown, this weekly market offers a relaxed way to connect with the community and celebrate what makes Chico special.

Bike Night returns to Tackle Box Chico every fourth Friday of the month, providing a relaxed meetup for riders, families, and friends. It is free to attend, family friendly, and open to all with a focus on positive vibes and motorcycles.

In the heart of downtown Chico, the Chico Certified Farmers Market offers a lively Saturday morning destination filled with seasonal produce, handmade goods, and a welcoming community of local vendors. Browse farm-fresh fruits and vegetables or pick up unique artisan items, rain or shine. Savor the morning with ready-to-eat favorites like burritos and tamales, and sip a hot coffee, chai, or tea as you stroll. Live local music sets the tone, featuring singer songwriters, jazz groups, and ukulele performances. Biking is encouraged during the warmer months with free valet service provided by Chico Velo, and downtown parking is free on Saturdays. Bring reusable bags and the family, and please leave pets at home.

The 47th annual Chico Concours car show brings a full day of beautiful automobiles, music, refreshments and entertainment to the park-like setting of the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds in Chico. Spectator admission is free. The event is open to participants and spectators, and online registration is available. Proceeds benefit Butte College Automotive Technology, Chico Noon Rotary and the Chico Rugby Foundation. Sponsors include Recology Butte Colusa Counties, Golden Valley Bank, Engelbrecht Advertising, Action News Now, CBS TV-12, NBC TV-24, Thomas Manufacturing, Chico Enterprise Record, Butte Creek Country Club, MIX 95.1, 103.5 The Blaze, KZAP 96.7, KPAY News 93.9, KPAY Sports 1290-AM, Deer Creek Broadcasting and Digital Interactive.