Events in Contra Costa County, CA

The Richmond Certified Year-Round Farmer's Market offers affordable, nourishing, farm-fresh food. Shoppers using CalFresh or EBT can have their spending matched up to $15 for fresh fruits and vegetables through the Market Match Program. Participants in other government assistance programs may also receive an extra $10 each week when they spend $15 on fresh fruits and vegetables.

This annual charity golf tournament at The Golf Club at Moffett Field features a four-person scramble with a shotgun start. It brings golfers and community supporters together to raise funds for Humane Society Silicon Valley, supporting efforts to save animal lives, keep pets with their families, and strengthen the bond between people and animals. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, range balls, a to-go breakfast, drink tickets for use on the course, and a post-round social with a barbecue meal. All participants are entered into a raffle for a chance to win prizes. The format is suitable for both experienced players and newcomers. Tickets are $135 per golfer, $265 per twosome, and $500 per foursome. A REAL ID or a US passport is required to enter through the NASA gates to access the course.

Adoption hours at Contra Costa Humane Society welcome both walk-ins and scheduled visits for those interested in meeting cats and kittens. Learn about available pets and submit a no obligation application. Kittens are cared for in foster homes and come spayed or neutered, microchipped, and current on vaccinations. Meet potential companions and take the next step toward adoption.

Take Five brings an upbeat, dance-friendly mix of rock and pop favorites to Meenar, with a set that includes Rock in the U.S.A., We Got the Beat, Hurt So Good, Shut Up and Dance, Moves Like Jagger, Uptown Funk, The House Is Rockin', Let's Go Crazy, Cake by the Ocean, Summer of '69, and Play That Funky Music.

Fans can gather at The Sports Page in Mountain View to watch Clemson host Charleston Southern on the covered patio, with the game shown across three 84-inch TVs. It is military appreciation day, and attendees are encouraged to wear purple. The venue serves food and drinks and is pet and kid friendly. Between plays, guests can enjoy games like giant Jenga, ping pong, billiards, and darts, plus a sand volleyball court. The patio offers a dedicated bar, food service, and optional heaters. There is ample seating and parking, so arriving early is not necessary.

In Downtown Brentwood, The Makers Boulevard brings together a handpicked mix of artisan makers and small businesses. Attendees can enjoy live music, complimentary face painting, and a photo spot hosted by Soirée Love. The market operates alongside the Brentwood Farmers’ Market, so it is easy to pick up fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables during the same visit. Families, friends, and neighbors can connect, browse unique goods, and support local vendors in a welcoming setting.

Move with MADD at Civic Park in Walnut Creek brings the community together to honor a mother and a 12-year-old friend who were killed by a drunk driver, while raising awareness about the impact of impaired driving. All proceeds go back into the local community. The event features police canines, Waymo, informational booths, music, and a raffle with contributions from community sponsors. It offers meaningful learning opportunities for teens and young adults about the dangers and consequences of drunk and impaired driving. Two out of three people will be affected by the actions of an impaired driver, a reminder that impaired driving is a 100 percent preventable crime. Participants can take part individually or with a team, including Team Joyce and Irene.

Experience a lively open air market where you can browse a variety of wares and services, choose from plenty of food items, and pick up fresh local produce. Music plays while you shop, adding to a welcoming atmosphere.

The CA State Singles Tournament is open to California USBC members with an active 2026–27 membership and will be held at Lucky Strike Brentwood. Participants bowl five games on the same pair of lanes, with separate Open and Women’s divisions. Handicap is set at 90 percent of 220, and an optional on-site Scratch division is available for $10 cash. A Ball of Choice raffle will feature items from Storm, 900 Global, and Roto Grip. For questions, contact info@calusbc.com.

Hosted at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, this community craft fair honors Elizabeth Cofer’s dedication and highlights the work of local artisans. Browse handmade goods and enjoy gyros while taking in the spirit of community. There is no charge for entry, and parking is complimentary. Makers interested in securing a vendor spot can contact Siva Wu at 626-318-6436 for details. A vendor list and additional information will be shared soon.

Once Upon A Street marks Broadway Plaza’s 75th anniversary with a royal, storybook themed celebration that honors decades of shopping, dining, and community. The celebration features live entertainment and interactive activities for all ages, including performances by Beloved Little Circus with aerialists and circus artists, flower crown crafting, a 360 degree photo booth, birthday themed experiences, and pet adoptions with Joybound People & Pets, with more surprises planned. The festivities salute the plaza’s history and vibrant community while looking ahead to its next chapter.

The third annual Juntos Creamos / Together We Create exhibition at the Richmond Museum of History & Culture offers a bilingual celebration of community and collaboration, highlighting artists as young as two. The opening day brings a community festival with interactive art and exhibition viewing, a collaborative upcycled art workshop led by Resident Artist Arthur Norcome, a reception with welcome remarks featuring Supervisor John Gioia and West County First 5 Center Director Melissa Tabique, and a dynamic multimedia process art workshop led by Resident Artist Xinchen Li. Admission is free, and lunch is provided by Richmond Renaissance.

Designed for West Coast Swing followers, this intensive centers on solo training with instruction from Bay Area locals Melissa Rutz, Joanna Meinl, and Heather Powers. Attendance is limited to 50 participants. The program takes place at Allegro Ballroom and begins with check in, followed by a welcome and a full group warmup. Dancers then move through technique sessions with Joanna, Heather, and Melissa. A short break for water and snacks comes next, leading into a styling segment that features choreography taught by all three instructors. Pricing is set at $65 for the first five registrants, $70 for advance purchase, and $80 at the door. Free parking is available in the outdoor lot. For questions or details, contact Melissa at dancerutz@gmail.com or text 415-944-0404.

A popular spot in Antioch features live music that sets the tone for dancing, enjoying a meal, or sipping a drink. It is a simple, music-centered outing.

Enjoy a guided whiskey tasting led by Sabbatical Distillery, savor a Ribeye steak dinner featuring beef from Brentwood Fine Meats, sip creative cocktails, and unwind during a warm social hour.

Move to the spirit of Brazil in a high-energy samba class led by Mary Dollar. Designed for dancers of every level, the follow-along format keeps things approachable while you groove to Afro-Brazilian and samba rhythms. Build confidence and polish with essentials like samba footwork, hip action, arm styling and lively combinations. The session begins with a full-body warmup, then continues with stretching and floor-mat exercises. Wear comfortable clothes and soft-soled shoes, and bring a mat and a towel. Expect to sweat, smile and leave with stronger technique along with a feel-good workout.

Forejour salutes the iconic sounds of 80s Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Foreigner and Journey with a faithful tribute. A multimedia presentation pairs the band’s live performance with classic videos on screen, capturing the spirit of the MTV era. The set features the 20th century’s most downloaded song, Don't Stop Believing, alongside power ballads such as Foreigner's I Want To Know What Love Is and Journey's Faithfully.

Next Stop Comedy brings a fresh, high-energy stand-up showcase to The Barnyard Wine Bar, featuring touring talent from across the country in an intimate setting. This edition spotlights Dan Yang, with Connor Lonsdale hosting. It suits date night plans, dedicated comedy fans, and anyone in the mood for a lively evening of laughs and good vibes.

French-Malagasy pianist and composer Mathis Picard delivers a contemporary jazz performance that fuses the music’s tradition with conservatory-level technique, stride piano textures, global rhythmic influences, and a fresh modern pulse. A Juilliard graduate who studied with Kenny Barron, he earned second prize at the 2014 Montreux Jazz Festival Piano Competition and received recognition from ASCAP’s Next Generation of Songwriters. His international career spans work as a pianist, composer, producer, and bandleader across the United States, Europe, and Asia, and he has performed with Ron Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cyrille Aimée, Braxton Cook, and Etienne Charles.

Take Five brings an upbeat set to The Greenery in Walnut Creek, featuring a high-energy mix that includes R.O.C.K in the USA, We Got the Beat, Hurt So Good, Shut Up and Dance, Moves Like Jagger, Uptown Funk, The House Is Rockin', Let's Go Crazy, Cake by the Ocean, Summer of '69, and Play That Funky Music. Expect a lively night of familiar hits and plenty of chances to dance.

The Lafayette Res Run for Education features a 5k and a 2 mile fun run or walk through downtown Lafayette, along with a 10k route around the Lafayette Reservoir. A Reservoir Challenge virtual race is also available. The Lafayette Reservoir will be closed to accommodate the 10k runners. The first 100 students to register from each school receive a voucher at packet pickup for a quarter pound of bulk candy from Zoonie’s Candy Shop. In the 5k and 10k, the top two finishers in each gender category earn a $50 Sports Basement gift certificate. To further benefit education, the school with the most early registrations and the school with the most registrations overall each receive an additional $500 beneficiary check, and the school that most increases its number of runners compared to last year also receives an additional $500 check. Schools in the early finish line competition include Burton Valley Elementary, Happy Valley Elementary, Lafayette Elementary, Springhill Elementary and Stanley Middle School, and high schools are included in the year over year award. Running alongside the races, the Healthy Lifestyles Health Fair offers vendors, kids’ activities and more. Presenting sponsors are the Lafayette Chamber, Oakwood Athletic Club and the City of Lafayette.

Enjoy a laid-back cars and coffee gathering at King Donuts centered around VWs, while welcoming any and all vehicles. There is no cruise planned this time, just a friendly meetup to hang out and enjoy donuts and coffee from the shop. This will be the first cars and coffee for this event.

Explore the fundamentals of Argentine tango with instructor Suzanne Bare in a welcoming class that helps develop confidence and a sense of community. Instruction is followed by a one-hour practica, providing time to put new skills into motion. Participants who wish to go further can explore opportunities to perform and to join her formation team.

Weekly support groups at Insight Wellness Center provide LGBTQIA+ individuals with a structured, caring space to reflect on their experiences, strengthen coping tools, and build meaningful peer connections. For more information, call 925-722-6225.

Students of Maya Grunina Music Studio come together for their twice-yearly recital, presenting student performances.

A free program at Down Home Music in El Cerrito, CA presents and discusses uncommon film performances of the Beatles from throughout their career. The clips range from one of their first shows with Ringo Starr at the Cavern in 1962 to the January 1969 Get Back sessions, during which the band recorded much of what would become the Let It Be album. The event is offered in recognition of a month bringing additional rare Beatles material to market with the release of the Rubber Soul box set.

St. Paul’s Concert Series presents violinists Heeguen Song and Minsun Choi in an all-acoustic live performance. Regular performers with the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, the duo offers a program of works by Prokofiev, Saint-Saëns, Bartók, Leclair, and Wieniawski, along with a contemporary piece by Bay Area composer Jean Ahn. Tickets are not required, and a voluntary donation will be accepted at the door.

This Latin dance bootcamp features bachata and salsa with three separate levels so beginners, intermediate dancers, and advanced dancers can progress at the right pace. No partner or prior experience is required. Beginners work on musical combinations that connect steps and sharpen timing with a partner. Dancers with more experience can expect a challenge from Lorans, with material designed to elevate skills in the moment. Instruction focuses on technique, lead and follow, spins, styling, and footwork, using a professional approach that builds confidence and precision. Wear comfortable or workout clothing, and choose dance shoes or other footwear with suede, leather, worn-in, or plastic soles that allow easy turning while avoiding grippy soles. Expect solid foundations that unlock new abilities, plus a combination that strengthens technique, footwork, partner connection, styling, spins, and fun patterns. Both bachata and salsa sessions are available, and participants may take one or both to broaden their dancing.

This one night improv class invites participants to stretch their comfort zone, meet new people, enjoy a drink, and share plenty of laughs. It welcomes improvisers at any skill level, from first timers to experienced performers. A 2026 Yes, And Wine Flex Pass is available, providing preferred flex enrollment or drop in for three classes and including a THT wine tumbler.

The Gregory Rhodes, MD Cancer Center at BASS Medical Group presents a free Breast Cancer Awareness Fair in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month at the Civic Park Community Center Assembly Hall in Walnut Creek. This community event features guest speakers, breast cancer education and resources, cancer support organizations and community vendors, raffles and prizes, and opportunities to connect with healthcare professionals and community members. Admission is free, and details about speakers, participating vendors, and RSVP information will be shared soon.

Connect with local professionals at the Lafayette Chamber Connectors meetup at Creekside Commons. This gathering gives Lafayette Chamber members a chance to showcase their businesses and build referral relationships. Meetings usually start with brief introductions from each attendee, then move into relaxed, open networking. Registration is required. There is no fee for Lafayette Chamber members. Guests are welcome to attend one event at no cost, and after that they may join the Chamber or pay a $20 guest fee during registration.

At Brownstone Gardens, the Twilight Market brings together local creators, live music, lawn games, and kid friendly activities for a free community gathering. Enjoy music by Dustin Heer along with beer, mimosas, wine, and food. Families will find a jumpy house for children, and shoppers can explore goods from neighborhood makers, with more surprises in store. This recurring monthly series offers a relaxed place to sip, shop, play, and connect. Additional vendor and entertainment details are forthcoming.

This recurring event features musicians performing live each week. It centers on real-time music delivered on a regular schedule.

Get into the Halloween spirit at a creative crop featuring themed activities and surprises. Enjoy raffles with prizes, a costume contest, hands-on make-and-take projects, and gift bags for participants. A dinner is included on one evening and dessert on another, and friends are welcome to craft alongside you. Registration is $149, with an optional extra day available for an additional $25. Nearby lodging options include Hampton Inn, Best Western, and Holiday Inn Express. Please note that registrations are nonrefundable with no exceptions, though you may give your spot to someone else.

This Danville destination combines a taproom, biergarten, and restaurant, featuring a wide-ranging menu, craft beer on draft, wine, and nonalcoholic choices. It is family friendly and welcomes dogs, with music adding to the vibe for a relaxed visit.

Take a spooky, family-friendly stroll through Pleasant Hill Park, where Halloween sights and sounds line the paved loop around the sports fields. Enter at any spot along the path and follow the counter clockwise flow to see festive displays, pick up treats while supplies last, and step into a Monster Freeze-Dance competition hosted by A.J. with New You Dance Center. Costumes are strongly encouraged. Open to all ages, free to attend, and no registration is needed. Presented by Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District with support from the City of Pleasant Hill, Julie McCoy LPT Realty, Pleasant Hill Community Foundation, and Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill.

Creative teams of filmmakers, actors, writers, directors, and crew take on a challenge to make a movie in a single day in Pleasant Hill, California. Participants collaborate to produce a short film, then watch the finished work on a local big screen. Everyone who attends receives IMDB credit after the screening.

Now in its 12th year, Hot Rods 4 Paws brings a family friendly car show with activities for all ages, raising funds to support Furry Friends Pet Relief. The organization assists families in need with their pets by offering free to low cost spay and neuter services, vaccinations, preventive medical care, and food. The schedule features a car show, a pet costume contest with on-site registration at the Furry Friends Pet Relief office, a kid parade, and an awards presentation to wrap up the day. Car owners can register to display their vehicles, and there are engaging moments planned throughout the event.

At Antioch Covenant Church in Antioch, CA, this kids craft fair highlights young creators as they share their crafts and demonstrate budding entrepreneurial spirit and talent.

Attendees are encouraged to wear witch hats, witch-themed outfits, or other Halloween costumes while enjoying complimentary samples of signature mocktails at participating shops. Information on which businesses are involved, a map, further details, and a way to register for an event reminder are available to help with planning.

Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek welcomes the return of a local artist street fair that brings together more than 40 Bay Area artisans, makers, and small businesses. Celebrate the season with a cozy fall atmosphere, a touch of Halloween spirit, and plenty of chances to get a head start on holiday shopping. Explore a wide range of handcrafted goods, including jewelry, pottery, fragrances, candles, bath and body items, crochet pieces, apparel, leather accessories, and more. The fair is kid and pet friendly, and live music from local musicians adds to the festive feel. Look for the festivities within the plaza between Nordstrom and Macy’s.

A Hōʻike celebrating 25 years is happening, marking a meaningful milestone for the event. Tickets can be obtained through Brentwood Haumāna.

Form a team of one to five people for a trick-or-treat style adventure through Pleasant Hill’s Poet’s Corner. Pack a headlamp or a flashlight, then explore festively decorated streets as you hunt for creative displays and answer an easy multiple choice question at each stop. Choose your distance with approximately 20 checkpoints on the 5K course or 36 on the 10K. Cap off the outing with refreshments and time to socialize at the finish.

An evening at Danville Music features Suhr guitarist Pete Thorn presenting his Inspired By The Tone clinic. He shares how he thinks about tone and gear, balancing exploration with practical application to support the music. A giveaway will include nine sets of Pete Thorn Signature Series Pickups.

MMG comes back for a Saturday night in the fall. Because it is the weekend before Halloween, costumes can get an early tryout.

Ronstadt Revolution brings a live tribute to Linda Ronstadt to the California Theatre in Pittsburg, California. The show explores her wide-ranging catalog in both English and Spanish with strong vocals and accomplished musicianship, featuring favorites like Heat Wave, You’re No Good, Blue Bayou, Tu Solo Tú and more. Led by bilingual vocalist Natalie Amaya, the band includes seasoned players whose credits include work with Elvis Presley, Tina Turner, and Sheryl Crow, along with collaborations with Daniel Valdez, the guitarist and vocalist featured on Linda Ronstadt’s Canciones de mi Padre. The California Theatre setting offers tables near the stage with room to dance or traditional theater seating, and drinks are available in the restored art deco lobby.

Explore a vibrant outdoor market featuring a wide variety of goods and services, tasty food options, and an abundance of fresh local produce. Browse the stalls, discover new favorites, and enjoy live music while you shop.

Contra Costa Halloween Con 2026 offers a family-friendly celebration of pop culture inside the Hilton Concord Hotel ballroom, featuring toys, collectibles, artwork, comics, anime, apparel, games, LEGO and more. Exhibitors will present new items and collectibles from brands and franchises such as Disney, Transformers, Funko Pop, LEGO, Pokémon, G.I. Joe, Marvel, DC, Dragon Ball Z, My Hero Academia and Hot Wheels, along with posters, prints, T-shirts, hats, sports cards, books, classic video games, jewelry, buttons, pins and trading cards. Attendees can take part in a free Halloween cosplay costume contest with cash and merchandise prizes across multiple age groups, with registration handled on site during the event. Children 9 and under receive free admission. Tickets are $12, and advance online purchases include a $2 Toy Buck. Tickets are available online and at the door. Free parking is available at the Hilton. Presented by Bay Area Festivals and American Brick Builders.

Costumes are encouraged at the yearly Howl la la Boo event, which features spooky crafts, a Halloween-themed story, and games. Admission is free, and people of all ages and abilities are welcome. Registration is requested to receive a reminder and to help librarians plan for attendance. Presented with support from the Friends of the Oakley Library.

This event features live music.

Downtown Lafayette transforms into a kid-friendly trick-or-treat route as local shops welcome families for a safe Halloween stroll. Admission is free, and the activities are geared toward children 9 and younger. Look for event signs in storefronts to identify participating stops. Costumes are encouraged, and bringing a bag for treats is a good idea.

Dave "Ouzo" Land is featured at Hazy Barbecue in the historic downtown district of Danville. The focus is on flavorful barbecue and a robust drink selection that includes craft beer on tap, wine, spirits, and house cocktails. There are ample nonalcoholic choices for kids and those skipping alcohol. The atmosphere is family and dog friendly, with music adding to the lively, welcoming vibe.

Deepen your ability to serve others with Sacred Geometry Level 6, focused on learning the Core Will Infusion. This training provides the handing down needed to offer the modality to clients. Participants explore practices that cleanse and align the etheric structure for stronger energetic well-being and cultivate a clearer relationship with the Will of God and the goodness present in life. The curriculum supports a richer understanding of the Will of Nature, the Universe, and humanity, bringing greater clarity around life direction and purpose. It also aims to restore peace through reconnection with the spiritual self while nurturing reverence for life. Hosted at Modern Mystery School- Northern California. Prerequisites include completion of Sacred Geometry I through V, certification as a Life Activation Practitioner, and having received the Core Will Infusion Activation within the six months prior to the class. For questions, contact Erin Wallace at 925-788-1487 or EventsMMSNCal@gmail.com.

Volunteer for a hands-on restoration effort that keeps Mount Diablo’s foothills thriving. This crew waters native plantings to boost survival during dry months, a vital step that helps counter climate impacts. The group meets at the Clayton Park 'N Ride and then carpools in an SMD vehicle to the Irish Canyon work site. This project is carried out in partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and East Bay Regional Park District. Sign up is required. Expect physical activity that includes walking on uneven, sloped terrain and carrying two 2-gallon jugs, about 32 pounds total, while tending young seedlings. There is no bathroom at the site. The workday is planned for three hours, though watering sometimes finishes in about two. During summer, start times are set earlier to take advantage of cooler temperatures. Bring a water bottle and snacks, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and long pants, and pack sun protection such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Be prepared to move through tall, dry grass. All tools and materials are provided. Activities may be canceled due to extreme weather, and an Air Quality Index of 150 or higher automatically cancels the workday.

This event features a live performance by Chris Ahlman.

Settle into a restorative meditation and sound bath designed to nourish your whole self. Guided practices weave mindful breathing, crystal singing bowls, and immersive sound to ease the pace of daily life and invite a return to inner calm and heart centered awareness. Whether the intention is relaxation, renewal, healing, or simply reconnecting with self and community, this gathering welcomes everyone. To support comfort, bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, water, and any personal items that help you feel cozy and cared for. The experience offers space to breathe and receive, with a gentle reminder that love lives within rather than being something to search for, and that between one heartbeat and the next there is room to remember who you are.

A high-energy night of live alternative rock featuring music from Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Strokes, Green Day, Smashing Pumpkins, Offspring, Rage Against the Machine, and more.

Filmmakers, directors, actors, writers, and crew gather in Pleasant Hill, California for a short film challenge completed in a single day. Teams collaborate to make a movie, then watch it play on a local big screen. This is a competition, and everyone who attends receives IMDb credits after the screening. Advance registration is available.

An early morning shopping experience at a lively outdoor market features a wide range of goods, services, and foods, along with locally grown produce. Music sets the mood as you browse and shop.

Dan + Shay bring The Young Tour 2026 to Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, showcasing sleek harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and an upbeat, arena-ready sound. The Grammy-winning country pop duo performs favorites such as Tequila, Speechless, and 10,000 Hours, along with romantic ballads and fresh live moments from the tour.

NextGen’s monthly dance at Allegro Ballroom offers an evening of music and social dancing, with a DJ to be announced. The night begins with two concurrent lessons. One session is designed for dancers who already know West Coast Swing fundamentals, while a beginner class welcomes newcomers or anyone looking to review the basics and includes dedicated time for social practice. A Mix and Match, also known as Jack and Jill, contest is open to all levels and to any lead or follow role. Partners are assigned at random and couples are judged across three to four songs, and if two All-Stars or higher draw one another they will be re-paired. Finalists from the series will be invited back to compete for complimentary passes to the annual Boogie by the Bay convention. Pricing options include general admission at $25 for the lesson plus dance or $15 for dance only, beginner class attendees at $20 for lesson and dance, Next Gen members at $15 for lesson and dance or $10 for dance only, and juniors 18 and under at $17 for lesson and dance or $7 for dance only. The lesson instructor will be announced.

At Pleasant Hill Senior Center in Pleasant Hill, this informative session focuses on the core legal paperwork seniors should have in place to ensure their preferences are honored and to safeguard both property and family. Attendees receive practical, easy to understand guidance on wills, powers of attorney, and additional planning tools that help provide greater confidence about the future. The session is presented by Kristina Park, Attorney at Law and founder of Park Legacy Law Firm, P.C.

Lafayette Business Women brings together local women-led businesses to exchange knowledge, connect, and collaborate. This gathering takes place at Little Seeds. Registration is required. First-time guests can attend at no cost, then may either join the Lafayette Chamber or pay a $20 guest fee per meeting. The group is co-chaired by Carine Camara of CARRINNA and Katie Santos of Consulting-Fitness HR. Sponsorship opportunities are available for future events, and an interest form is provided.

Participants from across the film community take on a one day short film challenge, forming teams to create a movie and then watch it play on a local big screen. This competitive event welcomes filmmakers, crew members, actors, writers, and directors. Everyone who attends receives IMDb credits after the screening. More details and advance registration are available.

A craft and vendor fair with a toy drive at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building features local vendors with handmade creations, one of a kind gifts, and seasonal items, a welcoming option for families and an easy way to get a head start on holiday shopping. Hosted by Dillon’s Dream: A World Without Cancer, the event directs proceeds to pediatric cancer patients. Attendees are encouraged to bring a brand new toy that is not gift wrapped to support children undergoing cancer treatment.

Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society hosts its annual celebration of earth sciences and lapidary arts, showcasing family friendly fun, gift shopping, and educational experiences for all ages. Expect a bustling marketplace and exhibits with minerals, gemstones, fossils, meteorites, jewelry, beads, and slab material. Explore the fluorescent tent, watch demonstrations, and enjoy hands-on activities and games such as rock painting. Door prizes, silent auctions, and raffles add to the excitement. New additions are planned for this year, with further details to be announced.

Young makers ages 8 to 14 can dive into UV resin techniques in a single-session jewelry workshop. Participants pour resin into silicone molds, mix in colors, mica powders, and glitter, and set small items or dried flowers to create distinctive shapes. The pieces are cured under a UV light, then finished with findings to turn them into wearable art. Projects can include earrings, pendants, bracelets, and keychains. Cost is $60.

The Dillon’s Dream Fundraiser Dinner brings the community together at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building for a heartfelt evening supporting children battling cancer. Guests can share a warm meal, connect with others, and contribute to a meaningful cause. Tickets are priced at $40 for adults and $20 for children. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to help brighten the days of pediatric cancer patients. Hosted by Dillon’s Dream: A World Without Cancer, all proceeds directly support children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

A lively open air market offers a wide range of wares, services, and food items, along with abundant fresh local produce. Stroll through the booths, explore what catches your eye, and enjoy music as you shop.

Connect with Lafayette Chamber Connectors at Creekside Commons for a focused networking session designed to build referral relationships. Lafayette Chamber members can present their businesses to the group, then continue conversations during an informal networking period. Registration is required. Members attend at no cost. Guests may attend their first Lafayette Chamber event or meeting for free, then can either become Chamber members or pay a $20 guest fee during registration.

Lafayette Chamber Young Professionals, also known as YoPros, is a network for early and emerging professionals, career changers, and new business founders. It offers a welcoming space to build relationships, grow professionally, and connect with Lafayette’s business community, meeting at Chamber member businesses throughout the area. This gathering is a casual Friendsgiving Happy Hour at El Talpense Mexican Restaurant in Lafayette, where attendees can purchase their own food and beverages. Registration is required. Guests may attend their first meeting at no cost, then can join the Lafayette Chamber or continue as a guest for a $20 fee per event.

This is a weekly live music series. Attendees can look forward to live performances.

Diablo Women’s Chorale brings its latest program, Dream Radio, to Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church in Lafayette, CA. Centered on the many faces of dreaming, the concert moves through joyful, mysterious, hopeful, romantic, and delightfully odd moods. A wide-ranging set spans eras and genres, from serene choral lullabies and vintage jazz to contemporary rock and pop, with each piece feeling like its own station on the dial. The stage is reimagined as a live radio studio, complete with a podcast-style host, original jingles, and interactive call segments that tie the program together. Artistic Director Erin Fishler leads the ensemble, drawing on experience as a Bay Area vocalist, pianist, and educator with performances that range from intimate rooms to Carnegie Hall. At the piano is Accompanist Rebecca Hass, a pianist, teacher, and composer whose work is shaped by a deep love of Brazilian rhythms. The Diablo Women’s Chorale is a long-standing secular community choir in the East Bay, dedicated to bringing people together through song.

Celebrate the sounds of the eighties with a guitar-driven dance party focused on rock and movement. Enjoy upbeat, riff-heavy music with plenty of chances to dance in a lively atmosphere.

This free, all-ages tribute show features UNCHAINED delivering a high-energy lineup of Van Halen favorites from the David Lee Roth era. The set spans a broad mix of hits, performed with powerful vocals and lively onstage showmanship that channels the band’s classic energy. Aimed at fans of early Van Halen, the performance celebrates the sound and spirit that defined those years.

A family ceramics workshop for ages 8 and older invites participants to craft clay ornaments and small pendants for jewelry or home decor using hand-building methods. Learn to roll and form your pieces, add surface textures, and finish them with underglaze. Most participants complete five to ten distinct creations to keep or give as gifts. Tuition is $100 and includes registration for one youth and one adult together. Each child must be registered, and a single adult may accompany multiple children.

Young creators will dive into California’s native plants, ecosystems, and art traditions shaped by Indigenous relationships with the land through hands-on art and design projects. Campers will get to know local flora such as oak trees, acorns, poppies, tule reeds, sage, and redwoods while crafting nature-inspired pieces, trying out natural materials, and exploring themes of stewardship, gratitude, and caring for the world around us. Through artmaking, storytelling, and creative exploration, kids will grow their creativity, sharpen observation skills, and build design thinking while deepening appreciation for California’s landscapes and cultures. Designed for nature-loving children ages 5 to 10 who enjoy making things and uncovering the wonders waiting outdoors. 🍂✨

Celebrate the spirit of the season at the Makers Market Local Artist Street Fair at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek. Explore an outdoor marketplace featuring more than 40 Bay Area makers and shop distinctive, handcrafted pieces that make thoughtful host gifts, seasonal decor, and meaningful presents. Expect a wide range of artisan goods such as handmade jewelry, pottery, fragrances, candles, bath and body items, crochet, apparel, leather goods, and more. The event is friendly for kids and pets, and live performances from local musicians create a festive atmosphere. It takes place at Broadway Plaza, set between Nordstrom and Macy's, and offers opportunities to support local creatives and enjoy early holiday magic.

At Todos Santos Plaza in downtown Concord, the Concord Farmers Market features Dave “Ouzo” Land alongside a broad mix of vendors. Browse goods, services, and food options, and pick up produce from nearby growers while music adds to the shopping experience.

Celebrate the season at a popular holiday tradition in Lafayette that brings the community together for festive cheer. Presented by the Lafayette Chamber with support from the Dana Green Team, Branagh Development, and the City of Lafayette, this gathering highlights the eco-friendly twinkle lights brightening downtown. Enjoy a visit from Santa, a community tree lighting, live performances, activities for kids, photo opportunities, and food available for purchase. Free to attend, this celebration takes place at Lafayette Plaza.

Hosted by Greater LIFE Community Outreach, this elegant black and white gala at the California Ballroom includes a seated dinner, live entertainment with a band and a DJ, time to connect with others, and meaningful reflections. Guests are encouraged to wear formal black and white attire for an evening centered on music, celebration, and community. Individual tickets are $65 and couples tickets are $120, and capacity is limited. Event marketing and registration support is provided by Inspired By U, Your Marketing & Consulting Co.

Celebrate the season at a Christmas crop where all proceeds are donated to Dimes to Dollars to Deeds to support a local family in need. The cost is $100. Enjoy raffle prizes and a dessert included with the event. Nearby lodging options include Hampton Inn, Best Western, and Holiday Inn Express. Cancellations are not permitted, and if you are unable to attend, you may gift your spot to a friend.

The 27th annual East Bay Walk & Roll to Cure ALS brings the community together at Heather Farm in Walnut Creek. Participants take part to honor those living with ALS, remember loved ones, and show support for the broader ALS community. Fundraising from the event helps accelerate progress toward treatments and cures, creating an experience that is both meaningful and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Enjoy a free, indoor holiday shopping experience in Pleasant Hill featuring a wide range of gifts and stocking stuffers from arts and crafts makers, home-based businesses, and commercial exhibitors. Browse toys, clothing for all ages, jewelry, purses, cosmetics, candles, soaps, candy, fashion accessories, home goods, bath and body items, books, kitchenware, baking supplies and treats, plus plenty of seasonal decorations and ornaments. Special guests Olaf and his friend Frosty the Snowman will greet attendees throughout the event. Admission and parking are free. Every guest receives a raffle ticket for prizes donated by vendors, and each canned food donation to Monument Crisis Center earns an additional ticket. The first 250 families to arrive receive a Holiday Gift Bag. Families who register for a free family ticket can pick up a $2 Holiday Buck at check-in to use toward their first purchase, limited to one adult per family.

At IFES Hall, a cozy indoor holiday plant market brings the Bay Area plant community together, rain or shine, with a warm setting for browsing and discovery. Presented with support from the BAE and featuring SANSI as the official lighting partner, this gathering offers free admission and free parking. Expect a wide range of plants and gifts, including rare aroids, anthuriums, orchids, succulents, terrariums, ceramics, and handmade items. International vendors such as Ecuagenera, Art Garden Flowers, and Tropical Plant Sales appear alongside local names including Baby Tot Tropicals, Best Anthuriums Ever, CasaPlants Bay Area, Greenpunches, Plant Social Club, Planticello LLC, PowerUpPlants, Rare Plant Bae, RDD succulents, Rooted & Rare, SolarMonstera, Terrestrial Plant Company, The Potted Guppy, and PotterUpper. Beyond plants, explore creations from Celeste Wong Ceramics, Understory Labyrinth, and Whimsy Woods Co. A live silent auction features rare plants and unique items. Attendees are automatically entered in a SANSI lighting giveaway, and an exclusive 30 percent SANSI online discount code will be available. The event is indoors, family friendly, and pets are not permitted inside. Hosted by GreenPunches and PotterUpper.

For ages 8 to 14, this hands-on ceramics session invites participants to build a fully playable board game from clay. Work with slab building, sculpting, and surface decoration to create a custom board and pieces. Recreate classics like Mancala, Tic-Tac-Toe, or Checkers, or design original game components. Cost is $65.

NextGen’s monthly social brings an evening of West Coast Swing to Allegro Ballroom, beginning with two simultaneous lessons followed by open dancing. One class welcomes complete beginners or anyone wanting a fundamentals refresher, with dedicated time built in for social practice, and the other is geared to dancers already comfortable with West Coast Swing basics. The teaching team and the DJ will be announced. A Mix and Match, also known as Jack and Jill, contest is open to all levels and to any lead or follow role. Dancers are paired at random and judged as a couple over three to four songs, and if two All Stars draw each other they will be re-paired. Over the course of the series, finalists will be invited back to compete for complimentary passes to the annual Boogie by the Bay convention. Pricing options include general admission at 25 dollars for lesson plus dance or 15 dollars for dance only, a 20 dollar lesson plus dance rate for those taking the beginner class, member pricing at 15 dollars for lesson plus dance or 10 dollars for dance only, and junior rates for ages 18 and under at 17 dollars for lesson plus dance or 7 dollars for dance only.

Central Contra Costa’s largest holiday shopping showcase returns to Concord for its 17th year with a free, indoor marketplace filled with festive cheer. Explore one-of-a-kind gifts and stocking stuffers from a wide range of arts and crafts vendors, home-based businesses, and commercial exhibitors, featuring toys, clothing for all ages, jewelry, purses, cosmetics, candles, soaps, candy, fashion accessories, home goods, bath and body items, books, kitchenware, cooking products, baked treats, seasonal decorations, ornaments, and more, plus self-help and home improvement exhibitors. Beloved guests Olaf from Frozen and Frosty the Snowman will be on hand for meet-and-greets. Admission and parking are complimentary. Every attendee receives a free raffle ticket for prizes donated by vendors, and each canned food donation to the Monument Crisis Center earns an additional ticket per can. The first 250 families to arrive will receive a Holiday Gift Bag. Those who register for a free family ticket can pick up a $2 Holiday Buck at check-in to use toward the first purchase, limited to one adult per family.

Kick off the weekend early with a sizzling Thursday evening at 8 Acres, setting the tone for fun and good energy.

Designed for singles in their 40s and 50s, this in-person speed dating evening in Walnut Creek features a series of six-minute conversations that introduce you to between five and twelve local participants. After each mini date, you indicate who you would like to connect with further, and the organizers handle the matching afterward. The format keeps things simple and efficient, creating a friendly, low-pressure setting with attention to safety. Hosted by PRE-DATING, a long-running speed dating company with more than 38,000 events since 2001 and media features that include CNN, BBC, The Wall Street Journal, and CBS, it offers a straightforward way to meet new people face to face.

This stage adaptation by Alex Schepers brings Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol to life. The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a hardened miser visited by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. They guide him through memories, present realities, and a stark look at what may lie ahead, revealing the consequences of his choices and what isolation could bring. The experience transforms him, opening his heart to generosity, compassion, and the spirit of the season.

Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek transforms into an outdoor holiday marketplace as the Local Artist Holiday Street Fair returns, bringing together more than forty Bay Area makers and small brands. Visitors can browse handmade treasures that include jewelry, ceramics, fragrances, candles, bath and body goods, crochet pieces, apparel, leather accessories, and other seasonal accents perfect for thoughtful Christmas gifting. The setting is family and pet friendly, and local musicians provide live music that adds to the festive atmosphere. Set between Nordstrom and Macy’s, the fair celebrates creativity and community by encouraging shoppers to support local talent while exploring unique, artisan-crafted finds beneath sparkling lights and the cool winter air.

Begin Sunday with an early visit to a vibrant outdoor market. Explore a wide range of goods and services, find plenty of tasty food options, and take home fresh, locally grown produce. Music fills the air as you shop, creating a cheerful backdrop for the morning.

Dave "Ouzo" Land is on hand at the Concord Farmers Market at Todos Santos Plaza in downtown Concord. Explore vendor wares, services, and food items alongside fresh local produce, and enjoy music as you shop.

Dave "Ouzo" Land brings a lively presence to the Pleasant Hill Farmers Market at City Hall in Pleasant Hill. Get an early start to the weekend while exploring a range of tasty foods and fresh, locally grown produce. Families can enjoy a dedicated children’s area, and music adds an upbeat soundtrack to the market experience.

The Aaron Pearson Band brings an upbeat night of 80s-inspired, guitar-driven rock to Meenar in Danville, creating a dance-ready party atmosphere.

Sparkologie’s Bay Area Makers Camp invites kids to explore the roles of artist, designer, engineer, and inventor through hands-on projects rooted in the Bay Area’s spirit of creativity, technology, and innovative design. Campers imagine future inventions, build prototypes, craft art inspired by local landmarks and creators, and take on engaging engineering challenges while experimenting with art, design, STEM, and AI in age-appropriate ways. Along the way, they strengthen problem solving and collaboration skills and grow creative confidence, discovering that big ideas can start with their own imagination. This experience is well suited for curious kids who enjoy building, creating, inventing, and dreaming big.

MMG will perform on stage for a New Year's celebration at Antioch Taphouse & Restaurant. Seating is limited, so plan ahead. More details to come.