Events in Hanford today

River Park Farmers Market presents a special Oktoberfest-themed evening that transforms the regular market into a festive celebration of the fall season. At River Park Shopping Center, visitors can explore vendors offering delicious food, fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handcrafted items. Whether picking up farm-fresh ingredients or ready-to-enjoy treats, there is something for a wide range of tastes in an Oktoberfest atmosphere. An extended evening format makes it convenient after work or for a family outing, fostering a community gathering as daylight fades and festivities get underway. The event blends the familiar charm of the market with the traditions of Oktoberfest, highlighting local vendors, great food, and festive fun.

A.J. Croce and his band bring Croce Plays Croce to Warnors Theatre, celebrating the songs of his father, Jim Croce, alongside selections from his own catalog. An acclaimed singer songwriter, pianist, and multi-instrumentalist, he pairs music with stories for a concert experience that connects generations.

Make Wednesday a dedicated crop day. Spend the day working on your projects in a welcoming setting. Lunch is not provided, so attendees can bring their own or walk to the taco shack for to-go food. The cost is $15 for the day, or choose a $50 monthly pass. No prepayment is needed. Please send a message beforehand to confirm you are coming so a seat can be saved.

Set aside time for your own creative practice in Arts Visalia’s open studio. Bring the supplies you prefer to use and settle into a furnished workspace with tables, chairs, and easels available. These are self-directed sessions without instruction, and staff will be on site for support. Each session is limited to 12 participants and is for adults ages 18 and older. Choose a payment option that fits your needs with rates of $100 for the year, $25 per quarter, $15 for one month, or $8 for one week.

A cozy story time is offered at Kings County Library - Hanford Temporary Library. For more information, call 559.852.4001 or email askus@kingscountylibrary.org.

Curious about Dungeons and Dragons but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly session at the Kings County Library Hanford Temporary Branch introduces the basics in a relaxed setting so first-time players can try the game with guidance. Sessions take place every Wednesday. For more details, call 559.852.4001 or email askus@kingscountylibrary.org.

This random-draw doubles event at Woodward Legacy Disc Golf Course includes an optional ace pot. It costs $5 to play, with an additional $5 to enter the ace pot. Signups take place before play, and participants check in on UDisc. Details are subject to change.

Chair Yoga is available in person at Fresno Heart Hospital or virtually through Zoom. Designed for patients and their families, this gentle session supports both physical strength and mental well-being. For the on-site option, enter through the main lobby and proceed to the Riverpark Room located behind the front desk. For the virtual option, use Zoom with meeting number 559 433 8000 and password 8000.

Enjoy a welcoming evening of board and card games at Fresno City College, with snacks and beverages provided. A large selection of games will be available, and bringing your own favorites is welcome. LGBTQ+ community members and allies of all ages are invited, and new faces are always welcome. This gathering happens every fourth Wednesday of the month. Additional game nights also take place on the first Wednesday at Woodward Park Library and the second Wednesday at Beer for the Meeples.

These relaxed figure drawing sessions are drop in, so participants bring their own materials. A nude model is provided, and while there is no instructor, a facilitator will be present to keep things running smoothly. Each session costs $10 per participant and is limited to 25 people. Held twice a month on Wednesdays, these sessions are for adults ages 18 and older.

At International AgriCenter, the lineup includes the WCBRA Finals, The Myrna, and Why Not. Entries open on SaddleBook, and payment plan options are available. The event lists an estimated $100,000 or more in added money and an estimated $300,000 total payout, plus awards.

Ease into the morning with a relaxed Coffee Connect gathering focused on real conversation and authentic connections. Meet new people or catch up with familiar faces while enjoying coffee in a low pressure setting. There is no agenda and no sales pitch, only women supporting women and taking a moment to connect before the day gets busy.

Adults 18 and older can work independently during open studio sessions at Arts Visalia. The space supplies tables, chairs, and easels, while participants bring their own art materials. There is no formal instruction, though staff will be on site. Sessions are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays and are limited to 12 participants. Payment options are available at $100 for the year, $25 per quarter, $15 for a month, or $8 for a week.

High-energy BMX racing takes place at Woodward Park BMX Race Track, with on-site same-day registration and participation open to all ages. Fees are $8 for Striders and $12 for Riders. For more information, call (559) 621-7529. Vendors are not needed for this event, so please disregard solicitations and rely on official updates for accurate details.

Create a pair of layout spreads, each spanning two pages, guided by Project Recipe instructions for each new collection. Required paper, cardstock, and instructions are provided, and stickers or other embellishments will be shared. If attending in person is not possible, paying in advance ensures you receive the layouts. The cost is $20 per month. Tool details will be shared beforehand, and products will be available for purchase. Prepayment is needed to reserve a kit. Accepted payment methods include Venmo at @lisathurmanCM, PayPal, cash or check, or the Tickets link on the event page.

Geoff Tate brings Operation: Mindcrime to Tower Theatre for The Final Chapter. This is an all ages show.

This two day, hands-on sewing workshop features Shannon Fabrics Cuddle and the BERNINA L8 Series serger. Designed for both newcomers to serging and experienced sewists, it covers how to handle, cut, and serge Cuddle and provides a solid introduction to the L8 Series. The first day focuses on fundamentals and includes making an infinity scarf to take home. The second day builds on those skills with two additional projects, a soft lap blanket and a coordinating envelope style pillow that includes a Shannon Fabrics pillow form. The emphasis is on practical techniques, confidence building practice, and completed pieces suitable for gifting. The workshop takes place at Authorized Vac and Sew.

United Way of Tulare County hosts an annual breakfast that honors individuals and organizations making a meaningful difference across the community. Taking place at Happy Trails Riding Academy, the program highlights awardees in categories such as Advocate of the Year, Community Spirit, Community Investment, Spirit of Education, Hand Raiser, and the new Legacy Award. The gathering recognizes exceptional service, shares inspiring local stories, and fosters stronger connections among Tulare County residents.

Enjoy a free BMX jam at Mosqueda Bike Park inside Mosqueda Community Center. Riders can look forward to open sessions at the park. Participants must bring a bicycle and a helmet, and protective gear such as gloves, elbow pads, and knee pads is encouraged. Open to ages 5 and older. No registration is needed. For questions, call (559) 621-7529. Vendors are not needed, and any solicitations should be ignored.

A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu seminar features Mauricio “Tinguinha” Mariano, a 6th degree black belt widely recognized for his Spider Guard expertise. Hosted at Halo Jiu Jitsu, it welcomes practitioners from any school, all skill levels, and all ages. Competitors, coaches, and anyone seeking to refine their technique can learn directly from this accomplished instructor. Early registration and payment include entry into a raffle for a Halo rashguard. For details or to reserve a spot, send a direct message to Halo Jiu Jitsu, call 559-970-2539, or email halobjj@gmail.com.

Gemini brings their acoustic sound to Mad Duck Craft Brewing at Copper and Maple to kick off Cheri’s birthday weekend celebration. This Central Valley duo draws from top 40, classic and soft rock, dance favorites, pop standards, and dinner music, delivering familiar songs in a stripped down acoustic style suited to settings from cozy rooms to larger stages. Their performance is crafted with warmth and a focus on connecting with every listener. The venue features Mad Duck beers, a full bar, and food while Gemini provides the soundtrack for the celebration.

Deaverville returns to Tap Yard with a set of classic country favorites.

Regional Mexican group Línea Personal brings the Todo Ø Nada Tour to Warnor's Theatre in Fresno, delivering an evening of música mexicana that blends time-honored traditions with a contemporary edge. Originating in Stockton, California, the group has surged in popularity after signing with Street Mob Records, accumulating more than 350 million streams, achieving a Top 6 debut on the Latin Albums chart, earning a Premios Juventud nomination for Best New Regional Mexican Act, and appearing on Rolling Stone's Future of Music 2026 list. Expect heartfelt storytelling, emotive lyrics, and an energetic stage show. This event is open to all ages.

Run Club is a free community gathering for runners and walkers of all fitness levels. It welcomes both relaxed walkers and seasoned runners, encourages meeting people with similar interests, and offers a simple way to spend time outdoors and get moving. There is no pressure and no cost, just a friendly atmosphere centered on community, movement, and fun. Participants are welcome to attend with a friend or on their own.

The 46th annual Fresno Koi Show brings vibrant koi to Woodward Park, presented by CCKS in collaboration with the Shinzen Friendship Garden. Attendees can admire koi vying for top honors, visit vendors, enter raffles, and bid in a silent auction. Koi and food will be available for purchase. Admission is free and the show is open to the public.

BMX action is underway at Woodward Park BMX Race Track with practice sessions welcoming both newcomers and riders aiming to refine their skills. All ages are invited to participate. The fee is $6 per participant. Vendors are not needed for this activity, and unsolicited solicitations should be disregarded. For questions, call (559) 621-7529.

This one day event marks the third annual mattress fundraiser benefiting the Hoover High School Band and Color Guard. Shoppers can explore well known brands like Purple, Simmons BeautyRest, Helix and more, with prices up to 40 percent below typical retail. It takes place at Hoover High School, and proceeds go directly to the band and color guard programs. For more information, text HOOVER to 559-234-0055.

Enjoy a relaxed conversation over tea with the leadership of Arts Visalia. With Claudia away on vacation, guest director Mark Robinson, who serves on the board of Arts Consortium, will step in alongside director Tracy Polkownikow to guide an open discussion covering art opportunities, marketing, exhibiting, and related topics. A selection of hot teas will be provided, and attendees may bring their own tea or coffee if they prefer. Admission is free, and the event is intended for adults ages 18 and up.

Artist Benny Jordan leads a relaxed two hour sketch class that builds drawing skills and confidence. Beginners and seasoned artists are welcome, with structured prompts, dedicated practice time, and a friendly atmosphere for drawing and connection. All supplies are provided. This session is for ages 18 and older, is capped at 12 participants, and will run as long as at least one person is enrolled. The fee is $35 per participant for each session.

Rice travels to Fresno State for an early season showdown at Valley Children’s Stadium in Fresno. With differing approaches on the field, newcomers taking on bigger responsibilities, and both sides aiming to carry momentum into league play, this matchup offers an early measure of where each program stands in 2026. Tickets are available.

Numbskull Productions and Good Medicine present The Deslondes in concert at Strummer's. This is an all ages show, and tickets are on sale.

The Yo’Ville Farmers Market is a certified market serving West Fresno, creating a welcoming space centered on community, culture, and connection. Visitors can find fresh, locally grown produce, meet local farmers and vendors, enjoy music, and explore tasty food options. Farm and garden activities are available for all ages. The market accepts EBT and WIC to help make nutritious food more accessible. It is part of Fresno Metropolitan Ministries’ effort to learn together, build relationships, and take action that supports healthier people and neighborhoods.

A weekly BMX race takes place at Woodward Park BMX Race Track. On-site, same-day registration is available, and all ages are welcome. Entry fees are $8 for Striders and $12 for Riders. For information, call 559-621-7529. Vendors are not needed for this event, and any solicitations should be disregarded. Please rely on official updates.

California’s largest Witches Picnic brings a day of enchantment to Mooney Grove Park in Visalia, celebrating its fourth year with even more witchy vibes. This family friendly gathering welcomes all ages and all genders, creating a festive atmosphere for everyone. Wander a magical market, savor wicked treats and elixirs, and take in live performances from a belly dancing crew alongside music from DJ Lo. Creative make and take activities invite guests to craft brooms, wands, and more. Picnic setups are welcome for those who want to settle in and enjoy the day.

Artist Jim Johnson leads a woodcut relief printmaking workshop focused on creating prints on both paper and fabric. Learn to carve away areas of a wood surface to form a raised design that can be printed. Each participant receives one tote bag to print, and participants may bring additional fabric items or clothing to print on, with natural fibers recommended. All materials are provided. If you want to work with a specific image, instructions are available after you sign up. The workshop is open to ages 16 and up, is limited to 10 participants, and will run with a minimum of one participant. The fee is $65 per participant per session.

Al Di Meola brings an evening of virtuosic guitar to Tower Theatre, presenting a signature mix of jazz, rock, Latin, Mediterranean, and world influences that has shaped his work for more than five decades. His compositions balance intricate rhythmic ideas with lyrical melodies and extraordinary precision, uniting technical command with clear emotional expression. A GRAMMY Award winning artist, he has received the Miles Davis Lifetime Achievement Award and the BBC Lifetime Achievement Award, earned seven Best Guitarist honors from Guitar Player Magazine, and is a multi year winner in the DownBeat Magazine Readers Poll. A VIP Meet & Greet is offered and includes access to the soundcheck for a close look at pre show preparation, with cameras permitted without flash and no video recording. After soundcheck, guests can meet Al for a brief conversation, a photo using their own camera or phone, and autographs on up to two personal items. Each guest also receives an Al Di Meola item that will be signed during this time.