Events in Porterville, CA

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.

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.

The West Coast Barrel Racing Association closes out the season with a multi-day showcase presented by Nutrena at the International Agri-Center. The lineup features the WCBRA Finals alongside The Myrna and Why Not, bringing top barrel racers together for fast runs and high stakes. Competitors contend for more than $100,000 in added money and an estimated overall purse of about $300,000, with awards also on the line. Entry is handled through SaddleBook, and payment plan options are available.

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.

United Way of Tulare County presents an annual breakfast that recognizes local people and organizations for their positive impact. Hosted at Happy Trails Riding Academy, it brings residents together to honor exceptional service, share inspiring community stories, and build connections across Tulare County. Honors include Advocate of the Year, Community Spirit, Community Investment, Spirit of Education, Hand Raiser, and the newly added Legacy Award.

Deaverville returns to Tap Yard with a live set of classic country favorites, featuring familiar songs from the genre.

Golden State Bucking Horse Futurity is promoted as the largest and most lucrative futurity on the West Coast. Attendees are encouraged to plan their trip ahead.

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.

Matthew West brings the Jesus Is King Tour to Porterville Church of the Nazarene in Porterville, California, featuring Peter Burton. The concert highlights new songs such as Good and Jesus Is King, alongside familiar selections including Don’t Stop Praying, The God Who Stays, Unashamed, and Truth Be Told. Tickets are on sale now. To protect buyers and participants, third party ticket resales are not allowed on official event pages. Purchase only through the authorized ticketing outlet so your order is valid and you can receive updates and assistance, since tickets from unofficial sellers are not guaranteed.

California’s largest Witches Picnic returns to Mooney Grove Park in Visalia for its fourth year with free admission and a welcoming, family friendly atmosphere for all ages and genders. The day features a bustling witches market, treats and elixirs with a wicked twist, and live entertainment from a belly dancing troupe along with music from DJ Lo. Hands-on stations invite participants to make and take brooms, wands, and other creations. Bring a picnic setup for your group and enjoy an enchanting community gathering filled with witchy vibes.

Discover relief printmaking on paper and fabric in a hands-on woodcut workshop led by artist Jim Johnson. Learn to carve a wood block to form a raised image, then pull prints on paper and on textiles. A tote bag is included for printing, and you may bring additional fabric or clothing to print; natural-fiber items are recommended. Materials are included. For ages 16 and older. The fee is $65 per person for one session. Enrollment is limited to 10 participants, and the workshop will run with at least one registrant. If you want to work from a specific image, instructions are available after registration.

Visalia, CA welcomes The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight as part of its 2026 tour, presenting a 90 minute concert that transforms iconic rock and metal anthems within a haunting candlelit setting. A 14 piece ensemble of classical musicians creates a fusion of graceful melodies and powerful distortion, uniting classical technique with the raw edge of metal and rock. Expect music associated with Metallica, AC/DC, the Rolling Stones, Rage Against The Machine, My Chemical Romance, Linkin' Park, SOAD, Guns N Roses, Evanescence, Papa Roach, the Cranberries, and more. The Rock Orchestra operates as a rotating collective, bringing together instrumentalists and vocalists for an immersive show that audiences have rated 4.7 out of 5. Feedback from fans highlights continuous excitement from start to finish, a striking mix of symphonic flair and hard rock energy, and a memorable blend of music, production, and stage presentation. The production is not affiliated with the original artists or composers referenced, and all trademarks remain with their respective owners.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight presents a new 90-minute concert on its 2026 tour, merging iconic rock and metal anthems with a haunting candlelit ambiance. A group of 14 classical musicians and vocalists shapes enchanting melodies alongside surges of distortion for an unexpected union of classical and metal. After entertaining more than 700,000 guests worldwide, this rotating collective returns to the USA with music by Metallica, AC/DC, Rage Against The Machine, My Chemical Romance, Linkin' Park, SOAD, Guns N Roses, Evanescence and The Cranberries, and more.

Start the weekend with Friday night fun at Tap Yard Tulare featuring Blue Collar Rockers.

Perico Productions presents The Doo Wop Project: Echoes of the Street at the Visalia Fox Theatre, unveiling a fresh concert celebrating the heart of classic doo wop. Audiences can look forward to rich vocal blends, lively stagecraft, and favorite songs that influenced multiple generations, performed by a leading ensemble devoted to this timeless sound. Tickets are offered in three tiers, with Level I at $69, Level II at $59, and Level III at $49. This performance is made possible with support from sponsors Michelob ULTRA, Ed Dena’s Auto Center, and ERA Real Estate.

A concert by The Doo Wop Project features vocalists with Broadway credits. The group honors the legacy of inner city African American ensembles such as The Del Vikings, The Marcels, The Tymes, and The Four Seasons by reviving the street corner harmonies once heard on stoops, in subways, and along city streets. The set also explores newer sounds, reshaping songs by Amy Winehouse, Garth Brooks, Daft Punk, Taylor Swift, and others with a doo wop twist they call Doo Wopify. Their track record includes a PBS special seen nationwide, five albums available on major streaming services, and more than ten years of sold out performances in the United States and around the world. The result is a program that connects longtime fans and first timers alike.

Explore body composition with FLOATAWEIGH hydrostatic weighing, a water displacement assessment that accounts for muscle, bone, and fat to provide a clearer picture than a scale alone. This gold standard approach helps reveal what makes up your weight so you can better understand your overall makeup. Pricing is $30 for members and $40 for guests. For more information or to book a session, call (559) 624-3450.

Celebrate every fandom at a Comic Con filled with vendors, food, games, giveaways, raffles, cosplay, a special guest, and more.

Explore graffiti as a visual art in a hands-on class that uses mixed media to craft a backdrop diorama that showcases your graffiti-inspired creation. The class is led by instructor Theo Aguilar. The fee is $35. Full and partial scholarships are available, with details provided online.

An upbeat evening at Recreation Park features music and a grilled cheese tasting contest where attendees sample imaginative creations and help choose the favorites, all in support of a good cause. Details on competitor registration will be announced soon, and inquiries can be sent to Foundation4visaliaparks@gmail.com. Ticket information will be released soon, so stay tuned for updates.

This yearly rib feed takes place at PPAV Hall. It celebrates a simple tradition centered on ribs.

Game Night at The Source LGBT+ Center offers a welcoming event for all ages, with a wide variety of board games and a few video game options to enjoy. Participants are invited to bring their own favorites to share and play with others. Please note that the schedule has recently been updated.

This supportive gathering offers a compassionate space for those living with loss to connect with others who understand the challenges of grief. Participants can share their stories openly and without guilt, listen to the experiences of others, and discuss practical ways to cope both day to day and on the hardest days. For more information about the group, contact Cameron Cummings at (559) 624-8638 or Cameron.Cummings2@KaweahHealth.org.

Now in its sixth year, Scarecrow 2.0 returns to Exeter City Park for a festive run where the course winds past scarecrow displays through the downtown area. Runners can choose between a 2 mile, a 10K, and a kids race. Expect a family friendly atmosphere with music and a costume contest. Age group awards are offered, and finishers receive a medal. Participants also get complimentary race photos and beverages, plus a Scarecrow 2.0 T-shirt.

Now in its seventh year, this car show at Golden West High School in Visalia, CA showcases a wide mix of vehicles, from vintage favorites to modern models. Expect hundreds of cars and trucks, along with food, music, and merchandise vendors. Vehicle pre-registration will be available. Vendor registration is staggered, with existing vendors able to sign up before new vendors.

A beloved Exeter tradition returns as part of Hometown America 250, beginning with a festive parade along Pine Street that features floats, music, and participants from local schools and community groups. After the procession, the celebration continues in Exeter City Park with artisan and vendor booths, live entertainment, a variety of food options, and activities for families. Expect plenty of small town charm, community pride, and the spirit of fall throughout the day.

Village at Mill Creek hosts a dinosaur themed boo bash alongside a community vendor fair, offering a welcoming outing for families and neighbors. Highlights include live encounters with dinosaurs, booths from local vendors, trick or treat fun, spots for photos, music and entertainment, and activities for every age group. Vendor sign ups are open for those interested in taking part.

This free knitting class at the local library welcomes beginners and experienced crafters alike. Materials are provided, and attendees are welcome to bring their own projects to work on and share progress with the group.

A high-energy Elvis tribute arrives at the Visalia Fox Theatre with Matt Stone, an artist recognized by Graceland and the Elvis Presley Estate for a remarkably faithful portrayal of the King in his prime. Rather than emphasizing later years, he channels the peak-era voice, look, and stage presence that defined Elvis. Those close to Elvis have praised his performance, with stepbrother Billy Stanley noting how strikingly similar he sounds and Joyce Bova highlighting his talent, appearance, drive, and magnetism. His work has also been featured on SiriusXM’s Elvis Radio. Backed by the TEC Band, this production sets itself apart from typical impersonator shows and aims to deliver an exciting concert that appeals to all ages.

Springville hosts the Springville Apple & Arts Festival, presented as the valley’s largest apple celebration with a focus on apples alongside arts and crafts. Offerings include apple burritos and pies, apple-themed food and craft vendors, apple games, prize opportunities, and plenty of apples. A limited number of vendor spaces remain on a first come, first served basis, with text inquiries preferred at 814-388-9491 or applications accepted by email at applyasavendor@gmail.com.

Explore modern calligraphy in a welcoming workshop that shows how to bring stylish lettering to letters, invitations, decorations, and creative projects. Participants receive a practice workbook and follow step by step instruction while learning the foundational alphabet and beginner techniques for shaping letters. The session also covers the essential tools and materials needed to get started, and attendees take home pens, ink, and paper for ongoing practice. Taught by instructor Grecia Enns. Cost is $35 per participant per session. Limited to 12 participants, for ages 16 and up.

Immersive tickets are no longer available. A free screening of the original film Practical Magic will be presented at the Historic Visalia Fox Theatre along with a Witches Vendor Market. Seating for the movie is general admission on a first come, first served basis. Immersive ticket holders will receive reminder emails and texts with details about pickup.

This event features a free showing of Practical Magic, rated PG-13. The story follows two sisters who are witches, brought up by eccentric aunts in a small town, as they confront prejudice in their community and a family curse that threatens their hopes for lasting love. Sponsored by McIntosh Fantasy Designs LLC.

Artists 18 and older can work independently alongside peers in a shared studio environment at Arts Visalia. Bring your own supplies, while the studio provides workspace essentials such as tables, chairs, and easels. Staff members are present to assist with the space, though there is no formal instruction. Each session is limited to 12 participants. Flexible payment options are available, including $100 for the year, $25 per quarter, $15 for one month, or $8 for one week. Sessions are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the year.

Deaverville performs a live set of classic country favorites, featuring familiar tunes for fans of timeless country music.

Explore sketching in a calm, two-hour workshop led by artist Benny Jordan. Adults of all experience levels can build skills and confidence through guided exercises and dedicated practice time in a supportive setting. All necessary supplies are included, and there will be opportunities to draw and connect with others. Open to ages 18 and up. Capacity is limited to 12 participants. Tuition is $35 per person for each session. The class will be held even if only one participant registers.

Jaded brings a live performance to Long Shot Brewery in Visalia. The band takes the stage for a brewery show that puts the focus on live music in a relaxed setting. For booking or band inquiries, contact 559-355-0865 or JadedBandFresno@outlook.com.

Explore the art of the human figure at a relaxed, drop in life drawing session held two Wednesdays each month. A nude model is provided. There is no formal instruction, however a facilitator will be on hand to keep things running smoothly. Please bring your own drawing materials. The fee is $10 per person for each session, and attendance is limited to 25 participants. These sessions are for adults 18 and older.

Designed for registered nurses and soon to graduate nurses, this open house at Kaweah Health offers conversations with unit managers and a nurse recruiter to help pinpoint areas of interest, along with a personalized hospital tour led by a unit leader. No preregistration or application is required, creating a relaxed, no pressure way to get questions answered and explore career pathways. The event also highlights Kaweah Health’s recognition by U.S. News & World Report as a High-Performing Hospital across seven adult procedures and conditions in the 2025 to 2026 rankings.

Visalia, California hosts a Halloween celebration that goes far beyond an ordinary party. Built as an immersive, festival-style experience for people who embrace the holiday to the fullest, it features live DJ sets that keep the energy high, seasonal drinks and a spooky vibe, and an open-air setting. Costumes are encouraged, so dressing to impress is right on theme.

A Halloween-themed paint and sip for ages 21 and up invites participants to create an acrylic painting while enjoying a complimentary drink. Artist Shelly Douglas offers step-by-step instruction to help you craft your artwork. Space is limited to 12 participants, and the cost is $45 per person.

Explore relief printmaking on fabric with artist Jim Johnson in a hands-on woodcut workshop. Learn to carve a wood block by removing areas to create a raised image, then print your design on paper or fabric. Each participant receives a tote bag to customize, and you can also bring additional items made from natural fibers for best results. Create a new block in class, or bring designs from previous classes to print. The fee is $65 per person for one session, enrollment is limited to nine participants, and the workshop is for ages 16 and up.

The Winter Wonderland Shopping Bazaar at the Wyndham Hotel celebrates its 10th year with a festive marketplace and a grand giveaway of a 55 inch Google smart TV. Details about the giveaway and the Golden Ticket Trail will be shared on Facebook. The event features more than 80 vendors, five photo backdrops, an appearance by Santa, entertainment, and raffle prizes. Admission is free. New socks are being collected for the Visalia Rescue Mission.

At Tulare Golf Course, the ACVH tenth annual Veterans Day golf tournament brings together players and sponsors to make a positive impact for local combat veterans. Taking part on the course or contributing as a sponsor helps provide meaningful support to those who have sacrificed for the country.

The Dirty Poppas make their return to Long Shot Brewery. This event brings the group back to the venue for another appearance.

This 24-hour retreat supports women at any stage of the writing journey as they seek to glorify God through their words. Longtime authors and Network of Evangelical Women in Ministry (NEWIM) members Cindi McMenamin and Pam Farrel offer resources, encouragement, one-on-one coaching, and practical next steps for those beginning to write, looking to focus more, or exploring publication for completed work. The retreat takes place just prior to The Springs Retreat in Three Rivers, CA. Attend only the Getaway or continue into The Springs for added time to hear from God, write, and put new learning into practice. The cost is $199 and includes one night in a private room, three meals, and the full program. Scholarships are available by emailing LuannBudd@newim.org.

Settle into an elegant evening focused on drawing the human form. These drop-in sessions take place two Wednesdays each month and feature a nude model. Bring your own materials. There is no instructor, though a facilitator will be present. The fee is $10 per participant per session, and space is limited to 25 people. Open to adults ages 18 and up.

Celebrate the season with NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, the biggest Nutcracker production in North America. This lavish spectacle features an international roster of elite dancers, heart‑stopping acrobatics, sumptuous costumes, and giant puppets, all set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. The stage becomes a shimmering holiday world, offering an experience families can treasure long after the final bow.

Explore a lively marketplace at the Tulare County Fairgrounds featuring handmade goods, vintage finds, select antiques, garden decor, seasonal accents, apparel, upcycled pieces, furniture with farmhouse and industrial style, jewelry, and original art. Food trucks will be on site. General admission is $5, and an early entry option is available. Tickets can be purchased online or with cash at the door, and phone confirmation is accepted instead of printed tickets. Some sellers may be cash only and an ATM may not be available, so bringing cash is recommended. Parking is free. Children 15 and under are admitted at no charge when accompanied by an adult. Pets are not allowed under fairgrounds rules. Vendors and merchandise vary from show to show, and photos shared from previous events are examples rather than a guarantee of what will be available.

Jaded brings a high energy live show to Long Shot Brewery in Visalia, filling the brewery with crowd-pleasing tunes. For booking inquiries related to the band, contact 559-355-0865 or JadedBandFresno@outlook.com.

Arts Visalia offers open studio time on Wednesdays and Thursdays for adults to create independently in a shared, welcoming workspace. Bring your own art supplies, and make use of the provided tables, chairs, and easels. Staff will be on site to assist with the space, but there is no instruction. Participation is limited to 12 people per session and is restricted to ages 18 and older. Pricing options are available at $100 per year, $25 per quarter, $15 per month, or $8 per week.

Artist Benny Jordan leads a relaxed, two hour sketch class for adults focused on building drawing skills and confidence. Suitable for beginners and experienced artists, it features guided prompts, practice time, and a welcoming space to draw and connect. All materials are provided, and the workshop will run with a minimum of one participant. Ages 18 and up. Each session is limited to 12 participants and costs $35 per participant per session.

Take a breather from the shopping rush and settle into a beginner-friendly acrylic painting class led by artist Shelly Douglas. Enjoy a calm, creative session with step-by-step guidance to help you complete a beautiful work of art. The class is open to ages 16 and up. Cost is $45 per participant, and enrollment is limited to 12.

Enjoy an informal tea conversation with Arts Visalia directors Tracy Polkownikow and Claudia Gudiño. Adults 18 and older can explore a wide range of art topics, including opportunities, marketing, exhibiting, and more, in a relaxed and informative setting. A selection of hot teas will be provided, and participants may bring their own tea or coffee if they prefer. This free program is part of a Saturday series led by the directors.

Visalia Porchfest 2026 brings an all-ages, no-cost day of music to the Highland Park Neighborhood. Enjoy a casual neighborhood setting with music for everyone. Additional details will be shared soon.

Explore the craft of lampworking and shape molten glass into custom beads with guidance from instructor Jim Johnson. The session begins with clear demonstrations of several bead making methods, then transitions to hands on practice, with all necessary tools supplied. Most creations will be ready to take home before you leave, and the finished beads can be incorporated into jewelry, added as decorative accents around the home, or featured in garden projects. This workshop is open to participants 16 years and older. Enrollment is limited to eight people to ensure individual attention. The fee is $95 per participant.

Artists can work at their own pace in a relaxed open studio at Arts Visalia. Participants provide their own materials, while the space supplies tables, chairs, and easels. There is no instructor, and staff are present for support. Attendance is limited to 12 people per session and participation is for ages 18 and older. Sessions take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Payment options include $100 for the year, $25 per quarter, $15 for one month, or $8 for one week.

Twinkle & Toast returns for its second annual Christmas Tree Auction at Wyndham Visalia. With a new location this year, the event continues to showcase beautifully decorated trees that support causes at Kaweah Health.

This Krampus-themed craft night blends shadowy holiday whimsy with candlelit making and a playful touch of chaos. Expect Krampus-inspired cookies, a make-your-own ornament station, friendly photo opportunities with a non-scary Krampus, and the chance to assemble a Yule bauble, also called a Witch’s Ball. Additional highlights include a charm-making bar, brief card pulls, and Krampus-themed stockings. Food and beverages are provided by MoonHaven Haus. Tickets are available through the link above. Details are subject to change.

Spend focused studio time among fellow creatives at Arts Visalia on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Bring your own art supplies, while the studio provides tables, chairs, and easels. These are self-directed sessions with no instructor, and staff will be on site. Each session is limited to 12 participants and is for adults 18 and older. Pricing options are $100 for the year, $25 per quarter, $15 for one month, or $8 for one week.

Jaded takes the stage at Long Shot Brewery in Visalia. For booking inquiries, contact the band at (559) 355-0865 or JadedBandFresno@outlook.com.