Events in Porterville today

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.