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Now that summertime is in full swing, there’s really no more festive month than July. Things really DO start to sparkle and pop in the seventh month of the year. If you are new to this regular monthly feature, I seek out activities, opportunities and events that can be found “only in Napa” and appeal to those of this that call this lovely place “home!” Remember that we locals have the rare benefit of experiencing Napa County unlike others, so become involved either as a supporter, participant, spectator or volunteer. Here are my top “only in Napa Valley” opportunities in which to indulge, contribute, or become a part, for July!
3rd of July Festivities at Silverado
Sunday, July 3
For many, MANY years Silverado Resort & Country Club has provided an unofficial gift to the community with the annual tradition of fireworks, on the eve of Independence Day, the 3rd of July. While the event is actually a paid event in The Grove for resort guests, as well as residents of Silverado and their guests, thousands of locals have made it a tradition to park themselves on the green of the golf courses at this iconic property and celebrate the 4th a day early. It’s a wildly fun and festive night, filled with people of all ages. Tips: arrive early so that you can find a place to park, and then hang out with a large contingent of the community of Napa. Everyone is there! Be aware that it’s common to have to walk a bit to get to a proper viewing site, and allow time afterward to depart. There is usually significant traffic (both vehicular, as well as pedestrian) as the masses leave the event. The national anthem is set for 9:15 p.m. in The Grove, and the fireworks typically follow soon thereafter (at dusk). If you go, don’t leave litter behind (on the golf courses, the grounds or in the neighborhoods). Be kind, and respectful and pick up and take out anything that you bring in.
Calistoga Parade
Monday, July 4
Downtown Calistoga pulls out the stops for an Americana tradition on America’s Birthday at 11 a.m. The 83rd running of the annual Fourth of July parade, right down Lincoln Avenue, is held on our nation’s birthday. Thousands of spectators line the streets for this patriotic, only-in-wine-country, tradition. The parade line-up usually includes floats, decorated cars, live bands, and more.
Napa 4th of July Parade
Monday, July 4
Organized by Napa’s Sunrise Rotary, this year’s Downtown Napa Parade will be staged around the theme, “America Serves by Giving.” It will be a very patriotic, festive Red, White & Blue, Stars & Stripes affair focused upon the generosity of our community and the many organizations that GIVE. Floats, bands, walking groups, equestrian teams, dancers, classic vehicles and more that represent small businesses, local non-profits, schools and even major corporations come on out to celebrate our country and our town! SunriseRotary4th.com
Napa County Fair & Fireworks
Monday, July 4
Following the Calistoga Parade, revelers can head over to the Napa County Fairgrounds for a day of fun, games and fireworks at the Napa County Fair. This one-day event will feature live music, strolling entertainers, an antique truck and tractor show, pony rides, a carnival, an ice-cream making contest and the aforementioned fireworks at dusk. 11 a.m. to 12 midnight at the Napa County Fairgrounds, Calistoga. NapaCountyFair.org
Porchfest 2016
Sunday, July 31
While Porchfest is set for later in the month (July 31), now’s the time to volunteer for this festival which takes place in various locations throughout Napa. More than 200 people are needed to stage this fantastic event that unites people and neighborhoods through music. There is a short training before the event, and then an orientation the day prior. Volunteers are needed to hand out information, help with the road closure areas and barricades, provide solutions, and maintain neighborly peace and order. To volunteer, simply go to NapaPorchfest.org and sign up.
Musical Picnics in Lyman Park
Thursday, July 14 & Thursday, July 23
The 28th Season of Musical Picnics in St. Helena’s Lyman Park continues on the second and fourth Thursday of each month through August. Food and wine is available on site, yet most concert-goers pack picnic dinners and relax on the expansive lawn while enjoying musical acts that range from Rock to Country to Jazz to Americana to Blues. StHelena.com
Festival Napa Valley’s Sun Run
Saturday, July 16
Be fit and have fun at Festival Napa Valley’s (the former Festival del Sole, which takes place July 15-24) second annual Sun Run which supports the Napa County Alliance for Arts Education. This popular 5K and 10K race begins at Lincoln Theater in Yountville, on the grounds of the Veterans Home. The event, which participants can walk, jog or run, follows a picturesque route through the town of Yountville, a portion of the Vine Trail and into surrounding vineyards. Pre-register online. NapaSunRun.org
di Rosa Outdoor Sculpture Tour
Sunday, July 24 One of the treasures of our region is the di Rosa Art Preserve. While most of us speed past the gates on Highway 12/121 heading to or from Sonoma County, more of us should make it a point to visit this artistic haven. The collection on site is considered to be the most significant holding of Bay Area art in the world. di Rosa houses approximately 2,000 works of art by 800 artists. Once per month (usually held only on the first Sunday of each month), a tour of the Sculpture Meadow and Grounds is held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. In some seasons, additional tours are added. This month a tour will also be available on Sunday, July 24 (an extra tour is also planned for Sunday, August 21). The Outdoor Sculpture Tour explores the landscape in Carneros, as well as many of the works of art that dot the meadow and grounds, as a 1/3-mile loop winds its way past large-scale outdoor sculptures. Space is limited and reservations are strongly encouraged. Call (707) 226-5991 x25 or email tours@dirosaart.org with your name, phone number, email address, and number of visitors to secure a space. diRosaArt.org
Music in the Vineyards
Sunday, July 31 on into August
While it’s an “August” event, this year Music in the Vineyards officially kicks off the 16th annual event on the last day of July. This three-week, nationally-acclaimed chamber music festival showcases nearly 40 world-class artists-in-residence from the U.S., Europe and Canada. Staged at winery locations, each concert features complimentary wine tasting at intermission as well as breathtaking views and vistas of the Napa Valley. Now is the time to secure tickets, as these intimate venues can sell out. MusicInTheVineyards.org
Throughout the year I will continue to search for “only in Napa Valley” opportunities in which to indulge, contribute, or become a part. Feel free to send suggestions to lisa@adamswalter.com