Staying home this month? Benicia is chock-full of events in July. A great time for the entire family can be had at Benicia Main Street’s annual Freedom Festival Torchlight Parade, starting at 6:30pm July 3rd. This quintessential American event has been going on for decades, and every year draws thousands of people to First Street to jockey for the best viewing position. On July 4th, the Picnic in the Park and Fireworks begins at noon and ends after the fireworks around 10pm. Make sure you bring chairs and blankets – it can get chilly along the waterfront and other downtown viewing spots.
Rocky LaPorte, honored Top Male Comic of the Year by Las Vegas club owners, returns to the Empress Theatre in Vallejo July 9 for an evening of comic relief.
Softball, bocce ball and swim meets heat up in July, so if you want to see a sporting event check the What’s Happening calendar on this site. For more detailed information, check www.ci.benicia.ca.us. The Farmer’s market (Thursdays 4-8pm) is ongoing, as are State Capitol tours, Viva Benicia, outdoor concerts at the City Park Gazebo and at the Historical Museum’s Spenger Garden and the Structure and Light exhibit at the Arts Benicia gallery through July 17.
With the picturesque Carquinez Strait in the background, the third annual Fine Arts and Jazz Festival weekend event begins July 24 with performances by top Jazz musicians. Along with the music, a juried Fine Art Marketplace and wine and beer garden ensure a good time for all ages.
