Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Visalia is a vibrant destination full of exciting events and activities for locals and visitors alike. From family-friendly festivals to cultural celebrations, outdoor adventures to culinary delights, there’s something for everyone in Visalia.
Key Takeaways:
- Visalia offers a diverse range of events and activities.
- There are options for all ages and interests.
- The city has a strong sense of community and dedication to giving back.
Must-Attend Visalia Events for Locals and Tourists
Visalia is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a plethora of events year-round that cater to both locals and tourists. From cultural festivals to sporting competitions, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the must-attend Visalia events that should not be missed:
Candy Cane Lane
Get into the holiday spirit with Candy Cane Lane, a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and sweet treats. This family-friendly event takes place every December in downtown Visalia and includes live music, entertainment, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.
Pride Visalia
Celebrate diversity and inclusion with Pride Visalia, an annual event that promotes equality and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. The festivities include a parade, live performances, food vendors, and more. This event takes place every June and is open to everyone.
Brewfest
Calling all beer enthusiasts! Brewfest is a must-attend event that showcases the best local and regional craft breweries. Sample a variety of delicious beers while enjoying live music and tasty snacks. This event takes place every May in downtown Visalia and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Visalia Farmer’s Market
For a taste of local flavor, check out the Visalia Farmer’s Market. This weekly event takes place every Saturday morning and features fresh produce, homemade crafts, and live entertainment. It’s a great way to support the local community and get a sense of the city’s agricultural roots.
These are just a few of the many exciting events that make Visalia a destination worth visiting. Whether you’re a local looking for something new to do or a tourist exploring the city for the first time, there’s always something fun and exciting happening in Visalia.
Family-Friendly Visalia Events
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Visalia, there are plenty of events to choose from! From educational experiences to outdoor adventures and everything in between, Visalia has something for everyone. Here are some of the top family-friendly events in the area:
Visalia Farmers Market
The Visalia Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning from 8am to 11:30am, and is a great place to bring your family for a fun and educational experience. With fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music, you’ll find plenty to enjoy while you shop. Plus, the market is located in downtown Visalia, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the city!
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Visalia Farmers Market | Every Saturday | Downtown Visalia |
Children’s Story Time at the Visalia Library
The Visalia Library offers regular story time events for children of all ages, with engaging stories and interactive activities. Check the library’s event calendar for specific dates and times.
“My kids love story time at the Visalia Library! It’s a fun and educational experience for the whole family.”
Family Nights at ImagineU Children’s Museum
ImagineU Children’s Museum hosts regular Family Nights, with discounted admission on the first Friday of every month. With interactive exhibits and learning experiences, ImagineU offers a fun and educational experience for children of all ages.
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Family Nights at ImagineU Children’s Museum | First Friday of every month | ImagineU Children’s Museum |
Movie Nights in the Park
During the summer months, Visalia Parks and Recreation hosts Movie Nights in the Park, featuring family-friendly films under the stars. Bring a blanket and some snacks and enjoy a night out with your family!
“We love Movie Nights in the Park! It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time together as a family.”
Cultural and Artistic Visalia Events
Visalia is a city with a vibrant and thriving artistic community, and there are plenty of events that showcase the city’s cultural offerings. From art exhibits to live performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
First Friday Art Walk
One of the most popular cultural events in Visalia is the First Friday Art Walk, which takes place on the first Friday of every month in downtown Visalia. During the Art Walk, galleries, shops, and restaurants open their doors to showcase local artists and their work. Visitors can stroll through the streets of downtown Visalia, enjoying live music, food trucks, and other entertainment along the way.
Visalia Opera Company
For those who enjoy opera and musical theater, the Visalia Opera Company is a must-see. The company produces several shows each year, bringing together talented local performers to put on high-quality performances.
“The Visalia Opera Company offers amazing productions that rival those in larger cities. The quality of the performers and the productions is top-notch!” – Local Opera Enthusiast
Visalia Visual Chronicle
The Visalia Visual Chronicle is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the arts in Visalia. The organization hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Visalia Art League National Juried Exhibition, which features works from artists across the country.
Visalia Community Players
The Visalia Community Players is a community theater organization that has been entertaining audiences in Visalia for over 60 years. The Players produce several shows each year, ranging from classic plays to modern musicals.
Whether you’re a fan of art, theater, or live music, Visalia has plenty of cultural and artistic events to offer. With so many options to choose from, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant Californian destination.
Sports and Outdoor Visalia Events
For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Visalia offers a variety of sports and outdoor events throughout the year.
Visalia Rawhide Baseball Games:
Catch a Visalia Rawhide baseball game for an exciting outing with friends and family at Recreation Ballpark. Root for the home team as they take on their rivals in the California League.
Visalia River Run:
The Visalia River Run is a popular annual event that includes a 2-mile walk, a 5k run, and a 10k run. Participants can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the St. John’s River Trail, and all proceeds go to support local charities.
Mount Whitney Summit:
For adventure seekers, the climb to the summit of Mount Whitney is a must-do. This challenging trek takes you to the highest peak in the contiguous United States and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visalia Adventure Park:
Visalia Adventure Park is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy some outdoor fun. The park features mini-golf, batting cages, go-karts, laser tag, and more.
YMCA of Visalia:
The YMCA of Visalia offers a range of sports and outdoor activities for adults and children. From basketball and volleyball to swimming and yoga, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, Visalia has no shortage of events to keep you entertained and active.
Music and Entertainment Visalia Events
Visalia’s lively music scene and entertainment offerings make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a good time. Whether you’re interested in catching a live concert, attending a stand-up comedy show, or watching a movie under the stars, Visalia has got you covered.
Live Music
Visalia is home to a variety of music venues, from intimate bars to large concert halls. The Fox Theatre is a popular spot for catching big name acts, while the Cellar Door offers a more intimate setting for local musicians and up-and-coming artists. Visalia also hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year, including the Visalia Wine Walk and the Pops in the Park summer concert series.
Comedy and Theater
Looking for a night of laughs? Visalia has several comedy clubs that bring in local and national comedians, including The Planing Mill Artisan Pizzeria and The Garden Street Plaza. The Enchanted Playhouse Theatre Company is also a great spot for catching a live theater performance, with productions ranging from classic plays to children’s shows.
Outdoor Entertainment
Visalia’s warm climate and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect setting for outdoor entertainment events. The Moonlight Movies series, held in the Oval Park during the summer months, is a popular event where families can enjoy a movie under the stars. The Visalia Theatre in the Park is another outdoor venue that hosts music and theater performances, as well as movie screenings.
Conclusion
Whatever your entertainment preferences may be, Visalia has something for everyone. With a vibrant music scene, diverse theater offerings, and unique outdoor events, you’re sure to find plenty of exciting activities to enjoy during your visit.
Food and Drink Visalia Events
Visalia is a foodie’s paradise, and there is no shortage of food and drink events to satisfy your cravings. From wine tastings to food festivals, there is something for everyone.
One of the most popular food events in Visalia is the annual Taste of Downtown, which showcases the city’s best restaurants and breweries. This event allows visitors to sample a variety of dishes and drinks while exploring the vibrant downtown area.
“Taste of Downtown is a great way to experience the local food scene in one place. It’s a unique event that allows us to showcase our diverse culinary offerings and connect with visitors from near and far.” – local restaurant owner
Visalia also boasts a thriving beer scene, and several breweries host regular events, including tap takeovers and live music performances. Plan a visit to BarrelHouse Brewing Company or Yolo Brewing for a taste of the local craft beer scene.
For wine lovers, the annual Visalia Wine Walk is a can’t-miss event. This event allows visitors to sample wines from local vineyards while enjoying live music and art displays throughout downtown Visalia.
- Don’t miss: Taste of Downtown
- Check out: BarrelHouse Brewing Company and Yolo Brewing
- Experience: Visalia Wine Walk
Community and Charity Visalia Events
Visalia is not only a city of fun and excitement, but it also has a strong sense of community and dedication to giving back. Throughout the year, there are several community and charity events that take place, providing opportunities for residents and visitors to get involved and support important causes.
| Event Name | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Visalia Rescue Mission Thanksgiving Dinner | November | A Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless and those in need, organized by Visalia Rescue Mission. |
| Relay for Life Visalia | April | A 24-hour relay event that raises funds and awareness for cancer research, hosted by the American Cancer Society. |
| Tulare-Kings Right to Life Walk | January | A walk to raise funds and awareness for the pro-life movement, organized by Tulare-Kings Right to Life. |
“Visalia is a community that truly cares about its residents. These charity events allow us to come together and support each other in important ways.” – Visalia resident and charity event volunteer
Whether it’s participating in a charity walk or helping serve Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless, Visalia’s community and charity events provide meaningful ways to give back and make a difference.
Educational and Learning Visalia Events
Visalia is not only a fun destination but also a place to expand your knowledge and learn new things. The city offers a variety of educational and learning events that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you want to learn about history, science, or technology, Visalia has something for you. Here are some of the top educational and learning events in Visalia you don’t want to miss.
Central Valley Astronomers Star Parties
If you are a fan of astronomy, then you will love the Central Valley Astronomers Star Parties. These events provide a chance to stargaze with telescopes and learn about the universe from experienced astronomers. The star parties are held at various locations throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for upcoming dates.
Tulare County Historical Society
The Tulare County Historical Society is committed to preserving and sharing the history of the local area. The society hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including talks, lectures, and exhibits. These events provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the rich history of Visalia and the surrounding area.
Sequoia Natural History Association
The Sequoia Natural History Association is a non-profit organization that supports the education and interpretation of natural and cultural resources within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. They offer a variety of educational and learning events throughout the year, including ranger-led hikes, talks, and seminars. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the natural history of the area.
Visalia Maker Faire
The Visalia Maker Faire is an annual event that showcases invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. This family-friendly event provides attendees with the opportunity to interact with makers, learn new skills, and participate in hands-on activities. The event features a variety of exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations.
Visalia Library
The Visalia Library offers a variety of educational and learning events for all ages, including storytime for children, book clubs for adults, and workshops on various topics. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to learn and engage with the community.
College of the Sequoias
The College of the Sequoias is a community college located in Visalia. The college offers a variety of classes and workshops for residents to continue their education and learn new skills. The college also hosts various cultural events, including music performances, theater productions, and art exhibits.
Whether you’re interested in astronomy, history, science, or culture, Visalia offers a variety of educational and learning events that are sure to enrich your mind. Be sure to check out these events and experience all that Visalia has to offer.
Seasonal Visalia Events
Visalia is a city that loves to celebrate, and throughout the year, there are plenty of seasonal events to enjoy. From the springtime spectacle of the annual Tulip Festival to the winter wonderland of the Parade of Lights, there’s always something happening in Visalia to mark the changing of the seasons.
Springtime Events
In the spring, the Tulip Festival takes center stage, filling the downtown area with vibrant colors and sweet floral scents. This event is a must-see for flower lovers and features over 120 different varieties of tulips and other spring blooms.
For music fans, the Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival is a great option, featuring live performances, great food, and some of the best craft beers around. Held in May, this festival is a great way to kick off the summer season.
Summertime Events
The summer months in Visalia are packed with events, including the Fourth of July Celebration, which features a spectacular fireworks show over Mooney Grove Park. For art enthusiasts, the annual Visalia Art Walk is a must-see, with over 50 local artists displaying their works throughout downtown Visalia.
The Taste of Downtown Visalia is another summertime favorite, offering visitors a chance to try some of the city’s best food and drink offerings while enjoying live music and entertainment.
Fall Events
As the leaves start to turn, Visalia celebrates with a number of fun fall events. The Taste the Arts Festival is a highlight, featuring a day-long celebration of all things artistic, from music and dance to theater and visual arts.
The Visalia Farmers Market also gets into the fall spirit, with a special Harvest Festival featuring local produce, crafts, and homemade goods. And for those looking for a spooky good time, the Visalia Ghost Walk is a fun and spooky way to explore the city’s haunted past.
Winter Events
As the year comes to a close, Visalia celebrates the holiday season with a number of festive events. The Parade of Lights is a highlight, featuring a dazzling display of holiday lights and decorations, along with live music and entertainment.
The Holiday Open House in downtown Visalia is another must-see event, with local businesses staying open late to offer holiday shopping, treats, and live entertainment.
Whatever the season, Visalia offers a variety of events to suit every interest and taste. So be sure to mark your calendars and come celebrate with the friendly locals in this vibrant Californian destination.
Conclusion
Visalia is a city that truly has something for everyone, as evidenced by its diverse range of events and activities. Whether you’re a local looking for something fun to do, or a tourist eager to explore all that this vibrant Californian destination has to offer, you won’t be disappointed by the events on offer.
From must-attend festivals and cultural events, to family-friendly activities and outdoor pursuits, Visalia has it all. Food and drink enthusiasts will love the city’s culinary delights, while music and entertainment lovers can experience the excitement of Visalia’s lively music scene.
The city’s strong sense of community is also reflected in its many charity events, which offer opportunities to give back and make a positive impact. Visitors looking to expand their knowledge can take advantage of the educational and learning opportunities available, while seasonal events provide a chance to celebrate and embrace local traditions.
Whether you’re interested in sports, arts, culture, or something in between, there is an event in Visalia that will cater to your interests. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the city’s exciting event scene today!
FAQ
Q: What are some must-attend Visalia events for locals and tourists?
A: Visalia offers a wide range of exciting events that are must-attend for both locals and tourists. Some popular events include the Visalia Farmers Market, Taste the Arts Festival, and the Visalia Brewfest.
Q: Are there any family-friendly events in Visalia?
A: Absolutely! Visalia has plenty of family-friendly events that cater to all ages and interests. The Visalia Adventure Park, Visalia Air Show, and Family Day at the Visalia Farmers Market are just a few examples of the many options available.
Q: Are there any cultural and artistic events in Visalia?
A: Visalia has a vibrant arts scene and offers several cultural and artistic events throughout the year. The Visalia Visual Chronicle Art Walk, Taste the Arts Festival, and Visalia Opera Company performances are just a few examples.
Q: Are there sports and outdoor events in Visalia?
A: Yes, there are plenty of sports and outdoor events in Visalia for those who enjoy active and outdoor pursuits. Some popular events include the Visalia Sports & Fitness Expo, Visalia Adventure Park’s Outdoor Concert Series, and the Visalia Criterium Bike Race.
Q: Where can I find music and entertainment events in Visalia?
A: Visalia has a lively music scene and offers a variety of entertainment events. You can find live music performances at venues such as the Cellar Door, BarrelHouse Brewing Co., and the Visalia Fox Theatre.
Q: Are there any food and drink events in Visalia?
A: Yes, Visalia has a diverse culinary scene and hosts various food and drink events. Some popular events include the Visalia Craft Beer Festival, Taste the Arts Wine Walk, and Visalia Farmers Market’s Farm to Fork Dinner.
Q: Are there any community and charity events in Visalia?
A: Visalia is known for its strong sense of community and dedication to giving back. The city hosts several community and charity events throughout the year, including the Visalia Rescue Mission’s Annual Fundraising Banquet, Relay for Life, and the Visalia Christmas Parade.
Q: Are there any educational and learning events in Visalia?
A: Yes, Visalia offers educational and learning events that provide opportunities for personal growth and knowledge expansion. The Visalia Library hosts various workshops, lectures, and book clubs, while the Visalia Convention Center often hosts educational conferences and seminars.
Q: What are some seasonal events in Visalia?
A: Visalia embraces the seasons with various celebrations and traditions. Some popular seasonal events include the Visalia Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Visalia Farmers Market’s Halloween Harvest, and the Visalia Easter Egg Hunt.
