Savoring the Last Full Month of Summer: August in Napa Valley
There is something especially beautiful about summer in Napa.
This year has given us long golden evenings, lively patios, music drifting through the valley and plenty of reasons to slow down and appreciate where we live. From neighborhood gatherings and mornings at the farmers market to concerts under the stars, Napa has once again reminded us that its greatest luxury is not only its scenery—it is the people and community that bring this valley to life.
As we welcome August, the vineyards are beginning to hint at the harvest season ahead. The days are still warm, the evenings invite us outdoors and the local calendar is full of opportunities to enjoy the final stretch of summer close to home.
Here are a few events worth adding to your August calendar.
Napa Town & Country Fair | August 6–9
A true Napa tradition returns to the Napa Valley Expo in downtown Napa. The four-day fair offers something for every age, including carnival rides, live entertainment, livestock and home-arts exhibits, a makers’ market, fair food, and local beer and wine gardens.
It is one of those wonderfully familiar community events where you are almost guaranteed to run into someone you know.
View Napa Town & Country Fair information
Blanc & Boots: JCB White Party at Raymond Vineyards | August 15
Raymond Vineyards is putting a spirited Western twist on its annual White Party this year. Blanc & Boots is an elevated “White Rodeo” celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, where champagne meets cowboy boots and classic Americana receives the unmistakable JCB treatment.
Beginning at 6:30 p.m., the evening will feature white attire, Western-inspired style, music blending modern country with contemporary flair and food stations showcasing flavors from across the United States. Tickets are $175 per person, and this is an exclusive event for Raymond Vineyards Wine Club members.
If an elegant summer evening with a playful Wine Country twist sounds like your style, pull out your favorite whites—and your best boots—for a memorable night at Raymond.
View event details and purchase tickets
Music in the Vineyards | August 2–23
Music in the Vineyards celebrates its 32nd annual season with chamber-music performances in beautiful venues throughout Napa Valley.
This year’s lineup includes the returning Isidore and Miró quartets, the Maple Quartet and a variety of concerts, open rehearsals and special programs. Whether you are already a classical-music enthusiast or simply want to experience live music in a remarkable Napa Valley setting, this is a special part of our summer arts scene.
Explore the Music in the Vineyards schedule
Blue Note Napa Summer Sessions | Throughout August
The outdoor Summer Sessions continue at The Meritage Resort, bringing an impressive mix of music and comedy to Napa.
August performers include Anuhea with Sammy Johnson on August 9, Bill Burr on August 14, The Head and the Heart on August 15, Gipsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes on August 16, Morris Day and The Time with Sheila E. on August 21, Raphael Saadiq on August 22, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening on August 23 and Charlie Wilson on August 30.
There is nothing quite like enjoying a live show outdoors on a warm Napa evening.
See the Blue Note Napa Summer Sessions lineup
Napa Farmers Market | Tuesdays & Saturdays
Some of the best summer mornings begin at the Napa Farmers Market. Open from 8 a.m. to noon at 1100 West Street in downtown Napa, the market is a wonderful place to find peak-season produce, locally made foods and artisan goods while supporting the farmers and small businesses that help nourish our community.
August is an especially delicious time to visit—go early, bring a reusable bag and let what is fresh inspire your weekend table.
Plan your visit to the Napa Farmers Market
Hands Across the Valley Gala | August 29
The 34th annual Hands Across the Valley Gala takes place from 5 to 10 p.m. at historic Charles Krug Winery in St. Helena.
Guests will enjoy local food and wine, a cocktail reception, silent auction, live music and dancing under the stars—all while supporting the Napa Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, The Salvation Army and community kitchens serving residents from American Canyon to Calistoga.
It is a beautiful example of Napa Valley coming together to care for its neighbors.
Learn more about Hands Across the Valley
Michael Leonardi Foundation Music + Awareness Concert | August 29
Music, connection and an important community mission come together at The Barn Napa Valley/Car Club in downtown Napa from 4 to 7 p.m. The Michael Leonardi Foundation’s Music + Awareness Concert will feature live performances by Dirty Cello, Cherry Blonde and more while raising awareness about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and helping our community learn how to stay safe.
Along with the music, guests can hear from speakers, connect with helpful resources, participate in a silent auction and purchase food and beverages. Admission is available for a $30 donation per person, making this a meaningful opportunity to enjoy local entertainment while supporting education and potentially life-saving conversations in Napa County.
Purchase tickets through Eventbrite
Make the Most of August in Napa
You do not need an elaborate itinerary to enjoy summer here. Pick up picnic ingredients at the farmers market, take an evening walk along the riverfront, support a locally owned restaurant, listen to live music or gather friends in the backyard as the temperature begins to cool.
Napa is known around the world as a destination, but those of us who call it home know its real character is found in these everyday moments—the familiar faces, local traditions, beautiful landscapes and strong sense of community.
I hope you find time this August to get out, reconnect and enjoy a little more of what makes living in Napa Valley so special. If you see me around town, please say hello—and if there is a local event, business or community story you think I should feature next, I would love to hear about it.
— Stephanie L. Aven
Napa Valley Real Estate Broker & Local Community Advisor
CA DRE Lic. #01967507
stephanieaven.com
Event details may change. Please confirm schedules, availability and ticket information directly with each organizer before attending.
