Honor our veteran's and those that served in our armed forces at the Memorial Day Ceremony at the historic Benicia Arsenal Cemetery.
Community Events
Each year, local organizations and the City sponsor a variety of fun events that bring thousands of visitors to Benicia. Many have become well-known regional traditions. Widely attended events include the Farmers Market, Peddlers Fair, Fine Art and Craft Fair, Arts Benicia Open Studios, and the Downtown Holiday Open House.
Following is a sampling of the many events held each year within Benicia. For a full schedule of events, please go to the Events Calendar.
Farmers Market: There is a Farmers Market downtown on Thursday evenings from late April through October, a tradition that began in 1992. The Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, gourmet food, delicious hot foods, arts and crafts, live musical entertainment, pony rides and face painting.
Art Studio Open Houses: Artists in Benicia open their studios to the public the weekend before Mother's Day in May and the first weekend in December, along with other selected times of the year.
Torchlight Parade: Traditionally held on July 3, Benicia's 4th of July parade stretches all the way down First Street and includes music, dancing, floats, horses, clowns and live entertainment.
Picnic in the Park & Fireworks: On July 4, there is a large community picnic at Benicia's City Park, traditionally starting at noon. Shortly after dark, there is a fireworks display that originates at the foot of First Street.
Benicia Peddlers Fair: This outdoor event began downtown in 1963 with a few collectible and antique stores displaying their items on tables outside St. Paul's Church. Today, more than 300 antique and collectible dealers display their wares in booths that span the length of First Street.
Yacht Races and Opening Day on the Strait: Benicia is an active sailing community. During the summer months, there is a yacht racing competition on Thursday evenings sponsored by the Benicia Yacht Club. Opening Day on the Strait, held the third Saturday in April, features a decorated boat parade and blessing of the fleet, arts and crafts vendors, live music in front of the Benicia Yacht Club, food, games for the kids, and dinner and dancing in the evening.
The Holy Ghost Parade: Every fourth Sunday in July, the Portuguese community in Benicia celebrates the feast of the Holy Ghost, commemorating the Queen Saint Isabel of Portugal, with a parade to Saint Dominic's Church, a Mass, an auction and a dance.
Downtown Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting: Held the first Friday in December, this ever-popular holiday event features beverages and treats, costumed carolers, wagon rides and wine tasting. The City of Benicia caps off the evening with a holiday tree lighting.
Next: Events Calendar »
