Upcoming Events List

	Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk Thursday, JUL 3, 2014 8:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo

	161st Vallejo 4th of July Parade Friday, JUL 4, 2014 10:00 AM VALLEJO PARADE ASSOCIATION — Downtown Vallejo The 161st Annual Vallejo July 4th Parade is on with the theme "Let Freedom Ring!" Parade step off is 10:00 am. The 2014 Vallejo 4th of July Parade will travel on its traditional route beginning at Broadway and Tennessee, then turns left on Sonoma Blvd, then right on Georgia through downtown. Enjoy the day and return to the Vallejo waterfront for FIREWORKS at approximately 9:15 pm. Entertainment and fun for the entire family! Location: Vallejo

	Fourth of July Celebration Friday, JUL 4, 2014 11:00 AM SUISUN CITY COMMUNITY SERVICES FOUNDATION — Suisun City Waterfront Celebrate America's birthday at Solano County's best Fourth of July celebration with picnicking, music and a huge fireworks display over the Waterfront. Plus, the best collection of independent restaurants in the region! This signature event offers a fun, safe, family celebration of America’s independence. Location: Suisun City DIRECTIONS: Suisun City Waterfront in Old Town Suisun

	Picnic in the Park & Fireworks Friday, JUL 4, 2014 12:00 PM BENICIA MAIN STREET ASSOCIATION — City Park, Downtown Benicia This event is a wonderful way to spend the 4th! Benicia’s City Park is filled with arts and crafts, delicious hot food, live entertainment and children’s activities. Fireworks start about 9 p.m. at the foot of First Street making this a great event for the whole family. Food will be available. Performers: Location: First Street Benicia

	Vacaville 4th of July Celebration Friday, JUL 4, 2014 5:00 PM CITY OF VACAVILLE — Andrews Park Experience the hometown feel of an old fashioned 4th of July in Historic Downtown Vacaville. Bring the family for a fun filled evening of music and fireworks under the stars. Park gates open at 5:00pm; music starts at 6:30pm. Lots of food & craft vendors on site. PARKING NOTE: Due to the Fireworks and related safety, parking will be limited near Andrews Park/Creekwalk. Expect street closures surrounding the park. Location: 614 E Monte Vista Ave Vacaville

	3rd Annual July 4 Fireworks-Viewing Hike Friday, JUL 4, 2014 7:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Watch the fireworks from the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Depending on visibility, expect to see various communities' fireworks around Solano, Napa, Sonoma, Marin, San Francisco, and Contra Costa. The hike is 4.5 miles round trip, over uneven terrain, at a mostly moderately easy pace with some moderately strenuous slopes. •Participants of all ages are welcome but must be prepared for a 4.5-mile hike on uneven terrain, mostly moderately easy with some moderately strenuous slopes. The park's only restroom is at the parking lot. For more information, visit Solano Land Trust's event page. Advance registration is required, and the cost is $10 per person. Entrance Fee: $10 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk Friday, JUL 4, 2014 8:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars and Fourth of July fireworks! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo

	First Saturdays at Hann's Park Saturday, JUL 5, 2014 9:00 AM GVRD — Hanns Park Out is in! Go outside, change your outlook and get involved in your local community! Join the Greater Vallejo Recreation District every first Saturday in June through September to experience what your local Vallejo parks have to offer. Come enjoy hikes and other outdoor activities in GVRD parks the first Saturday of each month this summer. This hike will be lead by Carl Murphy, a Program Educator for the Solano Resource Conservation District. For more information call Ceola Corella, (707) 648-5317, or contact by email. Leader: Carl Murphy Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Hann's Park is located off of Redwood Parkway at Skyline Drive. Meet at 9am at the picnic area.

	Hike at King-Swett Ranches Saturday, JUL 5, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Come explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo! You'll be led by Jim Walsh and/or James Chang, both expert Solano Land Trust guides who know this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—inside out. They'll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the King-Swett Ranches are otherwise closed. Bring: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and slippery off-trail terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks, gaiters. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared: a strenuous pace hiking 4-6 miles off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. The King-Swett Ranches are working ranches—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Very heavy rain cancels—call Jim at 916-870-4824 if the weather is uncertain. The hike is free; donations are appreciated. No reservations are necessary but an RSVP would be appreciated to Jim at 916-870-4824 or by email. Leader: Jim Walsh or James Chang Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet Jim and/or James promptly at the Park-and-Ride lot where McGary Road, Hiddenbrooke Parkway, and American Canyon Road intersect (on the Hiddenbrooke side of the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit, off Interstate 80). (Jim has a white "TruGreen" pickup truck). Be ready to carpool or caravan from there.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, JUL 5, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Our land is our future, so jump in with your boots on! Rush Ranch is over 2,000 acres of tidal marsh and upland grasses. Help Solano Land Trust's Land Steward, Ken Poerner, maintain it through trail maintenance, construction, litter removal, and other improvement projects. Ages 12 and up are welcome; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tools are provided. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the Rush Ranch courtyard. RSVP (appreciated, not required) to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JUL 5, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Peña Adobe Open House Saturday, JUL 5, 2014 11:00 AM PEÑA ADOBE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Peña Adobe Park Visitors are invited to tour the national- and state-recognized historic Peña Adobe built in 1842 and the Mowers-Goheen Museum. Meet our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers at the Adobe--one of the few pre-gold rush era structures remaining in the county--from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Docents will be on hand to answer questions and provide insight into Vacaville’s past. Learn about the early people that inhabited the region from our special guest, Little Bear, as he shares Native American tools and artifacts. For questions in advance, call (707) 451-7699. For same day information, call (707) 470-9975. A camera, binoculars and snacks are recommended as wildlife is often spotted in the park, or bring a picnic, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and take a hike. This is a great family friendly opportunity to have fun. Location: Vacaville DIRECTIONS: The park is located at Peña Adobe Road just off of Interstate 80.

	Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk Saturday, JUL 5, 2014 8:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo

	Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk Sunday, JUL 6, 2014 8:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo

	Coyote Club Saturday, JUL 12, 2014 9:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 4-14 -- The McIntyre Ranch is home to several different habitats, farm animals and an educational garden. Explore nature through activities, games and crafts. Getting up close to nature helps us to understand the balance we have with the environment. Studies have found that children who spend time exploring nature are more focused and interested in school. Families are encouraged to come to every meeting. Bring a snack, water and your curiosity! For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $5/class resident, $6/class nonresident. Adults must register at no cost. Leader: Dee Davis Entrance Fee: $5 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, JUL 12, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Help us take care of Lynch Canyon's 1,000 plus acres. Projects include improving trails, fixing fences, weeding, and the like. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the parking lot. RSVP to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email so he can bring enough tools. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JUL 12, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Western Magazine Hike Saturday, JUL 12, 2014 10:00 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Hike the Western Magazine back side of the island with a Mare Island Heritage Trust Hike Leader and our Navy escort. Meet at the corner of Flagship Dr. and Nereus St. at 10am. The Navy does not allow dogs or bikes on this outing. Bring cameras, binoculars, snacks and dress for all kinds of weather. Flat paved and gravel roads. 3 miles roundtrip. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Once in the gate, you must stay together as a group. Might sound like lots of dos and don'ts but it is so worth it! Call 707-249-9633. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet at the corner of Flagship Dr. and Nereus St.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, JUL 18, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Citizen Science Friday Friday, JUL 18, 2014 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Solano Land Trust Properties Get involved in science on our lands! Solano Land Trust staff scientist Sue Wickham will teach you all you need to know. BRING: Water, snacks, sturdy gloves, pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes. Come prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and protection from sun, wind, and fog). Optional: bug repellent, your favorite gardening tools, and binoculars to enjoy the birds! ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or by email. Leader: Sue Wickham Registration is required. DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP.

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, JUL 19, 2014 9:00 AM CITY OF FAIRFIELD — Rockville Hills Regional Park The Rockville Trail Crew volunteer work days are scheduled for the third Saturday of every month from 9-12noon, rain or shine! Trail Crew volunteers provide technical assistance with trail maintenance and construction activities on the trails. Trail Crew volunteer duties consist of clearing rocks, trees, brush and other debris from proposed trail routes; build/repair walk ways, bridges or other structures; grade/fill existing trail paths to ensure user safety; and attend all required meetings and training sessions. Volunteers should bring water, gloves and a tool if available. Volunteers should wear layered clothing and sturdy shoes. A snack and beverage provided for volunteers. Meet at the parking area. If you are not a regular volunteer, please RSVP to Ranger Teri, (707) 249-3613, or by email. Location: 2149 Rockville Rd Fairfield

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JUL 19, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch Saturday, JUL 19, 2014 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 8-17 -- Learn about the friendly horses and goats, and participate in their daily care. Wear sturdy work clothes and tough shoes because this is a "hand-on" experience. You will put a halter on a horse, learn to lead horses safely, brush them, clean their feet and clean their stalls. Everyone will have a chance to sit on a horse (helmet are required and provided, keep hairstyle simple for easy fit). Kids will receive a souvenit t-shirt! Eat a good breakfast, bring water bottle and wear layers. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Leader: Jane Mitchell Entrance Fee: $25 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road

	Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush' Saturday, JUL 19, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST AND RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch Get the Rush is a series of fun and free activities for the whole family, offered on the third Saturday of every month at Rush Ranch. All ages and mobility levels are welcome! This event is 100% volunteer-run and activities vary month-to-month. Volunteer-run activities may include a guided walk alongside tidal marsh and through upland grasses (timing varies), a traditional blacksmith shop in action (10am-1pm), an interpretive display of Native American tools and decorations (10am-1pm), and horse-drawn wagon rides that are wheelchair accessible (11am-1pm). BRING: Water, snacks or picnic lunch, bug repellent. Be prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Optional: binoculars, camera. For current details, check the Solano Land Trust calendar. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, JUL 25, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JUL 26, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Astronomy Night Saturday, JUL 26, 2014 7:00 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch CURIOUS ABOUT CONSTELLATIONS? PONDERING THE PLANETS? If so, then don’t miss a Rush Ranch stargazing event led by local astronomy enthusiast, Jim Jerrell, who will share his 30+ years of celestial knowledge. The evening begins at 7:00 pm with a short presentation in the Rush Ranch Nature Center. Outdoor viewing begins when darkness falls. Telescopes will be on hand. Personal scopes & binoculars are welcome, but be familiar with their setup and use. Mosquito repellant and warm clothing are a must. Children are welcome, but must remain supervised at all times. In order to preserve night vision, flashlights should be covered with red cellophane, and all latecomers should dim their headlights. For more information call 707-422-4491. Free but donations appreciated! Leader: Jim Jerrell Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.