With arrival of February, we are well into 2018! We have had a fresh start to the New Year, have decided if our resolutions are worthy and by now should be ready to get out and enjoy. As always, it is typically a bit rainy and cold in our region. Therefore, most of the events and activities this time of year (primarily due to unpredictable weather), are held indoors. Still, the eternal optimist, I always think of February as the, “Threshold to Spring!”
A pile of things to do are set for this month ranging from Super Bowl Sunday, to art exhibits, to an inaugural short film festival, to the final crab feeds of the season, to culinary demonstrations… here are my top “only in Napa Valley” opportunities for February.
Super Bowl Sunday
Sunday, February 4
In the US, the NFL Championship Game Day is arguably one of the biggest sporting and socializing days of the year. Football fan, or not, it unfailingly provides a day to gather with others to imbibe. This year the game will be broadcast live from Minneapolis, Minnesota. While there are plenty of great local spots to enjoy the game (Hop Creek Pub, Palisades, Downtown Joe’s and Norman Rose in Napa; Hurley’s and R&D in Yountville; Ana’s Cantina in St. Helena and Susie’s Bar in Calistoga). I personally enjoy either having a few friends over, or attending house parties with friends and family. After all, Super Bowl Parties are a no-brainer for casual visits and entertaining.
France is a Feast: The Photographic Journey of Paul and Julia Child
Every Wednesday - Sunday in February
The Napa Valley Museum has presented a valentine to the valley with the world premiere exhibition “France is a Feast: The Photographic Journey of Paul and Julia Child” which was inspired by the new book of the same title by Alex Prud’homme and Katie Pratt. The exhibit showcases rarely seen black and white photographs taken by Paul Child in France between 1948 and 1954, as well as images of Paris, Marseille and the French countryside after the Second World War. The show also includes rare objects, personal items and intimate pictures of Paul’s wife, Julia Child, long before she became a celebrity cookbook author and “The French Chef” on television. NapaValleyMuseum.org
Yountville International Short Film Festival
Thursday, February 8 –
Sunday, February 11
The premiere short film festival and culinary event, the first Yountville International Film Festival will truly celebrate the world of cinema presenting more than 75 world-class short films, select film and wine pairings with wines from Jessup Cellars, as well as other culinary events. Set to take place at multiple venues, all within walking distance around the town of Yountville, attendees with discover specially-curated films in pop-up theaters in the center of the Napa Valley. YISFF.com
Let’s Look - Gallery 1 at di Rosa
Saturday, February 10
If you have ever stood in front of a work of art, and wondered what to do or how to enjoy the piece, this is the workshop for you! Easy and approachable, this FREE (with nominal gallery admission) workshop will include tricks of the trade and tips for viewers who enjoy art, whether alone or with companions. The exhibit that will be viewed at this workshop is, “Be Not Still: Living in Uncertain Times.” DiRosaArt.org
Markham Lobster Feast Saturday, February 10
Only in the Napa Valley can you rub shoulders with a winemaker while enjoying a fresh Maine lobster feast! Winemaker Kimberlee Nicholls will be right there with you as you experience live music by the Suspects of Soul, hors d’oeuvres, and a complete feast including prawns and corn on the cob, along with plenty of lobster to pair with wine. Similar to a crab feed, prepare to don a bib and dive right in! MarkhamVineyards.com
Clif Family Winery Culinary at CIA Copia
Saturday, February 10
Clif Family Winery is known for wine, food and an adventurous and active spirits too! The winery’s Chef John McConnell is set to present a fun and tasty demonstration that will encompass Clif Family Winery’s joie de vivre. Chef John will share behind-the-scenes tricks for creating delicious dishes, and demonstrate some of his favorite recipes paired with Clif Family wines in the Napa Valley Vintners Theater. CIAatCopia.com
Blue for Gold Crab Feed presented by Napa High Athletic Boosters Saturday, February 24
The crab feed season has been going strong, continuing throughout this month and on into March. The Blue for Gold Crab Feed and Auction will benefit the Napa High School Athletic Boosters. Attendees will feast on salad, crab, steak, dessert before DJ dancing at the Yountville Community Center’s Heritage Hall! For tickets and additional information visit NHSAthleticBoosters.org or call telephone 707.253.3731.