Art and Culture Archives - Visit Tri-Valley https://vtv.flip2staging.com/category/art-culture/ Eat, Stay & Play in Tri-Valley, CA Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:15:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://visittrivalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Tri-Valley-Logos-Outlines_Oak-Leaf-Icon-Oval-Dark-232x300-1-100x100.webp Art and Culture Archives - Visit Tri-Valley https://vtv.flip2staging.com/category/art-culture/ 32 32 Downtown Livermore’s Tree Sweater Forest https://visittrivalley.com/blog/livermore-tree-sweater-forest/ Wed, 03 Sep 2025 21:21:34 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=101206 Just 45 miles east of San Francisco, Downtown Livermore transforms each fall into a colorful outdoor gallery known as the Livermore Tree Sweater Forest. Local knitters and crocheters wrap the […]

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Just 45 miles east of San Francisco, Downtown Livermore transforms each fall into a colorful outdoor gallery known as the Livermore Tree Sweater Forest. Local knitters and crocheters wrap the trunks of downtown’s trees in handmade “sweaters,” turning the streets into a one-of-a-kind art walk that blends creativity with community spirit.

When to See Them

Fiber artists install their sweaters around mid-September and installations remain on display for several weeks, often into late November. This timing means you can enjoy the Tree Sweater Forest alongside other seasonal favorites in the Tri-Valley, like pumpkin patches, cool weather hikes, or wine harvest celebrations.

Where to Find Them

The Tree Sweater Forest is typically found along First Street in Downtown Livermore, with many decorated trees stretching between Livermore Avenue and South L Street. You’ll also spot a few along nearby side streets and around the plaza area. Park for free in the large parking garage on Railroad Ave. 

Make the Most of Your Visit

Start your day off with a stop at Wingen Bakery, a local favorite where the line often stretches out the door, but it’s always worth the wait. Don’t worry, if you miss the morning rush, their dinner service is just as delicious.

Coffee lovers can head to Story Coffee or Rosetta Roasting for a cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks.

Pop into one of downtown’s unique shops, from Baughman’s Outfitters, a 100+ year-old western wear store, to quirky gift boutiques like Therapy Stores, and the seasonal Holiday Shop for festive decor and one-of-a-kind finds.

colorful fall trees surround a farmers market in downtown pleasanton

Visiting in the Fall?

Downtown Livermore’s Tree Sweater Forest is just the beginning of what makes autumn special in the Tri-Valley. Wine lovers can experience the region at its most vibrant with our Harvest Season in Livermore Valley Wine Country guide, highlighting seasonal tastings, events, and vineyard views.

For more seasonal inspiration, our Fall Fun in the Tri-Valley roundup is packed with fresh ideas—think pumpkin patches, festivals, and hidden gems.

If you’re chasing golden leaves and crisp air, check out Where to See Fall Colors in the Tri-Valley, which features local favorites like the tree-lined trails at Del Valle Regional Park and other scenic spots perfect for a fall stroll.

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]]> The History of Alameda County Fairground’s Horse Race Track https://visittrivalley.com/blog/the-history-behind-the-alameda-county-fairgrounds-horse-race-track/ Wed, 09 Mar 2022 19:12:17 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=83422 Learn more about America's oldest 1-mile horse race track and the birthplace of California horse racing.

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Horse Racing is a longstanding American pastime, originating in the mid-1700’s when horse breeders and racers originated the Jockey Club. However, it’s not a well-known fact that the oldest 1-mile horse race track in America is actually located in Pleasanton at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.

The race track was built in 1858 by the Bernal family, which is where Pleasanton’s Bernal Community Park gets its name. Although it’s widely believed that New York’s Saratoga race track is the oldest in the country, the race track in present-day Pleasanton predates it by 5 years. 

In the early 1900’s, the race track began to receive recognition for its ideal soil conditions and temperate weather. In 1902, it hosted horse racing for the Golden Gate Fair. Two years later it held the inaugural Pleasanton Fair and Races. However, it wasn’t until 1912 that the modern-day Alameda County Fair was held onsite, which looked similar to the annual fair that still operates there today. 

Unfortunately, the first two years of the Alameda County Fair did not prove to be a financial success. It was also overshadowed by San Francisco’s 1915 Panama Pacific International Exhibition and World War I. In result, the fair was cancelled and wouldn’t return to the grounds for over two decades.

Things began to look up for the Pleasanton race track in 1933 when California legalized pari-mutuel wagering, making it legal to bet on horse races at public venues and race tracks. In 1938, three local businessmen suggested using their own funds to repair the fairgrounds and revive the fair to hopes of bringing in revenue to the town.

By 1939, the Alameda County Agricultural Fair Association was founded and the Alameda County Fair returned to the fairgrounds that summer. The San Francisco Chronicle reported on the event calling Pleasanton the “birthplace of horse racing in California” and stating that  “the revival of East Bay racing will be on the same spot where horse racing virtually had its birth in California more than 70 years ago when the Spanish Dons built the first track here.”

In 1941, the race track hosted 9 days of racing during the Alameda County Fair for a handle of $432,644, which was a national record. However, due to World War II, the fair was suspended again for the following three years. 

The Alameda County Fair race track continued to make Fair history again in 2003 by hitting the second-highest handle at $35,766,350. In 2007, it set a new fair wagering handle at more than $39.8 million.   

Today, the race track remains one of the most popular activities at the Alameda County Fairgrounds featuring a first-class equestrian center, show arenas, and full-service amenities. The race track’s grandstands can accommodate over 6,000 guests, although the track is known to attract nearly 40,000 people on live-race days.

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A History Buff’s Guide to the Tri-Valley

From the Native American artifacts to Prohibition-era wine caves, check out some of the best spots to visit in the Tri-Valley for history buffs.

15 Best Outdoor Activities in the Tri-Valley

From breathtaking hikes to exhilarating bike rides, serene swimming holes to challenging rock climbing routes, and tranquil nature viewing to heart-pumping BMX tracks, the Tri-Valley offers an array of activities for every outdoor enthusiast.

Blackhawk Museum Entrance

The Tri-Valley’s Must-See Museums

Read up on one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits.

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]]> Downtown Livermore Murals Guide https://visittrivalley.com/blog/downtown-livermore-murals-guide/ Fri, 04 Mar 2022 18:30:41 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=83203 Use this guide to find, view, and strike a pose with over 15 larger-than-life Downtown Livermore murals.

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Photo Credit: @camilleconsul

Public art installations are scattered throughout Downtown Livermore in the form of painted utility boxes, statues, and larger-than-life murals. Some of these works of art can easily be seen from your car, while others are tucked away from main roads.

Use our guide below to find, view, and snap a photo with these vibrant pops of color painted by local artists. Use #LivermoreMurals on your posts after striking a pose for a chance to be featured on this page.

Mural Map

Mural Gallery

Getting to Livermore

Getting to Downtown Livermore to view murals is extremely accessible by car, bike, foot, and public transportation. Check out our Getting There Guide for driving directions. 

PARKING

Free Public Parking is available at the following lots or garages:

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Livermore is Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) accessible. To reach Livermore, visitors can take BART to the Dublin/Pleasanton station and board the Route 14 bus to the Livermore Transit Center.

Route 14 operates 7-days a week providing connections between Livermore, Pleasanton and Dublin/Pleasanton BART via Jack London and Stoneridge. Route 14 provides service to the Livermore Transit Center, the Livermore Civic Center complex, central Livermore/Olivina, Jack London, San Francisco Premium Outlets, Stoneridge Creek senior living community, Hacienda, and the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station.

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wente wine blending experience

Blend Your Own Wine at this Livermore Valley Winery

Become a Winemaker for a day at this Livermore Valley Winery, nestled in the Tri-Valley just 35 miles east of San Francisco. Learn about different varietals and taste-test until your blend is just right. Cork it, seal it, and take it home for a special occasion!

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]]> Exploring Art & Culture in the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/blog/exploring-art-culture-tri-valley/ Thu, 03 Mar 2022 19:15:21 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=82972 The Tri-Valley is home to a thriving arts and culture sector, featuring a variety of museums, art galleries, cultural celebrations, theaters, and experiences. Read below for some of our favorite […]

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The Tri-Valley is home to a thriving arts and culture sector, featuring a variety of museums, art galleries, cultural celebrations, theaters, and experiences. Read below for some of our favorite ways to explore the unique arts and culture offerings in the Tri-Valley. 

Bankhead Theater

The Bankhead Theater is easily the largest venue in the Tri-Valley, boasting 507-seats and presenting rotating art exhibits as well as exceptional musical, dance, and live-stage performances all year round. Located in the heart of Downtown Livermore near a variety of restaurants, shops, cafes and lounges, the Bankhead Theater is also a hub for community events and cultural celebrations like the Livermore Innovation Fair, Native American Day, and Diwali. 

Blackhawk Museum Entrance

Blackhawk Museum

The Blackhawk Museum is widely known for it’s extensive classic car gallery, housing a rotating collection of ninety rare, unique, and historically significant automobiles. However, it’s also home to four additional galleries that highlight various cultures and wildlife from around the globe. Visitors are welcome to explore each of the give galleries with admission, including the nationally-acclaimed Spirit of the Old West, Into China, Art of Africa, World of Nature, and its popular Classic Car Collection. The museum also features various events including galas, car shows, and educational events.

Read more about the Must-See Museums in the Tri-Valley. 

More Info
Live Shakespeare Performance at a Livermore Winery

Shakespeare in the Vineyard

Visitors to the Tri-Valley have the unique opportunity to enjoy Shakespearean performances under the stars. Every summer, the Shakespeare & Performing Arts Regional Company produce live, outdoor performances at a Livermore Valley Winery. Previously known as The Livermore Shakespeare Festival, Shakespeare in the Vineyard has been voted best live performance by the East Bay Times three years in a row: 2018, 2019 and 2020. 

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Livermore Murals

Nearly 20 larger-than-life murals painted by local artists adorn the walls of businesses and buildings throughout Downtown Livermore and the surrounding areas. Some of these pops of color are easily spotted from main roads while others remain tucked away in less trafficked areas. Visitors are encouraged to check out our Downtown Livermore Mural Guide to find, view, and strike a pose with these attractive works of art. 

Several art pieces are displayed on the walls of an empty gallery

The Harrington Gallery

The Harrington Gallery is 2,000 square foot fine-arts gallery inside Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Center, which also houses a 221-seat theater and a 1,800 square foot classroom. Located in the heart of Downtown Pleasanton, the Harrington Gallery features seven group exhibitions per year, highlighting works by both established and emerging local and regional artists working in a variety of styles, genres, and themes.

Cultural Celebrations

The Tri-Valley is a melting pot of diverse cultures and ethnicities, with a wide variety of cultural celebrations to participate in. Some events include Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival which draws in thousands of people to the Tri-Valley each year, the ever-popular Scottish Games held at the Alameda County Fairgrounds, and Downtown Livermore’s Native American Day celebration that takes place in front of the Bankhead Theater. 

Upcoming Events

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The post Exploring Art & Culture in the Tri-Valley appeared first on Visit Tri-Valley.

]]> The Tri-Valley’s Must-See Museums https://visittrivalley.com/blog/must-see-museums/ Mon, 28 Feb 2022 18:22:44 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=82914 Read up on one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits.

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Positioned as an important gateway region to the entire San Francisco Bay Area, the Tri-Valley has been an integral crossroads of historical and cultural significance for centuries. Today, the Tri-Valley is home to several one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits. 

Blackhawk Museum

The Blackhawk Museum is widely known for it’s extensive classic car gallery, housing a rotating collection of ninety rare, unique, and historically significant automobiles, however, it’s also home to four additional galleries that highlight various cultures and wildlife from around the globe.

The Spirit of the Old West exhibit explores the most prolific period of American History, documenting American westward expansion from the mid-1700’s to the 1900’s through both the eyes of Native Americans and American Settlers.

The newest addition to the museum, The World of Nature exhibit features a truly immersive expedition into the natural world through stunning, life-like of floor to ceiling dioramas, three-dimensional sounds, interactive screens, and more than 600 species from around the world on display.

More Info

Museum of the San Ramon Valley

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits that highlight the rich history and heritage of the San Ramon Valley and surrounding areas. Permanent exhibits include information about local geology, artifacts from California Native Americans, the Rancho period, the Gold Rush, and early settlers. The Museum also houses a life-size train car to commemorate Danville’s past as an integral train depot and the nearby Iron Horse Trail (previously known as the Southern Pacific Railroad). 

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Museum on Main

Pleasanton’s Museum on Main collects documents, photographs, and artifacts with historical significance to the city of Pleasanton as well as the Amador and Livermore Valleys. Their collection consists of over 10,000 items, including 3,500 photographs and almost 2,500 other documents. The Museum on Main also acts as an information hub and a home base for Downtown Pleasanton community events, like the ever-popular Ghost Walk tours offered every Fall.

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Dublin Heritage Park & Museums

Dublin Heritage Park & Museums is a 10-acre park featuring historic buildings, lawns, picnic areas, and a pioneer cemetery. The park sits at a major crossroads station used by stagecoaches traversing the Bay Area more than 200 years ago. Self-guided brochures are available for visitors to learn more about the city of Dublin’s deep-rooted history. 

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Mount Diablo Visitor Center

Located nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, the Mount Diablo State Park Visitor Center features a variety of Native American artifacts, interactive exhibits, geological displays, dioramas of its unique plants and wildlife, and a 3D model of the mountain range. Visitors are also welcome to view a video explaining how the mountain range was formed over hundreds of thousands of years and to plant both feet on the actual summit itself. 

Before making the trek there, check out our Visiting Mount Diablo State Park blog.

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Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site

The Danville home of Eugene O’Neill, the only American playwright to receive a Nobel Prize for Literature, is protected by National Parks Service as a historic site and serves as a way to preserve his life and work. The home itself, named the Tao House, contains several of the playwright’s personal possessions and provides visitors an intimate perspective of the world-renowned artist’s life who chose the Tri-Valley as his home several decades ago. Every year during the Eugene O’Neill Festival, his plays are brought back to life in the form of live performances housed in a small barn on the premises. 

More Info
topography exhibit at del valle regional park

Del Valle Visitor Center

The newly renovated Visitors Center at Del Valle Regional Park features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits offered in both English and Spanish including live animals, a build-your-own topography sand box, a water level control game, an Instagrammable wall painting that allows visitors to compare their wingspan to a bald eagle’s, and more. Open to visitors on Saturday and Sundays between 9:30am-3pm.

More Info

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More Blogs

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]]> Arts & Humanities Month https://visittrivalley.com/arts-humanities-blog Thu, 23 Sep 2021 22:22:27 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=80182 October is National Arts & Humanities Month! The Tri-Valley is home to several art galleries, museums, theaters, public art displays, and historic sites for visitors and residents to experience. Whether you’re […]

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October is National
Arts & Humanities Month!

The Tri-Valley is home to several art galleries, museums, theaters, public art displays, and historic sites for visitors and residents to experience. Whether you’re a long-time patron of the arts or you have yet to discover the Tri-Valley’s diverse artistic community, here are a few ways to get involved in this exciting month of local public art displays, cultural events, and educational museum exhibits.

Planning a visit in the future? Jump ahead to our art and humanities centric annual events or year-round activities featuring a listing of of museums, historic sites, art galleries, and more located in the Tri-Valley. 

Featured Events

Mark your calendars! Celebrate National Arts & Humanities Month in the Tri-Valley by taking part in any of these upcoming featured events:

FRIDAY OCT. 1ST

Eugene O'Neill: "51 Plays in 51 Minutes"

Eugene O’Neill, America’s only Nobel-prize winning playwright, made his home in the quaint town of Danville. Today, it’s memorialized as a National Historic Site. While Eugene is known for writing long plays, he’s less known for the amount of plays he was able to pen in his lifetime. Eugene O’Neill: 51 Plays in 51 Minutes is a playful overview of the entire O’Neill canon from the perspective of a director who has staged 27 of the playwright’s 51 plays.

More Info

SATURDAY OCT. 2ND

A Taste of Africa in the Heart of Livermore

This free family-friendly, outdoor event promotes and celebrates African and African diaspora cultures. Featuring various forms of art, outdoor musical and dance performances, a kids zone equipped with hands-on learning experiences, musical instrument exploration, arts & crafts, face painting and so much more.

More Info

SATURDAY OCT. 2ND

San Ramon historic foundation's oktoberfest

Celebrate Oktoberfest with beer tastings, German food, and live performances to benefit the San Ramon Historic Foundation and the renovation of historic buildings. This event will feature live music by Olympia Fields Brass Band, performances and dance lessons by Golden Gate Bavarian Dancers, sheep herding demonstrations and tours of this historic property. Cost includes a pilsner beer glass or wine glass, four beer or wine tickets and a German lunch.

More Info

SATURDAY
OCT. 9TH

livermore art walk

Don’t miss out on the Tri-Valley’s premiere one-day art festival. Over 200 artists will display their works on sidewalks and plazas, in parks and galleries, surrounded by boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants in historic downtown Livermore. Art works range from contemporary to classical, abstract to realism, pottery to mixed media, handmade bags, ceramic garden art and jewelry, with subject matter from floral to figurative and much more. View a variety of cultural performances between 12pm-4pm in front of the Bankhead Theater, meet the artists, and buy one-of-a-kind, original handmade treasures.

More Info

SATURDAY
OCT. 9TH

dublin harvest festivaL

Enjoy an afternoon of old-fashioned fall fun with farm harvest activities, lively music, and favorite seasonal foods. This event features family-friendly activities like tractor rides, a hay bale maze, and more. While you’re here tour the 1910 Kolb House to see how a true farm family lived. 

More Info

THURSDAY
OCT. 14TH

NATional GEOgraphy LIVE: ANDY MANN | FROM SUMMIT TO SEA

Award-winning filmmaker and photographer Andy Mann uses his work to bridge the gap between science and policy. From his early days as a rock climber to his current passion documenting the critically endangered oceanic whitetip shark, his stunning images tell the story of our rapidly changing planet, from top to bottom.

More Info

AUG. 9TH-
OCT. 14TH

BelLisSimo: A CONTEMPORARY ITALIAN ART EXHIBIT

Bellissimo is an art exhibit showing a wide range of creative talents by 12 Italian and Italian American artists who reside in Northern California. The exhibition has been co-curated by two Danville Artists: Tricia Grame and Emily Smith Silvestri. Both women sought out an array of imagery, styles, subject matter and media to highlight the many talents of a variety of Italian Artists. The two resident artists collaborated with Museo Italo Americano in San Francisco to curate an eclectic show that pays homage to Italian culture and heritage.

More Info

SATURDAY OCT. 16TH

livermore pride

Mark your calendar for a full afternoon of outdoor, socially distanced entertainment including SF Cheer, Drag Queens, Pooch Parade dog show, live music, and Bay Area Children’s Theater. Attendees are also welcome to shop from nearly 100 local sponsors and merch & food vendors ranging from LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and ally businesses.

More Info

Annual Events

Planning a visit in the future? Browse through some of the most popular annual events hosted in the Tri-Valley. Use the buttons below to find out the exact dates for these events before planning your trip.

lunar new year celebration

Every year the Bankhead Theater hosts traditional dancing, demonstrations, food and crafts in celebration of the Lunar New Year. 

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Dublin's St. Patrick's DAY Festival

Thousands of visitors flock to the Dublin every year for one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States. The celebration includes a festival, the Shamrock 5K Fun Run & Walk, a colorful parade, and more. 

More Info
livermore valley wine country's
barrel tasting weekend

Dozens of Livermore Valley Wine Country wineries participate in this annual event where visitors are invited to sample wines still in development straight from the barrel. Barrels are painted by local artists to be displayed throughout the month and are bid off at the end of the event.

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Livermore rodeo

The Livermore Rodeo has celebrated over 100 years of tradition in the Tri-Valley. Includes several events including a Street Fest, Parade, Cowgirl Luncheon, and more!

More Info
alameda county fair

Voted one of the top fairs in the country, and home to America’s oldest 1-mile horse race track, the Alameda County Fair brings in thousands of visitors from around the country each summer.

More Info
Shakespeare in the vineyard

Voted best Live Theater in the East Bay for three years in a row, Shakespeare in the Vineyard is a unique opportunity to see a classic performance under the stars while sipping on local wines.

More Info
eugene o'neill festival

In celebration of America’s only Nobel prize winning playwright, the Eugene O’Neill Festival features live performances of his plays in a one-room playhouse of the playwright’s Danville homestead.

More Info
scottish highland gathering and games

Celebrating over 150 years of Celtic culture and the gathering of clans and societies, the Scottish Games feature several popular events including heavy athletics, Highland dancing, piping and drumming, as well as whisky tastings. 

More Info
california NATIVE AMERICAN DAY

This free, family-friendly event features a 25-foot Tipi display, traditional Indian dance performances, free arts and crafts for children, and educational booths.  

More Info

Year-Round Activities

Not sure when you’ll be visiting the Tri-Valley? Enjoy these museums, art galleries, and historic sites available to visitors throughout the year. 

Museums

The Blackhawk Museum, located in Danville’s Blackhawk Plaza, houses 5 impressive galleries under one roof. Admission includes access to all five galleries  including a vast collection of significant and historic cars, as well as Art of Africa, Into China, World of Nature, and the critically acclaimed Spirit of the Old West. More Info →

Pleasanton’s Museum on Main features permanent and rotating exhibits as well as a vast collection of photographs and artifacts from around the Tri-Valley region. Located in the heart of Downtown Pleasanton in what was previously Pleasanton’s city hall and library, the Museum on Main also acts as the center of Downtown celebrations and events. More Info →

The Museum on San Ramon Valley is located in Downtown Danville, and commemorates the rich heritage and history of the San Ramon Valley, including its geology, pre-colonial inhabitants, railroad developments, the Gold Rush, and early settlers. In addition to permanent educational programs and exhibits, it’s also home to rotating exhibits. More Info →

Dublin Heritage Park and Museums is a 10-acre park with historic buildings, lawns, pioneer cemetery, and picnic areas.  The park is designed to maintain and tell the story of Dublin’s rich farming history. More Info → 

theaters

Livermore’s Bankhead Theater is the largest performing arts facility in the Tri-Valley, seating 507 guests and hosting a range of performances, lectures, conferences and meetings. The Bankhead Theater is home to a wide range of performances from renowned world-class musicians to rising stars on their way up, from decades-old resident companies to young student performers. More Info →

Downtown Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Center is a 221-seat theater featuring performances in music, poetry, theater, comedy, film, and more. Located conveniently near Downtown Pleasanton restaurants and features a parkside patio and entrance adjacent to Lions Wayside Park. More Info →

Built in 1873 for use as a farmer’s lodge, the Village Theatre & Art Gallery has been used as a Grange Hall, movie theatre, and church. Recognized as a historic site by the Heritage Resource Commission, the Village Theatre now serves as a 245-seat performing arts theatre with a fine arts gallery located in the lobby area. More Info →

Art Galleries

The Harrington Gallery is located inside the Firehouse Arts Center and features 2,000 square feet of exhibition space. Harrington Gallery features seven group exhibitions per year, highlighting works by both established and emerging local and regional artists working in a variety of styles, genres, and themes. More Info →

Located in the spacious lobby of the Village Theatre & Art Gallery, and renovated in 2009, this 1,000 square foot exhibition space features rotating fine art exhibits. More Info →

Historic Sites

The Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site commemorates America’s only Nobel Prize winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill, who chose to live in Northern California at the height of his writing career. Isolated from the world and within the walls of his home, O’Neill wrote his final and most memorable plays; The Iceman Cometh, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, and A Moon for the Misbegotten.
More Info →

Ravenswood Historic Site is on the National Register of Historic Places, is a State of California Historical Point of Interest, and is a City of Livermore Historic Preservation Landmark Site. Free public tours are given by costumed docents on a regular basis. Two annual community events are held at Ravenswood: the Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social on the second Sunday in August and the Victorian Yuletide on the second Sunday in December. More Info →

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]]> Public Art in the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/blog/public-art/ Wed, 02 Sep 2020 05:03:21 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=73299 Public art installations not only help beautify our region, they give us something interesting to seek out and enjoy while exploring the Tri-Valley. There are several murals, statues, mosaics, and […]

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Public art installations not only help beautify our region, they give us something interesting to seek out and enjoy while exploring the Tri-Valley. There are several murals, statues, mosaics, and public art pieces that can be found throughout our area, each with their own unique backstory. Read up on some of our favorite public art installations in the Tri-Valley below.  

Grazino Tile Murals

Guillermo Wagner Grazino was born in San Francisco in 1923 and graduated from San Francisco Art Institute following World War II. Despite being a Bay Area native, his ornate ceramic tile murals can be found throughout prominent cities in California and countries abroad, like Japan, Australia, and Nicaragua.

In 1994, to celebrate Pleasanton’s Centennial, the city commissioned Grazino to create a ceramic tile mural that told the rich history of the area. Grazino produced three colorful columns installed diagonally so that when they’re viewed together from any side, they form one large mural. The murals depict Native American inhabitants, Pioneer Settlers, the Southern Pacific Railroad, the Alameda County Fairgrounds, the city’s agricultural influence, and it’s short stint in silent movie-making. Unfortunately, Granzino battled with cancer while producing this mural, and it was one of his final pieces. 

Visitors can view this unique installation by visiting Pleasanton’s Civic Park, just south of Main Street. 

While you’re in town, don’t miss out on everything Pleasanton has to offer. Check out our What to do in Pleasanton blog. 

Livermore Murals

Located behind Story Coffee in Livermore, the “Welcome to Downtown Livermore” mural is unique in that it was painted by 9 regional artists and aims to highlight various aspects of the city. Some spotlighted characteristics include the city’s outdoor recreation space, the historic Livermore Valley Wine Country, the over 100-years old Livermore Rodeo, its buzz-worthy craft beer scene, and its dedication to both the science and art communities.

There are over 15 larger-than-life murals created by local artists are scattered throughout Downtown Livermore. Check out our Downtown Livermore Murals Guide to find, view, and snap a photo with these beautiful pops of color. 

Meadowlark Dairy Mural

You’ve probably heard that happy cows come from California, and the saying rings true here in the Tri-Valley. Meadowlark Dairy was founded in the early 1900’s in Pleasanton and was the first certified dairy in California. In 1969, the dairy owners built a milk processing plant selling drive-thru dairy and grocery goods at the present-day address: W. 57 Neal Street. Today, Meadowlark Dairy continues to provide dairy and grocery items while also being a local hotspot for classic and seasonal flavors of house-made soft serve from their drive-thru and walk-up windows. 

Meadowlark Dairy is also a participating ice creamery on our Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail. Visit 5 stops on the trail and take home your very own Visit Tri-Valley ice cream scooper to use at home! 

Photo Credit: @Rachel Rodi

Railroad Plaza Mosaic

In 1891 the Southern Pacific Railroad was completed, making it easy to transport goods and people from Avon (near Martinez) to Danville. The small town’s history as a railway depot is still celebrated today in the form of historic markers, street names, a life-size railroad car at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, and the Railroad Plaza mosaic crafted by Rachel Rodi. The mosaic wraps around a shallow fountain and the tops of four benches surrounding it, depicting significant local historic and geographical sites. 

Historic Crossroads Mural

Located on the freeway underpasses of I-680 at Dublin Blvd. and Amador Valley Blvd., this expansive mural features a variety of historical figures that seem to be intermingling with each other in a hallway. The mural combines the city’s natural history, Spanish colonization, and American settlers with snapshots of the city in present-day. This creative juxtaposition was painted by Daniel Galves, John Pugh, and John Wehrle in 2003. 

See a full list of Dublin’s public art collection here. 

Eugene O'Neill Tribute

The Eugene O’Neill tribute located in Danville is an art installation celebrating America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill. O’Neill lived in Danville between 1937 and 1944 and his home is now a protected National Historic Site.

This peaceful path is lined with greenery and stone books which shed light on the famous playwright. A few chess tables and benches encourage visitors to sit and stay a while.

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]]> Ten Reasons to Visit the Alameda County Fair This Summer https://visittrivalley.com/blog/10-reasons-alameda-county-fair/ Tue, 11 Jun 2019 17:06:08 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=31251 Summer in the Tri-Valley isn’t complete without a visit to the Alameda County Fair. Every year between mid-June and early July, you can find us eating funnel cakes, riding Ferris […]

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Summer in the Tri-Valley isn’t complete without a visit to the Alameda County Fair. Every year between mid-June and early July, you can find us eating funnel cakes, riding Ferris wheels, jamming out at nightly concerts, and enjoying plenty of family-friendly fun. Here are 10 reasons we visit the Alameda County Fair ever summer!

Fair Food

Where else can you get a 12 inch hot dog or a plate of fries the size of your face? From deep-fried everything to loaded funnel cakes and fresh-squeezed lemonade, the fair is a foodie playground. Maybe you’re craving the classics or you might be ready to try something wild (deep-fried Oreos, anyone?), there’s something for every taste bud.

Live Entertainment

The Fair’s entertainment lineup is packed with variety — from hypnotists and stunt shows to magic acts and more. Thrill seekers will love the FMX Motocross shows, while families can cheer on the All-Alaskan Pig Races, be wowed by the Extreme Dogs show, and cap off their night with Friday night fireworks — back and better than ever!

Competition Exhibits

See the incredible talents of local bakers, crafters, and gardeners on display. From blue-ribbon pies to breathtaking quilts, these exhibits showcase the creativity of our community.

Carnival Games & Rides

Bring your inner kid (and your actual kids) for a day of whirling rides, midway games, and classic fair vibes. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer the carousel, there’s fun for all ages. 

Tractor & Train Displays

All aboard for nostalgia! The Tractor Museum and model train exhibit are full of history and charm. These family-friendly displays are especially popular with younger visitors and history buffs alike.

Tasting Fests

Sip your way through summer at the fair’s tasting events, which spotlight local beer and wine from across the Tri-Valley and beyond. Pair that with delicious bites and you’ve got a winning combo.

Live Concert Series

Every summer night is a party with the fair’s live concert series, featuring throwback favorites and chart-topping talent. All concerts are free with admission—just bring your dancing shoes. This year’s lineup includes big acts like Too $hort, Sugar Ray, and Gym Class Heroes! 

Discount Days

Get the most out of your visit with special deals and discounts offered throughout the fair’s run. Keep an eye out for value days, family packs, and more on the Alameda County Fair website.

Animal Showcase

From sheep shearing demos to baby goats and cows, the fair’s agricultural roots still shine. Stop by the barns for hands-on learning and cute photo ops.

Movies on the Lawn

Wrap up your visit under the stars with a family-friendly flick on the fairgrounds lawn. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and enjoy a cozy summer night at the fair.

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]]> Visiting the Livermore Centennial Light Bulb https://visittrivalley.com/2017/02/livermore-centennial-lightbulb-guinnessrecord/ Fri, 24 Feb 2017 12:00:58 +0000 http://staging.newtrivalley.wpengine.com/?p=1684 Perched up in the white ceiling of Livermore’s Station #6 is the granddaddy of old-school bulbs, and it refuses to burn out.

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Talk about a slow burn: The 60-watt bulb hanging inside Livermore Fire Station No. 6 near Robert Livermore Park, known locally as the Centennial Light, has been running since 1901. The In fact, event the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! recognize it as the planet’s longest-burning light bulb.

Manufactured by the Shelby Electric Company, the bulb’s low wattage, vacuum-tight seal and constant power likely contribute to its life span. Over the past 115+ years, the bulb has been turned off only 4 times out of necessity. 

Visitors are welcome to visit the Livermore Fire Station No. 6 and view it themselves depending on the availability of the firemen on hand. Simply go to the rear of the station and ring the bell for assistance. Alternatively, you can also check out virtually via a 24 hour webcam that keeps an eye on the bulb around the clock.

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