Point Reyes Station
Swap, Don’t Shop
Growing kids have a way of outgrowing everything except one’s budget. Marin Community Free Swaps offers a sustainable alternative with its seasonal Kids’ Fall Clothing Swap, where families can exchange gently used children’s clothing, shoes, backpacks, baby gear and school essentials—no purchase necessary. The volunteer-run event operates on a simple philosophy: Bring what one can; take what one needs. Whether one is donating, browsing or both, the swap keeps usable items out of the landfill while helping neighbors prepare for the school year and cooler weather. Strollers, furniture and toys can be left at home—they’ll have their own day. 10am–noon, Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Dance Palace Community Center, 503 B St., Point Reyes Station. Free. More information at taplink.cc/mcfs.
Healdsburg
Festa Italia
A taste of Italy arrives in Dry Creek Valley when Festa Italia di Healdsburg returns to Orsi Family Vineyards for an afternoon celebrating California-grown Italian grape varieties. More than 15 wineries will pour wines inspired by Italy’s legendary vineyards, while San Francisco favorite A16 fires up wood-oven pizzas, fresh seasonal salads and cannoli alongside handcrafted gelato from Gio Gelati. The festival pairs food and wine with live music and relaxed Wine Country hospitality, proving that Italian tradition has found a comfortable second home in Sonoma County. General admission tickets are available at a discounted rate with the promotional code EARLYBIRD26. Noon–3:30pm (VIP admission 11am–noon), Sunday, Aug. 16, at Orsi Family Vineyards, 2306 Magnolia Dr., Healdsburg. Tickets and more information at festaitaliahbg.com.
Petaluma
Living Earth
Australian artist Tracy Marie Shapland sees landscapes less as places than as emotional states. Her new exhibition, VISIONS OF THE LIVING EARTH: where the land remembers us, transforms the walls of Usher Gallery into a colorful meditation on memory, travel and the natural world, blending botanical forms, wildlife and imagined environments inspired by both Western Australia and Northern California. Working intuitively rather than from rigid plans, Shapland creates vibrant paintings that celebrate the connections between people, place and imagination. The opening reception offers a chance to meet the artist while enjoying local wine, refreshments and live music by the Loralee Christensen Combo. Exhibition runs Aug. 11–Sept. 6 at Usher Gallery, 1 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. Opening reception 5–8pm, Saturday, Aug. 15. Free. More information at ushergallerypetaluma.com.
San Rafael
Downtown Dance
Downtown San Rafael becomes one big dance floor when Dancing Under the Lights returns for its third annual celebration of music, food and community. Fourth Street closes to traffic and opens to live entertainment, beginning with young performers from School of Rock before free salsa lessons with Salsa Dance Marin get everyone moving. The evening culminates with Bay Area party band Neon Velvet, while local restaurants, food trucks, craft beer from Pond Farm Brewing Co., Far West Cider Co. cider, an artist marketplace and family activities keep the festivities going between songs. Whether one is there to dance or simply soak up the summer atmosphere, it’s a lively reminder of what makes downtown San Rafael shine. 5–9pm, Friday, Aug. 7, on Fourth Street between A Street and Lootens Place, San Rafael. Free. More information at downtownsanrafael.org.
