Looking for something to do around Chico?
Welcome to Listen Up — NSPR’s curated list of arts, culture, and community happenings in the Chico area. From gallery shows to concerts, talks, and local gatherings, we’re highlighting what’s happening around town each week and how you can be part of it.
Email events@mynspr.org to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!
ART
Puppet Show: Lonesome Whistle, Cautionary Tale, and Vol 1.
- MONCA
- Friday, Aug. 15
- 7 p.m.
- $5-$25
Prepare yourself for a puppet show! This unique production is brought to you by the masterful puppeteer Liz Howls, who worked on acclaimed director Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio and the talented musician and artist Drew Simpson. The performance is divided into three acts: Lonesome Whistle, Cautionary Tale, and Vol 1.
MUSIC
Open Turntables with DJ Linda Love
- The Winchester Goose
- Thursday, Aug. 14
- 8 p.m.
- Free
Open Turntables takes place on the second Thursday of every month. It’s a chance for vinyl enthusiasts to share cocktails and their musical tastes, like a show and tell for grown-ups. Linda Higgins (aka Linda Love), the host of Open Turntables, says that sharing music is an opportunity to connect with the community.
Want the backstory? We spoke with Linda about how Open Turntables builds community.

- Tackle Box
- Friday, Aug. 15
- 8 p.m.
- $44.52-$108.55
Prepare for an unforgettable night of music as Arizona duo NB Ridaz takes the stage! Get ready to vibe with their classic hits like “Pretty Girl,” “So Fly” and “Runaway,” transporting you back to the early 2000s.

Quinkana, Dick Bertelli, October All Over, For Kino, Facejug.
- Naked Lounge
- Tuesday, Aug. 19
- 7 p.m.
- $10
A punk rock affair! The Chico’s heavy October All Over will be providing some noise along with local band Facejug. Making the trek up from San Jose is shoegazy For Kino, along with Sacramento DIY artist Quinkana and Dick Bertelli, providing something to dance to and move around.

MOVE + MAKE + EXPLORE
Nor Cal Roller Derby vs. V Town Roller Derby
- Cal Skate Chico
- Saturday, Aug.16
- 7 p.m.
- $15
Get ready! Nor Cal Roller Derby and V Town Roller Derby face off at the Hot Rods and Heavy Hits Bout.

Nature Center Ice Cream Social
- Chico Creek Nature Center
- Saturday, Aug.16
- 10 a.m.
- Free
Bid farewell to summer with ice cream at the Chico Creek Nature Center. Shubert’s Ice Cream will be there while you cruise Bidwell Park and can check out engaging wildlife displays. There will also be face painting, crafts, inflatable bounce houses and guided nature strolls, as well as music provided by Emma and Will.

Have a great weekend!
Got an event? A hot tip? A brilliant idea? Email us at events@mynspr.org.
Listen Up also brings the area’s best events to your radio — listen to NSPR Thursdays during All Things Considered.