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!
COMEDY
- The Barn at Meriam Park
- Saturday, May 23
- 7 p.m.
- $20-$25
This unique night is hosted by comedians Jordan Cerminara and Jeremy Eduardo Talamantes. Before the show, the featured comedians visit local thrift shops to find the most questionable secondhand finds. They then bring them onstage to critique the objects as if they were treasured museum pieces.
FILM + THEATER
- Cinemark
- Thursday, May 21
- Showtimes
- $12-$15
Acclaimed director Boots Riley makes a return to the big screen with "I Love Boosters." The plot follows a group of professional shoplifters as they target a ruthless fashion mogul—a mission they view as community service. The film delivers powerhouse performances from Keke Palmer and Demi Moore.
- The Pageant
- Monday, June 1 through Wednesday, June 3
- 7 p.m.
- Free
"Messiah INK" follows a man who becomes a global phenomenon by accident. Thanks to social media, he is mistakenly hailed as a modern-day messiah after a statement he makes is stripped of its context and shared online. Filmed entirely in Chico, the film boasts an array of Chico locals and will be showing for free. Register for tickets before they're gone!
MUSIC
- St. John's Episcopal Church
- Saturday, May 23
- 2 p.m.
- $15-$20
Join community radio station KZFR for a day of American and Folk music. The team will be Folkin' Around with a lineup of standout North State performers, including sets from Bruce MacMillan, Max Minardi, Deedee Vest and many more. Each artist will interpret the genre in their own unique way. On location will be the delicious "Peace, Love & Potatoes" food truck, serving up its famous "smashed, baked & fried" dishes.
Spring Concerts In The Park: Soul Posse
- Riverbend Park
- Friday, May 22
- 6 p.m.
- Free
Riverbend Park in Oroville is hosting free Spring Concerts in the Park the entire month of May. This week’s guest is Chico-band Soul Posse, bringing their sing-along tunes and a mixture of 1960s-1980s classic rock. Come out, enjoy live music and support local vendors at this community centered, family friendly event.
- Children's Park
- Saturday, May 23
- 6:30 p.m.
- Free
Live on the Lawn continues its tradition of bringing California talent to Chico's Children's Park with Sweet Sally as this week's performers. Hailing from Oakland, they are an all-girl bluegrass ensemble that has been gaining recognition for their impressive musical chops and authentic sound.
MOVE + MAKE + EXPLORE
PIVOT: Explorations of Transformation
- 330 Wall St. in Chico
- Saturday, May 23
- 7 p.m.
- $25-$100 suggested donation
Bonfire Storytelling Series has teamed up with the Butte Defense Equity Project (BDEP) for PIVOT, Explorations of Transformation. Hosted by Joaquin Jordan, it features storytellers Jane Goodson and Tom Dearmore. Their stories focus on transformation after incarceration and the impacts of our current justice system. The audience is invited to engage in a discussion about these topics as part of the event. Proceeds from the evening will support BDEP and its mission.
Chico Portuguese Holy Ghost and Fatima Club: Festa
- St. John’s Catholic Church
- Sunday, May 24
- 10 a.m.
- Donations are encouraged
It’s time for the Chico Portuguese Holy Ghost and Fatima Club’s annual Festa, where they crown their own court. Prepare for a day of culture, food and a live auction. The festivities will get kicked off with Mass at St. John’s Catholic Church, followed by the Queen’s arrival at the Chico Portuguese Hall.
- Silver Dollar Fairgrounds
- Thursday, May 21 through Monday, May 25
- 4 p.m. & 12 p.m.
- $18
Silver Dollar Fair is back in Chico! Grab the family and prepare for a day filled with carnival rides, games, racing, free music and more! Children under 12 are free on opening day, there are concerts every evening, and the 2026 Destruction Derby takes place on the final night.
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.
