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.
Got something coming up that should be on our radar? Or feedback on how we can make this list even better? Email events@mynspr.org to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!
ART
- Orange Street
- Friday & Saturday, March 21–22
- 5 p.m. Friday | 12 p.m. Saturday
- Free
Nearly 20 live music acts, an all-day comedy lineup, and dozens of local art and food vendors — this street fair is set to be one of the biggest of the season. You’ll find fire dancers, a fashion show, a mural painting contest, a scavenger hunt, and even a bounce house. It’s a full day of fun for all ages, right in the heart of Chico.
FILM + THEATER
- Duffy’s Tavern
- Saturday, March 22
- 9 p.m.
- $10
The Stardust Revue celebrates three glitter-filled years as Chico's signature burlesque and drag variety show. This year’s theme? Leather and pearls. Expect a dazzling lineup of Stardust alums.
Want to know more about one of the stars? We recently profiled Jess Thompson — better known as burlesque queen Hurricane Fran.
“Going to a burlesque or drag show is like being in church, the joy you feel in the audience, the stomping, the clamping, the singing, the dancing. It is the most special experience I think you can have.”- Jess Thompson, Hurricane Fran
- Center for the Arts
- March 20 to March 30
- 7:30 p.m.
- $27 to $45
The California Regional Theatre brings the hit musical "Hairspray" to life with nine performances at the Center for the Arts on East Avenue in Chico. Based on the beloved 1988 John Waters film, the story follows Tracy Turnblad as she dances her way into television — and helps integrate Baltimore, one beat at a time.
MUSIC
Bloodsugar, Sleep Lagoon, Ashley Jaguar & Sydney Dillon
- Naked Lounge
- Friday, March 21
- 7 p.m.
- $10 at the door
Spend your Friday night with a solid alt-rock lineup at one of downtown Chico’s coziest venues. Bloodsugar headlines, joined by local dream-pop group Sleep Lagoon, singer-songwriter Sydney Dillon, and Sacramento’s Ashley Jaguar — get there early, it’s gonna fill up.
- The Commons
- Saturday, March 22
- 7 p.m.
- Free
Prepare for a night of psychedelic Latin power as Cumbia, Hip-Hop, and global beats blend into a high-energy sound packed with flavor. Suika T and DJ Bareto will bring soulful rhythm and bold vibes to The Commons.
Smokey The Groove - 10th Anniversary Show
- Lost on Main
- Saturday, March 22
- 8 p.m.
- $15 advance, $20 at the door
Formed nearly a decade ago in Chico, Smokey The Groove has built a loyal following with their high-energy blend of funk, jazz, and psychedelic grooves. Their signature “rage-funk” sound transforms each performance into a wild, cosmic journey through time and space. Catch them live at Lost on Main for a special show event celebrating 10 years of music that’s sure to move you.
MOVE + MAKE + EXPLORE
- North Rim Trail
- Sunday, March 23
- 9 a.m.
- Free
Ready to race? The Springtime Hill Climb is a fun, fast mountain bike time trial series on three Bidwell Park trails. With timed segments and four race categories, you’ll ride hard and maybe even roll away with a gift card.
- Community Park
- Sunday, March 23
- 12 p.m.
- Free
Kite Day returns to Community Park with free kites (while supplies last), open skies, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Enjoy music, activities for the kids, and the joy of seeing Chico’s skies filled with color.
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.
