Local to Novato Pay-What-You-Can music program

Maud Powell String Institute 

We are a high quality and highly accessible music nonprofit for immigrant and underserved communities in Novato, CA. We have a Pay-What-You-Can tuition system in place for low income families. We also provide the instruments to all our students.

Marin County

Albert Gregory

Bay Area

Novato

California

We are a high quality and highly accessible music nonprofit for immigrant and underserved communities in Novato, CA. We have a Pay-What-You-Can...

Personal Training with Unlimited DEXA and VO2 Max

Custom Fit

Most training programs run on guesswork. Custom Fit replaces it with measurement. At its San Francisco studios, Personal Training and Partner Training memberships include unlimited DEXA body-composition scans and VO2 max testing — diagnostics usually sold one scan at a time or reserved for specialized clinics. Custom Fit members can test as often as they train. The reasoning is straightforward. A DEXA scan measures fat, lean muscle, and bone density with clinical precision. A VO2 max test measures the body's maximum oxygen uptake, one of the strongest predictors of cardiovascular fitness and long-term health. Run those tests on a regular cadence and a member can see exactly what is changing, where, and whether a program is working — rather than relying on the scale or the mirror. That is the idea behind Custom Fit's positioning: not a gym, a performance lab. Every program is built from a member's measured body composition and cardiovascular capacity, then adjusted as the data moves. The goal is to eliminate the guesswork that defines most fitness routines and to treat training as something you can verify. The model also brings longevity diagnostics that usually live in concierge medicine into a routine training week. Body composition and cardiovascular capacity are central markers of how well a person is aging, and regular testing keeps those numbers visible rather than treating them as an occasional, expensive add-on. Custom Fit operates in Hayes Valley (323 Octavia Street), on Market Street (1844 Market), and with a Downtown San Francisco location on Battery Street (570 Battery) opening soon. Personal Training, Partner Training, and select memberships include the testing. More information is available at customfitsf.com.

San Francisco

San Francisco County

Fernando Haro

Most training programs run on guesswork. Custom Fit replaces it with measurement. At its San Francisco studios, Personal Training and Partner...

Gaspare's Pizzeria Ristorante & Bar

Gaspare’s Pizzeria Ristorante &amp; Bar is a family-owned Italian restaurant proudly serving the community since 2008. We offer a full menu of classic Italian dishes, handcrafted pizzas, and comforting favorites made with quality ingredients. Whether you're joining us for a relaxed dinner, meeting friends for drinks, or catching the game at the bar, you can expect great food and genuine hospitality every time. Visit us and experience the difference.

San Rafael

Gaspare’s Pizzeria Ristorante & Bar is a family-owned Italian restaurant proudly serving the community since 2008. We offer a full menu of classic...

Smog checks available now—always ready when you are

Hamilton's Smog

Grab a coupon or to book online: https://sites.google.com/view/hamiltons-smog/home?pli=1 We test all vehicle, all ages 1976-2026. Experience quick and convenient service at Hamilton's STAR Smog Check, your local Novato inspection station. Since 2021, we've been serving the community with efficient smog checks for all types of vehicles, including gasoline, diesel, and hybrid cars, as well as large trucks and RVs. Our certified technicians perform both STAR and non-STAR inspections, ensuring your vehicle meets all state requirements. Simply drive in for a hassle-free inspection, with most vehicles completed in under 30 minutes.

Grab a coupon or to book online: https://sites.google.com/view/hamiltons-smog/home?pli=1 We test all vehicle, all ages 1976-2026. Experience quick...

Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries Look again at the pretty flower and bird on that Chinese   painting, robe or vase. Most likely it has a hidden meaning or even a secret message.  This presentation by Asian Art Museum docent LauraBeth Nelson will teach you how to decipher the meaning and read the secret messages in Chinese art. Saturday, September 22, 11:00-12:00  Novato Library 1720 Novato Blvd 415 897-1142

Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries Look again at the pretty flower and bird on that Chinese   painting, robe or vase. Most likely it has a hidden meaning or even a secret message.  This presentation by Asian Art Museum docent LauraBeth Nelson will teach you how to decipher the meaning and read the secret messages in Chinese art.

Saturday, September 22, 11:00-12:00  Novato Library 1720 Novato Blvd 415 897-1142

Hidden Meanings in  Chinese Art  Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries   Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries  Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries

Arts & Entertainment

San Anselmo-Fairfax

Sonoma County

Angela Woodall

Petaluma

Larkspur-Corte Madera

Mill Valley

Sonoma Valley

Contra Costa County

Pinole-Hercules

El Cerrito

Rohnert Park-Cotati

Alameda County

Albany

<a href="https://marinfair.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Marin County Fair &amp; Nightly Fireworks</a>
<ul><li>July 1 - 5, 2026</li><li>Fair hours: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.</li><li>Fireworks over lagoon: Approximately 9:30 p.m.</li></ul>
Marin County Fair &amp; Exposition, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael, CA
From Marin County Fair:&nbsp;
"STARS, STRIPES &amp; STORIES
As the nation celebrates America's 250th anniversary, we're honoring this milestone with the theme Stars, Stripes &amp; Stories.
Step into a world of wonder with immersive theme activations that put YOU in the story. Marvel at a breathtaking balloon art installation that brings Stars, Stripes &amp; Stories to life in vivid, sky-high color. Share your own piece of American history at our Story Sharing experiences , where the voices of our community become part of the celebration. Then grab your map and hit the ground running with our Stars, Stripes &amp; Stories Scavenger Hunt , a one-of-a-kind adventure.
And that's just the beginning. From thrilling rides and world-class entertainment to hands-on exhibits and spectacular nightly fireworks, the Fair delivers five unforgettable days for every age, every background, and every story. We're as committed as ever to sustainability: zero-waste initiatives, reusable foodware, and a safe, welcoming space where all Fairgoers belong.
Join us July 1–5 from 11AM-11PM. Bring your story. Make your mark.


The Marin County Fair is a one-price gate. Your admission includes all live entertainment: headline concerts on the Island Stage, community performances, grounds entertainment, 28 carnival rides, nightly fireworks, and all exhibits and themed experiences.

Take the SMART train directly to the Marin County Civic Center campus. Check transit schedules for pricing and timing. FREE Bicycle parking is available daily at the Main Gate. Bring your own bike chain and lock.<figure><img src="https://cdn20.patchcdn.com/users/27104086/20260611/031052/phosphorutilselfsightcdncom___11151051889.jpg" id="phosphor.utils.elfsightcdn.com.jpeg" data-image="phosphor.utils.elfsightcdn.com.jpeg"></figure>(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)
<a href="https://marinfair.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">MORE INFO</a>

Local Event: Marin County Fair And Fireworks 2026: San Rafael

Marin County Fair And Fireworks 2026: San Rafael

Marin County Fair & Nightly Fireworks
July 1 - 5, 2026Fair hours: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.Fireworks over lagoon: Approximately 9:30...

First Presbyterian Church

The community is invited to a quiet and contemplative Celtic SoulSong meditation at First Presbyterian Church of San Rafael at 1510 Fifth Ave, San Rafael on Wednesday, July 1 at 5:30 pm. The service will include soul soothing music, readings from Celtic poetry, silence and candle lighting. This is a program of the One World One Spirit contemplative spirituality program of First Presbyterian Church. The chapel is handicap accessible.

Local Event: Join us for SoulSong on Wednesday, July 1 at 5:30 pm

Join us for SoulSong on Wednesday, July 1 at...

The community is invited to a quiet and contemplative Celtic SoulSong meditation at First Presbyterian Church of San Rafael at...

Join us for SoulSong on Wednesday, July 1 at 5:30 pm

<a href="https://novatoparade.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Fourth of July Parade</a>
July 4, 2026
<ul><li>Buckaroo Breakfast: 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. Redwood Credit Union parking lot, 1010 Grant Ave., Novato, CA</li><li>Pre-parade entertainment: 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.</li><li>Parade: 10 a.m. Grant Avenue, Novato, CA </li></ul>
From Novato 4th of July Parade:
<ul> <ul><li>"The Parade starts at 10:00 AM at Grant Ave. at Reichert Ave. &amp; lasts approximately two (2) hours.</li><li>Watch from the sidewalks anywhere along Grant Ave. from Reichert Ave. to 7th St.</li><li>Bring chairs &amp; remember they must only be placed on the sidewalk (not in the street).</li><li>No animals are allowed, except for official support animals.</li></ul><ul> </ul>Buckaroo Breakfast – hosted by the Presbyterian Church of Novato Kick off the 4th with the Buckaroo Breakfast, 7:00 AM -10:00 AM. at the Redwood Credit Union parking lot at 1010 Grant Ave, The always smiling &amp; eager volunteers from the <a href="https://pcnovato.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Presbyterian Church of Novato</a> will serve coffee, orange juice, pancakes, eggs, sausage, coffee, and milk, to raise funds for the nonprofit Homeward Bound. </ul>
<ul>The suggested donation: <ul><li>Adults &amp; Children over 12 years old – $12.00</li><li>Children 5-12 years old – $7.00</li><li>Children under 5 years old – Free</li></ul><ul> </ul>Free, pre-Parade entertainment, starts at 9:00 AM &amp; ends at 10:00 AM when the Parade begins. These are “warm-up” acts that get us all into a festive mood. If you arrive early – and you should – you (&amp; especially children) will enjoy many wonderful entertainers."</ul>
<ul> <figure><img data-image="Novato 4th of july parade 2025.png" data-sizes="" data-srcset="" src="https://cdn20.patchcdn.com/users/27104086/20250613/012506/novato-4th-of-july-parade-2025___13132506321.jpg"></figure></ul>
<ul>(Photo credit: Shutterstock)</ul>
<ul> </ul>
<ul><a href="https://novatoparade.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">MORE INFO HERE</a></ul>

Local Event: 4th Of July Parade & Buckaroo Breakfast 2026: Novato

4th Of July Parade & Buckaroo Breakfast 2026:...

Fourth of July Parade
July 4, 2026
Buckaroo Breakfast: 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. Redwood Credit Union parking lot, 1010 Grant Ave.,...

4th Of July Parade & Buckaroo Breakfast 2026: Novato

Volunteer Park

<a href="https://www.homesteadvalley.org/events" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Homestead Valley July 4 Celebration</a>
<ul><li>Parade Starts at 11 a.m.&nbsp;Volunteer Park to Stolte Grove</li><li>Picnic after the Parade at Stolte Grove park</li></ul>
<a href="https://www.homesteadvalley.org/events" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From Homestead Valley Community Association:</a>&nbsp;"Grab your coolers and blankets and join your neighbors as we march our parade through Homestead Valley. Decorate your bikes, scooters, and strollers while donning your favorite red, white, and blue gear - after all, we are the parade!
10:30 - 11:00 AM: Gather at the corner of Evergreen and Melrose
11:00 AM: The Parade starts in Volunteer Park and the route goes up Melrose to Laverne and ends in Stolte Grove. 
11:30 AM: The Picnic follows in Stolte Grove with food and dessert treats by local businesses. Music and artists will entertain the crowd."<a href="https://www.homesteadvalley.org/events" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">MORE INFO</a>&nbsp;
(Photo credit: Shutterstock)

Local Event: Homestead Valley 4th Of July Parade & Picnic 2026: Mill Valley

Homestead Valley 4th Of July Parade & Picnic...

Homestead Valley July 4 Celebration
Parade Starts at 11 a.m. Volunteer Park to Stolte GrovePicnic after the Parade at Stolte...

Homestead Valley 4th Of July Parade & Picnic 2026: Mill Valley

The Floathouse Petaluma

The Petaluma Floathouse July 4 Fireworks Night Paddle
8:45-10:30 p.m.&nbsp;
Celebrate Independence Day with a serene yet exhilarating guided paddle along the Petaluma River to watch the city's annual fireworks from the water. For $60 per person, <a href="https://lake.com/events/floathouse-fireworks-paddle-4th-of-july/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">this intimate event</a>includes boat rental, life jackets, a guided tour to prime viewing spots, and complimentary popcorn for a festive, memory-making evening.

Local Event: The Floathouse Fireworks Paddle: Petaluma

The Floathouse Fireworks Paddle: Petaluma

The Petaluma Floathouse July 4 Fireworks Night Paddle
8:45-10:30 p.m. 
Celebrate Independence Day with a serene yet...

Cheryl Teach Music

Weekly Adult Ukulele Group Lessons
Each Session is Four WednesdaysFirst Session: July 15th, 22nd, 29th, August 5th

Where?&nbsp; In Person at Cheryl Teach Music, 2700 Yulupa Avenue, Bennett Valley Ste 5A, Santa Rosa, CA 95405 
Day/Time?&nbsp; One Hour Weekly Group Ukulele Lessons on Wednesdays at 11:30am-12:30pm (See website for dates) 
Cost Per Session?&nbsp; $220 (Including Music, Pencil, Folder, T-Shirt, and Tote Bag. All supplied at No Extra Charge!) No Refunds.&nbsp;
How Do I Pay?&nbsp; Register Online and Pay In Advance by Venmo, Cash App, Credit Card. No Sign-Ups at Classes.
Goal of Each Weekly Lesson in a Session? To Learn How to Play Songs on the Ukulele and to Experience Immense Joy and Satisfaction. 
What to bring?&nbsp; Bring an Ukulele, none will be available during the lessons! 	<a href="https://cherylteachmusic.com/weekly-adult-ukulele-group-lessons/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">cherylteachmusic.com/weekly-adult-ukulele-group-lessons/</a> Interested? Text (707)326-8796 or Email <a href="mailto:CherylTeachMusic@Gmail.com">CherylTeachMusic@Gmail.com</a>

Local Event: Group Adult Ukulele Classes Sessions

Santa Rosa

Group Adult Ukulele Classes Sessions

Weekly Adult Ukulele Group Lessons
Each Session is Four WednesdaysFirst Session: July 15th, 22nd, 29th, August 5th

Where?  In...

🌱 Patch AM: $62.5M Budget Approved To Fund...

And on the Novato Patch calendar - Marin County Fair And Fireworks 2026: San Rafael

🌱 Patch AM: $62.5M Budget Approved To Fund Roads, Parks, Public Safety In Novato

Community Corner

Man Caught Meeting Teen For Sex In World Cup...

The suspect arranged to meet someone he believed was a 15-year-old, police said.

Man Caught Meeting Teen For Sex In World Cup Trafficking Sting In Marin County: Police

Crime & Safety

SF Archdiocese To Pay Nearly $400M To Settle...

"We recognize that no financial settlement can erase the painful legacy of these past actions," the current SF Archbishop said. 

SF Archdiocese To Pay Nearly $400M To Settle With Sex Abuse Survivors

Healdsburg

Trump Escalates Fight Over California Coast...

California's Coastal Commission is being investigated as Trump drives SpaceX and other developments along the Golden State's coast. 

Trump Escalates Fight Over California Coast With Major Federal Showdown

Politics & Government

Former Seminary Redevelopment Clears Key Hurdle...

County officials said the project has received key approvals, but additional permits, planning and public input are still required.

Former Seminary Redevelopment Clears Key Hurdle In Marin, Construction Still Months Away

Quail Party Of 5: Photos Of The Week 

Patch loves photos! Share your photos with your local Patch, and your work could be featured.

Emily Rahhal 

3 Marin Restaurants On 2022 Wine Spectator List

A glass of wine is nice with dinner but these Marin restaurants go above and beyond with their extensive lists and service. 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Arts & Entertainment

Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries Sponsored by the Friends of the Novato Libraries

helen romero, Neighbor

Find out what's happening in Novatofor free with the latest updates from Patch.