By Steph Rodriguez

August in Sacramento marks the return of many beloved traditions that make summertime a little sweeter. It’s when hundreds of people descend upon Fremont Park to claim their slice of sidewalk and tap into their inner artist at the annual Chalk It Up! Chalk Art & Music Festival during Labor Day weekend. 

It’s also a time when local vendors get creative with a certain, curvy tropical fruit at the Banana Festival in William Land Park, which doubles as a fundraiser for the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum and the National Academic Youth Corp; think everything from banana lumpia to banana turkey rolls and even flavorful cocktails. 

For music happenings, stop by Charles Albright Fest at Phono Select Records to hear 10 bands blast punk, indie and hardcore music — or check out the return of experimental rock band ghostplay as they celebrate their new album “Zelpha” at The Starlet Room above Harlow’s. There’s something for everyone this month, so dive in and explore what’s buzzin’ in the 916.

MUSIC

Sonically haunting 

Thursday, Aug. 15: The experimental, ambient sounds from Sacramento-based dream-pop band, ghostplay, will embrace audiences at The Starlet Room above Harlow’s in celebration of its new album “Zelpha” — a project that took nine years to complete. Following the 2015 album, “33,” the band began crafting “Zelpha” influenced by a wide range of genres and artists like Bauhaus, DIIV, Beach House and Black Marble. Singles such as “Sandcastle,” “Bang Bang” and “You’ll Be Gone” offer a glimpse into the ethereal and eclectic nature of ghostplay’s long-awaited album, which was released digitally on July 15. The record release show will feature performances by Desario and Orionids, followed by ghostplay’s first overseas tour in Northern and Eastern Europe. Drummer Armando Gonzales will join the band during its U.S.-based performances, while former drummer Kim Kuvaja will rejoin ghostplay behind the kit in Europe. The Starlet Room at Harlow’s, 2708 J St.; doors at 7 p.m., music at 8 p.m.; advance online tickets $15.15; all ages.

Record store party

Saturday, Aug. 17: Get ready for an all-day, DIY music festival at Phono Select Records, featuring a stacked lineup with 10 bands blasting punk, indie and hardcore music. Straight from the mind of local musician Charles Albright, Charles Albright Fest aims to reunite bands from Sacramento’s past such as indie pop darlings, The Frenchmen, featuring Albright on drums and a reissue of its popular album “Sorry We Ruined Your Party.” Other bands include Motorcycle, Monster Treasure, Yea-Ming and The Rumours, The Four Eyes and more. Attendees who purchase tickets in advance will get a chance to snag free giveaways like tapes, posters and shirts. Early ticket buyers will receive either a T-shirt or an LP while supplies last. Phono Select Records, 2471 Fruitridge Rd.; doors at 11 a.m., music starts at noon; $10-$20, get advance tickets here; all ages.

All that jazz

Friday, Aug. 30 – Monday, Sept. 2: The 9th annual Hot Jazz Jubilee kicks off with four days of entertainment at the DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento. With five indoor venues, including the Grand Ballroom and RJ’s, attendees can enjoy jazz, swing, zydeco, rock ’n’ roll and R&B in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment. Highlights include lively performances by Brian Casserly, Todd Morgan & the Emblems, a Frank Sinatra tribute from Shaymus Hanlin and the High Street Band, who is set to honor veterans with a “Salute to the ’60s” on Friday, Aug. 30. Catch even more sets throughout the weekend like the “Boogie Woogie Extravaganza” on Saturday and a “Back to the Future” Old Time Rock ’n‘ Roll performance scheduled for Sunday. 

Sunday also features two gospel shows by Yve Evans and Company and the High Street Band. Kids under 18 can attend the Jazz Jubilee for free and the Sacramento Jazz Education Foundation will sponsor youth clinics where young musicians can perform with the pros. Food and drink will be available for purchase during the event along with a jazz vendor fair on site. 

“We are excited to offer some new featured performers, plus some bands returning by popular demand,” said festival director Pat Jones, who encourages everyone to take advantage of the dance floor to celebrate all things jazz. DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento, 2001 Point W Way; show times vary, see the daily schedule here; $45 to $85 per day; $155 for a four-day pass; kids 18 and under are free; all ages.

CULTURE

Go bananas

Saturday, Aug. 17: The Sacramento Banana Festival returns for its 13th year offering more multicultural arts, interactive exhibits, live entertainment and banana-themed cuisine than ever. This two-day, family friendly event celebrates the cultures of Asia, Africa and the Americas where the banana is an integral part of everyday life. Enjoy a packed lineup of live music from the Brazilian Center Harry Belafonte Tribute, the Caribbean sounds of Pan Extasy, the energetic vibes of Element Brass Band and many more live performances throughout the weekend. Festival highlights include Zumba, pickleball demonstrations, a colorful fashion show and the best-dressed banana dog contest. Stop by the food pavilion to indulge in banana bean pies, fried banana fritters, banana lumpia, banana-glazed turkey rolls, banana guacamole and banana-themed wine, beer and cocktails. 

The kids’ zone offers free performances, art projects, interactive STEM activities and ticketed attractions. With over 100 vendors, this festival also fundraises for the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum and the National Academic Youth Corp, which serves 15,000 Sacramento-area youth and adults annually with arts education and cultural awareness programming. Banana Festival, William Land Park Village Green, 3855 E. Park Dr.; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Sat., Aug. 17 and 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Sun., Aug. 18; adults $8 in advance, $10 at the gate; children 6-17, seniors 65 and older and military discounts with ID $6 in advance, $8 at the gate; kids 5 years and under are free.

Mexican artistry

Friday, Aug. 2: Celebrate Mexican culture at Casa de Español with a captivating and free exhibition highlighting artists Fernando Cabrera, Junnior Navarro and Alejandra and Luis Magaña of ALMa Design Studio (formerly Echeri Ceramics). This mixed-media art show kicks off Friday, Aug. 2 at 6 p.m. with a focus on oil paintings and ceramics — and coincides with an evening filled with even more art, food, music and an artisan market offering a delightful immersion into Mexican artistic expression. 

Follow @casa_de_espanol on Instagram as this local cultural center is hosting two additional events this month, including an Evolution of the Mexican Taco Workshop on Aug. 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. with director of the Institute of Mexican Gastronomy Edgar Salgado. Sacramento chef Ramiro Alarcón, from Cielito Lindo, will complement the experience with three tasty appetizers inspired by the evolution of the taco. Tickets are $45 per person or $80 for two. 

Plus, the 3rd Annual Festival del Mole celebrates one of Mexico’s most cherished dishes on Aug. 24 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. This festival features chef Alarcón’s all-new selection of eight baroque moles from different regions of Mexico. Participants will explore the rich history of mole and discover how Mexican cuisine evolved during the Spanish colonial era, blending Indigenous and European flavors. Tickets include a tasting of all moles prepared by Cielito Lindo Catering and a 15-minute mini-workshop that guides attendees to deepen their understanding of this cultural staple. This event will also offer lively entertainment, music, dancing and an artisan market where attendees can purchase moles to enjoy at home. Casa de Español, 1101 R St.; event days and times vary; all ages.

Chock-full of fun

Saturday, Aug. 31 – Monday, Sept.2: It’s time to claim your slice of sidewalk surrounding Fremont Park for the 34th annual Chalk It Up! Chalk Art & Music Festival during Labor Day weekend. This three-day festival includes hundreds of artists, musicians, local craft and food vendors, made possible by volunteers, to provide the community with this Sacramento tradition. Adults 21 and over can enjoy the weekend festivities and live music from the “Drink It Up” tent featuring regional brews, ciders and wine while hundreds of artists create chalk art murals on the sidewalks surrounding the Midtown park. Live performances include G.I.R.L.S Rock, Pets, The Ghost Town Rebellion, Emma Griffin Music Duo, According to Bazooka and much more. This year’s sponsor is Taco Bell Cantina Sacramento and organizers will once again award mini-grants through the Youth Arts Grant Program. Over the last 10 years, Chalk It Up! has awarded about $75,000 in grants to local schools, teachers and youth arts education programs. During the festival on Sunday, it will award about $5,000 more to local schools and teachers. Chalk It Up! Chalk Art & Music Festival, Fremont Park, 1515 Q St.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily; free; all ages.

Awaken your inner goddess

Friday, Aug. 16-Sunday, Aug. 18: Explore the divine beauty of the City of Trees and tap into your inner goddess at the Sacramento Goddess Festival. This three-day spiritual wellness event offers an opportunity to connect with ancestral healers and embark on a journey of personal development. Sit down for intimate tarot card readings, healing workshops and a variety of curated performances. Artist Melinda Starr will guide attendees through an enchanting presentation of the “Fool’s Journey,” featuring 22 original paintings representing the major arcana in the tarot. Enjoy a Friday evening fairy tea party and pose for a magical photo inside a fairy forest complete with a comfy mushroom chair. Other weekend activities include a sturgeon full moon celebration with movement and sacred fire, belly dance lessons led by Aryn Fisher, mesmerizing drum circles, graceful aerial silk performances, a lively EDM dance party and a special closing ceremony. Be sure to take home a variety of treasures from vendors offering psychic readings, handmade jewelry, crystals and more. Sacramento Goddess Festival, 1600 Exposition Blvd. Buildings C and D; event times vary, visit the daily schedule here; $20-$45 entry fees; $10 parking fee; all ages.

Run for the arts

Saturday, Aug. 24: Lace up those sneakers for the 25th annual Race for the Arts 5K Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run and a free arts festival scheduled during the competitions. Explore hands-on booths featuring free ballet lessons with the Sac Civic Ballet company as well as opportunities to play with a selection of musical instruments or tap into your inner artist at the rock painting station hosted by Women’s Wisdom Art. Enjoy delicious food and beverages from Dos Coyotes, River City Snowie, Good Roots Cafe and more. Registered runners and walkers will be given a special event T-shirt, a finisher’s medal and placement awards. Race day participants will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win four, two-day tickets to Disneyland Resort and Baskin Robbins coupons will also be given away (drawing starts at 10:45 a.m., get tickets at the Race for the Arts booth). Race for the Arts, William Land Park, 3800 W Land Park Dr. (near the Sacramento Zoo); registration starts at 7:15 a.m.; Kids Fun Runs begin at 8:10 a.m.; 5K Run/Walk starts at 8:35 a.m.; $28-$38 to register; all ages.

This story was funded by the City of Sacramento’s Arts and Creative Economy Journalism Grant to Solving Sacramento. Following our journalism code of ethics and protocols, the city had no editorial influence over this story and no city official reviewed this story before it was published. Our partners include California Groundbreakers, Capital Public Radio, Outword, Russian America Media, Sacramento Business Journal, Sacramento News & Review, Sacramento Observer and Univision 19.