Happy New Year, Walnut Creek!

As we settle into 2026, the pace around town starts to feel a little more normal again. The holidays are behind us, routines are slowly coming back, and January has a way of inviting a quieter reset. It’s a good week to ease back in, notice what’s happening close to home, and make simple plans that don’t feel rushed.

This week’s Digest highlights a mix of art, outdoor time, and low-key things happening around town. Nothing overwhelming, just a few good options to help you shape the week ahead.

In today’s edition:

If you are easing back into the calendar after the holidays, the Bedford Gallery opening party this weekend offers a thoughtful way to spend an evening downtown. The gallery is debuting its newest exhibition, Viola Frey: Foundations, with an opening reception on Saturday, January 10, hosted at the Lesher Center for the Arts.

The event is designed to be welcoming where you can walk through the exhibition at your own pace, take in the artwork, and enjoy a social atmosphere without it feeling formal or overwhelming. Even if you don’t regularly attend gallery openings, Bedford Gallery events tend to feel approachable and easy to enjoy.

Viola Frey: Foundations highlights early and formative work from the influential Bay Area artist, offering insight into the ideas and techniques that shaped her later career. While the exhibition runs through early spring, the opening party is a nice chance to see it fresh and experience it alongside other members of the community.

It’s a solid option for a winter night out that feels intentional, creative, and refreshingly close to home.

When: Saturday, January 10
Where: 📍Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts

Tickets and More Info

The illuminated evening walk at Ruth Bancroft Garden is nearing the end of its seasonal run, making this a good week to catch it before it wraps up. The self-guided path winds through the garden with artistic lighting that highlights the landscape in a unique way.

It’s a calm, visually striking experience that works well for an early evening outing or a quiet way to end the day.

When: Running through Sun, Jan 11 with timed evening entry
Where: 📍Ruth Bancroft Garden, 1552 Bancroft Rd

A glowing, self-guided light walk through the garden. Tickets list $29 adults, $16 youth (5–17), free under 5.

Get Tickets

Early January is one of the best times to get outside locally, and Lime Ridge and the Diablo Foothills offer wide, open trails that feel calm after the busy holiday stretch. These areas are easy to access and flexible, whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer loop.

Cooler temperatures and winter light make this a comfortable time to explore, and the open space allows for quiet moments without feeling crowded. It’s an easy way to reset the or start the year with a bit of movement.

Comedy fans can catch Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood live on stage at the Lesher Center for the Arts on Friday, January 9.

Best known for Whose Line Is It Anyway?, the duo brings fast-paced, audience-driven improv that keeps each performance unpredictable. It’s a good option for a night out that doesn’t require much planning and offers plenty of laughs without being over-the-top.

Get Tickets

A new concept is joining the downtown mix with Ruby Lou’s Boujee Bites and Games, combining small plates and casual games in a relaxed setting. The idea is simple: Arcade games by day, cocktails and elevated bites by night, with 1950s/70s decor.

It’s designed for easy hangs with friends, low-key evenings, or something to do before or after dinner. A playful addition for anyone looking to mix things up beyond the usual plans!

Opening soon.
📍1501 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek, CA | @rubylouswalnutcreek

💡 The city has over 2,700 acres of open space.

🥧 Weekly Walnut recipe: Syrupy Walnut Phyllo Rolls – Baklava. The fun, flirty, and finger-food-friendly cousin of traditional layered baklava. Recipe

🎵 Chill vibes & great video. Who we are listening to: Fil Bo Riva - Franzis

🙏 Local small business highlight: Portal Artesanal - Handmade and artisanal gifts from local makers.

⛸️ Skate & Create: Littles can enjoy hands-on art activities that bring the winter wonderland to life. More Info

✨ Small moments of calm can carry you farther than bursts of energy.

As always, we read every reply so please send us your input on what you’d like to be more informed about locally, and we’ll do our best to continue to provide value. Thank you again and let’s have a great 2026!

— Sean Casey | Publisher | Walnut Creek Digest