Festival Napa Valley celebrates its 20th anniversary July 4–19, 2026, with a star-studded season featuring Renée Fleming, Wynton Marsalis, and more than 200 artists. Highlights include world premieres, the debut Allegro Pass for new audiences, and a vibrant mix of music, wine, and cultural experiences across Napa Valley.
NAPA, Calif. —This summer, Festival Napa Valley raises the curtain on a landmark celebration: its 20th anniversary season, running July 4–19, 2026. Blending world-class music, culinary excellence, and immersive cultural programming, the milestone event promises one of its most ambitious lineups to date.
Headlining the season are internationally acclaimed artists, including Renée Fleming, Wynton Marsalis, Time for Three, Ray Chen, and Jean-Yves Thibaudet—a roster that reflects the festival’s enduring reputation for artistic excellence. Across more than two weeks, over 200 performers will appear in concerts, dance productions, and special events set against the scenic backdrop of Napa Valley.
A Landmark Premiere Inspired by Napa’s Legacy
At the heart of the season is the world premiere of The Judgment of Parisa new opera by composer Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer. Inspired by Napa Valley’s rise to global wine prominence, the production will be conducted by Kent Nagano and directed by Jean-Romain Vesperini. The cast features a distinguished lineup including Danielle De Niese, Quinn Kelsey, Nicholas Phan, Simone McIntosh, and Brenda Rae, alongside fellows from the festival’s Manetti Shrem Opera Program.
Another major debut comes with the premiere of The Red Violin: Suite for Two Violins and Orchestra by John Corigliano, performed by violinists Hina and Fiona.
Signature performances and special events
The season opens with the Uytengsu Family Opening Night, featuring Time for Three performing a new work by Michael Thurber, alongside the Young People’s Chorus of New York City and Festival Orchestra Napa under conductor Stephanie Childress.
Festival Napa Valley – Bringing the Arts to All
World-class performances in iconic Napa Valley settings and beyond. Innovative year-round programming featuring renowned artists and emerging talent. Inspiring arts education opportunities for all. Join us and celebrate the power of the arts to connect, inspire, and transform.
Among the standout events:
- The Arts for All Gala at Nickel & Nickel Winery, headlined by Wynton Marsalis, with cuisine by chef Dustin Valette and wines from Far Niente Estates
- Renée Fleming’s Voice of Nature: The Anthropocenepaired with her keynote appearance at the Festival’s Music & Wellness Summit
- “A Night at the Ballet,” directed by Melanie Hamrick, featuring choreography set to Gordon Getty and the The Rolling Stones
- “Maria Manetti Celebrates La Dolce Vita!,” honoring opera legend Luciano Pavarotti with orchestra led by Michelle Di Russo
- A recital by soprano Lisa Delan and pianist Kevin Korth
- A debut duo recital featuring Ray Chen and Jean-Yves Thibaudet
- Thibaudet’s complete performance of Debussy’s Preludes
The Festival also offers a wide range of accessible programming, including a live orchestra screening The Wizard of Oza big band concert by the LMR Jazz Orchestra, and a patriotic Symphonic Finale conducted by JoAnn Falletta, celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
Expanding Access for a New Generation
In a move aimed at broadening its audience, Festival Napa Valley introduces the Allegro Pass—a curated experience designed to attract younger, culturally engaged attendees. Priced at $1,200 ($800 tax-deductible), the pass includes premium concert access, private gatherings, and exclusive after-parties.
Complementing this initiative is the festival’s “Choose Your Price” ticketing model, which allows guests to attend concerts starting at just $5, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to accessibility.
Daily admission-free events, including Festival Live! concerts and family-friendly programs, further expanding the festival’s reach, showcasing emerging talent from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami and the Blackburn Music Academy.
A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Collaboration
Festival President & CEO Richard Walker described the anniversary as both a reflection and a forward-looking moment: “This season honors our legacy while expanding our artistic reach and community impact.”
Board Chairman Steven Stull echoed the sentiment, calling the festival “a beloved cultural tradition” that unites music, wine, food, and hospitality.
The 2026 season spans venues across Napa Valley—from Charles Krug in St. Helena to The Culinary Institute of America at Copia—featuring collaborations with wineries, resorts, and cultural institutions. Signature experiences such as Taste of Napa and the Patron Experience further elevate the Festival’s blend of artistry and luxury.
With support from presenting sponsor Bouchaine Vineyards and partners including JP Morgan Wealth Management, Kaiser Permanente, and Rivian, the Festival continues to strengthen its nonprofit mission: enriching lives through education, wellness, and the arts.
Looking Ahead
As Festival Napa Valley enters its third decade, its 20th anniversary season stands as both a celebration of past achievements and a bold step into the future—where world premieres, global talent, and inclusive access converge in one of the country’s most iconic cultural destinations.