Chico History Museum upcoming events

FROM BRANCHES TO BENCHES: THE MAKING OF THE CENTENNIAL HOOKER OAK BENCHES (Sat, April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Paul Atkins moved to Chico with his family in 1961. They would picnic near the Hooker Oak and Paul fondly remembers the iron cabling and props that

struggled to keep the huge limbs of the Hooker Oak from collapsing. But what Paul remembers also is the limbs reaching for life, its shape and beauty.

The Hooker Oak fell during a windstorm on May 1, 1977. Paul played a part in preserving some of the wood into a commemorative bench which

resides in the Chico History Museum, on loan from the City of Chico

GUIDED TOUR: EXPERIENCING CENTERVILLE (Sat, April 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Discover the rich and often overlooked history of Centerville, an unincorporated community in Butte County, California, nestled along the scenic banks of Butte Creek between the former mining towns of Helltown and Diamondville. This guided tour, led by the Chico History Museum, offers a fascinating look at a place that played an important role in the early development of the Chico area.

The tour meet at the historic Colman Museum & Centerville Schoolhouse, a treasured landmark that preserves stories of pioneer life, education, and the region’s mining and agricultural heritage. Once a vital community hub, the schoolhouse and surrounding grounds now serve as a window into the people and events that shaped Butte County.

As you walk through this rustic and beautiful setting, museum docents will share tales of early settlers, gold-rush era towns, and the evolution of this creekside community. Whether you are a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, this tour offers a deeper connection to the roots of our region.

Come explore where history meets landscape—and experience Centerville’s enduring story.

Lunch will be served.

CHICO CLASSIC SPECIAL PLAYERS' RECEPTION (Fri, May 01, 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Keep the Chico Classic spirit going! Players are invited to a special reception at the Chico History Museum. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and inspiring guest speakers, along with a one-of-a-kind Chico Classic historical timeline exhibit. Connect, celebrate, and be part of the legacy—plus pick up your player tickets, T-shirts, and swag bags at the event.

8TH ANNUAL CHICO CLASSIC PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT PRESENTED BY ALLWORTH FINANCIAL (Sat, May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Play, watch, and support Chico’s history at the 8th Annual Chico Classic Pickleball Tournament.

You are invited to a Pickleballl Tournament to support the Chico History Museum!

Register to play or cheer the competitors — and be part of something fun.

Get ready for a weekend of high-energy competition, community spirit, and local pride at the 8th Annual Chico Classic Pickleball Tournament at 20th Street Community Park. One of Chico’s most popular sporting events, this annual tournament brings together players of all skill levels to compete, connect, and play for a great cause.

This year, all net proceeds benefit the Chico History Museum, helping preserve and share the stories that define our community. Every serve, rally, and match played directly supports the protection of Chico’s heritage for future generations.

Whether you’re stepping onto the court or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll enjoy an exciting atmosphere filled with athleticism, friendly rivalry, and hometown pride. Spectators are welcome to watch thrilling matches, meet local players, and be part of a fun, festival-like experience

Play for history. Play for Chico.

THE BIG CHICO CREEK FLUME: FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO CHICO 1874 - 1905 (Sat, May 16, 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Dave Nopel will tell the story of the Big Chico Creek Flume beginning in Chico Meadows and coming right down Chico Creek Canyon, some 35 miles to wood processing factories in Chico. He will use photos of the flume as it came down the canyon, including the “flume tenders cabins” where people lived and serviced the flume. This bringing of processed wood down from the mountain mills to Chico gave Chico an industrial cornerstone in it’s early years. Dave will conclude his program with his own reflections on 175 years of timber harvesting in the mountains to the east of Chico.

SEEING THE BIG PICTURE THROUGH THE WILDCAT LENS (Sat, June 06, 2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Jason Halley has spent more than a decade as Chico State’s Photographer.

Over the years, he has photographed the stunning seasons and beautiful brick facades of the campus. He also enjoys the energy the students bring when they return to campus and bring it back to life.

Once asked if he ever got tired of photographing the same campus day after day, to which he answers, “the truth is, I haven’t even begun to see it all”.