By Nicholas Ibarra | OBSERVER Staff Writer

All listed events, and more, can be viewed online on The OBSERVER’s community events calendar at SacObserver.com. Be sure to submit your events two weeks in advance to have the chance to be featured on the list.

  1. The Sacramento Poor People’s Campaign’s Zoom Meeting 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 12, via Zoom. The topic is ranked choice voting in Sacramento. Paula Lee, League of Women Voters of Sacramento County, is the keynote speaker. Attendees must register online.
  2. FLO – Access All Areas North American Tour 2025 7 p.m. Monday, May 12, at Ace of Spades. The 26-city tour showcases FLO’s signature blend of nostalgic R&B and modern pop, featuring performances of tracks from their debut album, including fan favorites like “Cardboard Box” and “Fly Girl.” Tickets from $53.
  3. LET IT GO, SIS! 6-7:30 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays monthly, next meeting May 14, at 520 Ninth St. No. 102. This in-house support group for African American/Black women is a curated space to give and receive words of encouragement, motivation and mental and emotional support amongst a collective of Sistahs. Free, attendees must register.
  4. Orion Sun 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at Ace of Spades. An emerging voice in alternative R&B and soul, Orion Sun’s sound feels deeply personal and is often described as emotional, moody and reflective. She draws influence from artists such as Frank Ocean, Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill, but her songwriting is also inspired by poets like Audre Lorde, Pablo Neruda and Maya Angelou. Tickets are $53.
  5. Elizabeth Brunot – Special Comedy Event 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club. As a comedian and host, Elizabeth Brunot has won over audiences with her quick wit and sharp humor. She is bilingual in Creole and English and performs in both languages, and is widely known for her various characters and accent impersonations such as Cuban handyman “Pedro.” Tickets from $30.
  6. Desi Alexander: The Bad Parenting Tour 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at Punch Line Comedy Club. Rising stand-up comedian ​Desi Alexander is known for his sharp wit and relatable humor, particularly focusing on the challenges of modern parenting. His current tour showcases his comedic take on the trials and tribulations of raising children today.​ Tickets from $38.
  7. National Action Network Sacramento Still Building Conference 2025 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, May 15-17, at Genesis Church. Join three days of empowerment, advocacy and community-building. This year’s theme, “Still Building,” reflects the ongoing commitment to justice, equity and progress. Together, we continue the work to dismantle systemic barriers, uplift communities and create lasting change. Tickets from $75.
  8. Carlsen Center Workshop: Building a Personal Brand That’s In Demand 3-4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at 6000 Jed Smith Drive. Whether you’re a student preparing for internships and interviews, or a faculty or staff member seeking to sharpen your professional visibility, this workshop will help you clarify, elevate and align your personal brand with your next opportunity. Free, attendees must register online.
  9. Steven G: Heartbreak Kid Tour 7 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at Harlow’s, Starlet Room. The Crenshaw native catapulted onto the scene in 2017 with a venomous freestyle based on a social media challenge by Bay Area rap artist Mozzy called the #SleepWalkChallenge. His soul and melodic finesse oozes from all of his songs. Tickets are $33.
  10. SiR: The Step Into The Light Tour 7 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at Ace of Spades. ​SiR’s current tour marks a significant chapter in the Inglewood-born R&B artist’s career, showcasing his evolution as a soulful storyteller and dynamic performer.​ Resale tickets from $121.
  11. Talib Kweli 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at Harlow’s. The Brooklyn-based MC earned his stripes as one of the most lyrically gifted, socially aware and politically insightful rappers to emerge in the last 30 years. After nearly 30 years of releasing mesmerizing music, Talib Kweli stands as one of the world’s most talented and most accomplished hip-hop artists. Tickets are $45.
  12. Safe Black Space 7-Year Anniversary Fundraiser & Gala! 7-10 p.m. Friday, May 16, at the Invitation Room and Courtyard, 1107 Firehouse Alley. Excitement is in the air! Get ready to be part of something extraordinary as Safe Black Space celebrates seven years of service. An adult party focused on Black joy! Tickets from $75.
  13. Eem Triplin – Melody of a Memory 7 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Ace of Spades. Eem Triplin’s debut album, “Melody of a Memory,” released in February, showcases Eem’s signature raspy vocals and self-produced instrumentals, weaving narratives of love, self-reflection, and personal growth.​ Tickets from $35.
  14. Kente Scott – Live Comedy 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, May 16-17, at Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club. Scott, born and raised in Oakland, has left crowds laughing all over the country, performing with comic heavyweights such as Katt Williams, Cedric the Entertainer, Tiffany Haddish and more. Tickets are $29.
  15. The George Benson Celebration with Special Guests 7 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Thunder Valley Casino, 1200 Athens Ave., Lincoln. This series of live performances features the legendary jazz guitarist and vocalist George Benson. These events promise an unforgettable evening of music, showcasing Benson’s timeless hits and remarkable musicianship. Tickets from $65.
  16. NAN Sacramento’s Building Bridges Black Tie & Sneaker Ball 7-19 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Genesis Church. A formal-meets-culture celebration where attendees honor graduates, recognize change agents and honor those working to build a better future. Tickets are $75.
  17. Girls Empowerment Conference 2025 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Foothill High School. Join a transformative and inspiring day at the Girls Empowerment Conference presented by EMPACT, sponsored by Twin Rivers Unified School District. This free event is designed to uplift, educate and empower young girls ages 12-18. Through interactive workshops, mentorship opportunities and hands-on experiences, attendees will gain valuable skills, confidence and a strong support network to help them thrive. Free, attendees must register.
  18. Black Parallel School Board Scholarship Dinner 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Fruitridge Community Collaborative, 4625 44th St. Join a night of celebration and support featuring a delicious meal while contributing to a great cause. Let’s come together to empower education in our community. Tickets are $28.
  19. LOVE JONES VIBES (POETRY & MUSIC) 8-10 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Our Place Event Space and Kitchen, 1107 Firehouse Alley. A perfect show for singles as well as couples, featuring some of Northern California’s top award-winning poets and singers. Buy one ticket, get one free. Tickets are $18.
  20. RECESSION INDICATOR: A Recession Pop Dance Night 9 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Harlow’s, Starlet Room. Sounds by DJ Genetixx playing artists from 2007-2012, such as Ke$ha, Pitbull, Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Nicki, Beyonce, Jason Derulo and more. Tickets are $13.
  21. Powerhouse of Blues – Dennis Jones 3-6 p.m. Sunday, May 18, at Powerhouse, 614 Sutter St., Folsom. Sizzling hot guitar solos. Smooth and soulful vocals. High-energy stage performance. Backed by a rhythm section that is second to none, Dennis Jones writes songs that seamlessly blend the best of both worlds, presenting a unique and contemporary style of American rock and blues. Tickets are $18.