Your Ultimate Guide to Modesto’s Can’t-Miss Events in 2025!
Welcome to 2025, Modesto! This year is packed with vibrant events, dazzling performances, and community gatherings that will leave you planning your next adventure before the first one is even over. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Modesto’s charm will shine through in these hand-picked experiences. Mark your calendars, because you won’t want to miss these!
Winter/Spring Events (January–April)
Start the year off right with vibrant blooms, scenic runs, and a calendar packed with arts and culture!
January: Pilates Brunch Club
Start your year with wellness and deliciousness! The first Pilates Brunch Club of 2025 kicks off in January, offering a rejuvenating Pilates session followed by a scrumptious brunch. It’s the perfect way to set the tone for a healthy and fulfilling year. Grab your tickets here.
February: Arts & Music Take Over
Downtown Art Walk: The Downtown Art Walk is back and better than ever! Stroll through Modesto’s galleries, connect with local artists, and enjoy live art demonstrations that showcase the vibrant creativity of our community. A must for art lovers and culture seekers alike!
Johnny Cash Birthday Bash: Celebrate the life and music of the Man in Black at the Johnny Cash Birthday Bash, hosted by the Prospect Theater Project. This tribute event features unforgettable live performances that honor the legend’s legacy. Perfect for fans of Cash’s timeless hits!
Mid-February to Mid-March: Almond Blossom Cruise
Experience one of Modesto’s most stunning natural displays during the Almond Blossom Cruise. This self-guided tour takes you through miles of blooming almond orchards, where the vibrant pink and white blossoms create a magical, picture-perfect backdrop. Whether you’re driving, cycling, or stopping to picnic under the blossoms, this is the ultimate way to welcome spring. Plan your cruise here.
March: Modesto Marathon
Lace up your running shoes for the Modesto Marathon! Whether you’re tackling the full marathon, half marathon, or a fun run, this event offers a great way to stay active while enjoying Modesto’s beautiful streets and vibrant community spirit.
April: GarageFest
Looking for treasure? GarageFest is a city-wide garage sale that turns Modesto into a bargain hunter’s paradise! From hidden gems to unique finds, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a day of exploring driveways, yards, and neighborhoods in search of the ultimate deal. Find out more here.
Summer Events (May–August)
Soak up the sunshine with farm-fresh flavors, porch jams, and retro car vibes that scream summer!
May: PorchFest
Celebrate community and music at Modesto’s beloved PorchFest. Local bands perform on porches and front yards across the city, creating a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. Grab your friends, explore neighborhoods, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind musical experience. Learn more here.
MoFresh: Summer’s Bounty
Summer in Modesto means one thing—freshness! MoFresh highlights the incredible abundance of farm stands and fresh produce that make our region a foodie’s paradise.
Berries First: Kick off the season with ripe, juicy berries, perfect for pies, smoothies, or snacking straight from the stand.
Stone Fruit Season: As summer heats up, enjoy a mouthwatering selection of peaches, plums, and nectarines. Stop by local farms and roadside stands to experience the best Modesto has to offer!
June: Graffiti Summer
Rev up your engines for Modesto’s iconic Graffiti Summer! Celebrate the city’s role in George Lucas’ American Graffiti with a classic car parade, live music, and retro-inspired festivities. A can’t-miss event for car enthusiasts and anyone who loves rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia.
Off the Air Music Series
Discover Modesto’s most dynamic live music experience with the Off the Air music series. Known for curating intimate, high-energy performances in unconventional venues like rooftops, courtyards, and secret spots around town, this series offers something truly unique for music lovers. Featuring local and touring acts, each event blends Modesto’s artistic community with vibrant live music energy. Learn more and stay updated on their Instagram or visit their official website.
Fall/Winter Events (September–December)
As the leaves turn and the air cools, Modesto heats up with live music, laughter, and spectacular seasonal delights!
September: Picnic at the POPS!
Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets for Picnic at the POPS!, a favorite Modesto tradition. Hosted by the Modesto Symphony Orchestra, this outdoor concert blends classical and pop music under the stars. It’s a magical evening for families, friends, and music lovers alike.
November: Watch the Salmon Run
Head to the rivers around Modesto in November to witness the awe-inspiring salmon run. These majestic fish return to their spawning grounds, creating a natural spectacle that’s both educational and mesmerizing for visitors of all ages.
Laughs and Cheers
Modesto’s comedic lineup will have you rolling in the aisles:
Rob Schneider at The State Theatre: A night of hilarity with this comedy legend.
Steve Trevino: “America’s Favorite Husband” brings his relatable humor to The State.
Special Events You Can’t Miss
Weird Al at The Fruit Yard: Laughs, quirky songs, and pure entertainment. Weird Al never disappoints.
Red Carpet Party at The Intermission: Celebrate award season with Hollywood-style glam.
Friday Night Grooves at Prospect Theater Project: Enjoy live music from local talent in an intimate setting. Find future dates HERE.
Keep an eye on this blog page – it will be continually updated throughout the year as new and exciting events pop up!