Downtown Modesto transforms into a true winter wonderland, kicking off with must-see signature events that bring the whole community together.

Lace up your skates! The beloved seasonal ice rink returns to the corner of K & 11th Streets from November 22nd – January 19th. It’s the perfect outing for a date night or a fun-filled family afternoon. Book your tickets early HERE!

Mark your calendar for December 6th at 5:30 pm for one of the year’s most magical nights. With this year’s theme, “Elves Just Want to Have Fun,” find a spot downtown and watch as imaginative floats, local performers, and Santa himself parade by.

Get active for a good cause on December 13th. This festive 5k run/walk through Downtown Modesto is a joyful way to support local non-profits and kick off your weekend with cheer.

Get ready for a spectacular light and music show! From December 11th – 20th (Thurs-Sat), Tenth Street Plaza comes alive with snowfall, festive photo ops, and more dazzling decor. Be sure to follow @rockinholiday on Facebook for all the details.

The entire downtown district is getting in on the MoCheer! The DoMo Winter Wander-Land is a seasonal celebration featuring holiday-themed public art and interactive experiences. As you explore, be sure to:

Enjoy the “Winter Window Wander-Land”: Stroll the streets and see how our local businesses have decorated their storefronts with festive cheer.

Join the “Shop & Sleigh” Giveaway: This is the perfect excuse to do your holiday shopping locally! Shoppers who spend $50 or more at downtown businesses can enter to win one of three fantastic gift baskets. Just show your receipt to enter—every $50 receipt gets you one entry!

Nothing says “holiday” like classic traditions. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect tree, sharing a warm drink, or visiting the big man himself, Modesto has you covered.

The magic begins early! Santa arrives at the Vintage Faire Mall on November 7th. It’s the perfect chance to get those classic holiday photos and share your wish list while you get all your holiday shopping done. The mall is always decked out in its festive best!

Head to 5000 Oakdale Rd. to find the freshest trees, wreaths, and more! The sights and smells of this local favorite are an essential part of getting your home ready for the holidays.

The Dragonfly Tea Room offers its own enchanting holiday experience with “The Nutcracker Tea.” Call them for dates and reservations for this popular, whimsical event.

Step back in time at this beautifully decorated Victorian home.

A Christmas Tea: Enjoy a delightful and historic tea on December 2nd.

Candlelight Tours: Don’t miss the enchanting evening tours during the holidays. You’ll learn the fascinating history behind cherished holiday traditions, from Christmas trees and stockings to gingerbread houses and poinsettias. (For dates, times, and ticket prices, check their event flyer or call the Gift Store/Visitor Center. Follow them on Facebook for updates!)

For a cozy and quiet holiday escape, join Bookish Modesto for a special Nutcracker Storytime with members of the Central West Ballet. Check their schedule for this and other fun winter events! While you’re there, support our local bookshop by picking up some books or locally crafted gifts for your reading-obsessed friend who can’t get enough lit.

When the weather turns chilly, our world-class theaters warm up with spectacular holiday performances.

The Gallo Center is bursting with holiday spirit all season long. Get tickets for these incredible shows:

Jim Brickman & Friends: The Gift of Christmas (Nov 20)

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis (Nov 23)

Modesto Performing Arts: A Christmas Carol (Nov 28-30)

Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernandez: Merry-Achi Christmas (Nov 29)

Brian McKnight: Season’s Greetings (Dec 2)

MSO Presents: Holiday POPS! (Dec 5-6): A cherished Modesto tradition with the Modesto Symphony Orchestra.

CWB Presents The Nutcracker (Dec 12-14 & 20-21): It just isn’t the holidays without this timeless ballet from Central West Ballet.

Christmas Dreaming with Stella Cole (Dec 19)

Time for Three Christmas (Dec 21)

Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour (Dec 22)

Cuddle up in this historic, beautifully restored theater for holiday magic on the stage and screen.

Sinatra at The State (Dec 4): Return to the golden era of The Rat Pack with an afternoon of classic Christmas and Crooner tunes performed by local talent.

THE ILL LIST 20: A 20th Anniversary Poetry Slam Invitational (Dec 13): Witness world-class spoken word artists go head-to-head in this prestigious and exhilarating poetry slam.

Christmas At The State Movie Series: Catch your favorite holiday classics on the big screen! The lineup includes Elf, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Muppet Christmas Carol (Dec 16-23), and special showings of White Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve (Dec 24).

Enjoy fantastic theater and live music in Modesto’s most intimate venue.

PTP’s Radio Cavalcade: THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER (Dec 13th): Experience this beloved holiday story as a live radio play, complete with live music and sound effects.

Off The Air Music Series (Dec 5th): PTP is also sometimes home to the “Off the Air” live music series, bringing incredible independent artists to their stage. Check their schedule for any upcoming shows, and don’t miss Rainbow City Park, Sloome, + The Flowers in December!

Nothing warms you up on a chilly day like a festive treat, and our local cafés, bakeries, and restaurants are rolling out their holiday best. Whether you’re grabbing a warm drink to go or sitting down for a celebratory meal, here’s where to find the best flavors of the season.

☕ For Seasonal Coffees: Get your caffeine fix with a holiday twist! Stop by Penny University, Culture Coffee, or Flora Cafe for their delicious seasonal lattes and warm-drink menus.

🍰 For Holiday Baked Goods: Indulge your sweet tooth with festive treats and pastries from local favorites Mocha Magic and Bakeshop Modesto.

🍸 For Festive Cocktails: Meet up for a holiday toast! The bartenders at Intermission and LoFi are mixing up creative and classic cocktails perfect for a celebratory night out.

🍽️ For Holiday Dining: Planning a special dinner? Enjoy an elegant holiday meal at renowned spots like Galletto Ristorante, Tresetti’s World Caffe, or Surla’s.

✨ For Revolving Seasonal Menus: For a taste of something new, check out Camp 4 Wine Cafe and Dinner by LoFi. Their menus evolve with the seasons, making them the perfect choice for a fresh and festive dining experience.

For a full list of festive food and drink specials, be sure to check our MoCheer webpage!

This is just a glimpse of the magic happening all across our city. From the glow of the downtown parade to the warmth of a holiday show, MoCheer is more than a season—it’s a feeling.

So, grab your coat, gather your loved ones, and come explore the heart of “The Other California.”

For more events and weekly updates, be sure to check our webpage! Happy Holidays!