Your Ultimate Guide to Modesto’s Can’t-Miss Events in 2026!

Start the year with cozy bookish nights, world-class theater, and the famous almond blossoms.

A Modesto Story Slam: Head to Bookish Modesto on January 8 for “Two Hours from Anywhere.” Bring a true story about your life or just listen—it’s the heart of Modesto’s local voice.

Cinderella: A magical weekend at The State Theatre (Jan 16–18) featuring a fairytale ball, a movie sing-along, and a fully staged production of Cinderella by Opera Modesto.

RED at Prospect Theater Project: Running Jan 16 – Feb 1, this Tony-winning drama dives into the mind of artist Mark Rothko. It’s intimate, intense, and a must-see.

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical: Experience the pulse-pounding story of a legend at the Gallo Center (Jan 23–24).

Cult Classics & Coffee: Join the Queen Bean Coffee House every 2nd Thursday (Feb 12) for their beloved movie series. Keep an eye out for their Open Mic nights to catch the next local star!

Radio Cavalcade: On Feb 14, Prospect Theater Project performs The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer as a live 1940s radio broadcast—the ultimate vintage Valentine’s date.

Joss Stone: The soul sensation brings her world tour to the Gallo Center on Feb 17.

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!

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. Plan your cruise here.

NEW! The Buzz Bus (Feb 28): Experience the blossoms like never before. This 5-hour luxury coach tour is an “Adult Package” featuring stops at Stewart & Jasper, Marsella Family Vineyards, and Zinc House Farm. Expect wine flights, almond tastings, and a “Dine” drop-off at a premier restaurant—no driving required!

Sunset Almond Blossom Dinner (Feb 28 & March 7): Back by popular demand! Dine under the blossoms at Richard’s Ranch with a chef-curated local menu and live music. Two dates this year so you don’t miss out!

Modesto Marathon: On March 22, lace up for one of the fastest, flattest courses around.

MSO: Pixar in Concert: The Modesto Symphony performs beloved scores live to film at the Gallo Center (March 13–14).

DoMo First Fridays: The street fair season kicks off on April 3! Expect 10th Street to come alive with handmade vendors and street food.

GarageFest (April 18): 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 and neighborhoods in search of the ultimate deal.

Soak up the sunshine with porch jams, mural hunts, fresh fruit, and retro car vibes.

Modesto PorchFest: Mark your calendars for May 17! 100+ local bands perform on porches in the La Loma and Graceada neighborhoods.

Chelsea Handler: Looking for laughs? Chelsea brings her “High and Mighty” tour to the Gallo Center on May 17.

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!

U-Pick Adventures: For the ultimate farm-to-table experience, head out to our local U-Pick favorites. Grab a bucket and harvest your own treasures at Vanderhelm Farms (famous for stone fruit and strawberries), Ott Farms (a must-visit for cherries and blueberries), or Rancho Azul (with loads of different blueberry varieties) for a true taste of the valley’s finest.

Discover more about MoFresh here.

The American Graffiti Festival: From June 12–14, we celebrate our George Lucas roots, starting with Legends of the Cruise on Wednesday, the iconic classic car parade on Friday and the MJC West Campus car show on Saturday and Sunday.

Stanislaus County Fair: From July 10–19, Turlock becomes the center of the action. Don’t miss the arena concerts and the best deep-fried treats in the Valley.

DoMo Walls: Watch world-class muralists transform downtown walls into massive masterpieces or tour all of the amazing existing murals in Downtown Modesto.

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, 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.

As the air cools, the community heats up with music under the stars and holiday traditions.

A favorite tradition! Bring your blankets to the E.&J. Gallo Winery grounds for the Modesto Symphony Orchestra’s outdoor concert under the stars.

Marlon Wayans: The comedy superstar hits the Gallo Center stage on October 9 for a night of high-energy stand-up.

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. You can choose to paddle with the salmon in the river or attend the family-friendly Stanislaus River Salmon Festival.

Celebration of Lights Parade: Watch downtown transform with twinkling lights and festive floats.

Find more holiday activities, local shopping, and festive fun on our MoCheer page!

Keep an eye on this blog page – it will be continually updated throughout the year as new and exciting events pop up!