Summer in Stanislaus County
Summer in Stanislaus County
There is plenty to experience around Modesto, Oakdale, and the rest of Stanislaus County! Explore our top activities, popular things to do, and events & entertainment.
Your All-Access Pass to a Classic California Summer
The sun is out, the engines are roaring, and the valley is in full bloom. Summer in Stanislaus County is a season of legendary nostalgia and outdoor adventure. From the neon glow of Graffiti Summer to the refreshing spray of the Stanislaus River, there is a rhythm to the valley that you can only feel in the heat of June, July and August. Whether you’re cooling off with a classic milkshake, catching a concert under the stars, or filling your basket with sun-ripened fruit, this is your official guide to an iconic California summer.
Iconic Summer Events
Celebrate our legendary cruising heritage and enjoy community performances that bring the spirit of the valley to life during the long summer nights.
Legends of
the Cruise
View hundreds of pristine classic cars up close and meet the owners keeping local history alive in Downtown Modesto.
Graffiti
Parade
Watch vintage classics cruise the downtown streets in this legendary and high energy city summer tradition.
Graffiti
Car Show
Enjoy a massive weekend of polished chrome, food and live music at the scenic MJC West Campus.
MoBand
Concerts
Bring a picnic for free community band concerts every Thursday night at the Graceada Park bowl in June and July.
Outdoor & Water Adventures
When the valley temperatures rise we head to the water for refreshing river floats and scenic reservoir views that offer the perfect summer escape.
Sunshine
Rafting
Take a scenic and mellow float down the Stanislaus River for a perfect day on the water with your favorite people.
Harvest & Farm Stands
Taste the peak of the MoFresh season with sun ripened fruit picked straight from our world famous valley soil.
Farmers
Market
Shop for the best local honey and stone fruits every Thursday and Saturday in our vibrant downtown outdoor market.
Vanderhelm
Farms
Visit their unique new streetcar farm stand for fresh local produce or pick your own seasonal fruit.
Rodin Farm
Stand
Stop by this historic roadside location for premium local nuts, dried fruits, and the freshest seasonal produce available today.
Ott
Farms
Visit this local favorite for high quality cherries and blueberries that you pick fresh from their sun drenched orchard rows.
J&J Ramos
Farm Stand
Explore this Hughson staple for a wide variety of fresh produce along with fresh squeezed juices and handmade baked goods.
Summer Flowers
Experience the sensory side of summer with aromatic lavender products and vibrant fresh cut floral bouquets.
Wood Colony
Lavender
Book a private farm experience to enjoy the fragrance and shop for small batch floral products.
Kelley
Flower Farm
Visit this local flower outpost for colorful hand tied bouquets featuring the best blossoms of the season.
Roberts Ferry
Lavender
Shop for handcrafted organic lavender oils and artisan gifts at their beautiful Sierra Nevada foothill farm.
Family-Friendly Fun
Keep the kids entertained and cool all season long with world class interactive museums and high energy local attractions for all ages to enjoy.
MoChiMu
(Modesto Children’s Museum)
Dive into a world of adventure with hands on water labs and creative exhibits designed to spark wonder.
Modesto
Roadsters
Catch a game during this inaugural season at Modern Woodmen Field to cheer on our brand new Pioneer League baseball team.
Children’s
Garden
Visit this peaceful urban oasis for hands on nature play and educational programs that connect kids with the soil.
Bookish
Modesto
Join the fun at this vibrant community hub featuring cat adoption days and cozy storytimes for little readers and makers.
Story Books
& Toys
Explore a curated world of screen free play and imaginative books in a charming shop that inspires curiosity.
Brenden
Theatres
Beat the valley heat and enjoy the latest summer blockbusters in the cool comfort of this modern and local cinema.
Great Valley
Museum
Explore the natural wonders of the Central Valley through life like habitats and fascinating planetarium shows for kids.
Be Anything
Museum
Discover the largest permanent Barbie collection and find the inspiration to dream big at this empowering local landmark.
Boomers
Modesto
Experience nonstop excitement with high speed go kart racing and nighttime mini golf under the bright summer lights.
FunWorks
Modesto
Race through the lightning track or enjoy the splash works pirate ship and arcade games for a full day of fun.
Arts & Mid-Day Escapes
Beat the heat and find your creative pulse with indoor galleries and local live music performances that showcase the vibrant talent of our region.
Downtown
Murals
Head out early in the morning to beat the heat with a local iced coffee or tea while exploring our vibrant collection of street art.
Gallo Center
for the Arts
Relax in the beautiful outdoor Music Garden for their free Friday afternoon Brown Bag concerts running July through September.
Modesto
Art Walk
Celebrate local makers every third Thursday as downtown businesses open their doors for a night of creativity and community.
Off the Air
Music Series
Catch the premier indie music series of the valley bringing unique artists to our local venues. Keep an eye on socials for show dates!
Fruit Yard
Concerts
Experience big name outdoor summer concerts complete with local food trucks and cold drinks on the spacious grass lawn area.
The State
Theatre
Enjoy hilarious stand up comedy shows along with legendary classic and indie films inside this historic downtown landmark building.
Music in
the Plaza
Enjoy free live music on the 10th Street Plaza stage throughout the beautiful summer evenings while dancing in the street.
Know Before You Go: Summer Edition
The “Valley Heat”: Afternoon temperatures can soar. Plan your outdoor hikes and farm visits for the morning, and save the museums, theaters, and shops for the 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM window.
Stay Hydrated: Whether you’re at a car show or on a raft, keep water handy!
Book Early: Between Graffiti Summer and youth sports tournaments, hotels fill up fast in June.
Picnic Etiquette: For MoBand and Picnic at the POPS!, arrive early to claim your spot on the grass—it’s a local tradition!
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