The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out
April 1 – 15
There are plenty of reasons to love the month of April. And one of our personal favorites begins with the letter “A.” Asparagus, asparagus, asparagus! That’s right, folks! The Great Stockton Asparagus Dine Out is back! Enjoy two whole weeks of exceptional menus, all revolving around that beautiful, locally grown stalk of deliciousness! Reach for your fork and get involved with dozens of restaurants from across our portside city. Visitstockton.org
Spring Lodi Wine & Food Festival
April 2
When it comes to wine, we can be pretty serious about it here in the Lodi appellation. The same goes for incredible cuisine across San Joaquin. So, when you think about it, there’s really no better place to combine the robust flavor of our local restaurants and the rich taste of our region’s wines! Take on an assortment of blind tastings, perfect wine pairings, and an abundant array of dishes from top chefs in the county! Did we mention there’d be music? You’ll just have to hold the stem of your glass a little straighter as you pull off your best moves among new and old friends alike. And don’t forget to purchase your raffle ticket to have a go at the Ultimate Wine Collection, featuring a cellar’s worth of exceptional stock. This one-day event is ready to hold your taste buds captive, so purchase your tickets soon! Lodi Grape Festival Fairgrounds, 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi (209) 369-2771, GrapeFestival.com
Shuffle at Hutchins Street Square
April 5
At this concert, patrons choose the music! Concert runs 7-9 PM. Tickets are available at the Hutchins Street Square box office. 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi (209) 333-5550 Hutchinsstreetsquare.com
35th Annual Stockton Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament
April 4
Aim for the green, my friends! Stockton Chamber is hosting its 35th annual golf tournament, presented in a scramble format. For $160, golf enthusiasts can play the greens, grab lunch, rent a cart, and celebrate at the post-tournament party with raffle, food, and awards. Raffle prizes have been donated by local businesses—big and small—which are also responsible for sponsoring the event. Registration begins at 10 AM. Stockton Golf & Country Club, 3800 Country Club Blvd., Stockton, (209) 292-8423, Stocktonchamber.org/golf-tournament
Welcome Spring: LACP Spring Card Party at the Haggin
April 6
The Ladies Auxiliary to California Pioneers will hold its 88th annual card party, themed “Welcome Spring” from 1-4 PM on April 6. Started in 1928 to raise funds to build the museum, the event offers guests—men and women—the opportunity to play a card game of choice preceded by dessert, coffee, and tea. Surrounding galleries will be filled with flower arrangements created by auxiliary members. Reservations are $12.50 per person or $50 per table. 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton (209) 940-6300 Hagginmuseum.org
Stockton Ports Opening Game
April 7
It’s time to play ball, Stockton! The Stockton Ports will play their first game of the season against the Modesto Nuts at the Banner Island Ballpark (their home since 2005). Game begins at 7:10 PM. Don’t forget the peanuts and crackerjacks! 457 N. Van Buren St., Stockton, (209) 644-1900, Stocktonlive.com
Stockton Symphony Presents “Classics V: Pines of Rome, Grieg and Jon Nakamatsu
April 9
From 6-8 PM at the Atherton Auditorium (part of San Joaquin Delta College), the classical series will conclude with Pines of Rome, Grieg and Jon Nakamatsu. Don’t miss these award-winning artists in a brilliant concert event. Tickets are available online, via phone, or by visiting the Stockton Symphony Box Office. 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 951-0196, Stocktonsymphony.org.
Carrie Underwood: The Storyteller Tour
April 12
The Stockton Arena will play host as Carrie Underwood croons to tunes from her fifth studio album, Storyteller. It’s sure to be fun for all ages as Easton Corbin and The Swon Brothers take the stage, as well. Concert runs 7-10 PM. 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 373-1400 Stocktonlive.com
Stockton Cambodian Temple New Year Celebration
April 15-17
Prepare for a cultural celebration! Each year thousands swarm to the Stockton event to enjoy food, displays, music, and more, commemorating the Cambodian New Year. The free event (donations accepted) offers fun for the family over the course of a weekend. Stockton Cambodian/Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple, 3732 Carpenter Rd., Stockton (209) 938-1555 Watdhammararambuddhist.org
San Joaquin Asparagus Festival
April 15-17
Come out and celebrate the county’s favorite green vegetable with the largest asparagus fest in the West. The event promises more than food to commemorate the weekend. Walk along Asparagus Alley, pick up souvenirs, and stop by the car show. Then, head to the kid’s zone where carnival rides and games are aplenty and a petting zoo is filled with animals to interact with. Don’t forget to stop off at the craft beer and wine pavilion, too! Admission is free for children ages 5 and under, and $5-10 for everyone else. Parking is $6 per car. 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton (209) 466-5041 Sanjoaquinfairgrounds.com
Lodi Annual Spring Art Show
April 15 – 17
Stroll through rows of submitted artwork at the 55th annual Lodi Arts Center Annual Spring Art Show featuring works judged by jurors Harriet Sparkman, Dale Laitenen, and William Wilson. Displayed pieces fall into one of the following categories: oils, acrylics, water color, graphics, mixed media, photography, functional 3-D items, or fine art 3-D. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Winery, 5950 East Woodbridge Road, Acampo, (209) 365-8139, Lodiartcenter.org
Annual Breakthrough Dance Competition
April 16
Get ready to get your groove on. The 9th Annual Breakthrough Dance Competition hosted by Rhythm Inc. is coming to the Bob Hope Theater! Starting at 5 PM, patrons can gather to get a glimpse inside the unique world of competitive dance where teams in San Joaquin County will be showcased and judged by the industry’s most established and influential choreographers. Tickets are $25-30 each. 242 E. Main St, Stockton, (209) 337-4673, Rhythmincdance.com
Spring Lodi Wine Stroll
April 16
Aloha wine! Grab your Hawaiian shirt and grass skirt and head to downtown Lodi where local winos will gather to sip new vintages in Hawaiian style. Over 25 wineries are set to participate, along with downtown shops offering special sales and scrumptious appetizers, from 6-9 PM. Tickets are $30-40 each. The Lodi Chamber of Commerce hosts the event. Downtown Lodi, (209) 367-7840, ext. 105 Lodichamber.com
Pacific Western Concert Band Festival
April 16
Come out and support music at the Pacific Western Concert Band Festival. Created to provide topnotch bands with an innovative, high-powered opportunity for musical growth, the festival has become a well-known destination for bands from all over the Western states. The full-day event boasts 45-minute performances for each band, inspirational presentations and clinics, an evening concert by the Pacific Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and more. University of the Pacific, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 946-2285 Pacific.edu
Stockton Heat Hockey Game
April 16
Watch the Stockton Heat square off against the San Jose Barracuda in the last game of the 2015-2016 inaugural season. The first 500 adults will receive a Heat zamboni and all visitors will have the chance to thank active military and veterans during Military Appreciation Night. Game runs 7:30-10:30 PM. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 373-1500 Stocktonheat.com
Friends of Chamber Music Presents Ensemble Schumann
April 17
The Friends of Chamber Music, in cooperation with University of the Pacific’s Conservatory of Music, presents Ensemble Schumann performing works by Schumann, Brahms, Saint-Saens, Loeffler, Poulenc, Shostakovich, and more in a lively trio (Pinkas, Larson and Gallant). The 60th season is presented in Cooperation with University of the Pacific Conservatory of Music, Daniel Ebbers, and the Interim Dean. 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 946-0540, Chambermusicfriends.org
Amy Grant – Live Life Together Tour
April 17
At 6 PM the doors open for this one-of-a-kind collaboration between six-time Grammy winner Amy Grant and fellow Dove Award-winning artists Nichole Nordeman and Ellie Holcomb. The Bob Hope Theater in Stockton will be the first California stop on the 14-city tour where these songwriters and storytellers perform some of their most popular hits. Show starts at 7 PM. 242 E. Main St., Stockton (209) 337-4673 Stocktonlive.com
March of Dimes March for Babies
April 23
Sutter Health is sponsoring the upcoming March for Babies event at Caldwell Park in Stockton. Teams will gather to raise money for the nonprofit that works to improve the health of mothers and babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.
Lodi Beer Fest at the Lodi Fairgrounds
April 23
A new beer festival has started in Lodi called Lodi Beer Fest, and for its inaugural year the event will be held in the Ole Mettler Pavilion and the adjacent outside space. Here, beer enthusiasts can gather to taste brews from more than 30 breweries—including local establishment Dancing Fox, which will serve two on-tap options—a single hop pale ale (Galaxia) and an oatmeal stout dubbed Wishing for Winter. Big name brews will join the fest, as well.
Get the VIP treatment with a VIP Tasting ticket ($45). From 1-2 PM, before the event starts, participating breweries will provided a one-on-one tasting experience for VIP ticket holders. Regular tickets are $30 in advance, and $40 at the door. All tickets include a commemorative beer glass. Designated driver tickets are $10. Advance tickets are available through April 22 online (grapefestival.com) and at the Lodi Grape Festival office. 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi (209) 369-2771 Grapefestival.com
D.O.V.E.S Guidance Program 8th Anniversary & Open Ranch Day
April 23
To celebrate its 8th anniversary, the nonprofit will host an open ranch day where people of all ages can gather to meet the horses, indulge in a free lunch of hot dogs and lemonade, and complete arts and crafts such as decorating a horseshoe. From wagon rides to a scavenger hunt for 12-18 year olds, there’s plenty to keep little ones occupied. Don’t forget to pick up a raffle ticket and try your luck at some worthwhile prizes! A drill team, riders, and volunteers will provide entertainment – from animal demonstrations to a stick horse and bull riding rodeo. 13749 E. Kettleman Ln., Lodi (209) 329-7034 Thedovesprogram.com
Stockton Earth Day Festival
April 24
Head to Victory Park (behind the Haggin Museum) for Earth Day where visitors can raise a glass to the environment and rejoice in spring with music, food, and informational booths. 1001 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton (209) 937-8206 Stocktongov.com
Bark in the Park with Pacific Baseball
April 24
Take in a game with your furry pal at Pacific Baseball’s Bark in the Park event. Starting at 1 PM, cheer on the Pacific Men’s Baseball Team as they take on Loyola Marymount. In addition to dog-friendly festivities, Sunday Funday favorites like post-game autographs and base running will take place. Don’t forget to enter the photo contest! Tickets are $4-8 each. Klein Baseball Field @ University of the Pacific, 1178 Larry Heller Dr., Stockton (209) 946-2472 Pacifictigers.com
Stockton Civic Theater Presents Funny Money
April 27-May 8
Starting April 27, the Stockton Civic Theater will play Funny Money, a hilarious farce from Ray Cooney, the author of SCT’s 2014 smash hit It Runs in the Family. In this comedy (rated PG), a mild mannered CPA accidentally picks up the wrong briefcase—one full of money—and immediately assumes that it is illicit cash and decides to keep it. Knowing that the former owner must have his briefcase, he rushes home to tell his confused wife they are moving to Barcelona! Hilarity ensues. 2312 Rosemarie Ln., Stockton (209) 473-2424 Sctlivetheatre.com
Clint Black at the Bob Hope Theatre
April 27
Catch one of country music’s biggest stars at the Bob Hope Theater. Hot off the release of his first studio album in nearly a decade, On Purpose, this tour also marks the 25th anniversary of his award-wining album, Killin’ Time. Twenty-two of the Texas-native’s singles have reached number one on Billboard’s country charts, including five in a row from his acclaimed premiere album. In addition to his singing chops, the country artist writes most of his own music, refusing to record any songs but his own until 2007, many of which were written with Hayden Nicholas, a country guitarist and songwriter.
The vocalist—who also plays guitar, bass, harmonica, and drums—is returning to the stage to dole out new favorites from his Thirty Tigers studio album, as well as perform a few oldies. 242 E. Main St., Stockton (209) 337-4673 Stocktonlive.com
Ethan Bortnick at Hutchins Street Square
April 28
Ethan Bortnick is the youngest solo musician to headline his own tour, and he’s making a stop at Lodi’s Hutchin’s Street Square! He is an American pianist, singer, composer, songwriter, actor, and musician. 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi (209) 333-5550 Hutchinsstreetsquare.com
Pops IV: The Music of Michael Jackson
April 30
The Pop series concludes with the music of Michael Jackson, performed by a seven-piece band in this top-notch revue, covering 40 years of MJ in music and dance—from Jackson 5 to Thriller and beyond. Alex G. Spanos Center, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton (209) 951-0196 Stocktonsymphony.org
Joe Bonamassa at the Bob Hope Theatre
April 30
Blues-rock superstar, Joe Bonamassa, has been credited with bringing his updated sound to the mainstream. Now he’ll take it to the Bob Hope Theater stage for one-night only. Backed by a stellar band of legendary musicians including Anton Fig (drums), Michael Rhodes (bass), Reese Wynans (piano, Hammond organ), Lee Thornburg (trumpet, horn arrangements), and Paulie Cerra (saxophone), the guitar player will play songs new and old to commemorate some of his newest accomplishments, including his Billboard top-10 charting album from 2015, Different Shades Of Blue. 242 E. Main St., Stockton (209) 337-4673 Stocktonlive.com
Casino Live Annual Fundraiser for LFIT at Brookside Country Club
April 30
Kimberly Cockerham, MD, (who practices in Stockton, Lodi, Modesto, and Manteca) started the Let’s Face it Together nonprofit organization to help fund facial reconstruction surgery for disfigurement and dysfunction caused by cancer, autoimmune disease, spousal abuse, accidents, and other tragedies.
To raise funds, the group hosts an annual spring event to pay for medicines, medical supplies, surgical supplies, and prosthetics, (participating physicians and surgeons donate their time). This year’s theme is Casino Live! and guests are encouraged to embrace it. Hosted at the Brookside Country Club and Terrace in Stockton, tickets include access to a delicious meal, a selection of fun gaming tables, tastings of wine, chocolate, cigars, and whiskey, and a wide selection of raffle and silent and live auction items to bid on. 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton (209) 956-6200 Brooksidegolf.net
El Concilo Cinco de Mayo Family Festival
May 1
Celebrate the holiday in style with a full day’s worth of food, fun, music, arts and crafts, and games! From 10 AM-6 PM, the Weber Point Event Center located in Downtown Stockton will be alive with cultural festivities to help locals celebrate the Mexican holiday. Entertainment will include mariachi, ballet folklórico, live bands, and more. 221 N. Center St., Stockton (209) 644-2627 elconcilio.org
Lodi Street Faire
May 1
Get ready to shop til you drop; the bi-annual Lodi Street Faire is back! On Sunday, vendors from across the state will gather in a 12-square block area of Lodi to sell unique goods and gifts. With more than 500 participating vendors, shoppers can expect to see exciting collections of antiques, arts and crafts, and commercial items. Don’t forget to fill your belly while you empty your wallet; vendors will serve everything from hamburgers and sausages to international cuisine and dessert. From 8 AM-4 PM. Downtown Lodi (209) 367-7840 lodichamber.com/events/street-faire
NCAA Division II Women’s Golf Western Regionals
May 2-4
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is bringing their Division II Women’s Golf Regionals to the Brookside Country Club in Stockton. From May 2-4, enthusiasts can gather to watch the qualifying golfers play Brookside’s 18-hole championship course. 3603 St. Andrews Dr., Stockton (209) 956-6200 Brooksidegolf.net
The Child Abuse Prevention Council’s Annual Ducky Derby and Public Safety Day
May 7
Let the races begin! The 3rd annual Ducky Derby (hosted by CAPC and the Stockton Police Department) is coming to McLeod Lake. Related festivities begin at 10 AM and the duck race will start at 1 PM. Each participant will have a number that corresponds to one of the rubber ducks, thousands of which will swim the watercourse at Weber Point. The first to cross the finish line will be crowned the winner. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day. 221 N. Center St., Stockton (209) 965-7678 Capcducks.com
Catholic Charities’ 3rd Annual Wine and Food Event
April 30
Gather for good food and good company at the Cathedral of the Annunciation church. Local eateries Angelina’s, DeVinci’s, Rubio’s, Miguel’s, and others will serve savory treats while local wines (St. Jorge Winery, Oak Ridge Winery) are poured. 425 W. Magnolia St., Stockton (209) 463-1305 Annunciationstockton.org