Annual Lodi Sandhill Crane Festival
Nov. 2, 3, 4
Marvel over the majestic beauty of Sandhill Cranes, as these magnificent birds make their annual migratory return to Lodi’s lush farmlands. The annual festival held in their honor gathers together a community of nature lovers, and will feature wildlife tours, workshops and presentations, an art show, family activities, and an exhibit hall with vendors. The exhibit hall is free and open to all, but you’ll need to go online to register for tours. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, 800-581-6150, CraneFestival.com
WAR
Nov 2
Gather up your fellow funk lovers and get ready to groove to old favorites like “Low Rider” and “The Cisco Kid” when you see War perform at the Grand Theatre! This timeless band is known for their classic hits, but also for declaring that they use their voices and instruments as their weapons of choice, and the songs as their ammunition. You’ll really be asking “Why Can’t We Be Friends” after this show! Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6858, atthegrand.org
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
Nov. 2
A Christmas tradition for many, Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker delivers their thrilling take on a timeless tale. Marvel at up to 40 Russian dancers, falling snow effects, costumes that were handmade in Russia, and more! Bursting with color and breathtaking performances, this show will be fun for the whole family, and an experience you won’t want to miss. Get your tickets now and kick off the holiday season with a night you won’t soon forget! Bob Hope Theater 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, StocktonLive.com
Te Fa’a Nō Te ‘Ori Solo Solo Dance and Drumming Competition
Nov. 3
Mata’irea Polynesian Culture Preservation is hosting the inaugural Te Fa’a Nō Te ‘Ori Solo and Drumming Competition! Dedicated to building a strong partnership with the Polynesian people, Mata’irea Polynesian Culture Preservation has been fostering awareness of their culture through dance, music, customs, and beliefs. Apply ASAP to be a part of the free soloists and drumming workshops, which will be offered to the first 25 hopefuls whose applications are received before the deadline! Warren Atherton Auditorium at Delta College, 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton, Matairea.org
Punkin’ Chunkin’!
Nov. 3
You’d be out of your gourd to miss this event! Gather up all your Halloween pumpkins and bring them to the museum for a thrilling send off. Visitors can load their decorated and carved pumpkins into the museum’s trebuchets and catapult them down Sacramento Street for just $1 per launch. If you don’t have any pumpkins, no worries – you can purchase some for $2 apiece! All visitors must also pay general admission into the museum. WOW Science Museum, 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi, (209) 368-0969, WowScienceMuseum.org
Stockton Heat
Nov 3, 9, 16, 25, 30
Grab a beer and a seat glass-side, it’s time to hit the ice with the Stockton Heat! This hockey season is bound to burn away those winter blues as you get fired up with the crowd at the Stockton Arena! Whether you’re there for the sport, the team, or a night out with friends, be sure to head out for the Stockton Heat’s theme nights, including Stockton Heat Hockey Fights Cancer on the 3rd. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, StocktonLive.com
Savor Lodi- A Walking Food Tour
Nov 3, 4, 10, 17, 18, 24, 25, Dec 1, 2
Locals know that some of the finest eats in the Central Valley can be found in downtown Lodi. Were you out of the loop? Then join Savor Lodi on a two-and-a-half-hour tour that will take you on a mile-long journey to five of the city’s finest restaurants. Meet the owners of these local restaurants and learn what inspires them as you taste small bites paired with the perfect craft beers, as well as Lodi’s famous wines. Downtown Lodi, 221 West Pine St., Lodi, (209) 294-8677, SavorLodi.com
Classic Movie: Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
Nov 4
It’s time to take a trip to the world of pure imagination…at the Bob Hope Theater! Friends of the Fox Classic Movie Series is proud to present their November film, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, which is the timeless (and deliciously hilarious) tale of a group’s memorable trip
to a famous candy factory. The show starts at 2 PM but be sure to show up early to enjoy the spectacular sounds of the theatre’s organ! Bob Hope Theater 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, FoxFriends.org
Stockton Opera Guild Event
Nov 7
The Stockton Opera Guild, which was founded in order to promote public interest in operatic music, is proud to present “The Curtain Goes Up”, an evening to honor their treasurer, the Honorable Ann Chargin, as well as the late B.J. Stewart. In true operatic fashion, there will be a musical program, which will be performed by Miss San Joaquin County Katie Elson, the 2018 Scholarship Winner. Tickets are $75 a person – call to make your purchase! Stockton Golf and Country Club, 3800 Country Club Blvd., (209) 931-2445
Philanthropy Summit
Nov 8
Join the Community Foundation of San Joaquin and The Lodi Community Foundation at the 8th annual Community Philanthropy Summit. This exciting event will offer a wide variety of topics relevant to professionals, donors, and others involved in charitable giving. This is also the perfect place to network with likeminded philanthropic individuals throughout the Valley. Tune in for a schedule of speakers, gather for a midday lunch, and then wrap up the day with National Philanthropy Day Awards. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, (209) 333-6782, Philanthropy-Summit.com
Tempranillo Tasting Event
Nov 9, 10, 11
Spain’s number one grape is having a day of its own! Gather together with fellow lovers of Tempranillo vino for a wine dinner that’s sure to delight. Held at beautiful Towne House Restaurant at Wine and Roses, you’ll get to taste delectable dishes that pair well with this lovely wine. If you’ve never tried this Spanish specialty that’s been garnering buzz throughout Lodi, now’s your chance to see what all the fuss is about! Towne House Restaurant and Bar, 2505 W Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 371-6160, WineRose.com/The-Restaurant
Friends of Chamber Music Present enhakē
Nov 11
Since 1956, the Friends of Chamber Music has been bringing world class music to Stockton. Join them on this afternoon as enhakē (in-HA-kee) performs. Chances are you didn’t catch them at their Carnegie Hall recital in 2010, so make sure you don’t miss out on their sure to be stunning performance at Faye Spanos Concert Hall. With a repertoire of Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and contemporary pieces, this quartet masterfully delivers musical excellence. Get your tickets online now! Faye Spanos Concert Hall, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 946-0540, ChamberMusicFriends.org
Lincoln Center’s Annual Holiday Open House
Nov 11
It’s never too early to kick off the holiday season! Head over to Lincoln Center to start indulging in the festivities. The entire shopping center will be beautifully decorated, complete with a tree, and there will also be live music, as well as the most sought-after man of the season – that’s right, Santa himself! Get a head start on all the shopping you need to do with store promotions and sales on this family one-day event! Lincoln Center, Pacific Ave. & Benjamin Holt Dr., Stockton, (209) 477-4868, LincolnCenterShops.com
Stockton Civic Theatre Presents Annie
Nov 14 – Dec 16
Most of us know the famous lyrics from this classic, crowd pleasing musical, so come relive the fun by seeing it live at the Stockton Civic Theatre! The heartwarming story is the perfect pick me up for those cold winter evenings, when you’re just waiting for the sun to come out tomorrow. This is a favorite for people of all ages, so make sure to buy tickets for a matinee or evening show before performances sell out! Stockton Civic Theatre, 2312 Rosemarie Ln., Stockton, (209) 473-2424, SCTLiveTheatre.com
Athena Awards
Nov 15
Now in it’s 32nd year, the annual ATHENA Awards luncheon will once again honor individuals who strive towards high levels of accomplishment, professional success, community engagement, mentorship, and support for the advancement of businesswomen. This event also celebrates the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award recipient, honoring the next generation of leaders in our area. Make sure to buy your tickets now and get ready to enjoy an enriching afternoon and a delicious lunch. Stockton Golf and Country Club, 3800 W. Country Club Blvd., Stockton, (209) 547-2770, StocktonChamber.org
Disney Jr. Dance Party
Nov 16
Get ready to dance and sing with all your Disney Jr. favorites! Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Vampirina, Elena of Avalor, and so many more will be making live appearances – and we haven’t even mentioned the magical onscreen moments you’ll get to share with other beloved characters! Doors for this vibrantly colored, high energy night of fun open at 5 PM. Get your tickets now so you don’t miss out on seeing these characters show off their moves! Bob Hope Theater, 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, StocktonLive.com
Sky Tours at Delta College
Nov 16
Join volunteers from the Stockton Astronomical Society for a fun night of stargazing! Weather permitting, you can take a peek through the society’s telescopes for no charge. Look, learn, and catch a glimpse of Mars, Saturn, Uranus, and the Moon right from Delta College’s Athletics 1 parking lot. You are welcome to bring your own telescope or binoculars, but definitely don’t forget to bring your warmest jacket, as this viewing event will take place after dark. Athletics 1 Parking lot, Delta College, 5151 Pacific Ave., (209) 823-0328
San Joaquin Potters Guild Fine Arts Festival
Nov 16, 17
Peruse the wares of San Joaquin makers at the 25th Annual Fine Arts Festival! Sponsored by the San Joaquin Potters Guild, this two-day celebration will sport hand-crafted pieces made of clay, glass, fiber, wood, and metal, displayed alongside paintings and artistic photography. Both functional and aesthetic pieces will be for sale at this free event, so you’re sure to find something that will elevate your living room as well as find a home in your kitchen! Spanos Community Center at St. Basil’s Greek Orthodox Church, 920 W. March Ln., Stockton, SanJoaquinPottersGuild.org
Annual Trout Bout
Nov 17
Calling all fishermen of San Joaquin, cast your line and claim your prize at the 34th Annual Trout Bout! With over 2,500 lbs of Trout planted in Oak Grove’s 10-acre lake prior to the tournament, reel in as many Rainbow Trout as your fishing pole can handle as you compete for prizes and bragging-rights! Kids age 15 and under fish free at this event, so there’s no better way to bond with the family than at this fun-filled, friendly competition. Prizes will be awarded in youth and adult categories. Event begins bright and early at 6:15 AM and ends at 12:30 PM. Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. 8 Mile Rd., Stockton, (209) 331-2050
Annual Diwali Celebration
Nov 17
Celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year. This festival champions the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, a triumph that is symbolized by the arrangement of a row of clay lamps outside the home. Join the Indian Association of San Joaquin County in celebrating this festival with traditional dance, music, food, and just plain fun! The festival begins at 7 PM and ends at 10 PM. Ronald E. McNair High School, 9550 Ronald E. McNair Way, Stockton
Cyclocross
Nov 17
Get your thrills at LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards for a day of Cyclocross, a sport that’s an exhilarating cross between mountain biking and road cycling! Sip on the fine wines of LangeTwins as bikers speed past and navigate through various terrains and obstacles. Food will be available for purchase so be sure to bring an appetite! The event begins at 10 AM and ends at 4 PM. LangeTwins Family Winery & Vineyards, 1525 E. Jahant Rd., Acampo, (209) 712-1997, LangeTwins.com
Astronomy in the Park
Nov 17
Cast your gaze on the stars at Stockton’s Oak Park to appreciate the mystery and grandeur of space! Courtesy of Stockton Astronomical Society, telescopes will be set up for use by star enthusiasts who gather for the event. This month, the deep sky object of interest will be the Andromeda Galaxy! If there is bad weather or the sky is cloudy, the event will be canceled, so cross your fingers for clear skies! Viewing begins after sunset. Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. 8 Mile Rd., Stockton, (209) 462-0798
Joe Bonamassa at the Bob Hope Theatre
Nov 25
Indulge in a night of blues-rock with two-time Grammy-nominated Joe Bonamassa, the iconic blues-rock guitarist hailed worldwide as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation! His performance, bolstered by Anton Fig on drums, Michael Rhodes on bass, and Reese Wynans on Piano, will feature singles from his new album “Redemption” alongside classic hits. With 20 #1 Billboard Blues Albums under his belt, Bonamassa is bound to deliver an astonishing performance! Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, StocktonLive.com
Silent Movie Night: The Thief of Baghdad
Nov 24
Revel in the classic tale with family and friends in which a rebellious thief competes with a malicious tyrant for the love of a beautiful princess. Munch on snacks and sip on wine as you engage with this classic film and delight in the musical stylings of Dave Moreno who will be playing the San Francisco Castro Theatre Organ during the film. The fun begins at 7:30 PM, so be sure to make your reservation and grab your tickets before they’re gone! Harmony Wynelands, 9291 E. Harney Ln., Lodi, (209) 369-4184, HarmonyWynelands.com
San Joaquin Kennel Club Annual Dog Show
Nov 30 – Dec 3
Love dogs? Then you won’t want to miss the best dog show in San Joaquin! Every year, the San Joaquin Kennel Club puts on their annual dog show where the best of the best compete for doggo-glory! Come out to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds where you’ll get front row seats to over 100 breeds of canine and more than 1,500 individual dogs, all groomed and trained to perfection. With over 100 years of organizing canine events under its belt, you can bet the San Joaquin Kennel Club knows how to put on a show! San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton, SanJoaquinKC.org
Reptile Roundup at the WOW Science Museum
Dec 1
Calling all reptile lovers! From slithering snakes, to little lizards, to bearded dragons, everyone will get a chance to hold their favorite reptiles at the Wow Museum during their 7th Reptile Roundup! Let the kids discover new scaly creatures and learn all about these fascinating animals, brought to you by local reptile stores and museums. The event will also offer arts, crafts and other activities that are sure to delight! General museum admission applies. World of Wonders Science Museum, 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi, (209) 368-0969, WowScienceMuseum.org
Festival of Trees
Dec 1, 2
Delight in the wonder and sparkle of Christmas lights! Join the San Joaquin County Historical Museum for this unique Christmas celebration with more than 60 decorated trees, entertainment, children’s activities and make-and-take crafts, Santa visits, rides on a mule-driven wagon, historical exhibits and food available for purchase. Proceeds from the event go toward the San Joaquin County Historical Museum’s educational programs! The event begins at 10 AM and ends at 4 PM. Admission is $10 for adults, $2 for children aged 2-12. Children under 2 are free. San Joaquin County Historical Museum, 11793 Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, (209) 331-2055, www.sanjoaquinhistory.org
Marina West Yacht Club’s Lighted Boat Parade
Dec 1
Bundle up in your favorite coat, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and bring the family out to witness one of Stockton’s most beautiful annual traditions, the Lighted Boat Parade! Head to the downtown waterfront (some of the best locations are on the north shore behind Banner Island Pall Park, the Stockton Marina, and Weber Point) to see a sparkling parade of boats strung with glittering Christmas lights! The parade will begin at 5 PM and will reach the downtown Stockton Marina around 6 PM. Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center St., Stockton, (209) 937-8206
City of Stockton Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dec 1
Come together with your community to celebrate the annual Holiday Tree lighting Ceremony at Weber Point Event Center. In years past, the event has been accompanied by choir performances from local high schools, so be sure to check the Downtown Stockton website for more information on possible performances! Shortly after the Tree Lighting Ceremony will be the Marina West Yacht Club’s Annual Lighted Boat Parade, so gather the whole family and delight in the holiday spirit in Downtown Stockton! Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center St., Stockton, (209) 937-8206
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Dec 2
Embrace the sounds of swing music, intermixed with jazz and Dixieland (a style of jazz developed at the start of the 20th century) with contemporary swing band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. You may remember their early 90’s debut in Southern California, but what you may not know is that the swingers have been touring nonstop since then, having played over 3,000 shows and sold over three million albums. Grab a couple of friends and head down to the Grand Theatre in Tracy for a night of rhythm you won’t soon forget! Grand Theatre, 715 N. Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6858, AtTheGrand.org
Cooking School: Holiday Cookie Decorating
Dec 4
Throw on the apron and get ready to be covered in frosting—just don’t lick your fingers! Join Katie Wood, owner and designer at Ainslie Lane Cookie Studio, in Wine and Roses’ Cellar Room and learn how to decorate your holiday treats like a pro! From Santas, to candy canes, to adorable little elves, you’ll delight in the variety of cookie design that Katie will bring to the table. Get your tickets before they’re gone! Wine and Roses, 2505 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 334-6988, WineRose.com