Run and Walk Against Hunger
Start your holiday with purpose at the Emergency Food Bank Stockton/San Joaquin’s 21st Annual Run and Walk Against Hunger, proudly presented by the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation®. Held on Thursday, November 27, this beloved Thanksgiving morning tradition invites individuals, families, friend groups, corporate teams, and running clubs to come together in support of hunger relief across the community. Whether you choose to run or walk, you’ll be part of a vibrant, health-focused event that raises vital funds and awareness for local families in need. It’s a joyful way to embrace the spirit of giving and kick off the holiday with heart. Registration details are available at runwalkagainsthunger.itsyourrace.com/register.
Sonora Christmas Artisan Fair
Celebrate the season at the 3rd Annual Sonora Christmas Artisan Fair, held Friday and Saturday, November 28–29, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds, 220 Southgate Drive in Sonora. This festive holiday marketplace will fill all three buildings with over 130 artisan crafters, makers, cooks, and bakers, alongside roaming carolers, choirs, and performers from local playhouses. The Sierra Building will host Santa and the Children’s Workshop, offering complimentary craft projects for kids. Outdoors, a Winter Wonderland will come to life with elves, reindeer, Christmas trees, and a culinary bazaar featuring treats for every taste and dietary preference. Guests can enjoy live music from beloved Mother Lode musicians, sip hot chocolate in a cozy sanctuary, and unwind with seasonal beverages at the Top Shelf Elf Lounge. Admission is $6 at the door. Produced by Mountain Meadow Production Company. For more information, contact Meadow at (209) 352-0288 or email sonorachristmasartisanfair@gmail.com.
Holiday Pops! with the Modesto Symphony Orchestra
Celebrate the season with a festive musical experience as the Modesto Symphony Orchestra and MSO Chorus present Holiday Pops! at the Gallo Center for the Arts. Performances take place Friday, December 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 6 at 2:00 p.m., conducted by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray. The program features the MSO Chorus under the direction of Daniel R. Afonso Jr., with special guest artist Tony DeSare—an acclaimed vocalist and pianist—bringing jazzy flair to beloved holiday classics. From nostalgic tunes to spirited arrangements, this concert promises heartwarming cheer for the whole family. Let the music of the season lift your spirits and kick off your holidays in style.
Victorian Christmas Feast at City Hotel Restaurant
Celebrate the season in true 19th-century style at Columbia’s beloved Victorian Christmas Feast, hosted by City Hotel Restaurant. This immersive holiday experience unfolds with a lively melodrama, festive music, a sparkling champagne toast in the parlor, and a sumptuous four-course dinner paired with fine wines. Guests are encouraged to wear Victorian attire and embrace the spirit of yesteryear in a warm, candlelit setting. The event takes place at 6:30 p.m. on December 5, 7, 11, and 12, and admission is by reservation only. To secure your preferred evening, visit bit.ly/vicfeast. When purchasing tickets, please indicate any vegetarian or vegan preferences and list all party members if booking separately to ensure group seating. For questions, contact cchcc@gmail.com or call 209-559-7723.
Model Train Show in Turlock
All aboard for the 2025 Model Train Show, hosted by the San Joaquin Valley Toy Train Operators, Inc. This beloved annual event returns to the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds on Saturday, December 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Now in its 48th year, the show features a wide array of model train displays, door prizes included with admission, and a special visit from Santa on Saturday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Admission is $10 (cash or credit), with free entry for children under 12 accompanied by a paying adult. Enjoy free parking and delicious offerings from local food vendors Slick Fork BBQ and The Holy Doughnut while exploring the world of toy trains.
Winter Wonderland Holiday Boutique at Hutchins Street Square
Celebrate the season with a festive shopping experience at the Winter Wonderland Holiday Boutique, happening Sunday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hutchins Street Square. This cherished community event brings together local artisans, makers, small businesses, and organizations offering handcrafted goods, holiday décor, and unique gifts perfect for everyone on your list. Whether you’re hunting for seasonal treasures or simply love supporting local creativity, the boutique promises a cozy, spirited atmosphere filled with charm and inspiration. Come shop, stroll, and soak in the magic of the holidays while discovering one-of-a-kind finds in a welcoming winter setting.
Carnitas Posada Festival
The Carnitas Posada Festival returns to Modesto on Saturday, December 13 from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. at 711 I Street, offering a vibrant blend of holiday cheer and rich cultural tradition. This free, family-friendly event celebrates one of Mexico’s most beloved dishes—las carnitas—with a festive evening of flavor, music, and community. Highlights include a carnitas contest, live performances, artisan vendors, food booths, games, and prizes. Families can enjoy piñatas, toys for kids, a Santa photo op, dancing horses, and a car exhibition. Guests are also invited to participate in a voice contest and browse for unique holiday gifts from local makers. Held both indoors and outdoors, the Carnitas Posada Festival promises a joyful celebration for all ages.
A Night Under the Northern Lights: A Frozen-Inspired Gala
The Weaver Performing Arts Boosters invite you to their third annual gala, A Night Under the Northern Lights, inspired by Disney’s Frozen, on Saturday, December 13, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Merced County Fairgrounds Pavilion Building, 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Merced. This enchanting evening supports the Weaver Performing Arts Program at Weaver USD, a Title 1 district dedicated to providing enriching extracurricular opportunities for its diverse student population. Funds raised will help produce Frozen JR. at the Merced Theatre in spring 2026, covering the cost of sets, costumes, props, and much-needed technical equipment upgrades. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with festivities beginning at 6:30 p.m. Join the community for a magical night of celebration and support for the arts.
