StocktonCon Winter 2025: A Celebration of Comics, Anime, and More

Posted on February 14, 2025February 14, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Information:

Dates: February 15, 2025 – February 16, 2025
Times: 11 AM to 5 PM
Location: Adventist Health Arena, 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
Tickets: Ticketmaster.com

ABOUT STOCKTONCON

StocktonCon 2025 is just around the corner, bringing together fans of comics, anime, gaming, and pop culture for an unforgettable weekend. The event will be held at the Adventist Health Arena on February 15-16, 2025, running from 11 AM to 5 PM both days. Thanks to overwhelming fan support, StocktonCon has grown from a one-day event at the University of the Pacific in 2012 to one of the top pop culture conventions on the West Coast.

MEET & GREETS

One of the highlights of StocktonCon 2025 will be the chance to meet celebrity guests from the worlds of film, TV, and comics. Special guests this year include wrestling champions, iconic voice actors, and beloved TV stars. Attendees can also look forward to an impressive lineup of over 200 exhibitors and artist booths, offering everything from rare comic books and action figures to Funko Pops and custom art commissions. Whether you’re looking to take photos with your favorite stars or learn from industry professionals, there’s something for everyone.

Check out the awesome list of special guests below:

Special Guests

Joe Hendry (WWE NXT, TNA World Champion- Saturday Only)
Raymond Cruz (Blood In, Blood Out, Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul)
Cesar Garcia (Fast & Furious, Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul)
Nakia Burrise (Power Rangers Zeo, Barbie: Life in the Dream House)
Karan Ashley (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) Rob Paulsen (Pinky and the Brain, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Animaniacs)
Maurice LaMarche (Pinky and the Brain, Futurama, Rick and Morty)
Shannon Chan Kent (Death Note, My Little Pony, Fairy Tale)

Brian Drummond (Death Note, Dragon Ball Z)
Brandon Potter (One Piece, Attack on Titan)
Sean Hennigan (One Piece, Solo Leveling)
Natalie Rose Hoover (One Piece, Danganronpa)
David Sobolov (Flash, One Piece, Transformers)
Olivia Hack (Avatar the Last Airbender, Bratz)
C Andrew Nelson (Star Wars)

Creator Special Guests

Derek Riggs (Iron Maiden Cover Artist)
Chris Marrinan (Nova, Wonder Woman)
Brad Simpson (Local Man, Feral)
Jessica Fong (Poison Ivy, Scarlet Witch)
Scott Koblish (Deadpool, Captain America)
Melissa Pagluica (Above the Clouds)
James C. Mulligan (Disney, Lorcana)
Brandon McKinney (Harley Quinn, Invincible)
Tone Rodriguez (Simpsons, Stray Dogs, Feral)
Tony Fleecs (Local Man, Stray Dogs, Feral)
Jesse Hernandez (Urban Aztec)
Justin Greenwood (Stumptown, The Butcher’s Boy)

Ramon Villalobos (Secret Wars, Nighthawk)
Dan Brereton (Nocturnals, Batman)
Kai Lun Qu (Upper Deck, Marvel)
Lonnie Millsap (My Mother Was Human, New Yorker)
Lee Kohse (Star Wars, Speed Racer)
Bordin Marsinkul (Hyperbooster)
Mel Smith (Dead Ahead, Becoming Frankenstein)
Michael Calero (Quested, Whatnot Publishing)
John Hageman (Charlie and Humphrey)

COSTUME CONTEST

Don’t miss the StocktonCon Winter Costume Contest, happening at 4 PM in the panel rooms near the main entrance. The contest for ages 13 and above will take place on Saturday, while kids 12 and under can showcase their costumes on Sunday. For gaming enthusiasts, War Torn Front will host Collectible Card Gaming, and Stockton Coin Operated will offer a range of pinball machines in the lobby concourse area.

TICKETS

Tickets are available both online and at the Adventist Health Arena Box Office. For more details, visit StocktonCon Winter Tickets. Plus, a portion of the event’s proceeds will support local charities, making your attendance even more meaningful. Mark your calendars and get ready to enter the vibrant world of StocktonCon Winter 2025.

Spend your Valentine’s Day & President’s Day Weekend in Downtown Stockton at StocktonCon!

🎉 Welcome February with Exciting Events in Downtown Stockton!

Posted on February 6, 2025February 6, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

February is packed with events in Downtown Stockton! Whether you’re looking for live performances, family activities, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Check out these highlights:

Bob Hope Theatre Events

📍 Location: 242 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202

The Great Gatsby by the World Ballet Company
📅 Friday, Feb 7 | 🕖 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🩰 Witness the elegance and drama of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel brought to life through ballet.
🔗 Website
Friends of the Fox Present The Love Bug
📅 Sunday, Feb 9 | 🕐 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
🎬 A fun and family-friendly screening of the Disney classic The Love Bug!
🔗 Website
Dog Man: The Musical
📅 Tuesday, Feb 11 | 🕡 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎭 An adaptation of the popular book series, perfect for kids and adults alike.
🔗 Website
Whose Live Anyway?
📅 Sunday, Feb 16 | 🕢 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
🤣 A live improv comedy show featuring cast members from the hit TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway?
🔗 Website
Brincos Dieras – Mi 30 Aniversario Tour
📅 Saturday, Feb 22 | 🕗 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🎉 Celebrate 30 years of laughter with comedian Brincos Dieras during this special anniversary tour.
🔗 Website

Book Binding Series at Tuleburg Press

📍 Location: 343 E Main St #101, Stockton, CA 95202

📅 Dates:

Sunday, Feb 16 (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

📚 Learn the traditional craft of bookbinding in this workshop, offered every other Sunday through March 16.

🔗 Website

Sizzle Plays Smooth Jazz With Open Mic at Coach’s Lounge

📍 Location: 126 E Market, Stockton, CA 95202

📅 Dates:

Sunday, Feb 9 (8:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Sunday, Feb 16 (8:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Sunday, Feb 23 (8:00 PM – 10:00 PM)

🎷 Enjoy smooth jazz and an open mic with local talents!

🔗 Website

Disney On Ice Presents Magic In The Stars

📍 Location: 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203

📅 Dates:

Thursday, Feb 6 (7:00 PM)
Friday, Feb 7 (7:00 PM)
Saturday, Feb 8 (11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM)
Sunday, Feb 9 (11:00 AM)

⛸️ Experience the wonder of Disney characters on ice in this magical family show.

🔗 Website

The LYTE

📍 Location: 110 N San Joaquin St 1st Floor, Stockton, CA 95202

📅 Date: Thursday, Feb 6 (9:00 PM – 11:00 PM)

🎶 An intimate music event with a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for music lovers seeking new sounds.

🔗 Instagram

The Golden Villa Farmers’ Market

📍 Location: 255 S Sutter St, Stockton, CA 95203

📅 Dates:

Saturday, Feb 8 (5:30 AM – 9:30 AM)
Saturday, Feb 15 (5:30 AM – 9:30 AM)
Saturday, Feb 22 (5:30 AM – 9:30 AM)

🌾 A vibrant farmers’ market offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and local products. Arrive early for the best selection!

🔗 Website | Facebook | Instagram

Re-Righting Her Story with Deborah Crossland

📍 Location: 343 E Main St #101, Stockton, CA 95202

📅 Dates:

Thursday, Feb 6 (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)
Thursday, Feb 13 (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)
Thursday, Feb 20 (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)
Thursday, Feb 27 (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)

✍️ A thought-provoking workshop series exploring women’s stories through writing and discussion.

🔗 Website | Instagram

Sopas de Amor at The Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery

📍 Location: 111 S Sutter St, Stockton, CA 95202

📅 Date: Friday, Feb 14 (5:30 PM – 9:00 PM)

💖 Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a unique cultural evening featuring art, live music, and sopas of all types!

🔗 Website

StocktonCon Winter

📍 Location: 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203

📅 Dates:

Saturday, Feb 15 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Sunday, Feb 16 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

🎨 A pop culture event featuring comic books, artists, cosplay contests, and memorabilia. A must-visit for fans of all ages!

🔗 Website | Facebook | Instagram

Stockton Kings vs. Memphis Hustle: Education Day

📍 Location: 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203

📅 Date: Wednesday, Feb 26 (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

🏀 Cheer on the Stockton Kings in a special daytime game with an educational twist!

🔗 Tickets | Facebook | Instagram

For more details on these and other events, check out the Downtown Stockton event calendar:

Event Calendar.

Don’t miss out on the fun—see you there!

THE LYTE: DOWNTOWN’S INSPIRING OPEN-MIC EVENT SERIES

Posted on January 28, 2025January 21, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

The Lyte at a Glance:

What: A laid-back open mic event with sultry jazz, local singers,
quick-wit comedy, and more; come as you are and join in if you like!
Where: Huddle Co Work, 110 N. San Joaquin Street, Floor 2,
Downtown Stockton, CA
When: 1st Thursdays on the month, 9:00 – 11:00 PM

About Huddle Co Work, Host of The Lyte

For over ten years now, Huddle Co Work has provided Stockton businesses, nonprofits, and our community with a comfortable, inclusive working space for all. Originally founded to elevate Downtown Stockton’s image and increase its vibrancy, it has successfully done just that. Huddle Co Work has been a huge pillar in Downtown Stockton’s revitalization, helping to build a strong community and to inspire people to reach their full potential.

Operated by Matty Amen and Eric Bodary since 2016, Huddle Co Work has implemented many projects in Downtown Stockton over the years, from hosting events to supporting all communities in Stockton. One of their newest projects is popular open-mic event series The Lyte.

Origin of The Lyte Event Series

Co-founder of Huddle Co Work and co-host of The Lyte, Matty Amen, noticed a need for more experimental opportunities for Stockton’s local music and performance artists; in response to that need, he and fellow host Dante Milano launched recurring jam sessions The Lyte, on the 1^st Thursdays of the month from 9:00 – 11:00 PM at Huddle Co Work, 110 N. San Joaquin Street in Downtown Stockton.

Amen shares, “The Lyte is more than just an open mic; it’s a space where creativity and community collide. Inspired by the need for an authentic platform to showcase raw talent and celebrate art in its many forms, we created The Lyte to give performers and audiences an unforgettable experience.”

The Lyte is THE place to go to experience local musical talent. Describing the origin and growth of The Lyte, Amen states, “This space was created intentionally to center art” and to “contribute to the positive narrative that it’s safe to come to Downtown Stockton past a decent hour.” The event was soft-launched at first and given time to “grow organically by word of mouth before inviting folks via social media—a process that lasted about nine months before we finally started posting to social platforms.” Amen notes that, “Each session is alive with soulful performances, heartfelt connections, and a vibe that radiates positivity and inspiration. Whether you’re on stage or in the crowd, The Lyte offers a space to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”

The Vibe

To attend The Lyte, just come with an open heart and from a place of love. This inclusive and inviting environment makes you feel at home while listening to the performances. There is no pressure to perform, sing, or play an instrument. Although, if you know how to sing, perform, or play an instrument, go ahead – add your name to the list and do your thing!

My mom and I went to one of The Lyte events, and the vibe was just right—it was full of laid-back, relaxing performances. Jazz – one of my personal favorite types of music – was the focus on the night we went. On this occasion, the Edison High School music team performed, and I’ve got to say it was amazing.

This fun event series gives many local musicians and other artists the platform to perform and the chance to be heard by a live audience. It’s a safe place where the Stockton community can go to enjoy creative local jam sessions, art, live music, comedy, and other performances in an inclusive space. Whether you’re new to music or an expert, The Lyte welcomes you to visit and experience one of their jam sessions where you’ll discover and appreciate the talented community that calls Stockton home.

Experience it For Yourself

In conclusion, The Lyte welcomes all people, musicians, performers, and community members. Whether you know how to play or not, The Lyte wants you to feel comfortable and welcome to attend their jam sessions.

The Lyte takes place every 1st Thursday of the month from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Huddle Co Work, Floor 2. The next one will take place February 6^th! To stay up-to-date on future events, admissions, and jam sessions, follow both Huddle Co Work and The Lyte on Instagram and Facebook with their tags below!

@HuddleCoWork
@WelcomeToTheLyte

My Magical Night at the Stockton Lantern Festival

Posted on December 18, 2024December 13, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Information:
·        Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 19, 2025!
·        Times: 5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM
·        Location: Banner Island Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton
·        Tickets
o   Ticketmaster.com
o   Adventist Health Arena box office: Mon, Wed, Fri 11AM-2PM
o   Banner Island Ballpark, daily starting November 20.

I recently visited the Stockton Lantern Festival, and it
was an unforgettable evening filled with light, culture, and fun. From the
moment I arrived at the ballpark, I was overwhelmed by this year’s “Magic
Ocean” theme. Each year is a new theme creating entirely new experiences;
this year, we have been transported from the Magic Forest of last year to the
Magic Ocean!

Stunning Lantern Displays
The highlight of the festival was, without a doubt, the
stunning lantern displays. Each lantern is a masterpiece, showcasing artistic
details and vibrant colors. Featuring glowing jellyfish, whales, and vibrant
coral reefs, each display was meticulously handcrafted by lantern artisans
using the ancient technique of traditional Chinese lantern making. Also, some
of them were moving and speaking!

Fun for Everyone
The festival offered something for everyone. While I
walked through the lanterns, I was dazzled by the magical interplay of light
and shadow. The interactive lanterns and activities provide quality
entertainment for families with children, but the hand crafted lanterns also create
an amazing and romantic atmosphere perfect for a date night! I think this
festival is a great option for anybody who wants to make a day special.

Captivating Performances
Another standout feature was the live stage
performances. Traditional Chinese dances, accompanied by stunning costumes and
music, created a special performance that was fun to experience. The energy and
skill of the performers made the show a highlight of the evening. There will be
performances throughout the two-month run of the festival showcasing a vibrant
mix of music, dance, and acrobatics.

Food and Souvenirs to Remember
Of course, no festival is complete without delicious
food, and the Stockton Lantern Festival delivers in the best way. They have
traditional winter offerings like hot chocolate, as well as ocean-themed fare, including
Sand Dollar Cookies, Fishbowl Cocktails, and Fish & Chips. They also offer
unique, hand-crafted souvenirs which I recommend to preserve special memories
of your visit!
As Jason Perry, General Manager of ASM Global – Stockton
shared, the “Stockton Lantern Festival is fun for all persons, regardless of
age and is an experience that will allow you to return again, seeing it through
a different perspective each time you walk the baseball field. Come
celebrate the winter season at Stockton Lantern Festival while you create
cherished memories and new traditions with your friends and family.”
The Stockton Lantern Festival was a magical experience,
perfect for families, friends, and couples. If you’re looking for a night to
remember, I highly recommend visiting. There are plenty of days left before the
lantern display leaves Downtown Stockton on January 20th, so don’t
miss your chance to experience this highlight of the holiday season!

For more details, visit:
· Website
· Instagram & Facebook

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES: December 7th!

Posted on December 3, 2024December 3, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

When: December 7^th, 3:00 – 7:30 PM
Where: Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center Street

As the December Christmas season approaches, downtown Stockton is getting ready for the annual tree lighting and boat parade ceremony.

Tree Lighting

Beginning on the first Saturday of December (December 7), the tree lighting ceremony will begin when the gates open at 3:00 pm at Weber Point Events Center, located at 221 N. Center St. This year, Downtown Stockton is going to showcase its holiday cheer, with free cookies and hot chocolate, and a festive event where the community gets to see the annual lighting of the Christmas tree, starting at 5:30 pm – two and a half hours after the gates open.

This festive holiday event will consist of many food trucks and vendors – so you’ll have the chance to either start or finish your Christmas shopping spree!

Lynn Hahn Memorial Delta Reflections Boat Parade

Make sure to wear nice, warm, comfortable clothing, and don’t forget to bring your lawn chair to watch one of the most anticipated parades year-round – the Lynn Hahn Memorial Delta Reflections Lighted Boat Parade. This boat parade will begin at 6:30 pm along the beautiful and historic waterway of the Stockton Deep Water Channel and McLeod Lake.

Put on by the Stockton Yacht Club, the boat parade has been a treasure for the Stockton community for over 40 years. The Stockton Yacht Club is organizing this boat parade, and every year it seems to get bigger, better, and brighter!

In a statement from the City of Stockton’s Community Relations Officer, Connie Cochran, she shares, “It’s been part of our tradition for decades, and we have many families that return to the tree every year to take a picture.”

That’s true; the tradition of this ceremony is what makes it extra special, given its 40-year annual return. Downtown Stockton is glad to be the home of this ceremony, and with activities like these, it makes downtown’s holiday season truly special.

Oh What Fun!…

Cochran noted of the December 7^th festivities: “We have lots of other activities… We have food vendors and local artist vendors. The kids really love the fact that we have a snow machine.” The news release from the City of Stockton shows us just how much fun and joy we can expect from this event. In addition to the amazing activities mentioned, you’ll be able to take a picture with none other than Santa and the Grinch!

Along with Weber Point, MLK Plaza will have nicely decorated lights on the park trees. The Civic Auditorium, Cesar Chavez Library, and City Hall will all have festive decorations, such as lights and wreaths, that’ll leave downtown Stockton with a Christmas spirit. Families near and far will be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere of downtown, and we at the Downtown Stockton Alliance strongly encourage business owners to decorate their businesses (enter in the Downtown Stockton Business Holiday Decoration Contest!), along with the residents of downtown.

In addition to the Weber Point tree ceremony, various other fun activities will be there. I remember attending this event last year, and they had a carriage ride, festive trees and light poles, a snow machine that sets the mood, and most monumental, when 5:30 PM hits, everyone is staring at the beautifully decorated Christmas tree waiting for the lights to turn on. It was amazing, and it’s a must-see event for all families in Stockton.

Best of all, ITS FREE ADMISSION!

As stated previously, the main tree lighting ceremony and boat parade event at Weber Point Event Center, located at 221 N. Center St., will take place December 7th, beginning at 3:00 pm. The actual lighting of the Christmas tree will take place at 5:30 pm, and the boat parade will begin at 6:30 pm.

Make sure to bring your family and friends downtown for this holiday fun!

Community Gathers for Peace Monument Unveiling in Downtown Stockton

Posted on September 29, 2024September 29, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Harley Meadows

Designer: HWPL Design Team

On September 5th, 2024, over 100 Stockon and California residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting event to celebrate Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light’s (HWPL) first-ever peace monument establishment in the United States.

*DSA Executive Director Mike Hubor with Stockton city officials and HWPL volunteers cutting the ribbon for a new peace monument in Diversity Plaza. Credit: HWPL Volunteers*

Stockton – a city once plagued by violent crime – has been undergoing a transformation. Recent violence prevention projects have shown promising results in the decrease of crime and violence. Together, the Downtown Stockton Alliance and HWPL established a peace monument to advocate for a world filled with peace, unity, and harmony.

The non-profit peace organization Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), established on May 25, 2013, by chairman Man-Hee Lee, is rooted in promoting religious tolerance worldwide, mutual respect and love, and cessation of war. Although this new organization is only eleven years old, HWPL has already administered 32 global peace missions and has partnered with over 400 different organizations worldwide in signing MOUs.

A dove (symbolizing the desire for peace) soars over the world, symbolizing a beacon of hope for future generations of a community united in love and mutual respect.

*A closeup of the new peace monument. Credit: HWPL Volunteers*

The event featured many guests including Harry Black, Stockton City Manager, who spoke on behalf of the City:

“This monument holds great significance for our city,” Black explained during the event. “Not only because it marks a new chapter of peacebuilding, but also because it reflects Stockton’s devotion and unity which is reflected here in the audience today.”

*City Manager Harry Black addressing the crowd. Credit: HWPL Volunteers*

Mike Huber, Executive Director of the Downtown Stockton Alliance, and Sandy Huber, Director of the World Peace Rose Gardens, also expressed their support for this work of peace. Justin Nailes, a marine veteran and HWPL volunteer, said, “I’ve seen many other young lives sacrificed because of war and violence. Today the need for peace is clearer to me than ever before, and I believe this monument will remind us all of that.”

Ericiliana Franco, a 5th grader who won the 8th Annual Inspirational Message of Peace Contest, shared her poem, Peace Around the World, during the event:

May the world have peace,

May the world have love,

And make me fearless with help from above.

And I ask again for peace on earth.

Once more, more than once each day.

Thanks to the Downtown Stockton Alliance, HWPL has taken a monumental step towards our shared purpose – to create a city and a world free of war and united in love, peace, and prosperity.

In the words of Man Hee Lee, Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL): “Love can unite people in purpose, culture, and peace. Ultimately, it has the power to unite the whole world.”

The Most Anticipated Event of the Year, StocktonCon!

Posted on July 12, 2024July 12, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

This weekend, visit StocktonCon, presented by Utility Telecom, where you’ll find a huge variety of comics, games, collectibles, anything anime, costume contests, and maybe even meet some great actors from your favorite TV show! The two-day event takes place at the newly named Adventist Health Arena in Downtown Stockton. The doors will be open to the public on July 13th and 14th from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the best part is, kids under 12 are free to enter StocktonCon with a paid adult!

Let’s not forget about our food and drinks now. At StocktonCon, you’ll find many different types of treats, ranging from fresh hotdogs to delicious cotton candy!

Looking for trading cards, artwork, action figures, and other comic memorabilia? This family event has hundreds of small vendor businesses that I know you will absolutely love.

Stockton’s Annual Pop-Culture Convention is aimed at bringing the community together for a two-day festival of anime, comics, and creative costumes! So, get your family and friends together and gear up for one of the most anticipated events of the year, StocktonCon!

If you’re looking to attend StocktonCon for one day, buy the one-day ticket for $15 plus fees, and you’ll be able to attend on Saturday or Sunday. If you’re looking to attend both days, buy the 2-day ticket, which is $20 plus fees. And remember, kids under 12 are free if accompanied by a paid adult!

Enjoy a full weekend of comics and fun!

Buy Tickets Here

Click Here for Parking Information

Independence Day In Downtown!

Posted on July 3, 2024July 12, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

There’s no better way to celebrate our national Independence Day than in downtown Stockton with your beloved family and friends, located at our Weber Point Event Center for the annual 4th of July parade and festival.

Hosted by the United Veterans Council of San Joaquin County, this perfect day of festivities and fun will begin with an annual 4th of July parade show in the morning at 11:00 a.m. At 12:00 p.m., the gates of the Weber Point Event Center will open up, where you’ll find a mix of diverse food trucks, creative vendors, a special guest, live band music, constant entertainment, and various other family-friendly activities!

Then later on in the evening, at 9:30 p.m., the amazing firework show will begin and last for approximately 20 minutes. This event is the perfect time to engage with your diverse local community for an entire day of fun, festivities, and the best entertainment activities!

Don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to celebrate our national independence here in downtown Stockton with your family and friends! The weekend after the 4th of July festival only gets better.

The Fourth of July weekend is full of many creative and fun things to do here in downtown Stockton. On Saturday, July 6th, the Stockton Ports have a ball game against the San Jose Giants. From 7:05 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., you can attend this game to cheer on the Stockton Ports! Lots of food and drinks will be available at this game; there will also be a great view of the downtown Court House and the Waterfront.

Later the next day, Coach’s Lounge in downtown has open-mic smooth jazz music with the Sizzle Band. If you love jazz, head on over to the Coach’s Lounge from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 7th.

Flavorfest: Foodie’s Delight – Happening TODAY!🍕

Posted on May 19, 2024July 31, 2024 by Courtney Wood

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By Courtney Wood

🥓🥙This weekend is the third year of Stockton Flavorfest! If you’re looking for something fun to do this Sunday, come to Weber Point to experience this Visit Stockton-hosted festival full of food and fun! 🧁🍻

Tickets:

Buy tickets here.

Adults/Seniors: $10.00 Saturday & Sunday ($12 at the gate)

Age 6 – 17: $5.00

Kids 5 & Under: Free

When:

Sunday, May 19th, 12 PM – 7 PM

Where:

Weber Point Events Center

221 Center Street

Stockton, CA

Parking:

Surface level street parking and all-day (starting at 9 AM) $10 garage parking is available at Coy Garage and SEB Garage. View the Park Mobile App and the Downtown Parking Guide for more parking information.

ABOUT FLAVORFEST:

With art vendors and exhibits; live entertainment and workshops; over 30 food trucks and booths; a beer and wine garden; and the beautiful Downtown Stockton waterfront, Flavorfest is the best way to spend a mid-May weekend. The event started May 17th, and is running through TODAY, Sunday the 19th!

Director of Marketing & Communications, Amy Alpers, from Visit Stockton shared that “Stockton Flavor Fest is a celebration of the culture, community, and cuisine of our region, and Visit Stockton is so excited to bring back this award winning event to Weber Point Events Center May 17-19.” To her, Flavorfest “is a labor of love from us to Stockton, and we are proud to highlight the diversity and creativity that makes this place a wonderful place to visit, live, and grow. The event is meant for everyone…we can’t wait to welcome everyone!”

🍙 FOOD VENDORS 🥟

Here are a list of some of the mouth-watering food vendors you can enjoy at this year’s event:

Bangin’ Bowls
Black Kat Cafe Company
Bubble Express
Bubble Hive
Casa Pinoy
Chefomeezie Ultimate Comfort Food
Charlie’s Fruitilocos
Cousins Maine Lobster
Cruising Cones 6
Don Tomas Pizza Fever
Drea’s Kitchen
El Parcero Empanadas Colombianas
Flavors Of Chef Nessa
Foxy’s Toffee
Fruitopia Fruit Bowls
Fudging Around
Grajedas Mexican Grill
Hawaiian Honey Cones
Hawkins Burgers On Wheels
Hella Good Kettle Corn
Hyderabadi Eatz
Jeeroz Mediterranean
Jerk Street Tacos
Mely’s Churros
Mike & Niki’s Honey Co.
Miss Dulcelicious
Mr. Jalepeño
Panda’s Smoke Shack
Patrick’s House Catering
Pinorrito
Pizza Lovers Sac
Problem Baker
River City Snowie Shaved Ice
Salmon Going Nuggetz
Saucey Oysters
Snappers Seafood
Street Philly Truck
Supreme Musubi
Sweet Berry Lyfe
Taqueria El Trebol
Taste of Curry Fiji Style
The Drunken Dumpling
The Sweet Life
Treats by Ness

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Sunday afternoon itinerary for you to ponder:

Buy your ticket online for easier check-in and a cheaper price.
Park at SEB Garage or take the bus, if you’re inclined.
Check in at the entrance booth and take a selfie next to the giant Stockton letters near the main stage!
Browse through Art Alley to have your portrait drawn, and maybe get a psychic reading.
Start your foodventure off right with an iced coffee from Mely’s Churros and a healthy fruit cup from Fruitopia Fruit Bowls.
Stop into The Kitchen @ Stonebrier tent to see what you can learn and sample in their demo kitchen.
Peruse the vendors nearby, and wave hello to us at the Downtown Stockton Alliance booth, where we are selling our brand new merchandise – Bob Hope T-Shirts, Chung Wah dragon T-Shirts, Rainbow tank tops, hoodies, and more!
Enjoy a vegan dumpling from the Drunken Dumpling (pictured below – very tasty 😋)!
Walk through the shopping vendor aisle near the Back Porch and pick up some Flavorfest gear.
Pop into the Back Porch beer garden to sip while listening to the styles of CalFamous, Chloe Alexis, or Mundo, and gazing upon the water glittering gently in the background.
Check out the food truck ring behind the Michelob Ultra stage, and try a goodie or two.
Head to the main stage area to dance to the tunes of The Outlaw Mariachi.
Now that you’ve worked up your appetite, finish your experience with a personal pizza from Pizza Lovers Sac and a uniquely shaped treat from Hawaiian Honey Cones.
Roll yourself to your car and dream about what you will try next year!

The Downtown Stockton Alliance booth at Flavorfest - check us out near The Kitchen @ Stonebrier.

WRAP UP

🌯🍤Flavorfest comes but once a year, so bring yourself out to enjoy this incredible food truck extravaganza while it lasts! The foodie in you will be living a candy-coated, caramel-glazed, ice cream dream. 🍧🍦

The Stockton Lantern Festival: A Central Valley Wonderland

Posted on November 30, 2023December 1, 2023 by Courtney Wood

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By Shaun Chatrath

There’s a magical event taking place at Banner Island Ballpark in Downtown Stockton, California this year. The Stockton Lantern Festival is a celebration of culture, art, and storytelling that illuminates the city and creates an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Each display at the ballpark is hand-crafted by lantern artisans using the ancient technique of Chinese lantern merged with the technological evolution of LED lighting.

Walking through the Lantern Festival, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Koda, a fearless adventurer as he journeys through a magical forest in Caballococha, Peru. Each sculpture and light fixture is strategically placed within Banner Island Ballpark’s playfield to further the story of Koda’s quest. Some of these art displays include butterflies, owls, and even a smoke-breathing dragon. In addition, live stage acts including a wide range of musical talent, dance, and acrobatics complement the visual experience of the Magic Forest.

“This was all about creating a safe, fun and family friendly event that would welcome the Stockton community and beyond” said Jason Perry, General Manager ASM Global. “From the moment one walks into the ballpark we want them to feel transformed to a magical place that is filled with bright lights, interactive lanterns and something awing at each turn. It is all about new traditions being made, life long memories that we can share for years to come.”

Moreover, for those looking for delicious specialty meals and drinks at the festival various Peruvian-inspired dishes are available for sale at each food stand around the Ballparks concession stands. These dishes include Peru Tacos made with seasoned ground chicken, tomatoes potatoes, green olives, jack cheese, and onion cilantro mix all on a flour tortilla. Top this dish off with delicious fruit spears covered in Tajin and Chamoy and you have yourself a recipe for an immersive experience. Don’t forget to also keep an eye out for souvenirs ranging from miniature art displays to festival merchandise available for sale around the ballpark.

The Stockton Lantern Festival is an extraordinary celebration that blends artistry, culture, and community spirit into a dazzling display of light. From the captivating lantern displays to the immersive cultural experiences, this festival offers a little something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of the Stockton Lantern Festival. It’s an event that will leave you feeling inspired, connected, and in awe of the power of illumination and artistic expression.

Tickets:

Children ages 2-12 start at $19

Adults start at $23

Special Discounts:

Military/Veterans: Save $5 with Valid ID with Proof of Service at Box Office.

Students: Save $3 at the gate on Wednesday’s only with your student ID at Box Office.

Groups: A $3 per ticket discount is available for groups of 10 or more. Call 209-373-1400 or email [email protected] to purchase.