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

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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!

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

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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 1st 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 6th! 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

January 2025: Kick off the New Year with These Dazzling Downtown Events!

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By Sungyeon Park

2025 is here! Downtown Stockton has several fantastic events happening this month to start your year out right! From exciting and hilarious shows to family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. Let’s check out what’s happening in January 2025!

1. Stockton Kings Basketball Games

  • Location: Adventist Health Arena, 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
  • Enjoy exciting Stockton Kings’ basketball games. Some games offer special themes or celebrations!
    • Stockton Kings vs. South Bay Lakers – Education Appreciation Night, January 22, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
    • Stockton Kings vs. Texas Legends: January 23, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
    • Stockton Kings vs. Texas Legends – Dunkson’s Marvel Birthday, January 26, 2025 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
    • Stockton Kings vs. Grand Rapids Gold: January 28, 2025 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) & January 30, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
  • Website

2. Stockton Lantern Festival

  • Date: Through January 19, 2025 (5:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
  • Location: Stockton Ballpark, 404 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
  • An exciting Magic Ocean-themed interactive lantern experience for the whole family! It’s only here for a few more days, so be sure to capture this wonderful, memorable event while you can.
  • Instagram / Facebook

3. Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs

  • Date: January 16, 2025 (7:00 PM)
  • Location: Adventist Health Arena, 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203
  • You’ll see all the amazing basketball spins, slams, and dunks, plus new trials as players face-off to see who can pull off astonishing trick shots and more from the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters!
  • Website

Martin Luther King Jr. Event

  • Dates: January 20, 2025
  • Downtown Location:
    • Civic Auditorium: 525 N Center St, Stockton, CA 95202 (Unity March & youth program)
  • Honor Dr. King’s legacy with a Unity March, speeches, and a special youth program.
  • Flier

Bored Teachers: The Struggle Is Real! Comedy Tour

  • Date: January 25, 2025 (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
  • Location: Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202
  • This is a comedy powerhouse anyone who’s ever been in a classroom can relate to! Even non-teachers have reviewed it as one of the funniest comedy shows they’ve ever seen.
  • Website

6. Edén Muñoz Concert

  • Date: January 26, 2025 (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
  • Location: Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202
  • Enjoy live music with Edén Muñoz, a popular artist in the regional Mexican music scene.
  • Tickets

THE NIGHT SHIFT AT FED

  • Date: Every Saturday (9:00 PM – 2:00 AM)
  • Location: FED, 116 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202
  • Get ready for a lively night of house music and dancing every Saturday at this popular Downtown venue.
  • More information

8. Family Game Night

  • Date: Every Thursday (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
  • Location: The Underground Arcade, 123 S San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA 95202
  • Bring the family for an evening of fun and games at the local arcade! Only $5 for entry for diverse activities.
  • More information

For more details on these events, check out the event calendar here.

I hope to see you there!

A Showing of Home Alone at the Historic Fox Theatre!

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By Zachary Hulsey

The Fox Theatre in Stockton is playing an iconic movie you can’t miss! On December 15th, the theatre will be playing the 1990 family comedy, Home Alone. The doors of the Fox Theatre will open to the public at 1:00 pm. A live concert played by Dave Moreno on a 1928 fully refurbished organ will begin at 1:30 PM. At 2:00 pm, the movie starts to play on the big screen. Invite your family and friends to this amazing experience within the walls of the beautiful historic theatre. There will also be a tour after the film has ended. This classic holiday film is a must-see!

I have gone to the theatre a few times, and it is absolutely gorgeous. It’s one of those things where, to understand how beautiful the place is, you have to visit it yourself.

A Bit of History

The Fox Theatre is known for its beautiful walls, entertaining shows, and rich history. In this blog, we will dive into the nearly century-long history of the Fox Theatre. The historic Fox Theatre only took 9 months and $5,000,000 to construct, regardless of its hand-made designs. The Fox Theatre was first constructed in 1930, when Fox West Coast Theatres leased the property for 50 years. At its first opening in 1930, around 20,000 people attended to view the masterpiece in person. Yet, originally, the seat capacity was only 2,500, 8 times below the number of people who showed up. But that’s no surprise – lots of people wanted to visit the carved ceiling beams, gold-leaf proscenium arches, and their marble masonic floor. The Fox Theatre certainly has one of the most beautiful interiors in Stockton.

In 2004, the Fox Theatre was completely renovated, which cost approximately a total of $8,500,000. The Fox Theatre is still one of the most visited historical sites in the city. Since its renovation, the Fox Theatre regularly features shows, live organ concerts, vendors, and all kinds of live performances. When the theatre is about to play a movie, you can tell by the recognizable, beautiful lights on the marquee that display the movie title and other information. The Fox Theatre is managed by ASM Global, a venue and event management company based in the city of Los Angeles. Almost a century later, the Fox Theatre still stands as an iconic symbol for Stockton.

Friends of the Fox

While ASM Global manages the theatre, non-profit organization, Friends of the Fox, plays a significant role in the preservation of the theatre. Founded in 1995, the Friends of the Fox was intended to support the theatre by regularly projecting classic films. Today, the Friends of the Fox continue to support and preserve this theatre on a fully volunteer basis. As a part of their mission, they regularly maintain the theatre. The Fox Theatre, as we know, is an iconic landmark in Downtown Stockton, thanks to this wonderful organization that deeply cares about preserving and enhancing the well-known and beloved venue.

Renaming the Theatre

In the mix of renovations in 2003, the Stockton City Council voted to rename the Fox Theatre to the Bob Hope Theatre, named after a successful comedic entertainer. Bob Hope was a British-born American entertainer who delighted audiences for 80 years. Bob Hope starred in 54 short and feature films, while he appeared in 74 in total. He built his career as an amazing comedian and actor, well-known for his rapid-fire jokes. After living an entire century, he died in 2003 of pneumonia in Toluca Lake in Los Angeles, CA. One year after his death, the Stockton City Council took steps to rename the iconic Fox Theatre the Bob Hope Theatre in recognition of his respected comedic career. Soon after, in 2004, the newly named Bob Hope Theatre opened up with its first show starring Jerry Springfield.

Don’t Forget Kevin! Get in the Holiday Spirit

If you have never attended a show at the Bob Hope Theatre, this is your perfect opportunity to do so. The theatre has been the gem of downtown Stockton for many decades, and if you’ve never been inside the actual building, you’re missing out! Everything, from the chandeliers to the golden pillars to the red velvet seating and state-of-the-art sound, is a valuable and rich piece of Stockton’s long history.

By attending the Friends of the Fox’s projection of Home Alone, you can relive the ‘90s Macauley Culkin classic and get yourself in the holiday spirit in a gorgeous and historic setting. It’ll be a memorable experience for both you and your family to enjoy on December 15th. The ticket prices to enter the theatre are $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12 (not including facility fees). You can buy online ahead of time here. In person, both cash and cards are acceptable payment methods. Don’t know where to park? Check out our Downtown Stockton Parking Guide.

So if you’re ready for an experience of a lifetime, visit the historic, luxurious Bob Hope Theatre!

See you there, Stockton!

P.S. If you already have plans on the 15th, check out the Friends of the Fox’s other upcoming movie showings here!

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES: December 7th!

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By Zachary Hulsey

  • When: December 7th, 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!

Photo by Shaun Chatrath

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.

Photo by Shaun Chatrath
Photo by Shaun Chatrath

Oh What Fun!…

Cochran noted of the December 7th 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!

Photo by Shaun Chatrath

Community Gathers for Peace Monument Unveiling in Downtown Stockton

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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.”

My First Time in an American Movie Theater 🍿

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By Alvin Cho

I recently had the pleasure of watching “Kung Fu Panda 4” at the Regal Stockton City Center, conveniently located just a short 3-minute walk from my house in Downtown Stockton. The proximity alone made the experience incredibly convenient and hassle-free.

Upon entering the theater, I was pleasantly surprised by the cozy and inviting atmosphere. The interior was well-maintained, and the layout made it easy to navigate. What stood out the most were the seats—they were exceptionally comfortable. I could easily recline and stretch out my legs, which added to the overall enjoyment of the movie.

The screening I attended was scheduled for 6 p.m., a perfect time slot for unwinding after a day’s work. Despite the theater being smaller than some of the larger multiplexes, the intimate setting actually enhanced the viewing experience. It felt more personal and less crowded, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the film.

Before the movie started, I had a chance to explore the amenities. There was a game arcade and a snack bar offering a variety of treats. I opted for a bag of Cheetos and a drink. The convenience of having snacks available right there was a definite plus!

After the movie, my friends and I were quite hungry; thankfully, there were several Downtown Stockton restaurants nearby offering a variety of dining options. This proximity to dining choices added another layer of convenience to the overall outing.

In conclusion, my experience at Downtown’s Regal Stockton City Center – located at 222 N. El Dorado Street – was positive and enjoyable. The combination of convenience, comfortable seating, and a cozy atmosphere made it a great place to catch a movie. I recommend this theater for your next movie outing!

Click Here to See What’s Playing Now at Regal Stockton City Center

The Most Anticipated Event of the Year, StocktonCon!

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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!

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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!

Photo by Shaun Chatrath
Photo by Shaun Chatrath

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.

Main Street Market 🎶

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🍔 Happening June 11th at 242 E. Main Street, Stockton, CA! 🍻

By Alvin Cho

Hello!

I’m Alvin, the new intern at DSA from Korea. Today, I’d like to introduce you to the Main Street Market, which has become a cultural staple in our downtown area. This market – held outside the Bob Hope Theater and hosted by the Downtown Stockton Alliance, Parents By Choice, and ASM Global – is incredibly popular among both locals and visitors. Its charm can be divided into three main attractions: lively bands, delicious food, and various business promotions.

Lively Bands

The first thing that captures your attention at the Main Street Market is the live music. Several local bands take the stage to perform a wide range of musical genres. From jazz and blues to rock and pop, you can enjoy music that suits your taste. The passionate performances of the bands and the enthusiastic responses from the audience create a vibrant atmosphere. Walking around the market while listening to the music can make all your daily stress melt away.

Delicious Food

Another major attraction of the Main Street Market is the delicious food. The market is dotted with a variety of food trucks and stalls, offering a diverse array of cuisines. From fresh, locally-made dishes to street food from around the world, the wide selection can make it hard to decide what to eat. The handmade beverages and desserts available here are particularly worth trying. Sharing tasty food with friends and family while having a great time makes the Main Street Market a paradise for food lovers. This year, the market also features a beer garden, serving refreshing drinks from 4:30 – 7:30 PM.

Business Promotions

Main Street Market is more than just a marketplace. It’s also a platform for various businesses to promote their products and services. Numerous small business owners seize the opportunity to showcase their brands and directly interact with customers. There are product demonstrations, special discounts, and various activities aimed at business promotion. This not only helps in selling products but also builds trust with customers and contributes to the local economy.

Dates

Main Street Market is happening TONIGHT, June 11th from 4:30 – 7:30 PM (featuring music by Nick Elwood)!

Come on Out!

Main Street Market goes beyond being just a place to buy and sell goods. It’s a special space where the local community comes together. With lively music, delicious food, and various businesses coming together, it offers visitors an unforgettable experience. If you’re ever downtown, I highly recommend visiting! You’re sure to fall in love with the charm of the Main Street Market.

This has been Alvin, the intern from Korea. I’ll be back with more interesting and informative news next time.

Thank you!