Friends of the Fox

Posted on October 11, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

What good is money in your wallet if you don’t know it’s there, right? Well, downtown has a particular gem you may not even know about yet and it’s hosted monthly at Stockton’s very own Bob Hope Theatre. You may enjoy your regular visits to the local Regal cinema (and by all means, keep it up!), but every month Friends of the Fox presents the Classic Movie series you’ll want to take advantage of if you’re not already. Seriously, it will take your normal movie-going experience up several notches—so much so, we recommend permanently adding this ongoing event to your monthly calendar.

First off, who doesn’t love a good classic? Nostalgia makes us all want to go back in time to the good ol’ days, but since that’s not a legitimate option, Friends of the Fox (FOF) does us a solid by consistently hosting the Classic Movie series. Showing hits like Gone with the Wind, Young Frankenstein and Star Wars, you can pretty much expect to have a good time enjoying the show, especially since they make it a point to go above and beyond a typical screening.

The Full Experience

According to David Scheffer, a member of the FOF movie selection committee, “For the price of admission [details listed at the end of article], attendees are treated to live music in the lobby along with complimentary snacks and drinks (wine, soda, bottled water), a live Theatre Organ experience, and a classic file projected on a giant single theater movie screen with a fully realized sound system all in a beautifully restored movie palace.” Live music and complimentary snacks (and wine!?)—that alone should bait anyone, but the fact that it’s held in one of downtown’s most prized buildings makes it all the more special.

The Bob Hope Theatre wasn’t renovated to simply collect dust during off seasons. Scheffer adds, “The goal [of the Classic Movie series] is to provide Stockton with the opportunity to visit the Theatre and experience its use as it was originally intended with an authentic historical movie-going experience. That would include a live Theatre organ concert, classic movie trailers, and a cartoon, along with a master of ceremonies introducing the films just as it would have been when the theatre was first opened. The advantage of the low ticket price allows more people to attend and see the Theatre would to attend a live concert. In the very early years after the renovation, the goal was also to ensure the Theatre would be utilized when it was not regularly being used.”

Original Goal

FOF upholds the original intent of the Theatre by creating a safe and fun space for moviegoers to enjoy something different downtown, and they take it seriously. Scheffer explains, “A movie selection committee meets every six months to choose films to be shown. The committee is made up of both FOF Board members as well as patrons that attend the films. A suggestion box is filled regularly with desired films by our attendees at the monthly showing as well as on our Facebook page. These requests, along with past films’ attendance figures are used to create a proposed list. This list is presented to the full board with alternative choices and is voted upon formally by the board.”

It all sounds too good to be true, but it’s a real treat locals and even visitors can experience. On behalf of FOF, Scheffer tells, “We are extremely happy that the current management of the Fox/Bob Hope Theatre has scheduled so many live shows and that it appears to be thriving. We would love for more people to be aware of our classic movie series in hopes that they will attend and enjoy the Theatre in its glory. Many cities have long since demolished their movie palaces and we offer an experience that is a rare commodity for today.”

So, here’s your cue to say “yes” to a good time. Go ahead 🙂 rally up your friends and fam and get your tickets for the next showing, a Halloween special—Beetlejuice, on October 13th. Spread the word (maybe even become a member) but most importantly, get out of the house and treat yourself to an amazing, one-of-a-kind experience that FOF has to offer. Those comfy, red, velvety seats (and all the complimentary things) will be waiting for you!

For more information, please visit https://foxfriends.org/.

Thanks to David Scheffer, here are some fun facts about how the Classic Movie series came to life…

THEATER HISTORY/TIMELINE:

1916: On same site, T&D Photoplay Theater opens (constructed by the Wilhoit Family). It is renamed the California Theater after purchase by Fox West Coast Theaters, Inc. in 1921.
1930: The T&D Photoplay is leveled and the Fox California Theatre opens on October 14 showing “Up the River” starring Spencer Tracy and Humphrey Bogart.
1973: The Fox California closes its doors due to lack of business.
1981: Sporadic live concerts and attractions play the Fox.
2000: The Merlo Family (the owners at the time) donate the Fox to the City and renovation begins with local funds, congressional funds, support from the Spanos family, and the support of the Friends of the Fox Theater.
2003: The Fox California Theater is renamed The Bob Hope Theater after Alex Spanos’ good friend.
2004: The renovated Theater opens with a live show by Jerry Seinfeld.
2004: The Friends of the Fox decide to show classic movies (first on an irregular basis) after the renovation to ensure the Theater is being used and the public is aware of this jewel. It begins as a monthly event in May 2006 with “Casablanca” (which is our November 2019 attraction!).

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PRICING

Ticket Prices are: $8 for adults and $4 for students. Books of 10 tickets are available for $60, which can be used for any of the shows.

Turning Parking Spaces into Social Spaces

Posted on September 16, 2019 by digitalgear

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PARK(ing) Day in Downtown Stockton

By Jessica Nguyen

Just like it sounds, PARK(ing) Day is an event dedicated to parking spots, but probably not in the way you’re thinking- these aren’t spaces you’d want to back your car into! PARK(ing) Day is a one ⁠— day event that encourages people to rethink parking spaces as public places by temporarily transforming them into unique installations and social spaces. Instead of occupying land with vehicles, PARK(ing) Day explores the plethora of possibilities the space could instead be transformed into when it’s not being occupied by a car- a mini lounge area, gaming space, succulent garden, outside library, art corner, golf course, outside yoga studio, or playground just to name some examples! The goal is to utilize these spaces to activate our streets and create new opportunities for social interaction between members of our community.

The idea of PARK(ing) Day originated in 2005 by an architecture group based in San Francisco. Since then, the annual event has been adopted by cities worldwide and is always held annually on the third Friday of September. First established in Downtown Stockton by the San Joaquin Bike Coalition (SJBC), this year will be downtown’s third annual PARK(ing) Day event. This year, it will take place on Friday, September 20^th, and spaces will be set up throughout the day between the hours of 10am and 2pm.

Why is Park(ing) Day held in Downtown Stockton?

Kari McNickle, Board President of the San Joaquin Bike Coalition, explains that downtown, “offers a great density of businesses, employees strolling on their lunch hour, and an opportunity to really rethink how we use our streets.” In addition, organizations, local artists, and other Park(ing) Day participants get the chance to showcase their creativity when converting the parking spaces into more interactive experiences. In past years, downtown spaces have been turned into art lounges, game rooms, and there was one year where a DJ setup was featured! Don’t miss the opportunity to spend your Friday taking in the experiences born from Downtown Stockton’s creative energy. As Kari says herself, “the creativity is pretty impressive.”

There is so much to get excited about when visiting downtown, and Park(ing) Day is definitely one of them! Kari loves, “seeing people stop on their walk around downtown and engaging with the spaces. It’s a friendly and fun way to disrupt the routine and help people think differently about a street they may stroll down every day.” Parking spaces take up quite a bit of space (think of all the public spaces taken up along entire streets, parking lots, and even garages!), so it will be refreshing and interesting to see some spaces conceptualized in completely new and unique ways. The creativity adds color and excitement to parking spaces that otherwise exist solely for functional purposes.

From Installation to Application

There is even potential for permanent transformation: some Park(ing) Day installments find their forever home. For example, since Downtown Stockton’s first Park(ing) Day, downtown has had its first parklet installed in front of Trail Coffee. The space now serves as a vibrant outdoor seating area (if you haven’t seen it already, you should really check it out, it’s adorable!). Offering these outdoor spaces, such as outdoor seating for restaurants or cafés, make the entire street feel safer and much more lively- hopefully this is the start of a new trend! These outdoor spaces would be a great way to foster social interactions. This year, there will be at least five transformed spaces downtown. Interested in knowing what they are? We’re not telling you, because as Kari says, “you’ll have to come see to find out!”

Refreshing Drinks to try in Downtown

Posted on August 23, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

What a bummer that summer is only with us for another month! BUT, all the more reason to make the best of it. Beer week was a splash and Stockmarket was such a hit, why stop the party? Grab your friends (or make new ones) and head downtown to start making your rounds. There’s a few fun spots we love, serving up refreshing drinks that’ll help you forget that the summer days are about to end.

BELLAVISTA ROOFTOP & EVENTS

Part on the rooftop every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday! They’ve got Happy Hour from 5pm-6:30pm and the dance floor’s open from 7pm-10pm. Yeah, they’ve got beer and wine, but maybe venture out and give one of their signature cocktails a try (yumm!).

Try them all for only $6 each:

Terrace Breeze Punch (Rum, blue Curaçao, lemonade, pineapple juice)
Watermelon Margarita (Tequila, lime juice, watermelon puree, agave)
BellaVista Pop (Prosecco poured over Paloma popsicle)
Berry Happy Together Red Sangria (Red wine, brandy, orange juice, mixed berries)
Summer Sunset White Sangria (White wine, rum, lemon, apple, strawberry)

CHANNEL BREWING CO.

“If you like beer and bomb pizza this your place! Good prices, friendly service and hella chill,” one Yelper comments. This is one of the most chill spots we’ve got on our blocks; if you haven’t popped in yet, now’s your chance. Craft beers are their specialty and when you start feeling those munchies, they’ve got your back with their mouth-watering specialty pizzas…#sorrynotsorry if we’re making you salivate. Check ‘em out! They’re open later on Fridays and Saturdays (10pm). Let those quality craft brews satisfy you.

CHARLIE’S BAR & NIGHTCLUB

#savewaterdrinkbeer Maybe you finish up at Channel, but you and your buddies don’t want to head home just yet. Wed-Sun, Charlie’s is open till 2am. Pop a few more beers, brush up on your pool skills and even get your karaoke on. They always know how to have a good time—go join ‘em.

DELTA BISTRO & LOUNGE

This one-of-a-kind spot has a great list of signature drinks. Give yourself an excuse to lounge around and treat yourself to a Dirty Shirley (Grey Goose cherry noir, grenadine, Sierra Mist w/a cherry on top) or a Portside Cooler (Midori, Absolut vodka, Peachtree schnapps, layered perfectly w/three juices). Great location and a great way to end your summer nights (open till 9pm every day)!

CHITIVA’S SALSA & SPORTS BAR

Cool down by the Delta after work at this local fave! There’s a lot of hype about Chitiva’s. One reviewer on FB says, “Reasonable prices on drinks and delicious tacos made by Martin! Gabriella is a wonderful bartender who knows how to make drinks! Carlos the owner is a great man. We use to drive to SF till we found this place in Stockton. View by the water, free parking, no issues. What more could you want? Love this place!” Most days, they’re open past midnight. Sounds like an invite—grab a cocktail and salsa your way late into the night.

DELIBERATION ROOM

They are always coming up with something new, you’ll for sure want to try what they’re mixing up on the daily. Their recent refreshing cocktails have the new Absolut Juice (all natural flavored) in them. Stay cool and quench your thirst for delicious drinks—Fri-Sat they’re open until 2am.

DESEO NIGHTCLUB

Another hot-spot right here every Fri-Sat from 10pm-1:30am. They don’t play around; they even have VIP bottle service if that’s more your style (have your bottle…and drink it, too, with some friends!). Make it a lady’s night out or just pop in on a whim. If you make it there on a Saturday before 11pm, you can get in for free! Save that money so you can spend it on your fave drinks instead. They’ve got First Fridays events and hot things happening pretty much every weekend. Here’s your personal invite to go live a little and have some fun. You deserve it.

THE DOWNTOWNER

This spot just celebrated its 1 year anniversary in Downtown Stockton! They pride themselves on offering some of the best #goodmoodfood, including lots of vegan options all week long, but that’s not all! They recently installed a bar and are serving a wide range of Blood Marys, custom mimosas, local & international beer, AND they serve wine on tap. But what’s better than wine on tap? Happy Hour! The Downtowner understands how hard Mondays can be so they offer Happy Hour all day long! They are open 8AM-8PM, Mon-Fri, and are open 10AM-8PM, on Sat-Sun. So head over for Sunday Bruch and order yourself a custom

MR. D’S PIZZA

This local dive bar is one of the most inviting treasures to discover. For one, they’ve got the pizza and burgers to satisfy those cravings. But their amazing prices and great service take their refreshingly cold drinks to the next level. Get more familiar with downtown streets and make your way to Happy Hour after work. They’re so friendly and welcoming, we won’t be surprised if you stay till closing.

MISAKI SUSHI BAR

You don’t even have to be a sushi lover to enjoy yourself at this place (but, I mean, who doesn’t love sushi?). Try their Mai Tai, Mary Jane or AMF drink…or any of their other specialties. They’ve got a lot going on; the locals will prove it, keeping them busy especially during Happy Hour Mon-Fri from 4pm-6pm. Catch a movie and make it an even more special date to celebrate summer at this fave.

NENA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Oh, this spot though. Some of the best Mexican food your tastebuds will ever experience. Make a trip before summer ends and cool off with one of their specialty margaritas or micheladas. They also have draft beer if that’s the mood you’re in. Saturdays, they’re open an hour later until 10pm. Mmmm, go-go-go!

PORT CITY SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Thur-Sat, they keep their doors open past midnight. Everett Hunter, Promotions Manager, gives us the 411 on what they’ve got going on. He tells us the top drinks are Lit, Mai Tai, AMF and Sex on the Beach (#sogood). The “local favorites [are] Trash Can and Long Island” and his “favorite is 1 of 15 different types of cold beer on tap.” Super friendly and helpful, you likely will keep coming back. Say “What’s up!” to Everett next time you’re in. They’ve got cool things going down every month and they “are open 11am to 9pm Mon-Wed, Thurs-Sat 11am to 1:30am” and they even have special hours “Sunday. . .for football season 9am-9pm.” This is the place to be right here.

Sooo, thirsty yet? Don’t let the final days of summer fly by without having some refreshing fun drinking all over downtown. The options are endless; there’s plenty to go around and who knows, maybe you’ll make Happy Hour part of your normal schedule from now on. And remember, drink responsibly!

A Pitcher Perfect Beer Week in Downtown Stockton

Posted on August 13, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

Feeling thirsty? Downtown Stockton is a thriving community full of businesses teeming with diverse options to satiate your thirst. Name almost any type of beverage and we’ve got it- Tea? Smoothies? Coffee? Boba? BEER? Look no further than our local favorites!

Speaking of beer, we are amidst Stockton’s 8^th annual Beer Week, a weeklong celebration of craft beer culture in various participating Stockton locations. From August 9^th to the 18^th, various breweries, bars and restaurants from the Channel Brewing Company to The Downtowner will be participating in this unBEERlievable annual event. It’s hard not to look forward to spending time with your buds while wallowing in the sounds of clinking glasses and conversation as the distinct scent of beer wafts into the air.

How exactly did Beer Week start?

Robyn Cheshire, Visit Stockton’s Director of Marketing and Communications shares, “the idea was to try to bring craft brew to Stockton,” referring to craft beer’s near unavailability in Stockton years ago. Times have certainly changed, as she points out, “now we have great craft beer so it’s definitely evolved over the past couple years- there’s a beer culture we want to celebrate.” And celebrate we do- this year, there are over 20 locations participating in Beer Week throughout the city of Stockton doing tap takeovers, specials, beer and food pairings, and more!

I know what you’re thinking- Downtown Stockton is LIT and you need to know where you can celebrate Stockton Beer Week there. Don’t worry, we got you⁠—below, we’ll be highlighting some Downtown Stockton Beer Week events so you’re in the know! For specific dates, visit our Events Calendar so you can easily mark them in your calendar (they’ll also be available at the bottom of this article)! Robyn also explained that Visit Stockton is “excited that Downtown businesses have always embraced Stockton Beer Week,” and that there are, “even more [participating Downtown businesses] this year than before,” so get ready to hit them all! Participating Downtown Stockton establishments include Cast Iron Trading Co., Channel Brewing Company, The Downtowner, Deliberation Room, Empresso Coffeehouse, and Port City Bar N Grill.

Cast Iron Trading Co.

Cast Iron Trading Co. is known for having trendy (and aesthetic) seasonal menu items and beverages. For Beer Week, they’re tapping a VERY special beer from a FAMED brewery: Pliny the Elder! The Russian River Brewing Company who makes Pliny the Elder describes it as “well-balanced with malt, hops, and alcohol, slightly bitter with a fresh hop aroma of floral, citrus, and pine.” Cast Iron will also be hosting Gluten Free Brews & Bites Night, New Glory Brewing Night, and Kill the Kegs ($5 Pint Night). From gluten-free brews and treats from a local gluten-free baker to live music and special bites, what’s not to enjoy?

Channel Brewing

Channel Brewing Company is a nano brewery and tap room, so you already know it fits perfectly into the Stockton Beer Week festivities! Known for delicious, unique beers and house pizza, Channel Brewing will host Succs & Suds, Beer Choir!, and an Adobo Loco Pop-Up. Participate in a succulent beer mug arrangement workshop, belt out some notes with the Beer Choir, and taste Stockton native Chef Rob’s delicious creations while sipping on beer specials.

The Downtowner

The Downtowner specializes in comfort food with a healthy twist. For the entirety of Beer Week, they’ll have a special menu not only featuring High Water Brewing Beers, but also dishes that they’ve cooked with it such as Beer Ceviche and the Hop Burger! On the last day of Beer Week, the Downtowner is going out with a bang, hosting a Brewer’s Dinner complete with 5 courses, each paired with a beer. Seating is limited so reserve your spot ASAP.

The Deliberation Room

The 1920s Speakeasy vibes of The Deliberation Room make it a perfect addition to Stockton Beer Week. Exclusively on August 16^th, they’ll be featuring Stone Brewing beer on their menu. For only $25, you get an appetizer sampler, four Stone Brewing beer samples, and your choice of a full size beer in a Stone Brewing glass that you get to take home!

Empresso Coffeehouse

The 222 N. El Dorado location of Empresso Coffeehouse will be hosting an Open Mic Extravaganza on August 15^th at 7pm. Come perform a song and have a beer, or if you’re a little shy, have a beer and then perform a song! Local musician Seth Jacks and friends will be hosting and there will be beer specials all day long. All genres are welcome, so if that beer helps you invent a new genre, grab the mic and show what you’ve got!

Now that you’re aware of the celebrations going on downtown, you’re ready to have a pitcher perfect Beer Week! But here’s some advice before you head out: drink responsibly, and don’t drink past the pint of no return.

Cast Iron Trading Co.
Gluten Free Brews and Bites Night – Aug, 15^th @ 5pm
New Glory Brewing Night- Aug. 16^th @ 5pm
Kill the Kegs ($5 Pint Night)- Aug. 17^th @ 5pm

Channel Brewing Company
Succs & Suds- Aug. 15^th @ 6pm
Beer Choir!- Aug. 16^th @ 7pm
Adobo Loco Pop-Up- Aug. 17^th @ 6pm

The Downtowner
High Water Brewing Menu- Aug 9^th-17^th all day
Brewer’s Dinner- Aug. 17^th @ 6pm, reservations only

The Deliberation Room
Stone Brewing Sampler- Aug. 16^th @ 6pm

Ports City Bar N Grill
TBA- Check the Visit Stockton website at a later time!

Live Music Spots

Posted on July 27, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

Searching for Live Music? Here Are Some Downtown Stockton Locations That Won’t Fall Flat!

Relaxing on your couch after coming home from a long day of work seems like a great way to spend your evenings. Just picture it: you walk in through your door, kick off your shoes, throw your keys down, and sink into your couch while flipping on the TV. As you watch old episodes of Friends, you think to yourself “Ahhh yes. Peace and quiet.” But after binging half a season, you realize something is missing…. It’s too quiet… Do you want to laze in quiet, unexciting evenings for the rest of your life?? Probably not. Consider breaking up a string of monotonous evenings once in a while by heading downtown and basking in the exciting sounds and vibes of live music performances in Downtown! We’ve listed a couple great venues to get you started:

Channel Brewing Co.

One of downtown’s hot spots, Channel Brewing Company is a local nano brewery and taproom with inviting service and great drinks. A center for community camaraderie, Channel Brewing Co. often hosts weekly events such as trivia nights (how well do you REALLY know The Office?) and live music performances. Whether band or solo artist, local performers shine in the spotlight and bless our ears with their rich voices and musicality. The most recent group to perform was the Whiskey Slough Band, a local band with a talent for singing the blues. Don’t feel BLUE that you missed out- there are many great upcoming live performances at Channel Brewing Co for you to attend. Cheers!

Live Music at The Deliberation Room

Local bar and restaurant, The Deliberation Room, with its brick walls and polished wood bar, offers a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. However, the entertainment experience here is anything but outdated- the talented modern soloists, bands, and DJs who perform here will make you want to show off your version of the latest dance moves! Need an example? Performer Morgan J. was one of the most recent artists to showcase her beautiful, soulful vocals and raw talent at this venue. No need to deliberate any longer- make your way to 19 N. California Street for upcoming live performances by the best local talent!

Live Music at Cast Iron Trading Co.

Neighbor to Channel Brewing Co., this gastropub hosts various events and live music every Friday and Saturday night. From genres including but not limited to jazz, acoustic blues, and rock, there is something for the jazz lover, rock enthusiast, music aficionado and everyone in between. Not only does live music bring people together, it also creates opportunity and exposure for local performers. Michael King, guitarist for Stockton band The Weabz, recounts their experience performing covers and original songs at Cast Iron last year: “performing at Cast Iron was really fun. It was a very valuable experience for us. It gave us a better understanding of what to expect when we play [at] more established venues.” He continues, “The owner and manager were really friendly, too. They bought us drinks after our set was over and encouraged us to come back and play again.” Great music and friendly service? Can’t beat that!

Live Music at Stockmarket

You can hear some of the best live music Stockton has to offer at the Stockmarket, a lively community festival that combines the best in local makers, street food, and of course, music. The Stockmarket typically features two live bands during the event and occasionally fits DJ’s in the slots between. Anne Wilcox, Stockmarket organizer shares, “We have tried to feature all different genres of music. Everything from country to hip hop artists. We have so many talented people in this city and we strive to highlight as many of those people as possible.” With only a few Stockmarket events left this year, you definitely don’t want to miss them! Browse the vendors with your friends and family. Then, hit up one (or several!) of the many tasty food trucks. With a mouthwatering donut in one hand and delectable tacos in the other (or elotes, hot dogs, gyros, etc.- seriously, you’ve got so many options), settle in to enjoy the live ‘tunes permeating the atmosphere.

Open Mic & Karaoke Nights at Various Downtown Spots

If you’re looking to scout amateur poets, rappers, musicians, or comedians (or maybe interested in performing yourself!), there are also open mic nights and karaoke nights for you to enjoy downtown:

Terra Coffee – Open Mic Night – last Friday of the month, 6:30 – 10:30 PM
Empresso on North El Dorado – Open Mic Night – Thursdays, starting at 7:00 PM
Port City Bar & Grill – Karaoke Night – Thursdays, 8:00 – 10:00 PM

Downtown’s Art Walk

Posted on July 12, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

“Art is too important not to share.”
– Romero Britto, famous Brazilian artist, painter, serigrapher and sculptor

Everyone has a little bit of an artist in them. You might disagree, and think to yourself, “I don’t paint,” or “HA. I can only draw stick figures.” What we often forget is that art is a form of expression– and you can express yourself any way you want to. You may not be the next Picasso, Shakespeare or Beethoven, and sure, your piece of artwork probably won’t become as famous as the Mona Lisa, but this doesn’t change the fact that you expressed yourself – your thoughts, feelings, and/or emotions you may not have necessarily been able to put into words.

What is Art Splash?

Appreciation for art expression is not lost on Joy Neas, Coordinator of Downtown Stockton’s ArtSplash, a FREE, self-guided tour of various downtown venues that display local art of all shapes, sizes, color, and variety. Being a photographer, crocheter, and sidewalk chalk art enthusiast herself, Joy encourages artists of all skill levels to display their work in ArtSplash events, stating, “we have everybody, we accept everybody. We give an immersive experience.” She continues, “It’s one thing to make art, but to feel like you’re a real artist, you need to show your art.” And show art they do- past ArtSplash artists have showcased everything from photography, music, weaving, sculpting, drawing, painting, ceramics, animation, and more!

From toddlers to senior citizens and all stages in between, ArtSplash has proudly displayed art from artists of all ages. It reminds us that art has no age limit- all that’s needed is the passion to create (some paintbrushes or musical instruments would probably help, too). Some unique art displays featured in past ArtSplash events included a local filmmaker who showcased her original short films and a Renaissance Group who wove and made ceramics while adorned in their renaissance-styled attire. Some displays are even interactive, allowing visitors to join in on the painting or model for an art piece (if you’ve always wanted to model and never had the chance, this is your opportunity!).

Why Downtown?

Why is Downtown Stockton the perfect location for ArtSplash? Joy shares that there are many reasons, including the simple fact that she loves the downtown area. “Downtown to me is the heart of the city. Downtown has so much character with the historical buildings, beautiful waterfront, and all the different cultures that make up Stockton.” Another reason Downtown Stockton is the ideal location for ArtSplash is that it helps people to “get to know these buildings.” Having art displayed in various downtown venues means that visitors get to view the inside of buildings they otherwise would have never had the chance to see. For instance, RTD was an ArtSplash venue, and visitors were able to experience the inside of its beautiful conference room.

Currently in its 8^th year, ArtSplash takes place on the second Fridays of months May through October from 5 – 8 PM at various downtown locations (check our events calendar for more information). There are only a couple ArtSplash events left this season, so what are you waiting for? Get in touch with your creative side and grab some paint, a guitar, a camera, Renaissance gear, flowers- anything! And while you are creating, remember Joy’s words, “Anything can be art.” Check it out TONIGHT!

Joy is always in search of new artists and venues! If you would like to participate in an upcoming ArtSplash event(s) or if you are interested in offering a downtown venue, please contact her at [email protected] she’d love to hear from you!

Dog Friendly Places in Downtown

Posted on July 6, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

“Dogs are a man’s best friend.” You’ve probably heard this a thousand times, but it’s true – they are – and you’d likely take them everywhere if you could. Right!? Well, with summer 2019 off to an amazing start, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some fun in the sun. And thanks to these dog-friendly spots downtown, you can properly enjoy these gorgeous, summer days with your furry family member right by your side.

DELICIOSA’S – Waterfront Warehouse at 445 West Weber Avenue #126

What goes better with summer than BBQ? Grab a delicious bite to eat, or a drink from their cafe while you and your dog enjoy the fresh air and patio view of the iconic waterfront. Heck, you should bring the whole family with this kind of a dreamy setup.

EMPRESSO COFFEEHOUSE – 222 N. El Dorado St. Suite C

Looking for something more chill? Invite a friend, spend some time on their patio, and watch your dog pull all kinds of friendly attention from people passing by. With tea, coffee, espresso, beer, and sandwiches on their menu, you have many options to choose from to help you stay a while. Don’t forget to ask for a puppuccino to treat your canine companion!

MISAKI – 222 N. El Dorado St. Suite M

You can’t go wrong with sushi! Take your dog with you next time you’re craving Misaki; their outdoor patio is perfect to spend a little QT with your “pup” while you enjoy (arguably) one of the best foods on the planet.

I SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM – 347 E. Weber Ave.

Calling all small dog owners! Take your little one for a drive and make your way to this awesome ice cream parlor. Stay cool and beat the heat while you enjoy a scoop or two (or three 😉 no judgement here) of your favorite flavors.

STARBUCKS – 522 N El Dorado St

A classic. Take your dog for a walk around MLK JR. Plaza on Oak Street. Then, when it’s time to take a break, grab your favorite drink from Starbucks and enjoy it on their cute, outdoor patio while your fur baby takes down a delightful puppuccino.

TERRA COFFEE – 111 S Sutter St.

Aside from serving their delicious drinks, this gem of a location also houses art exhibits that you’ll want to check out (if you haven’t already). Now that you know that they welcome dogs on a leash (under control and not barking, of course), don’t want to wait to plan your visit! Make it an excuse to get out of the house with your dog and enjoy this fun, local spot.

TRAIL COFFEE ROASTERS – 501 E Main St.

Bless your soul by making a trip to Trail. You’ll likely get sucked in by the stunning ambiance, but you’ll stay for the excellent coffee. They also serve brunch! Bring your dog to hang out on the beautiful, sunny patio area and see what the rave is all about. They welcome all dogs (don’t sleep on this news). Once you’ve had your morning brew, head a few blocks east to tree-filled Independence Park (802 Market Street) where you and your four-legged friend can walk off a few calories.

Do this community a favor and show off your four-legged favorite. (We want to see and gush over all the doggies!) You deserve to enjoy this summer… and with these cool spots making a real effort to be dog-friendly, you have every reason to go out (with your best furry friend) and thoroughly enjoy yourself.

Jack Johnson said it best, “It’s always better when we’re together…” so don’t think twice about it—bring your dog with you and make your way downtown now 🙂

Celebrate 4th of July Weekend in Downtown Stockton!

Posted on June 30, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

If you’re scouring the Internet and scrolling through Facebook event pages in search of things to do 4^th of July weekend, look no further! Close those tabs, sit back, relax, and put on some patriotic tunes ‘cause we’ve put together an itinerary for your entire weekend! Whether you choose to do everything listed below or can only make a few events, you’re sure to have a fun, family-friendly (and wallet-friendly) Fourth of July (or, you can leave the kids at home- hey, it’s your weekend too).

City of Stockton’s 4th of July Celebration, Weber Point

Thursday, July 4^th

Stockton’s Fourth of July Parade

Parade begins at 10am and starts on Weber Avenue and El Dorado Street, travels north on El Dorado, left on Oak Street, and left on Center Street. The grandstand (main viewing area) will be located in front of the Stockton Civic Memorial Auditorium.

Start your 4^th of July celebration early and attend Downtown Stockton’s Fourth of July Parade hosted by the United Veterans Council of San Joaquin County. The parade will honor Gold Star Families, or immediate family members of fallen service members who died while serving in a time of conflict. Bring the entire family and enjoy lively music, colorful floats, and other eye-catching entities while adorned in red, white and blue attire and patriotically waving your miniature American flags. If spectating is not your thing, you can sign up to participate in the parade! Build that float or ready your trumpet and you’re good to go!

City’s 4^th of July Celebration

5:30pm-10:00pm at the Weber Point Event Center, fireworks begin at 9:30pm

How can it be a 4^th of July without fireworks? Bring your loved ones to view a spectacular fireworks show at the Weber Point Event Center! Take along blankets or lawn chairs to settle in before the start of the spectacle; and if you didn’t opt for an early dinner at one of Downtown’s tasty restaurants, then bring a picnic-style dinner to enjoy (turkey sandwiches sound great, but they don’t beat fried soft shell crab followed by a delicious Dynamite Roll from Misaki’s- just sayin’). Bring your mini flags and good vibes, but leave the alcohol, personal fireworks, hard coolers, barbeque grills and pets at home.

Kaboom 4^th of July

6:00pm-10:00pm at the Downtown Stockton Marina, fireworks start at 9:00pm.

Not only are there fireworks, but this FREE event includes face painting, music, and a bounce house- perfect for kids (and adults -if face painting is your thing…)! Food will also be available for purchase. At 9pm, once you’re full and the kids’ faces are covered with drying paint, you and your family will have an excellent view as you bask in the thunderous booms of fireworks and watch them light up the sky with their brilliant hues.

The fireworks will be- as the kids say- lit.

Stockton Ports Baseball

6:10pm-9:00pm at Downtown Stockton’s Banner Island Ballpark

What’s a more patriotic sport than baseball? Join the Ports and fellow fans for the ballpark’s biggest firework show of the year! But first, cheer on our local team as they play against the Modesto Nuts. Grab some ballpark snacks (chomp down on some nuts and show the Modesto Nuts who’s boss) and enjoy the Delta breeze as you view America’s Favorite Pastime on the day we celebrate America’s Independence.

Friday, July 5^th

Regal Cinemas Stockton City Center 16 & IMAX

Hooray, it’s Friday! After an exciting Independence Day, catch a movie and head to the downtown cinema to sink into reclining seats with a refreshing drink in one hand and a bag of popcorn in the other. With so many great movies hitting theaters, it’s almost too hard to choose the film for Friday movie night. Do you go with the highly anticipated Toy Story 4? The action-packed Spider-Man: Far From Home? Or others that are also probably really great but not mentioned because the author of this article is so focused on waiting for Toy Story 4? Good luck deciding!

Mama Coon Live

7:30pm-9:00pm at Channel Brewing Co.

Local favorite Mama Coon will be performing at Channel Brewing Co., playing originals and covers on her guitar. Come by, purchase one of Channel’s delicious craft beers, and revel in the camaraderie of one of downtown’s hottest spots and the energy of the live music.

Stockton Ports Baseball

7:10pm at Downtown Stockton’s Banner Island Ballpark

Why not make it a baseball weekend? Come to downtown’s ballpark Friday night to cheer on the Stockton Ports. The first 1,000 fans to arrive will receive a free pair of American Flag socks- talk about patriotic! But that isn’t the only thing that’ll knock your socks off (pun intended)- come dressed as your favorite superhero, ‘cause it’s Super Hero Day! And yes, He-Man counts.

Saturday, July 6^th

Farmer’s Market

6:00am to 10:00am under the Cross Town Freeway

Get up early to pick up some fresh produce from the open air Asian farmer’s market under the Cross Town Freeway! The market offers fresh seasonal produce of all kinds – herbs, fish, eggs, sweets, and other tasty Asian treats from Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, China, and India. Grab the best ingredients for your family lunch and/or dinner!

Brit Floyd

8:00pm to 10:00pm at the Bob Hope Theater

You know what else you need for this 4^th of July weekend? Rock music! Come see Brit Floyd at downtown’s Bob Hope Theater! Brit Floyd is widely regarded as the world’s greatest live tribute to rock band Pink Floyd, complete with a stunning multi-million dollar light show, large circular screen, projections, lasers, inflatables and theatrics. Playing hit songs from Pink Floyd’s classic albums such as Wish You Were Here and Animals, you’re sure to enjoy this performance- besides, you’re probably going to need a break from Miley Cyrus’s “Party in the USA”.

Sunday, July 7^th

Mimosa Sunday Brunch

10:00am to 2:00pm at the Delta Bistro and Lounge in the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel

Sunday is for brunch! And mimosas, of course. If you’ve never been to the Delta Bistro for brunch, Fourth of July weekend is the perfect excuse to try it! Stuff yourself with country potatoes, sweet cream pancakes, house cured and smoked salmon, and some carved to order prime rib! Relax in this chic atmosphere and get your brunch on.

Rooftop Brunch

10:00am to 2:00pm at Bella Vista

If you want to enjoy brunch on a rooftop during a beautiful sunny morning, this is the place for you. Every Sunday, Fleur Bistro partners with Bella Vista Rooftop to bring you a delicious brunch experience in a beautiful setting. This Fourth of July weekend is only the second Sunday of this new collaboration! Come check it out.

Walk With Weber Walking Tour

Since the 4^th of July is all about honoring our nation’s history, why not conclude your weekend by learning the history behind Downtown Stockton’s oldest buildings on the Walk With Weber self-guided tour? All you need is your smartphone, a stocked snack bag, and comfy walking shoes to step back into the early days of Stockton.

Walk With Weber is available on the DSA website for FREE, and since it is self-guided, can be taken at your leisure (though we recommend late afternoon to enjoy the colors of the setting sun as the weather begins cooling down). To take the tour, walk yourself to 125 Bridge Place (where the tour begins), and open the tour menu on your smartphone to view the tour stops, in recommended order. As you walk to each stop, click on the name of the building to enjoy a slideshow of historic photos and insightful narration by historian Manuel Laguna.

With 24 video clips, this tour takes 2 hours to walk, so we recommend a snack break between stops #6 and #7 – sit on a bench facing the peaceful waterfront and observe the row of gently waving American flags along Weber Point. Once you’ve completed the tour, you’ll be ready to reward yourself with something nice and cool, like a thick chocolate milkshake from Moo Moo’s Burger Barn or a fresh fruit smoothie from Edible Arrangements! Indulge and enjoy!

Now that you’re in-the-know about these Independence Day weekend possibilities, we hope you’ll choose Downtown for your red, white, and bluing! Happy celebrating!

To keep informed about any other events going on Downtown this weekend, visit our events calendar. To receive monthly updates on what’s happening in Downtown, sign up for our newsletter.

How to Get Around Downtown

Posted on June 22, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Nissi Guiao

Downtown Stockton is full of life, housing an abundance of treasure all around and within the walls of the unique businesses who’ve made these blocks their home. There is plenty to do—new things to see, good eats to share, a variety of places to shop, etc. And even though parking has been a top deterrence in times past, there are now so many options to get around.

EASY-TO-USE PARKING MACHINES

The first is simple. Like Nike, #justdoit! Nowadays, there are electronic parking machines pretty much around every corner. Plus, they are very easy to use. Simply punch in your license plate, select your desired amount of time, then pay with card or coin (literally easy as 1-2-3). Just be sure to pay attention to posted signage in your location, as maximum time limits do vary pending the area you are in.

SJ RTD

If you don’t fancy parking and don’t want to have to think about it, RTD is one of the next best options to make your way downtown. Lori Mumphrey, one of RTD’s very own passionate transit ambassadors at the Downtown Transit Center, knows all of the ins and outs. If you’re excited to jump in and take a bus downtown, here’s the 411 from her.

“Our biggest route that we have most people on is our Express 40. And that leaves from here (downtown) to all the way up Pacific to our Hammer Triangle… ‘cause it passes several of our colleges in that area, to the mall. And those buses are actually the ‘big buses,’ the double buses as I call [them]. . .those are always filled. Also our 520 – that has a lot of people on there -runs up and down California Street to the mall as well. Our 510 runs from here all the way down San Joaquin up toward the San Joaquin Hospital and that area. . .the 47 runs from downtown to the DMV. A lot of our buses do run hourly except for our Express buses—they run every 15-20 minutes.”

So if you’re near the Hammer Triangle or if you’re hanging out near the malls, the popular Express 40 (Pacific Corridor) will take you to the Downtown Transit Center, where you’ll be within walking distance to all the places you’ll want to check out or re-visit. If you’re not quite near the route the Express 40 hits, take advantage of the helpful “Trip Planner” (powered by Google) on the homepage or sidebar of their website (sanjoaquinrtd.com) to figure out the most efficient way to get from your specific location to your desired location with ease.

RTD GO! + RTD VAN GO!

If, however, you prefer something even simpler than that, RTD now offers RTD Go! and RTD Van Go! Far greater than transportation via bus, our county’s trusted transit system has implemented other services that ensure even more comfort and convenience for the communities it serves.

RTD Go! “offers an on-demand service with Uber and JVG that subsidizes qualifying trips, provides more mobility options with extended service hours and allows passengers to save up to 50% (up to $5.00 per ride) using the Uber app.”

RTD Van Go! “provides an on-demand rideshare service throughout the county, expands service to rural areas where transportation options may be limited, offers an accessible, safe vehicle that can transport passengers with wheelchairs and features drivers that are professionally trained, licensed, and prepared to help.”

With pure excitement, Mumphrey shares her personal experience: “I really love the new service which is the Van Go! I love that service—I use it myself, personally. The Van Go!, it runs just like Lyft and Uber (but we’re cheaper… I love it). . .Cute, little bus. Cute—just cute! Over the weekend, I used it for my family, and we left from my house and went down here to this ice cream parlor. We loved it! Nobody had to drive…”

Unlike regular bus services, RTD Van Go! runs “7 days a week, even on holidays (Monday-Friday from 6:00am-6:00pm/Saturday & Sunday from 6:00am-10:00pm)” says Mumphrey. “For a $4 one-way ride, you and 3…other people can go on that one ride. Our all-day pass is $10 (that’s for our regular), [where] you and 3…other people [can ride] as well. Then we have our discount for our seniors and disabled. One ride is $3—the all-day for them is $7. But what makes it so nice is you can share it with other people. You know, if everybody comes to your home and nobody feels like driving but you want to go to the winery in Lodi, they have transfer points.”

If you haven’t spotted the colorful buses around town yet, Emily Oestreicher (Marketing Senior Specialist for SJ RTD) says “You’ll recognize them now that we’re talking about it. A lot of them actually look like Van Gogh paintings. . .” Plus, “a lot of people have been using that service because. . .[just like Lyft and Uber] we have an app. . .and for things happening downtown like at the Bob Hope (stuff like that)…you don’t want to worry about parking. . .it’s an excellent service.”

With these new additions to RTD, there is no reason to withhold yourself from enjoying everything downtown has to offer.

Visit sanjoaquinrtd.com for more details on trips, senior and veteran discounts and other services. If you need help at one of the transit locations, feel free to ask any of the friendly and knowledgeable RTD transit ambassadors, and they will happily assist you.

DIBS

“Smart travel, your way” is their motto. Dibs is a fresh travel resource in our community that everyone should know about, especially those who are sustainability-minded.

“Dibs does more than just give you directions. [They] offer transportation options, incentives, tips and even emergency rides home. [They] also bring car and vanpool participants together. You want easy options designed to fit your needs. By foot, bike, car, bus, train, carpool or vanpool, [they’re] your portal to smart travel to save you money, reduce road congestion and improve air quality.”

Making and keeping our environments healthier—cleaner—just like anything else, takes one step at a time. And quite literally, with one of the options Dibs suggests, you can start taking steps right away by walking to work, if that’s a plausible option for you.

Everyone has a part to play – you just have to start somewhere. “Call Dibs on how you get around today at 1-800-52-SHARE.”

ACE

Perhaps you’re feeling adventurous and want to take a trip to the Bay Area. If that’s the case, take ACE (located on 949 E. Channel St.)! Many ride the ACE train for their normal commute to work, but it is also a great way to take a trip out of town. ACE will take you directly to Santa Clara or San Jose—there is even an option to go straight to Great America for a fun day in the sun!

If you’re planning a trip to SF and don’t want to deal with the headache of parking costs or the drive, ACE will take you to its Pleasanton location where you can easily transfer to BART and go directly into the heart of the city. ACE is an excellent gateway to the Bay, and the best part is, you can access it right from downtown!

Visit http://www.acerail.com/Getting-You-There/Transfers-Shuttles to buy your tickets and/or get more information.

As things continue to bloom and blossom, you don’t want to miss being part of it. Grab a friend (or invite a group) and take advantage of any or all of these ways to get around downtown—add to the life and excitement that’s found on every block…

Downtown’s Wheelie Great Biking Community

Posted on June 16, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Jessica Nguyen

Before we start the article, here’s some bike wisdom for good measure:
A bicycle can’t stand on its own. It’s two-tired.

Downtown Stockton is home to many things: historic buildings, delicious eateries, aromatic coffee shops, exciting events, and a thriving bike community. From Downtown-based groups like the San Joaquin Bike Coalition, Roadfinch, and the HUB, to bicyclists who pass through Downtown Stockton, ride to work, or bike recreationally in the area, downtown is a bustling center of cycle-based activity.

Whether bikers choose to ride along the glittering waterfront, on breezy bike paths lined by popular Downtown hangouts, or anywhere in between, Downtown Stockton attracts bikers of all ages and skill levels. In fact, between the months of April and October, bike enthusiasts gather monthly downtown for casual evening rides. These rides, known as the Full Moon Riders, each follow a different downtown route and conclude at a participating downtown restaurant.

San Joaquin Bike Coalition

The San Joaquin Bike Coalition is one of the founding groups of the Full Moon Riders. Although unsure at how the evening bike rides would initially be received by the community, Kari McNickle, board president of the SJ Bike Coalition, reflects that the Full Moon Riders quickly became “successful, beyond what we ever could have imagined,” and that now, it’s “one of our [The SJ Bike Coalition’s] favorite events to lead and promote.”

The San Joaquin Bike Coalition, a nonprofit organization, advocates for bicycle safety and helps to promote bicycle-related events. Their events and group rides are not only lively, but are also completely free to the public. The Bike Coalition is based in Downtown Stockton’s Huddle, a coworking space located on N. San Joaquin Street. Huddle’s central location and inexpensive fees make it a perfect space for the nonprofit, McNickle explains. Bike Coalition members also hold meetings at popular downtown spots nearby and pop into places like Cast Iron, Trail, and Channel Brewing Co.

Kari McNickle proudly states that the SJ Bike Coalition has been around for nearly 10 years. What makes this board president so passionate about cycling in particular? She shares, “I love that it’s a way to get around that connects you with your neighborhood and community.” Bringing cyclists together for bike rides strengthens the sense of community and helps to promote local businesses in the area. She adds adamantly, “it’s really important we [local businesses and organizations] support each other.”

The HUB

Another well-known and revered figure in the downtown biking community is Deacon Steve, operator of the HUB and Deacon at the Episcopal Church of St. John the Evangelist right next door. The HUB provides FREE assistance to those in need of bike repairs (or bikes) and on average, the HUB sees at least 100 visitors a week. Many of these visitors rely on derelict bicycles as their sole means of transportation and lack the funds to replace or repair them. Deacon Steve and the HUB’s 5 volunteers relentlessly work to help: just last year they assisted with 4,000 repairs, and within the past 3 years have given away over 300 bikes!

The HUB also partners with downtown’s seasonal Full Moon Riders events. Annually, Deacon Steve performs a Bike Blessing to “pray that they [the bicyclists] have a safe cycling year“ before leading the cyclists on their downtown journey. Deacon Steve loves the “freedom of movement” and how bicycles provide “access to your own personal freedom.”

It’s time to dust off your old bicycle, grab a helmet, and head Downtown to join this energetic, lively, and passionate bike community. Explore the downtown area with freedom and the feeling of wind through your hair (or on your face, if you have no hair- we don’t judge). You can join the San Joaquin Bike Coalition, participate in an upcoming Full Moon Riders event (June 17^th, July 16^th, August 15^th, etc.), or grab some friends to bike with and as Deacon Steve nicely puts it, “find a route that works best for you.”

Happy Cycling!

Written by Jessica Nguyen

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The Full Experience

Original Goal

THEATER HISTORY/TIMELINE:

PRICING

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PARK(ing) Day in Downtown Stockton

Why is Park(ing) Day held in Downtown Stockton?

From Installation to Application

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How exactly did Beer Week start?

Cast Iron Trading Co.

Channel Brewing

The Downtowner

The Deliberation Room

Empresso Coffeehouse

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Live Music at The Deliberation Room

Live Music at Cast Iron Trading Co.

Live Music at Stockmarket

Open Mic & Karaoke Nights at Various Downtown Spots

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What is Art Splash?

Why Downtown?

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DELICIOSA’S – Waterfront Warehouse at 445 West Weber Avenue #126

EMPRESSO COFFEEHOUSE – 222 N. El Dorado St. Suite C

MISAKI – 222 N. El Dorado St. Suite M

I SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM – 347 E. Weber Ave.

STARBUCKS – 522 N El Dorado St

TRAIL COFFEE ROASTERS – 501 E Main St.

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Thursday, July 4th

Stockton’s Fourth of July Parade

City’s 4th of July Celebration

Kaboom 4th of July

Friday, July 5th

Saturday, July 6th

Sunday, July 7th

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EASY-TO-USE PARKING MACHINES

SJ RTD

RTD GO! + RTD VAN GO!

Thursday, July 4^th

City’s 4^th of July Celebration

Kaboom 4^th of July

Friday, July 5^th

Saturday, July 6^th

Sunday, July 7^th