Christmas season kicks off in Modesto region with community celebration. When, where
The first celebration of the Christmas season arrives in Turlock with its Festival of Lights. Modesto Performing Arts will perform the holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Gallo Center for Arts. The film “Coco” will be screened with its musical score performed live by an ensemble. These are just some of the event options in the region set from Nov. 18-24.
Festival of Lights
The community in Turlock kicks off the Christmas season with its Festival of Lights. The annual celebration offers the traditional tree lighting ceremony at Central Park, along with food and 100 vendors set up in downtown.
WHEN: 5-8 p.m. Nov 24
WHERE: Downtown Turlock
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-668-5594
“Wonderful Life”
“It’s a Wonderful Life,” based on the Frank Capra movie starring James Stewart, comes to the Gallo Center courtesy of Modesto Performing Arts. It’s the story of George Bailey, a normal man from the small town of Bedford Falls, whose dreams of escape were denied by obligations. His guardian angel descends on Christmas Eve to save him from despair by showing him how what would have become of his town had he never been born.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 24; 2 p.m. Nov. 25-26
WHERE: Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I St., Modesto
TICKETS: $24-$41
ONLINE: www.galloarts.org
“Coco” in concert
Disney Pixar’s Coco in Concert on Tour also pulls into the Gallo Center. The show features a screening of the complete film with Oscar- and Grammy-winning composer Michael Giacchino’s musical score performed by a 20-member Latin ensemble.
WHEN: 7 p.m. Nov. 18
WHERE: Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I St., Modesto
TICKETS: $49-$89
ONLINE: www.galloarts.org
Comedy
We Own The Laughs Modesto returns to the State Theatre. Performing will be Julian Nieto, Marcus Peverill, Glory Magaña, Monique Flores and headliner Terrence DeLane. The host will be Modesto native Serena Gamboa for this show, open only to those18 and older.
WHEN: 8 p.m. Nov. 24
WHERE: State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
TICKETS: $35-$55
ONLINE: www.thestate.org
Cowboy Christmas
The Oakdale Cowboy Museum brings back its Cowboy Christmas Craft Show. The holiday event will feature western art, jewelry, apparel, food and entertainment. Cowboy Santa will be available for photos from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
WHEN: 5-8 p.m. Nov. 24; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 25
WHERE: Gene Bianchi Community Center, 110 S. Second Ave., Oakdale
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-847-7049
More holiday crafts
There will be about 50 vendors participating in the Crafty Chicks craft fair in Angels Camp. They’ll sell vintage repurposed and handmade items, holiday gifts, artisan food, decor and more.
WHEN: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 18
WHERE: Calaveras County Fairgrounds, Angels Camp
ADMISSION: $3
CALL: 209-736-2561
