The cruise returns to Modesto; see when. More entertainment planned, and it’s all free
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
Festivals and Graffiti Summer lead the entertainment in the Modesto region from June 3-9. While there are several Graffiti Summer events happening, two of larger events are highlighted below. Bonus this week: All activities are free to attend.
Graffiti parade
The North Modesto Kiwanis Club hits the streets with its American Graffiti Parade. This annual event re-creates cruising in Modesto, recounted by native George Lucas in his 1973 film, “American Graffiti.
The parade is limited to the first 1,000 car show registrants. Grand marshal this year will be John Kearney, who drives a 1950 Ford Woody Wagon. Two actresses from “American Graffiti” will be part of the event, Candy Clark and Mackenzie Phillips.
WHEN: 6-8 p.m. June 9
WHERE: Downtown Modesto to McHenry Avenue
ADMISSION: Free to watch
ONLINE: www.americangraffitifestival.com
Walk of Fame
The Legends of the Cruise Walk of Fame Ceremony honors five locals this year during this Graffiti Summer event. “American Graffiti” actress Mackenzie Phillips will join the event. This year’s inductees are Larry Neville, Sam Autry, Craig Powell, Paul Gissible and Dick Braner. Music will follow by Third Party. Before the ceremony, the Legends of the Cruise Park N’ Shine will feature classic cars lining the streets around 10th and J from 5-8:30 p.m.
WHEN: 6:30 p.m. June 7
WHERE: Tenth Street Plaza, Modesto
ADMISSION: Free
ONLINE: https://visitmodesto.com/car-culture/
MoBand
The Modesto Band of Stanislaus County, affectionately known as MoBand, opens its 2023 season with a Graffiti Summer-themed concert, Rockin’ & Rollin’. “American Graffiti” actress Mackenzie Phillips will make an appearance at the event.
WHEN: 8-10 p.m. June 8
WHERE: Graceada Park, 401 Needham St., Modesto
ADMISSION: Free
ONLINE: www.moband.org
Apricot Fiesta
The Patterson Apricot Fiesta returns, an annual celebration of the summer fruit. There will be a craft fair, food vendors, live entertainment, a kids zone and more. A parade on Saturday begins at 10 a.m. Also on Saturday, there will be fireworks at dusk.
WHEN: 5-11 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, June 2-4
WHERE: Downtown Patterson
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-892-3118
Dairy Festival
The annual celebration of all things bovine is back with the Hilmar Dairy Festival. The event will include Little Milkman and Milkmaid contests, activities, vendors and a fireworks show.
WHEN: 5-10 p.m. June 3
WHERE: Hilmar High football field, 7807 N. Lander Ave.
ADMISSION: Free
ONLINE: hilmarchamber.com
