• Easter Bunny at Weberstown Mall

After the headliner concerts, head on over to the Take 5 Jazz Club at the Valley Brewing Company on the Miracle Mile for an intimate jazz setting with performances by Brubeck Institute and local musicians.  

• Brian Kendrick Big Band
• Simon Rowe Trio

• Film: "Music Inn"
• Nick Fryer Trio 

• "Birth of the Cool"
• Schulldogs

• Gala Reception
• Tom Harrell Quintet - Headliner Concert
• Patrick Langham Group

• Symposium: Jazz Leadership Across Time, featuring Gunther Schuller and Wynton Marsalis
• The Blue Moon French Quarter Street Faire
• Wynton Marsalis - Headliner Concert
• Joe Mazzaferro Septet

• Jazz on the Green
• Brubeck Brothers Quartet - Headliner Concert
• Joe Gilman

• Carson Oaks Community Church Crab Feed: January 18, 2013
• Community Center for the Blind's 6th Annual Crab Feed: January 19, 2013
• Stockton Host Lions Club Super Crab Bowl: January 19, 2013
• Waterloo School Crab Feed: January 19, 2013
• Save Science Camp Crab Feed: January 25, 2013
• Sunflower Crab Feast: January 26, 2013

• Lodi Swim Club Crab Feed: February 2, 2013
• Derby Girl Crab Feed: February 2, 2013
• Venture Academy 4th Annual Crab Feed: February 8, 2013
• St. Michael's 22nd Annual Crab Feed: February 9, 2013
• Lodi Rotary Club's Crab Fest 2013: February 16, 2013
• Cesar Chavez HS Band Booster Crab Feed: February 16, 2013
• Crab Feed in memory of Jocelyn Mancebo: February 16, 2013
• VFW Luneta Post 52 Crab Feed Dinner & Dance: February 23, 2013
• 29th Annual Deputy Sheriff's Association Crab & Oyster Feed: February 23, 2013

• 2nd Annual Defying Muscular Dystrophy Mardi Gras Crab Feed: March 1, 2013
• Last Chance Crab Feed: March 29, 2013

• Black and White Ball New Years' Eve Party
• Bump City New Year's Eve Concert
• New Year's Eve at Wine & Roses
• Bassist Julian Vaugh New Year's Eve Performance
• 8th Annual Resolution Run

• New Year 5k Polar Run and Dunk

• Pumpkin Maze at Dell'Osso Family Farm: Open now until Wednesday, October 31st
• KUDOS Children's Theatre Company presents "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow": Wednesday, October 17th through Sunday, October 20th
• 14th Annual Safe Trick or Treat: Wednesday, October 24th
• All Hallows' Eve at Oak Grove Nature Center: Friday, October 26th
• Howl-o-ween at the Micke Grove Zoo: Saturday, October 27th
• Radio Disney Halloween at Sherwood Mall: Saturday, October 27th
• Harvest Faire at Bear Creek Community Church: Saturday, October 27th
• KUDOS Children's Theatre Company's "Fab-BOO-lous Halloween Dance Party": Wednesday, October 31st

• Haunted House at the Grand Theatre: Friday, October 26th through Wednesday, October 31st
• Lodi Zombie Walk 2012: Saturday, October 27th

Ghoulish Concerts:

• Skalloween 2012 at the Plea for Peace Center: Sunday, October 21st
• Saints Alley's Frightening Formal at the Plea for Peace Center: Saturday, October 27th
• Sad-O-Ween at the Plea for Peace Center: Sunday, October 28th

• Monster's Ball at Watt's Winery: Saturday, October 27th
• Halloween Spooktacular Party at Rosa's at Tower Park: Saturday, October 27th
• Centrale's "The End of the World/Apoco-Ween" Halloween Party: Saturday, October 27th
• Freak Night II at University Plaza Waterfront Hotel: Saturday, October 27th

More Seasonal Fun:

• Wednesday, October 17, 2012 @ 7:30 PM
• Thursday, October 18, 2012 @ 7:30 PM
• Friday, October 19, 2012 @ 7:30 PM
• Saturday, October 20, 2012 @ 3:30 PM
• Saturday, October 20, 2012 @ 7:30 PM
• Sunday, October 21, 2012 @ 1:00 PM
• Sunday, October 21, 2012 @ 5:00 PM

• Saturday October 06, 2012
• Stockton Thunder Pre-Season Game: Get your first look at this year's team!
• Sunday October 07, 2012
• Stockton Thunder Fan Fest: Meet the players close up!
• Friday October 12, 2012
• Stockton Thunder vs. Ontario Reign: Opening Night of the Season

• Sweet-Sour Balsamic-Glazed Ribs
• Barbecued Chicken Kebabs
• Have a Backyard BBQ with Food Network

You may not know it, but it is very possible to "travel the world" without leaving Stockton! Early settlers to Stockton included gold seekers from Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, the Pacific Islands, Mexico and Canada giving modern day Stockton a plethora of cultural events and cuisine.

Caribbean: Located right on the shore of the Delta, Breadfruit Tree presents an extensive list of dishes from the Caribbean Islands. Try spice filled Peleau and finish it off with Rum Cake. (Would a trip to the Caribbean be complete without rum!?) This year, Breadfruit Tree will celebrate their 20th Reggae on the Delta! From 3:00-10:00 on August 25 enjoy live reggae music on the water. 

We have covered four continents already, and we haven't even scraped the surface of what you can experience from around the world right here in Stockton. From our huge variety of Mexican restaurants, to Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Indian, and Italian, the list of flavors is endless. There are festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate Stockton's rich array of ethnicities, so get out there and try a few...you won't even need your passport! 

Stockton is uniquely placed within the heart of the greatest garden in the world, the California Central Valley.  And thanks to this location there is an abundance of  farmer's markets in our area that bring fresh produce straight from the farm to your plate!  Check out all of the markets in the area and support the hard-working farmers of our area that help to feed the entire world while working on your Stockton Summer Bucket List! 

• Weberstown Mall Farmer's Market 
• 8:00am-1:00pm - April through November only

• Downtown Stockton Certified Farmers' Market 
• 8:00am-2:00pm - May through October only

• Downtown Stockton Asian Farmer's Market 
• 5:30am-11:00am - Open year-round
• Vintage Certified Farmers' Market 
• 9:00am-1:00pm - April through November only

• Weberstown Mall Farmer's Market 
• 8:00am-1:00pm - Open year-round
• Park West Place Farmers' Market 
• 9:00am-2:00pm - May through November only

Summer is the perfect time to be outdoors swimming, playing in the sun, and relaxing by the beach. But it is also a time when we have a lot of long free nights with family and friends and sometimes, you just need to escape the heat! For these times, we suggest some Stockton Summer bowling. 

As a parting phrase, bowling is fun in your SPARE time. ;) 

We consider bucket list item "feed the ducks" much the same as the old saying, "stop and smell the roses." It is such a simple summertime activity that can be so enjoyable! So we took some time this afternoon to stop by Victory Park and give it a try ourselves!

This bird feeder is a little more work, but would be a great way to spend a summer afternoon.

So whether you choose to head out to one of Stockton's great parks in search of ducks to feed, or you choose to make your bird feeder at home, we are glad you are taking time to enjoy the little joys of summer!

Nothing is quite as exciting as the twinkling, flashing lights and loud booms of a fireworks display.  It's definitely difficult to hold in those "oohs" and "ahhs" while you stare up at the summer night sky.  Kick your summer into high gear by doing one of the most summery things you can do--go see fireworks!  

Stockton Ports vs. San Jose Giants: Independence Day Fireworks.  What's more American than baseball and fireworks?  On Tuesday, July 3rd, cheer on the Stockton Ports as they take on the San Jose Giants and afterwards enjoy a pre-4th of July fireworks display!  Also, don't miss the Stockton Ports Jersey Auction.

Stockton Family 4th of July Fireworks on the Waterfront.  Celebrate the Fourth of July in style in Downtown Stockton!  This Wednesday head on out to Banner Island Ballpark for a full day of fun events including a youth baseball clinic, Legends of Baseball Vintage Showdown Baseball Game featuring former MLB players, live music, and of course a spectacular fireworks display.  This whole day of fun only costs $5 for admission.  Or, view the fireworks from the beautiful courtyard at University Plaza Waterfront Hotel where you'll enjoy a BBQ buffet, live music, and even take a dip in the pool. Buffet and hotel fun is yours for $25 for each adult, $12 for children 5-12, and children under 5 are free.  Fireworks are privately funded by a partnership between the Stockton Ports, the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, and the Stockton Convention & Visitors Bureau.  No city funds are being used :)

Stockton Fireworks Stands. If you're looking to stay home and enjoy some BBQ in your own backyard, why not support local non-profits by stocking up on your very own safe and sane fireworks for this Fourth of July?  All proceeds benefit local non-profits and with stands all across the city, there are plenty of chances to help out a great cause.  Remember to please only use safe and sane fireworks and exercise caution around the young ones!



Have a fantastic and safe Fourth of July, everyone!

Nothing else screams summer more than a parade--the people, sounds, food, and fun all equal a perfect summer experience.  And you're in luck because there are a few parades coming up that give you just the chance to mark off your Stockton Summer Bucket List!

DeltaFusion Parade and Celebration. This Saturday, June 30, 2012 from 9:00am to 1:00pm at Victory Park don't miss a celebration of the diverse natural and cultural heritage of Stockton, California and the San Joaquin County Delta region.  Now in it's second year, DeltaFusion is a parade and celebration that uses giant puppets, masks, music, and pageantry to tell the story of our rich and diverse wildlife, culture, and community.  All of the puppets and costumes are made by local artists and volunteers!

Miracle Mile 4th of July Parade.  Show your American spirit this 4th of July at the Miracle Mile from 10:00am to 2:00pm.  Enjoy entertainment, food, and a fabulous parade organized by the Coalition of Stockton Veteran's Organization for the Miracle Mile Merchant.  There's nothing more American than enjoying a parade and supporting those who have served our country!  If you want to get even more in the spirit and participate in the parade, contact Bob Appler at (209) 817-6699.

I love ice cream. As a mid morning snack, as an afternoon pick me up, watching tv, as a midnight treat....anytime, anywhere, I am ready for ice cream. But for those of you who don't have quite as big of an obsession as I do, you still can't deny that on a hot summer day, ice cream is the perfect dessert to cool off with. And in Stockton, we know how to do ice cream! 

Gleason's Ice Cream. This homemade ice cream is churned into a thick fluffy consistency so decadent you would think you were eating cheesecake. It is home of the (unofficially) best banana split in Stockton and (officially) the Stockton Asparagus Festival Asparagus Ice Cream-though you can only get that at the Festival in April.

The Creamery. With plenty of food options, make sure to leave room for dessert here. Choose from one of 35 milkshake flavors made with their homemade ice cream. Named the Best of San Joaquin ice cream, this is a ice cream shop you don't want to miss. From the Elvis Presley Sunday (Vanilla ice cream with Hershey's Chocolate Syrup, Peanut Butter topping and sliced bananas) to their S'mores Sunday (Vanilla ice cream with Hershey's chocolate, marshmallow topping, graham crackers, and a cherry) we are sure you will find something to crave.

Yogurt My Way. So technically this is frozen yogurt, but it is just as rich, creamy and delicious as any soft serve ice cream, plus you make your own Sunday, so it is exactly what you are wanting! The flavors rotate so there are plenty of opportunities to try something new. The toppings bar has everything from marshmallow fluff, to dinosaur sprinkles, to brownie pieces. Pricing is by weight of your treat so this is a great place if you want just a little....or a lot! Yogurt My Way has a location in Lincoln Center and their Miracle Mile location has Children's Time every Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm making it a great place to take the kids for some frozen yogurt and entertainment!

With many of us having extra free time during the summer, we thought you might like some recipes to make your own ice cream! With months to go until the Asparagus Festival, you might want to try your own version of Asparagus Ice Cream....White Asparagus Dark Chocolate. Yum!

And for those of you who want something a little healthier (it is swimsuit whether after all!) we have a little known fact...you can make ice cream out of nothing but bananas! Frozen bananas whipped in a blender or food processor for a long time come out the consistency of ice cream. Add peanut butter, Nutella, almond extract, or just about anything else if you want to dress it up a bit!

So to wrap it up....relax and have some dessert! 

Very few things top being outside on a summer evening enjoying the great weather and good music. Right now, Stockton summer concerts are in full swing and there is something for everyone! 

Concerts in the Park at Victory Park has been bringing Stockton live music for 61 years! Every Wednesday from June 6-August 22 at 6 pm, pack your picnic and grab your blanket. With Swing, Big Band, Rock and even an ABBA tribute band, everyone can find something they will enjoy. Tomorrows band, RB/X will be playing 50's and 60's tunes. Plus, this family friendly event is free!

Victory Park is also home of the Haggin Museum, so if you want to make a day of it, spend your afternoon learning about Stockton's history and enjoying their beautiful works of art. 

Groovin' at the Grove summer concert series at Jessie's Grove Winery is just a short drive from Stockton. Spend the evening with live music from bands like Whiskey Dawn while sipping on some of California's premier wines. 

LIVE! At Lincoln Center gives you even more than an outdoor concert. Their Re-Cycle Family Bike Night & Go Green Fair on July 20 features raffles, eco-friendly products, face painting, and, of course, live music! The Summit Band will be entertaining while you enjoy the shopping, eating and activities of Lincoln Center. They will also have a 30 foot Fun Slide reminiscent of the Astro Slide of Lincoln Center in the 1950's. 

Hutchins Street Square in Lodi is an excellent venue just 20 minutes north of Stockton. They have concerts going on all summer! From their Celebrate America event, to their summer long concert series, to Divertimento Sting Quartet, a trip to Hutchins Street Square should definitely be on your summer agenda. 

No matter what your age, music on a warm summer evening just can't be beat! 

That's right folks, time to tackle a classic summer activity-making lemonade. But being in Stockton, we have the excellent luck of having a huge number of farmers' markets, roadside fruit stands, and all around phenomenal produce at our fingertips. And so here are a few recipes for that summer staple made with an extra special Stockton twist...

Lavender Lemonade with lavender from Lavender Hollow Farm. Open Friday-Saturday from 10am-4pm, you can stop by and enjoy any number of activities while you pick up one of their 40 varieties of lavender.

Peach Lemonade with one of 55 varieties of peaches from the Fruit Bowl. We have said it once and will say it again, the Fruit Bowl is a wonderful place to pick up fresh fruit-you can see them bringing it in right off the trees! Closed Christmas through March, this is one thing that can definitely only be experienced during your summer.

Strawberry Lemonade with fresh strawberries from one of Stockton's many Farmers' Markets. Being at the center of so much agriculture has its perks, one of which being farmers' markets. Sweet ripe strawberries to make this delicious treat are always an easy find at markets. From the Downtown Certified Farmers' Market on Fridays to the Vintage Certified Farmers' Market on Saturdays, you are sure to find the perfect addition to your summer lemonade.

It may seem simple, but a Lemonade Stand can make a huge difference. Kids for Cure held their 5th Annual Kids for a Cure Lemonade Stand last October. Their mission says "We strive to help those in our community diagnosed with breast cancer, as our loved ones have been. With just little things, like lemonade and some baked goods, we can all change the world." Their lemonade stand made enough to donate over $14k to the St. Joseph's Foundation for use in the Cancer Center Patient Navigator Program.

Nice motto for summer...with just the little things, we can all change the world. Now get making that lemonade, Stockton!

Time to put that first check on our bucket list, going camping this weekend! Camping brings the fun of s'mores, campfire ghost stories, sleeping out under the stars, and the joy of nature. There are tons of excellent parks around Stockton to go camping in, or you can head to Stockton REI's Great American Backyard Campout.  This planned campout  is meant to connect kids with nature for their health and happiness. Head out Saturday, June 23 to Oak Grove Regional Park for tons of camping activities....for free! Sign up quick though, spaces go quickly!

For those of us who don't want to leave the amenities of home for the Great American Backyard Campout (or missed the deadline to sign up!), the event encourages you to pitch a tent in your yard, on an apartment balcony, or even in the living room! Really, who didn't love making tents in your living room as a kid?! Need a little inspiration? Check out this blog post we found for 5 Tips for Indoor Camping....even indoor s'mores! We will let you know soon how our Camping adventure went!

Father’s Day is coming up on Sunday, June 17. Time to think of that perfect day to celebrate Dad! Here is a list of things happening around Stockton that might do the trick! 

Dad’s BBQ Cookoff 

Is your dad a BBQ master? Here is your chance to prove once and for all that he cooks the best ribs in town! If Dad wants to participate in the cook off, you need to plan ahead as spaces for cooks are limited. Otherwise you can come together and enjoy prizes, music, games, food and entertainment. 

Take Dad out to the Ballgame 

The Stockton Ports are at home at Banner Island Ballpark for 7:05 games tonight through Saturday. Catch up on some quality time while relaxing in the stands with classic baseball eats like beer, hotdogs and fries, or a new stadium treat, fried peanut butter and jelly! Friday’s promotions include Presidential Seat Cushion Giveaway & Post-Game Fireworks and Saturdays game will have an appearance by Jose Canseco & A's Jersey Auction presented by Humana.

Start your Engine 

Want to have an action packed night? Take dad to “NASCAR Whelen All American Series" Whelen Night at Stockton 99 Speedway! Sit in the front rows to get right up in the action, or enjoy the no drinking, no smoking family section. Grandstand opens at 4 pm and the green flag drops at 6. Races usually last until around 10 so you can take your Dad out for 4 hours of entertainment for just $15 a person!

BBQ, Cigars and Wine 

Stockton’s very own Sorelle Winery Presents Flip Flopping BBQ Fun, Live Music and Cigars. With live music, appetizers, BBQ, wine and premium cigars, this event is sure to hit the spot with many of your family members! Sorelle, meaning sisters in Italian, has a great history and the servers in the tasting room are very happy to chat and share with you during your visit. You do need to RSVP for the event. If you can’t make this event, you can always stop by for a tasting Friday 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm & Saturday - Sunday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm or by appointment.

The Man in Black 

Just a short drive from Stockton is Wine and Roses in Lodi. They will be hosting a Father’s Day BBQ with Barbecue, Draft Beer Tastings, Kids Games, Tropical Birds on Display and a Johnny Cash Tribute Show featuring James Garner. Again, this event requires a little advanced prep work as reservations are required. If you want to have your own lunch with Dad, tickets for just the tribute show are available.

It may be cheesy, but our #100 reason to smile in Stockton, California is YOU.  Yes, you.  It's the people and community of Stockton that are worth celebrating.  It's your spirit, dedication, humor, strength, and sense of fun that make living and playing in Stockton truly sweet.  Keep working hard and playing hard, Stockton!

Take a look back at all the 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California!  Can you think of any that we missed?

The Love Stockton volunteerism program, once known as "Serve Our Stockton," began back in 2009 when the Mayor of the City of Stockton's called for volunteers to come together to make real change in our community.  Since then, Love Stockton has gained a dedicated following of volunteers who organize fix-it days, graffiti removal, food drives, and much more in and around Stockton.  Love Stockton needs you!  September 29th, 2012 is the official Love Stockton service day of the year.  How will you pledge to help?

Find out how you can Love Stockton!  Be sure to mark your calendar for the city-wide volunteer and service day on September 29th, 2012!

For years, bird enthusiasts have flocked to the Stockton Constructed Wetlands.  Located at the Stockton Wastewater Treatment Tertiary Facility, the city of Stockton has turned part of this wastewater treatment plant into a wetland and birdwatching mecca for local bird species--the Audubon Society recently recorded over 7,300 birds representing 55 species!  The public is welcome to come out, just make an appointment a week in advance.  Don't forget to bring some binoculars!

Check out the city of Stockton's page on the Stockton Constructed Wetlands to make your appointment for Stockton birdwatching today!  The Stockton Constructed Wetlands are located at 2500 Navy Drive in Stockton, California.

Gian's Delicatessen on Stockton's Miracle Mile is a great place to grab a delicious freshly-made sandwich, potato salad, focaccia, Italian beverage, and much more!  Gian's also offers a variety of Italian goods to purchase such as pasta, pesto, candy, olive oil, and tiramisu (you know you want to take some home!).  Grab a bite to eat and stock up on all of the good stuff.

Be sure to check out Gian's Delicatessen on Stockton's Miracle Mile on 2112 Pacific Avenue.

The oldest NASCAR track west of the Mississippi and named one of the top 10 NASCAR Short Tracks for the last three years, the new Stockton 99 Speedway brings the excitement of racing and NASCAR home!  The 1/4 mile Stockton 99 Speedway plays host to a range of events such as the NASCAR Whelen All American Series, K&N Pro Series West, bike and stunt shows, swap meets, and much more.  Treat the family to a night out at the track and catch all of the racing action!

Catch all of the fun at the Stockton 99 Speedway!  Follow the link for much more information and the racing schedule.

As we plunge into summer with this Memorial Day holiday weekend, why not try a few things in Stockton that you might have forgotten about during those not so sunny months? Here are five things we think your weekend shouldn’t be without…

1. Kayak on the Delta
 Call the Stockton Marina to make a reservation then head down to the water! Rentals are $10 an hour or $25 for the whole day. (8:30 am to 4:30 pm) Kayaking is a great way to get exercise because it builds strength in the core, arms and legs. Plus, you are out on the water so you can soak up some rays!

2.Visit The Fruit Bowl 
Located at 8767 Waterloo Rd in Stockton and open daily7am-6pm, The Fruit Bowl is in it’s 65th season! With homemade pies, pastries, salads, paninis, salsas and fresh out of the orchard fruits, they have something delicious for every palate. Stop in for some fresh produce and take in the beautiful sights and smells.

3.Relax in Oak Grove Regional Park 
This 180-acre park is perfect for an outdoor afternoon. Bring the treats you picked up at The Fruit Bowl and spread out on the lawn for a lazy day picnic. You can get out on the lake by renting paddleboats and aquacycles. Explore the Nature Center or the trails. If you want to plan an even bigger celebratory event, they also have rental facilities available.

4. Cool off with Gleason’s Ice Cream 
This great little mom and pop ice cream shop not only dishes out banana splits that have been described as “stupid good”, but they are also the makers of our favorite Asparagus Ice Cream! While you can’t get the Asparagus Ice Cream year round, a scoop of any flavor of this hand-made ice cream is worth the trip to Gleason’s.

5. Run Around Pixie Woods 
Entertain the kids (or bring out your own inner child) with a trip to Pixie Woods! A Stockton staple since 1954, Pixie Woods has entertained more than 1 million guests! Just open for the season at the beginning of May, there is no better time to take a ride on the train or pick out your horse on the carousel. Plus, this family outing is a great deal with unlimited ride packages retailing at only $8!

Whatever you choose to do this weekend, get out in Stockton and Celebrate!

The Downtown Stockton Alliance's Downtown Ambassadors make us smile!  Experts in Downtown Stockton, the Ambassadors are fountains of knowledge on where to eat, park, or what to do in the downtown area.  They even host guided tours about the rich history of our downtown!  Don't be shy, when you see one of the Ambassadors in Downtown Stockton (they wear green t-shirts now!), be sure to say hello and ask them whatever burning question you may have.

For more information about Downtown Stockton and the Ambassadors, check out the official Downtown Stockton Alliance website.

Looking for authentic Cuban food...in Stockton?  Elsa's Paladar on Alpine has you covered.  With a menu sporting ribs, BBQ chicken, Cuban sandwiches, black beans and rice, paella, salads, fried plantains, bread pudding, and flan, Elsa's is a foodie paradise.  And thanks to Cuban-born owner and operator Domingo Santiuste Zayas, this Cuban food paradise is in Stockton!  This wildly popular restaurant is the perfect place to grab a lunch or enjoy an evening with friends over some great food.

What are you waiting for?  Check out Elsa's Paladar in Stockton,California located on 2219 West Alpine Avenue.

If you're driving on Interstate 5, you may see a glimpse of the beautiful 18-acre oak forest known as Oak Grove Regional Park in Stockton.  This park is full of great things to do and features including Oak Grove Lake which is stocked with seasonal Catfish and Trout, paddleboats and aqua cycles available for rent (weekends only April through October), the Oak Grove Nature Center, two nature trails, rental facilities, outdoor picnic shelters, an 18-hole disc golf course, and children's playgrounds.  Oak Grove Regional Park is also the home to many events in the area including Astronomy in the Park, Nature Talks, and fishing derbies including the Annual Catfish Fishing Derby.  Oak Grove is the perfect place to bask in the beauty of the valley Oak tree and the warm California sun!

Oak Grove Regional Park is located on 4520 West Eight Mile Road in Stockton. 

The San Joaquin County Fair has long been a loved tradition of Stocktonians--where else can you get deep fried food, horse races, carnival rides, live music, livestock and agriculture competitions, and arts and craft exhibitions all in one spot!? The fair has moved to September 20th-30th this year. What do you love about going out to the fair?

Don't miss the fun at this year's San Joaquin County Fair!

A Stockton dining tradition since 1976, Angelina's Spaghetti House is serving up delicious Italian dishes right in the heart of Stockton. This family-owned restaurant serves up a wide array of pasta dishes, sandwiches, burgers, steak, veal, spumoni, Angelina's Famous Dolcé, Chocolate Suicide Cake, and much more!  The warm and inviting atmosphere, great food, and historic Stockton photos throughout the restaurant will make you feel at home and keep you coming back again and again!

Give Angelina's Spaghetti House a try and see why it's become a Stockton tradition!

Joe's Pomodoro Pizza Cafe is a big favorite in Stockton because not only are they serving up some truly delicious pizza, but they also have ribs, buffalo wings, calzones, strombolis, and great sandwiches like Philly cheese steaks and gyros on the menu.  Joe's features a casual atmosphere with televisions to watch the big game and a game area to keep the kids entertained.  Joe's Pomodoro Pizza Cafe can satisfy all of your needs, especially your tummy!

Check out Joe's Pomodoro Pizza Cafe in Stockton, California!

Stockton is home to some incredibly talented musicians and artists--and Snap Jackson & The Knock On Wood Players does us proud! These four gentlemen "effortlessly blend Americana, Bluegrass, and Soul music to create a unique, fresh, & energetic sound."  Snap Jackson and the Players frequent area Bluegrass Festivals and are a hometown favorite at venues like the Blackwater Cafe.  

Check out Snap Jackson & The Knock On Wood Players' official website and make sure to check their show schedule!

If you're in the mood for "finger licking good" homemade Soul Food, Catfish N Ribs in Stockton is calling!  With a menu featuring baby back ribs, brisket, catfish, frog legs, mean greens, mac-n-cheese, hush puppies, peach cobbler, and sweet potato pie, you'll find yourself wanting to try the whole menu.  Are you hungry yet?

Check out the official Catfish N Ribs website for store hours, full menu, and more! Catfish N Ribs is located on 1101 E March Lane, Suite G in Stockton, California.

In 1946, John Kinder opened his first meat market in the Bay Area and today Kinder's BBQ boasts 15 locations throughout Northern California and Nevada.  Kinder's Meats Deli & BBQ in Stockton offers an old-school meat market, where a butcher will custom-cut your meat. Sink your teeth into one of their high quality sandwiches, including their Famous Ball-Tip Sandwich (which you can also enjoy at any Stockton Port's baseball game!).  And to top it all off you can browse their line of BBQ sauces and marinades so you can bring the Kinder's goodness home.  

Kinder's Meats & Deli is located on the Miracle Mile in Stockton at 1740 Pacific Avenue.  Their Famous Ball-Tip Sandwich is the feature picture and the Kinder's BBQ Beef Sandwich is pictured on the bottom left picture (and yes, that's tender beef stuffed in a fresh sourdough roll with onions and shredded cheese!)

From sushi to Teppan Yaki, Domo Japanese Grill & Bar in Stockton's Lincoln Center is delicious!  Saddle up to one of the large, gas powered teppan tables and watch as Domo's skilled chefs prepare your food and even juggle utensils or prepare a flaming onion volcano.  You get dinner and a show at Domo!

Enjoy a night out with friends or try something new at Domo Japanese Sushi Grill & Bar!

The Dear Stockton Project is an ongoing photography project that allows individuals to express a simple, positive message about Stockton.  Dear Stockton is all about "demonstrating your love for the city of Stockton and documenting your commitment to that message through the medium of photography."  Conceived and organized by Benjamin Saffold in 2011, "Dear Stockton" is a beautiful, collaborative project that truly celebrates the energy, love, and commitment present within the Stockton community.  

For more information, check out the Dear Stockton Project's official Facebook group!

It's that time of year again to celebrate Mom and let her know how much you appreciate her.  If you're still looking for something to do or want to try something new this year, check out our list of local Mother's Day events below!  Also listed are events happening on Sunday that Mom might like!  

• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Mother's Day at Wine & Roses
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Mother's Day Brunch at University Plaza Waterfront Hotel
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Mother's Day Picnic and Concert at Heritage Oak Winery
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Celebrate Mom at Le Bistro
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Mother's Day Brunch at Yasoo Yani at Elkhorn
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Mother's Day Celebration at La Iguana Wanna
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Mother's Day at Angelina's
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: 27th Annual San Joaquin County Home & Garden Show
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: Stockton Civic Theatre presents "On Golden Pond"
• Sunday, May 13th, 2012: "Fine Feathered Friends" Exhibition at The Haggin Museum and "Memories of World War II" Exhibition at The Haggin Museum

Tandoori Nites in Stockton is serving up some truly delicious and memorable Indian food that is sure to wake up your tastebuds! Known for their crispy naan, tandoori chicken, curry, chicken tikka masala, and mango shakes for dessert, Tandoori Nites is widely known in our area for great Indian cuisine.  And if you're a fan of spice, Tandoori will definitely deliver!

If you're a longtime fan of Indian cuisine or looking to try it for the first time in our area, don't miss out on Tandoori Nites in Stockton, California!

If you're a golfer, Stockton is definitely the spot for you.  There is a long list of pubic and private golf courses, links, and clubs in the area with a variety of layouts that challenge and entertain players of all abilities.  And many of these courses now offer the ability to book tee times online.  Come on golfers, where is your favorite place to golf in and around Stockton?

Browse our list of Stockton golf courses at VisitStockton.org!

Tucked away off of Brookside Drive, Mezzo Enoteca offers Stockton residents and visitors a truly delicious and excellent dining experience.  Chef Richard Hyman prepares authentic, multi-regional Italian & Mediterranean cuisine set in a modern and casual environment. Specializing in home made pasta's, local seasonal produce and the freshest ingredients, Mezzo also sports a full bar with happy hour and an impressive wine list.  (Fun fact: Chef Richard Hyman just won the 2012 Stockton Asparagus Festival's "Chef of the Feast" competition last weekend!)  Have you ever been to Mezzo?

Find out more information about Stockton's Mezzo Enoteca at VisitStockton.org!

Stockton is uniquely placed within the heart of the greatest garden in the world, the California Central Valley.  And thanks to this location there is an abundance of  farmer's markets in our area that bring fresh produce straight from the farm to your plate!  Check out all of the markets in the area and support the hard-working farmers of our area that help to feed the entire world.

Thursday

• Weberstown Mall Farmer's Market 
• 8:00am-1:00pm - April through November only

Friday

• Downtown Stockton Certified Farmers' Market 
• 8:00am-2:00pm - May through October only

Saturday

• Downtown Stockton Asian Farmer's Market 
• 5:30am-11:00am - Open year-round
• Vintage Certified Farmers' Market 
• 9:00am-1:00pm - April through November only
• StoneCreek Village Farmers' Market 
• 9:00am-1:00pm - April through October only

Saturday & Sunday

• The Market at Delta College 
• 6:00am-3:00pm - Open year-round

Sunday

• Weberstown Mall Farmer's Market 
• 8:00am-1:00pm - Open year-round
• Park West Place Farmers' Market 
• 9:00am-2:00pm - May through November only

Ave on the Mile in the heart of Stockton's Miracle Mile is the perfect place to enjoy an after-work drink or catch up with friends over some truly yummy food.  This chic, upscale bar and bistro has also become a popular venue for nightlife and evening entertainment in Stockton. Stop by and enjoy Ave on the Mile!

Find out hours and contact information for Ave on the Mile in Stockton, California at VisitStockton.org!

When you've strolled through the Haggin Museum and seen some beautiful art and learned the local history, it's time to check out the Haggin Museum Store.  Here you'll find unique gift items, books, posters, notecards, and other merchandise inspired by the museum's collections and temporary exhibitions, and all purchases support the museum and its programs.  Make sure to check out the Haggin Museum Store around Christmas, it's a must-see!

The Haggin Museum Store is located on the bottom floor of the Haggin Museum--be sure to stop by!