Experience Hispanic Culture in Stockton, California

Well before the arrival of Captain Weber, the state of California's DNA is one rich with Indigenous and Hispanic genes. Starting in the 16th century, this land was part of "New Spain," under the rule of the Spanish Kingdom up until it dissolved in 1821. After that, it was Mexican land up until the late 1840s with the Mexican-American War. And while it has spent nearly two centuries under the American banner, it remains strongly connected to its Mexican roots—and that includes the city of Stockton.

Below are just a few of the deep Hispanic organizations, businesses, restaurants, and events that are embedded in Stockton's foundation.

“Preservation of one’s own culture does not require contempt or disrespect for other cultures.” – Cesar Chavez.

History & Culture

Scattered throughout Brick City is a number of installations detailing the history of Mexican/Hispanic culture in Stockton and all of San Joaquin County.

• Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery. Since the '90s, the Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery has been a pioner in enriching our community with Mexican art, culture, and educational programs. They house a beautiful art gallery featuring the works of local artists, poetry readings, symposiums, and wonderful art workshops. Additionally, they have amazing events centered around Mexican holidays and folklore, which include their Dia de los Muertos Street Fiesta, a Nativity scene, and so much more.
• Haggin Museum. This iconic museum houses a multitude of history, culture, and art within its walls. Its collections include Native California, which details on the Indigenous and Hispanic history of California through, art, artifacts, and tales from the time period.
• San Joaquin County Historical Society & Museum. Located near Micke Grove, this historical museum contains historical artifacts and collections from the county's rich history. Among the many artifacts, there lies Native Peoples baskets & objects, as well as tools, wagons, and other agricultural equipment. Plus, their past exhibits include "In the Fields of the North," an amazing photographic exhibit about the lives of migrant farm laborers in our area.

Don't forget to try the coffee and treats served up at the Arté del Café, located inside the Mexican Heritage Center.

“Your individuality is important, but so is belonging. Recognize the parts of your culture that have shaped your past, and the parts you want to carry with you into the future.” – Sol Peralta.

Upcoming & Annual Events

Annually, Stockton holds at last three major events that features the Indigenous, Mexican, & Hispanic cultures. In May, El Concilio hosts the city's Cinco De Mayo Festival & Parade at the Weber Point Events Center. In September, the The University of the Pacific's El Centro (formally known as Latinx Community Outreach Office) and the Stockton Pow Wow Committee hold the annual Labor Day Community Pow Wow, celebrating the Indigenous and Hispanic roots of our area. Then in late October, the Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery puts their beautiful traditions on display with their annual Dia De Los Muertos Street Fiesta held in Downtown Stockton. Throughout the month, families build beautiful alters for their loved ones who have passed on and place them on display during this visually stunning event.

For a breakdown of all our annual events, click here!

Here are some upcoming events that place a spotlight on Hispanic culture:

• Latin Soul Fest @ Oak Grove Regional Park (9/23).
• Fall Fiesta @ the Children's Museum of Stockton (9/23).
• Prevail's Hispanic Heritage Celebration @ Stockton Civic Auditorium (9/24).
• Peso Pluma LIVE @ Stockton Arena (10/12).
• Dia De Los Muertos @ The Catalyst (10/21).

An additional annual event that takes place within the Mexican community here is the preparation of tamales during the Holiday season. As a tradition within the Hispanic culture, families come together and make tamales to share and feast on with their loved ones. Keeping it local, these families tend to get their masa from El Dorado Meat Market.

"Mexican food is one of the best culinary experiences that people can have." - Karla Souza.

Restaurants & Food Spots

Mexican (and Latin food in general) is easily one of the best cultural cuisine to savor. Stockton—well known for its abundance of eclectic restaurants serving amazing dishes—contains unique food spots that cook up astounding, flavorful Mexican cuisine that makes your mouth water the instant you see it. Piping hot dishes that are as wonderful to witness as they are to devour. Here are just a few of those superb locations:

• Octavios.
• Nena's Mexican Restaurant.
• El Chilango Chido.
• La Mesa - A Mexican Kitchen.
• Mi Ranchito Cafe.
• El Frutal.

For all of the amazing Mexican restaurants and food spots in Stockton, click here!

"No estudio para saber más, sino para ignorar menos (I don’t study to know more, but to ignore less)." - Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz.

Need more recommendations throughout Stockton? You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in Stockton.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok - and be sure to use #VisitStockton during your visit!