Your Guide to the Best Annual Events in Stockton, California

No matter what time of year it is, there's always something big going on in Stockton. From diverse food fairs to cultural celebrations to highly imaginative cosplay, you can count on having a great time in our city. So, without further ado, here is a list of some of the largest, can’t-miss annual Stockton events to mark on your calendar.

Festivals are arranged by event occurrence:

Bring a hearty appetite for 10 days of culinary excitement. Each January, during California Restaurant Month, Visit Stockton coordinates Stockton Restaurant Week, a promotion that highlights great deals on the best meals in town. Local eateries prepare special 2 and 3 course pre-fixe menus for food lovers at fantastic prices. Special events include theme nights, guest chefs, and delicious vegan/vegetarian delights. You won't want to miss it. Learn more.

Note: Chinese New Year Parade has been canceled this year. Dates for 2023 TBD.

Prepare to celebrate the Year of the Rat during the Stockton Chinese New Year Celebration! Held on the first Sunday in March, the annual celebration is considered to be one of the largest in San Joaquin County celebrating Chinese customs, traditions, and activities in downtown city streets. Learn more.

Note: Cambodian New Year Celebration has been canceled this year. Dates for 2023 TBD.

This cultural event boasts a variety of traditional Cambodian practices and spiritual activities at the Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple. The three-day celebration is held annually in April and features an array of authentic Cambodian cuisine, unique performances, traditional dances on stage, and an abundance of local arts and crafts. Learn more.

Every April, this annual parade begins and ends at the nation’s oldest Sikh temple, Stockton Gurdwara Sahib. This event features music, dancing, and a martial arts display. Plus, a number of dignitaries of the faith are in attendance. Learn more.

One of the most anticipated events in Stockton, California is held annually in May. The San Joaquin Asparagus Festival is recognized as the largest event celebrating the asparagus spear on the West Coast. For one full weekend, festival-goers can indulge in almost every creative type of asparagus dish, from burritos and corn dogs to ice cream and pasta. Held at the San Joaquin Fairgrounds. Learn more.

This special farm to table dining experince is an annual tradition held right at the Bob Hope Fox Theatre. A beautiful (and delicious) event that brings together our community for a great cause. The Feast at the Fox fundraiser—hosted by Visit Stockton in partnership with City of Stockton—supports the San Joaquin Delta College Culinary Arts program, which also caters the event. Sponsorships open up the Novemeber before and tickets to attend go on sale in February. Learn more.

The newest addition to Stockton's list of festivals, Flavor Fest will be a celebration of our city's culture, community, and cuisine! The inaugural celebration will be taking place in Downtown Stockton. This event will feature food & merchant villages showcasing Stockton's diverse offerings, cultural programming including dance and music, creative activities, family fun, Valley-centered libations in a craft beer & wine tent, a drag brunch benefiting the San Joaquin Pride Center, celebrity chef kitchens, and so much more! Learn more.

Join us at the 4th of July Parade in Downtown Stockton, in celebration of our nation's founding. This wonderful family event—hosted by the United Veterans Council of San Joaquin County—takes place at the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium. Learn more.

StocktonCon is the largest two-day pop culture celebration in Stockton, California for fans of comic books, superhero movies, anime, and in general, all things geek! The convention held in August in both the Stockton Arena and University Plaza Waterfront Hotel. It attracts fans from around the region, many of whom will be coming to revel in the costumes and explore pop culture in an entirely unique way. Learn more.

Bonus: If one StocktonCon a year isn't enough, don't you fret! The newly added StocktonCon Winter takes place annually in January.

The Annual Stockton Brew Fest is an outdoor food and music festival held over at Weber Point. It kicks off Stockton Beer Week, a 10-day celebration of craft beer that brings beer related events to bars, pubs, and restaurants across the city. Beer lovers from around the region are invited to enjoy Stockton Brew Fest for unlimited tastings of the best local beer in the state. Nearly 100 brews from over 30 breweries are offered. The outdoor festival happens in the late afternoon and has plenty of room for breweries, games, delicious food options, and multiple musical acts. Learn more.

If you’re a food connoisseur, this is the perfect festival to wrap up summer while in Stockton, California. The Annual St. Basil’s Greek Festival is held the second weekend in September and has been celebrating its customs and traditions on the Church’s grounds for nearly 6 decades! The festival highlights an array of authentic cuisine and treats made with love from recipes passed from generation to generation. Learn more.

The Annual Lighted Boat Parade is a favorite Downtown Stockton tradition. Held on the first Saturday in December, watch as dozens of brightly lit and beautifully decorated boats parade along the scenic Historic Downtown Waterfront. Be sure to locate your favorite viewing spot, as festively decorated boats and yachts arrive promptly at 6 pm! Note: This fantastic event coincides with the City of Stockton's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, making this a fantastic holiday combo. Learn more.

Need more recommendations throughout the year? Visit our comprehensive list of annual events in the Stockton, California region. You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in and around Stockton.

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