Things You Need to Do in Stockton, California this August

July 28, 2025

As summer nears its end, we have some of the best things to do in Stockton, California.

Summer is peaking here in Stockton, California! Bittersweet August is your last whole month to take in the simple pleasures of summer. Here is a selection of fun activities to enjoy in Stockton, California, this August.

The Cambodian Experience: Our Journey to America - Finding Freedom

Happening now through January 2026, the Haggin Museum presents an unforgettable exhibition that honors and preserves the stories of survival, resilience, and hope that define the Cambodian American experience. The Cambodian Experience exhibit gives visitors insight into the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime and the enduring strength of those who fled persecution using personal narratives, historical accounts, photographs, and artifacts. The opening ceremony for this exhibition takes place on Saturday, August 2, from 1:00 to 2:30 pm.

Here's what else is happening at the Haggin in August:

The Stockton Ports

The Stockton Ports are in the heart of their season in August, with 12 home games for you to choose from this month. As a bonus, click here for the fun promotions coming up this month that add an extra bit of fun to a day or night at the Stockton Ballpark.

Buddhist Church of Stockton's Annual Obon Japanese Festival & Odor

Surround yourself with a local Japanese tradition at the Buddhist Church of Stockton's annual event, happening on Saturday, August 2, from 11 am to 8:30 pm! The Obon Japanese Festival & Odori showcases the rich Japanese culture that permeates our city. There will be excellent Japanese food, beautiful flower arrangements, martial arts performances, music, and plenty more. This culturally fueled tradition is one you won't want to miss!

The AAA & CCC 16th Annual Soul Food Festival

If you love good food, then Weber Point is the place to be on Saturday, August 2, for the Soul Food Festival, presented by the African American Arts & Culture Community Center. The free event starts at noon and runs until 7:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to nourish both your body and spirit. In addition to fantastic food, the event will feature live entertainment, retail vendors, and local nonprofits. Bring your lawn chair and an appetite, it's going to be a great time!

Friends of the Fox Classic Movie Series presents: The Outsiders

"Stay gold, Ponyboy. Stay gold..."
Francis Ford Coppola's 1983 classic The Outsiders, based on S.E. Hinton's novel, graces the silver screen once again on Sunday, August 3, at the Bob Hope Fox Theatre. Starring an all-star cast that includes C. Thomas Howell, Ralph Macchio, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Tom Cruise, Diane Lane, Tom Waits, and Matt Dillon, this emotional tale of brotherhood and class warfare is worthy of being experienced on the big screen one more time. Grab your family and experience the battles between the Greasers and the Socs from the comfort of "Stockton's Crown Jewel," The Bob Hope Fox Theatre. Doors open at 1 pm.

There's more going down at the Bob Hope Fox Theatre this month:

National Night Out in Downtown Stockton

Come one, come all, as the Stockton Community takes part in a nationwide tradition. Join us at the Stockton Ballpark for National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5, from 6:15 - 8:30 pm. This annual event is an excellent way to celebrate all things Stockton within our community. There will be carnival games, SPF officers, workshops, giveaways, live music, local mascots, and more! The best part is that all of this fun for the family is entirely free!

Bonus! The first 600 people to attend National Night Out will get free tickets to the Ports vs Modesto Nuts game that very night. Another great reason to come out and hang with the community!

Neighborhood Night Out Block Party on Yosemite Street

Enjoy another community-themed night on Tuesday, August 5, with the Neighborhood Night Out Block Party on Yosemite Street. Enjoy live music, delectable food options, exciting kids activities, and a wide array of vendors for everyone to enjoy. All ages are welcome to celebrate the community in this historic Stockton neighborhood!

Hot Summer Nights at the Stockton Sailing Club

If checking out classic cars by the delta sounds like fun to you, then make your way over to the Stockton Sailing Club on Saturday, August 9, for their Hot Summer Nights event. From 5 to 8 pm, you can enjoy a classic car show while savoring some old-fashioned burgers, root beer floats, beer, refreshments, and plenty of family fun. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Hospice of San Joaquin, allowing you to have fun while supporting a wonderful organization.

P.S. If you'd like to contribute more to the Hospice of San Joaquin, their annual Sip & Stroll event at Heron Lakes Drive in Brookside is happening on Saturday, August 16. Over 35 wineries/distilleries and food tastings from more than 50 esteemed local restaurants will be there just for you to enjoy.

Annual Labor Day Stockton Community Pow Wow

A Stockton tradition for over 40 years now, the annual Labor Day Stockton Community Pow Wow returns this Labor Day weekend, Saturday, August 30, and Sunday, August 31, at the University of the Pacific's Wendell Phillips Center Lawn. Presented by the University of the Pacific with the Stockton Pow Wow committee, this event on the open lawn will highlight traditional Indigenous dances, impressive drum circles, and the traditional Native American clothing adorn by the dancers. Dozens of vendors will be on site offering Native American foods, artwork, crafts, clothing, jewelry, and many other items. The delicious cuisine includes buffalo burgers, Indian hot dogs, Native American tacos, and, of course, frybread! Don't miss out on this beautiful cultural event.

Stockton Tequila Festival 2025

Calling all tequila lovers! Make plans to be at Weber Point on Saturday, August 30, from 12 - 7:30 pm for the Stockton Tequila Festival. What better way to spend your Saturday than chilling by the water in downtown and experiencing good vibes, live music, and tasty tequila? As for the live music, legendary talents like Warren G, B-Legit, Rappin' 4-Tay, Nacho Martinez, and many more will be in attendance to set the mood. This is going to be fire!

Bonus! To add to your tequila-themed day, spend the evening at The Catalyst, where they will be hosting Tacos & Tequila, presented by CBA Baseball. Some tasty tacos, delicious sides, and tequila inside The Catalyst is a great way to end a fun Saturday.

16th Annual Stockton Bathtub Boat Race

If it's the last Sunday of August, then you know it's time for the annual Stockton Bathtub Boat Race at Louis Park Boat Launch. Happening Sunday, August 31 from 12 - 3 pm, participants hop in their home-made, non-motorized watercrafts and race against each other on the delta. Young and old creative minds alike are welcome to participate in this quirky Stockton tradition. Plus, it's free!

And in case all that wasn't enough for you, here's a some extra events happening in August throughout the city:

With so much to experience this month, why not extend your visits by checking in somewhere? Stockton is home to numerous fantastic hotels located in key parts of the city, making it easy to enjoy these tremendous events, take part in a shopping spree, and savor some delicious cuisine. Discover the outstanding hotels in our city by clicking here!

Looking for more suggestions? You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in and around Stockton.

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

Related Blogs

Visit Stockton

Author

Visit Stockton

Another Great Blog from Our Expert Team

Send An Email

Related Content: