Summer in Modesto
As summer unfolds in Modesto, the city comes alive with a vibrant array of festivals, family-friendly gatherings, night-life attractions, art showcases, and outdoor recitals. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, now is the perfect time to experience the rich cultural tapestry of this Central Valley hub.
Below, I’ve curated a calendar of upcoming events—spanning music in the park, farmers markets, workshops for kids, community gatherings, sports, and more. And be sure to mark your calendars for a special highlight: the Moonpreneur Robotics Workshop geared toward young innovators.
1. Weekly Farmers Markets
Modesto Farmers Market – Thursdays and Saturdays
- 🎯 When: Every Thursday and Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM
📍 Where: Graceada Park (Thu) & Downtown Modesto (Sat)
Kick off your summer evenings with live music, delicious food, and good company at the Lake Forest Summer Concert Series. These community concerts are held at Pittsford Park, one of the city’s most loved green spaces. Families bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to relax while local bands perform everything from classic rock to country hits.
Kids can dance on the grass, enjoy food trucks, or get their face painted at one of the activity booths. The vibe is festive, the music is loud, and the energy is just right for a family night out.
Tip for parents: Arrive early to grab a good spot and bring glow sticks for added kid-fun once the sun sets!
2. MoBand: “On Tour: Around the World” Concert Series
- 🎯 When: Thursday, July 3, 8 PM at Graceada Park
- 🎯 When: Thursday, July 10, 8 PM Finale
- 📍 Where: Mancini Music Bowl, Graceada Park
Since 1919, MoBand has graced Graceada Park’s scenic bandshell with weekly concerts. This summer’s “On Tour: Around the World” series promises musical journeys through different cultures. These free shows often attract 2,500–3,000 attendees —bring a picnic blanket, snacks, and prepare for a delightful evening under the stars.
3. Moonpreneur’s In-Person Robotics Event
🚀 Free In-Person Robotics Workshop for Kids (Ages 7–14)
- When: Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 11 AM PST
- Where: Ramada by Wyndham, 1525 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95350, United States
free robotics workshop tailored for kids aged 7–14. In just over an hour, participants will:
- Dive into entry-level robotics & microcontroller concepts
- Build circuits and complete hands-on coding exercises
- Engage with interactive quizzes and group activities
- Learn from experienced STEM instructors
Parents can observe their child’s learning journey first-hand, network with other families, and explore Moonpreneur’s broader programs .
This is the only confirmed Moonpreneur robotics event in Modesto this summer. Space is limited, so register early—and mark Sunday, July 20 at 11 AM on your calendar.
👉 Tip: Register early, as these sessions fill up fast!
3. Independence Day Parade
- 🎯 When: Friday, July 4, 9:30 AM
- 📍 Downtown Modesto
Celebrate America’s birthday in classic Modesto style! The parade winds through downtown, featuring marching bands, civic groups, vintage cars, and festive floats. It’s a community highlight and a proud local tradition.
5. BUNCO Social Nights
- 🎯 When: Friday, July 11 & 25
- 📍 Fraternal Order of Eagles, 126 Camellia Way
Want a laid-back evening with games and camaraderie? These twice‑monthly BUNCO nights offer food, drinks, and friendly competition. All experience levels welcome!
6. Civic & Community Events
Free Compost Days
– July 1‑August 31, 8 AM–3:30 PM, Jennings Road Facility
Bring your garden waste and leave with rich compost—Modesto residents can drop by weekly during the summer months.
Planning Commission Meetings
– Monthly, 6 PM at Tenth Street Plaza
Get involved in public planning efforts through these open meetings.
Tire Amnesty Day
– Saturday, July 26, 7 AM–12 PM at Beyer Park Drive
Dispose of tires properly and avoid fees.
7. Modesto Nuts Baseball at John Thurman Field
- 🏟️ When: Through July and beyond
- 📍 Where: John Thurman Field
Catch the Modesto Nuts, the Class-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, at John Thurman Field. The team’s future in the city was recently secured through summer 2025. Bring the family for ballpark fare, fireworks nights, and local spirit.
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8. Gallo Center & Symphony Events
Gallo Center for the Arts
– Various concerts, Broadway-style productions, and installations
Modesto Symphony Orchestra
– Performs at the Gallo Center; Nicholas Hersh began directing in August
Experience classical and performing arts in Modesto’s premier venue. Check their websites for schedules of chamber music, ballet, opera, and touring Broadway.
9. American Graffiti Festival & Car Show
- 🗓️ When: June 7–8 (annual event)
(For 2025, look forward to June’s festival—mark your calendars for next year!)
Celebrating George Lucas’s legacy and Modesto’s cruising days, the American Graffiti Festival returns each summer with classic cars, food vendors, live music, and a nostalgic cruise through downtown and McHenry Avenue.
10. Downtown Modesto Mural Walk + More
- 🎯 Daily: DoMo Walls mural exhibitions + seasonal art walks
(Art Walks usually on the third Thursday of every month)
Downtown boasts a vibrant public art scene—known as DoMo Walls—plus pop-up galleries, cafés, boutiques, and regular cultural strolls.
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What Else to Explore?
Art & Culture
- The State Theatre: independent films, comedy, and performing arts.
- McHenry Mansion & Museum: Step back into Victorian Modesto; self-guided tours available
- George Lucas Plaza & Bronze Statue: An homage to the city’s most famous director.
Outdoor Recreation
- Graceada Park: expansive green space, playgrounds, and venues for community concerts.
- Tuolumne River Regional Park: trails, kayaking, and shaded picnic spots.
Food & Nightlife
- Downtown cafés & breweries—great spots before or after an art walk or concert.
- Seasonal Food Festivals: Follow VisitModesto.com for pop-up tastings, streets-eats, and food truck events.
In Summary
From weekly markets to educational workshops, art walks, concerts, baseball, and civic gatherings, Modesto delivers a rich summer tapestry of experiences. The Moonpreneur Robotics Workshop is a must-attend for families looking to spark curiosity in coding and engineering. But no matter your passion—music, history, sports, or outdoor fun—Modesto has something to light up your summer.
Enjoy every moment—and see you out there! 🚴♀️🎶🤖
Event Calendar at a Glance
- July 3: Farmers Market, MoBand “On Tour” concert
- July 4: Farmers Market, Independence Day Parade
- July 5: Farmers Market, Free Compost Day
- July 10: Farmers Market, MoBand Finale
- July 11 & 25: BUNCO nights
- July 19: Quinn Dale stand-up
- July 20: Moonpreneur Robotics Workshop, 11 AM
- Community events: Free Compost (Jul 1–Aug 31), Planning Commission, Tire Amnesty Day (Jul 26)
By weaving together Modesto’s historic charm, civic pride, artistic energy, and family-centered events, this blog aims to inform and inspire. Let me know if you’d like to focus more on a particular event—or expand on any section!
Moonpreneur is on a mission to disrupt traditional education and future-proof the next generation with holistic learning solutions. Its Innovator Program is building tomorrow’s workforce by training students in AI/ML, Robotics, Coding, IoT, and Apps, enabling entrepreneurship through experiential learning.
