Ten Great Dates

compiled by Amanda Rife

Salute to Surrealism

September 6-October 18, Tracy

The work of artists Julia d’Arcy, Dr. Ed Gafford, Nils Krueger, and Asa Mathat will be on display alongside those of Surrealist Master artists Salvador Dali, Joan Miro, and Pablo Picasso, as a tribute to the twentieth century Surrealist movement. With graphite drawings and prints, fine art photographs, and steel designs and works, the cultural revolution inspired by the Surrealist Movement when it began in the 1920s will come to life through their art. Free. Grand Galleries, 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6278, www.atthegrand.org.

Lodi Street Faire

October 5, Lodi

Nothing says fall like a street fair, and historic downtown Lodi is just the spot for such an event. Hundreds of local artists and crafters will set up shop in the streets, showing their wares alongside antique and commercial vendors. Two food courts will be available for snacking, and two new beer gardens await those seeking rest and relaxation during the busy event. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Parking and admission is free. A free shuttle will run to and from Hutchins Street Square throughout the fair. Downtown Lodi, (209) 367-7840, www.lodichamber.com.

BBQ Sausage and Barbera Wines

October 11-12, Lockeford

As far as educational experiences go, this food and wine edification is top notch. Boitano Family Wines presents the fifth annual BBQ Sausage and Barbera Wines event, where barbecued sausages of varying flavors are paired together with Boitano’s award-winning Italian wines. A variety of other foods will be sampled, including cheese, breads, pasta, and Boitano’s famous polenta. 12-5 p.m. $10. Boitano Family Wines, 12470 Locke Rd., Bldg. 600, Lockeford, (209) 286-1595, www.boitanofamilywines.com.

 

Gordon Lightfoot

October 15, Stockton

Canadian-born musician and songwriter Gordon Lightfoot comes to Stockton, bringing with him the international acclaim and success of his over-forty-year career. His songs have been covered by artists such as Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, and his distinct style, known as the Lightfoot sound, distinguishes him from other musicians—his deep baritone voice combined with an acoustic guitar and folk-centered lyrics have established him as one of ‘Canada’s national treasures’. 7:30 p.m. $45-$55. Bob Hope Theatre, 242 Main St., Stockton, (209) 337-HOPE, www.bobhopetheatre.com.

 

Stockton Symphony Live and Lively! with Tai Murray

October 16 and 18, Stockton

Stockton will be swept away by Chicago-born violinist Tai Murray, who debuted with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the age of 9. Now 23, Murray brings her experience and talent to the Stockton Symphony, where she will be performing pieces by renowned composers such as Bela Bartok and Nikolai Rimsy-Korsakov. Forty-five minutes prior to opening curtain, enjoy “Meet the Maestro,” where music director and conductor Peter Jaffe will talk about the pieces, their composers, and the talented musician who will bring it all to life. 8 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets $20-$50, student tickets $10-$23. Warren Atherton Auditorium, San Joaquin Delta College, 5151 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 951-0196,
www.stocktonsymphony.org.

 

Arts Awards Celebration

October 17, Stockton

The Stockton Arts Commission invites local residents and art enthusiasts to participate in the thirty-first annual Arts Awards Celebration, where locally nominated businesses, organizations, and individuals will be presented with STAR, volunteer, patron, and career achievement awards for their contribution to the arts. Local talent will provide the musical and artistic entertainment, and food will be provided by downtown Stockton restaurants. Delicato Vineyards will also provide wine. 6:30 p.m. $15-$35. Bob Hope Theatre, 242 Main St., Stockton, (209) 337-HOPE, www.bobhopetheatre.com.

 

Chili Cook Off and Car Show

October 18, Acampo

Woodbridge Winery will be hosting this statewide event, put on by the Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI), where world champion chili chefs and local chili masters meet together to fight for the rights to call themselves the best. The event also features vintage cars and motorcycles, with over one hundred models expected to be on display. Proceeds benefit the Lodi Public Library Foundation. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Woodbridge Winery, 5950 E. Woodbridge Rd., Acampo, (209) 365-8139, www.woodbridgewines.com.

 

Lodi’s First Sip

November 8-9, Lodi

Our local wine country has found a winner with the now-annual First Sip event. Over thirty wineries will invite ticket-holders into their vineyards for exclusive samplings, blending seminars, cellar tours, and local live entertainment. Hop from vineyard to vineyard with your ticket, a weekend pass to all the participating vineyards. Wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike will be able to meet with the winemakers and take pleasure in the ‘fruit of their labor’ over the two-day affair. Purchase tickets at the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center; designated drivers can enjoy the event for free. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., each day. $35-$45. Lodi Wine Country, (209) 365-0621, www.firstsiplodi.com.

 

Brasil Brazil at the Grand

November 15, Tracy

Ever since the Grand Theatre opened its doors earlier this year, Tracy has seen some spectacular shows come its way. Brasil Brazil is no exception. Traditional music comes to life with enthusiasm and fervor as Brazilian vocalists educate and entertain alongside authentic percussion instruments in dance and musical styles that are unmistakable. Jazz infusions will peek their way through the traditional songs, and Latin and African drumming will energize your mood and make you want to stomp your feet. 8 p.m. $25-$30. Grand Theatre, 715 Central Ave., Tracy, (209) 831-6858, www.atthegrand.org.

 

Festival of Trees November 21-23, Tracy

Sutter Tracy Community Hospital is once again holding its county-famous Festival of Trees, a three-day event that raises money for the community. With different events each day (all of them highly anticipated), reservations should be made early to save your spot at events such as the black-tie Premiere Night Soiree, Silver Bell Social, the ever-popular Teddy Bear Tea, Jingle Bell Jam dinner, and Sunday’s Family Breakfast with Santa. Saturday and Sunday will be open for general admission ticket holders, who can check out various booths filled with holiday boutique ideas and displays, children’s craft areas, a café, and photos with Santa. Ticket prices and times vary for each event. Reservations can be made at (209) 832-6052. SJM