10 Great Dates

compiled by KATY BERRY

Down to the Sea 

Through August 21, Lodi
This striking exhibition displays the work of local fine artists and their depictions of the mysterious and powerful ocean. Come enjoy the many pieces inspired by our beautiful coast and let yourself get washed away by the rich images of waves, beaches, squalls, and ships. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Knowlton Gallery, 115 S. School St., Ste. 14, Lodi, (209) 368-5123, www.knowltongallery.com

4th of July Day in the Park

July 4, Tracy
Bring your friends and family to Tracy this Fourth of July for a full day of activities. The celebration starts bright and early with a hot air balloon lift off and hot pancake breakfast. After that, catch the patriotic parade, games, carnival rides, food, and live entertainment until 7 p.m. But that’s not all: Don’t miss the fireworks display after the sun goes down. 6 a.m.-7 p.m., fireworks at 9:45 p.m. $4 adults, $3 children. Lincoln Park at Eaton and East Sts., Tracy, (209) 835-2131, www.tracychamber.org

Rihanna with Ke$ha

July 9, Sacramento
After signing with Def Jam Records in 2004, Rihanna immediately took the music industry by storm and began producing instant hits like “Pon de Replay,” “S.O.S.,” and “Umbrella.” Hailing from Barbados, her music combines the rhythms of her island roots with the smooth beats of R&B to create a sound that can’t help but make you want to move. See her with opening act Ke$ha, another young talent who is exploding onto the scene. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $20-$90. Arco Arena, 1 Sports Parkway, Sacramento, (916) 928-6900, www.arcoarena.com

Lodi Cycle Fest

July 11, Lodi
Bike enthusiasts of all ages can come together in downtown Lodi to enjoy Cycle Fest, featuring food, music, raffles, and vendors. Bikers can join one of the pro or amateur races happening that day, and there will be free beach cruiser races for adults and kids throughout downtown Lodi. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Downtown Lodi, (209) 810-6654, www.deltavelo.com

LIVE! at Lincoln Center

July 16, Stockton
This charity event is set up like an All American block party. Non-profit charity booths will be set up to raise money, and merchants will be hosting in-store promotions like trunk shows and other special sales for visitors. Restaurants will be bustling, and musicians will provide live music throughout the Center. This is a great way to enjoy the charming area and help support noble charities. 6-9 p.m. Free. Lincoln Center, Benjamin Holt and Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 477-4868, www.lincolncentershops.com

Stockton Roller Derby: The Port City Roller Girls vs. Mendocino Mayhem

July 17, Stockton
If you’re looking for a rowdy good time, come watch some of the fiercest ladies in sports battle it out on the rink as they team up to score points and knock their opponents down. You’ll have a blast cheering for your favorite players, and you’ll get to support a local grassroots organization. Doors open 7 p.m., game starts 8 p.m. $15 adults, $12 in advance, $5 children under 12. San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, Building 1, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton, (888) 993-3729,
www.brownpapertickets.com, www.myspace.com/portcityrollergirls

Sparks in the Park

July 17, Lodi
Join Randy Sparks of The New Christy Minstrels as he and other musical guests serenade you on the lawn of the San Joaquin Historical Museum. Guests will enjoy a live outdoor concert and a tri-tip dinner, and all proceeds benefit the Micke Grove Zoological Society and the San Joaquin County Historical Society. Social hour 6 p.m., dinner 7 p.m., show 8 p.m. $70 per person. Micke Grove Park, 11793 N. Micke Grove Road, Lodi, (209) 953-3460, www.thenewchristyminstrels.com,   www.sanjoaquinhistory.org

Lincoln Center Movie Night: Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs

July 24, Stockton
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to Lincoln Center for an outdoor film screening. The movie of choice is Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, based on the beloved children’s book by Judi and Ron Barrett. Food will be available for purchase from Dad’s Dogs and David’s Pizza. Live music begins at 6:30 p.m., film begins at 8:30 p.m. Admission is free. Lincoln Center, Benjamin Holt Dr. and Pacific Ave, Stockton, (209) 477-4868, www.lincolncentershops.com

Stockton Ports Fireworks Game

July 31, Stockton
Come see where Dallas Braden got his start in baseball, and enjoy America’s favorite pastime this summer. The Stockton Ports will be playing the Modesto Nuts in this local baseball matchup, so come eat a hot dog, drink a cold beer, and support your team. Post-game fireworks show to follow. Game begins at 7:05 p.m. Tickets $12. Banner Island Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 644-1900, www.stocktonports.com

Stockton Obon Bazaar

July 31-August 1, Stockton
This celebration of the Buddhist culture invites people of all backgrounds to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the East. There will be entertainment throughout the weekend including the Taiko Drum opening ceremony, martial arts exhibitions, traditional Japanese Odori dancing, tea ceremonies, and much more. Enjoy games for all ages, raffles, and unique Bonsai and sword displays for visitors to browse and shop. Be sure to sample the cuisine: udon, curry, teriyaki, and sushi. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Stockton Buddhist Temple, 2820 Shimizu Dr., Stockton, (209) 466-6701, www.stocktonbuddhisttemple.org

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