Exploring Arts and Entertainment in Stockton, California

Situated in Downtown Stockton, the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery proudly showcases local artists' works with a focus on Mexican culture. Founded in the late '90s, the gallery welcomes residents and visitors to experience the diversity of Latin culture through art, dance, and music—combining each to honor the traditions held dear by our friends and neighbors to the South and their descendants living here in California.

For over 70 years, audiences have been wowed by Stockton Civic Theatre's (SCT) dedication to the stage and craft with memorable performances. With 9 shows running each year, SCT brings to the Central Valley classic theatre and more modern writings featuring a cast of talent that never misses a beat—or their blocking. Plus, the Pam Kitto Black Box provides a perfect venue for more personal, character-driven, intimate performances. Check out the youth summer productions too, and see the next generation of Broadway stars right here in Stockton.

The Stockton Chorale has been an integral part of the Central Valley’s musical life for over sixty years. The chorale offers four exhilarating choral music concerts at Central United Methodist Church. The chorale performs a wide range of music, from a classical mass to American folk music, and premieres brand-new pieces. Plus, they tend to offer special engagements during the Holiday season as well.

After a $2.5 million renovation, the Haggin Museum’s fine art galleries are a must-see and remain a hidden gem that deserves the spotlight! This fine art and local history museum holds world-renowned paintings and also hosts a fantastic array of traveling exhibitions. Special events and free admission days are also available.

Located on Stockton's Miracle Mile, the Stockton Art League and Goodwin Gallery houses an eclectic mix of amateur, professional, and semi-professional artist works. This spot is run by an enthusiastic group of art lovers focused on sharing their love with residents and visitors alike. Each month, an artist is featured with a reception to present their creative works to the community. Moreover, the art on display here is available for sale—allowing visitors to walk away with a piece of Stockton art to enjoy for years to come.

Easily one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre has brought entertainment into the lives of Stocktonians and visitors for well over 90 years. From nationally recognized musical acts to local showcases, this ornate gem is truly a must-visit when looking to experience the arts in Stockton. In addition to those aforementioned performances, this legendary spot is home to the Friends of the Fox Classic Movie Series, where classic films from the '30s to '90s return to the silver screen once a month. And just to drive home how iconic the Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre is, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places—and that's not just because of the marble mosaic floor that encompasses a 1,200-square-foot space in the center of the lobby.

While providing a beautiful space for Yoga, The Catalyst also doubles as an art studio. This inclusive space—resting in Yosemite Street Village right across from the San Joaquin Pride Center—hosts art shows, music events, pop-up food events, and many other creative venues in an intimate venue space. Plus, the people in charge are an amazing bunch that promotes wellness and are inspired to advance a community that encourages the arts!

Located on San Joaquin Street, Art Expressions of San Joaquin—inside the San Joaquin County Administration Building—showcases the beautiful art created throughout the county. This venue displays and promotes the original works of local and regional artists, while also sharing these individuals' expertise in the field of arts and crafts with the general public. There's also no admission fee, so residents and visitors are free to enter and experience the magnificent art pieces made by local talent.

A love for the arts can be acquired later in life or it can be something you're born with. For those youths with a love for the theatrical, there's the KUDOS Children's Theatre Company. Their mission is simple: To ignite the imagination of children and to celebrate their work with their families and community through theatre. KUDOS specializes in theatrical productions, year-round programs, and classes that provide opportunities for all ages at all levels. No matter the age, the focus is on the love for the art.

Situated directly in Historic Yosemite Street Village at 937 N Yosemite St., the San Joaquin Pride Center celebrates local LGBTQ+ artists every month on their gallery walls. The Queer Artists spotlighted seek to empower and uplift the diversity, inclusion, and beauty of ALL HUMANS. Artist receptions are hosted on the first Tuesday of each month from 6-8pm. See you there!

Art featured below is by Benjamin Slater (Instagram: @bijou.bentley)

The oldest conservatory of music in the United States west of the Mississippi River is situated right here in Stockton. The Conservatory of Music at the University of the Pacific produces over 130 events including performances by the University Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensembles, University Bands, and Choirs. It also hosts the nationally award-winning Pacific Opera Theatre, known to delight audiences with a fully staged opera that is both accessible and affordable. Standing tall amongst the beautiful architecture of Pacific, The Conservatory of Music is an exquisite home for music.

Located on the San Joaquin Delta College campus, the LH Horton Jr Gallery promotes a space for diverse, intriguing, and quality artwork. Supporting the artistic education of the student body as well as providing another option in local art, this beautiful space—located on the ground floor of the Shima Center—offers excellent exhibition opportunities for artists, arts educators, guest curators, and more. You can also check out annual exhibitions in the Spring semester and many more special events.

Right next to the Stockton Ballpark is one of the largest structures in the city: Adventist Health Arena. Home to the Stockton Kings, the arena has housed scores of musical acts throughout the years—including the likes of E-40, Snoop Dogg, Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Doobie Brothers, and Ice Cube. With over 12,000 seats and 24 luxury suites, this venue is perfect for rocking the night away. Moreover, the arena also houses StocktonCon in the summer and winter, providing plenty of room to house all the performers, artwork, and cosplay that comes with the event.

Find a full list of arts and entertainment venues in Stockton here.

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