My First Stockton Kings Game

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Alvin Cho

On April 4^th, I went to see a Stockton Kings play-off game against the Santa Cruz Warriors, that started at 7:00 PM. There was plenty of parking nearby, so it was easy to park in Fremont East Lot, which has a clear view of the freshly updated Stockton Kings crosswalk mural.

As soon as I entered the Adventist Health Area, the home of the Stockton Kings, I was given a free T-shirt with the Stockton Kings logo on it. The arena was a bit smaller than a regular NBA arena, but thanks to that, I could see the players and the game closer. The person I was with said that you can buy seats right next to the court at an affordable price.

Various performances for the audience were held during the game; during a few of them, the audience could participate directly on the court to win prizes. The best performers were the athletic Stockton Kings dancers.

The end of the game was the most exciting, with everyone yelling and cheering for the home team’s victory. Fortunately, the Kings took the win, 112-109! They are officially moving forward in the G-League play-offs.

For those who find the price of attending NBA games burdensome, or who are eager for a close-up view of competitive basketball players, coming to Stockton’s Adventist Health Arena is a great option. The next Kings play-off game is happening this Sunday, April 7^th, @ 6:00 PM. Be sure to buy your tickets below! To learn more about the Stockton Kings, check out our recent Talk to Downtown interview with Aaron Morales, VP – Business Operations, Stockton Kings.

For April 7^th Kings Tickets: https://gleague.nba.com/game/2042300311?view=pre-game

For 2024-2025 Season Stockton Kings Tickets: https://stockton.gleague.nba.com/season-ticket-memberships

Stockton Kings website: https://stockton.gleague.nba.com

DSA’s Stockton Kings business listing: https://www.downtownstockton.org/businesses/stockton-kings

Stockton Ports: A Preview of the Upcoming 2024 Season

Posted on March 7, 2024March 7, 2024 by Shaun Chatrath

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By Shaun Chatrath

As the Stockton Ports gear up for the highly anticipated 2024 baseball season, fans and players alike are bubbling with excitement and anticipation. The team has been hard at work during the off-season, refining their skills and building upon their strengths in preparation for the challenges that lie ahead.

Fans can expect to see thrilling matchups, dazzling plays, and unforgettable moments as the team vies for victory in every game they play. The coaching staff has been diligently strategizing and fine-tuning their game plans to ensure that the Ports are well-equipped to take on their opponents. From intense infield drills to batting practice sessions, every effort is being made to ensure that the team is in top form for the upcoming season.

Even the playing field at Banner Island Ballpark has been renovated to guarantee peak performance.

To ensure that fans in attendance have the best game day experience possible, the Ports are continuing various promotions and giveaways from last year and having special themed nights.

Stockton Ports General Manager Jordan Feneck has stated “We are ecstatic that the 2024 season is filled with a variety of different promotions, theme nights, and giveaways, making it one of our most jam-packed promotional calendars to date. We currently have 17 giveaways, 14 firework shows, and 4 specialty jersey nights listed, and we can’t wait to see our stands filled with residents of Stockton and surrounding communities. We could not do this without our fans, which is why we pride our organization in our ability to provide affordable, family fun in the great city of Stockton.”

To view a calendar of the Stockton Ports promotions and nights, please look below.

As the Stockton Ports embark on their journey toward another exciting season of baseball don’t forget to follow them on social media (@stocktonports). Get ready to cheer, celebrate, and support your favorite players as they chase their dreams and strive for greatness on the baseball diamond. Stockton Ports fans, get ready for an unforgettable season ahead!

To learn more about the Stockton Ports, check out our Talk to Downtown interview with Jordan.

Stockton Ports home venue: Banner Island Ballpark

Adventist Health Arena address: 404 West Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203

Parking is available in the Banner Island Ballpark’s two parking lots: located in front and to the side of the ballpark. Parking lots accept credit cards, ATM, and cash payments.

Tickets available at the Banner Island Ballpark box office or through mlb.tickets.com

WANT TO WIN STOCKTON PORTS TICKETS? Follow the Downtown Stockton Alliance on social media for a chance to receive single-game Stockton Ports tickets throughout the season.

Stockton Kings: A Preview of the Remaining 23/24 Season

Posted on February 8, 2024February 8, 2024 by Shaun Chatrath

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By Shaun Chatrath

Are you looking for a fun event for the whole family? The Stockton Kings is your answer.

Since relocating to Stockton in 2018 from Reno, the Stockton Kings have brought fast-paced energy to the newly named Adventist Health Arena while offering a platform for up-and-coming players to showcase their talents. In addition, the Stockton Kings actively engage with the local community through various outreach programs and events, aiming to make a positive impact beyond the basketball court. Through initiatives such as youth basketball camps, school visits, and charitable activities, the team has sought to connect with fans and contribute to the growth and well-being of Stockton and its surrounding areas.

As a G League team, the Stockton Kings serve as a developmental affiliate for the Sacramento Kings, allowing young players to gain experience and hone their skills in a professional environment. This partnership helps in nurturing talent and preparing players for potential future opportunities in the NBA. As a result of this partnership, Stockton Kings attendees can see NBA-level basketball players at a budget-friendly price.

What are some of the promotions the Stockton Kings are running this season?
- The Stockton Kings will continue to host a variety of theme nights throughout the season.
- The Stockton Kings will celebrate Black History Night (2/10), Mental Health Awareness Night presented by CalHope (3/1), Hispanic Heritage Night (3/8), AAPI Night presented by Stockton Honda (3/10), Dunkson’s Birthday presented by First 5 California (3/17), Women’s Empowerment Night presented by Jamba (3/21) and Fan Appreciation Night presented by Red Hawk (3/23).
- Additionally, the team will host a 209 Night showing the pride of our area (2/9), Education Day with local students (2/28) and Marvel Night (3/2).
- The Stockton Kings will also host a Kings Collide game at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento (3/7).
- A full list of promos can be found at StocktonKings.com/Promotions.
What are some of the things you are excited about for this current Stockton Kings season?
- We are thrilled to welcome fans to each of our games as we celebrate 5-years in Stockton!
- We are pleased to partner with KMAX31 to broadcast all Friday, Saturday, and Sunday home games during the season.
- We are proud to be a part of the 209 community and look forward to continuing to make an impact on and off the court.
- We are excited about our new Head Coach Lindsey Harding.
- We have added to our fan engagement online via sweepstakes, with a new sweepstakes each month. Also, we have our full-season sweepstakes, Courtside Kings, where fans can enter to win two free courtside seats to a Stockton Kings home game.
- The season, we are excited to host a Stockton Kings game at Golden 1 Center: March 7 competition against the Capitanes de Ciudad de Mexico at 11 a.m. ahead of the Sacramento Kings vs. San Antonio Spurs game. The game will feature exciting entertainment from the Kings Breakers on March 7 and at select concessions, there will be a special $5 hot dog, popcorn, and beer option available.
What are the team’s main goals for this season?
- We look forward to welcoming fans to family-friendly games.
- Off the court, our goal is to further encourage healthy living in our community and help build a culture of health and wellness throughout the region.
Going to the opening home game the other day, I noticed that the walkway behind Section 118 to 124 had a popup team store and NBA 2k league game, are there plans to add even more to that walkway for attendees?
- We are committed to creating the best fan experience and continue to explore activations that will add to the game day!
- We will continue to enhance our Kid Zone on the Fan Deck to include games and activities. Additionally, the merchandise kiosks will remain open throughout the season.

Stockton Kings home venue: Adventist Health Arena

Adventist Health Arena address: 248 West Fremont Street, Stockton, CA 95203

Parking is available at the Adventist Health Arena Garage located next to the arena. In addition, there are surface spaces available along Fremont Street. Surface lots and the parking garage accept credit cards, ATM, and cash payments.

Tickets available at the Adventist Health Arena box office or through Ticketmaster.com

WANT TO WIN STOCKTON KINGS TICKET! Follow the Downtown Stockton Alliance on social media for a chance to receive single game Stockton Kings tickets throughout the season.

The Stockton Lantern Festival: A Central Valley Wonderland

Posted on November 30, 2023December 1, 2023 by Shaun Chatrath

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By Shaun Chatrath

There’s a magical event taking place at Banner Island Ballpark in Downtown Stockton, California this year. The Stockton Lantern Festival is a celebration of culture, art, and storytelling that illuminates the city and creates an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Each display at the ballpark is hand-crafted by lantern artisans using the ancient technique of Chinese lantern merged with the technological evolution of LED lighting.

Walking through the Lantern Festival, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Koda, a fearless adventurer as he journeys through a magical forest in Caballococha, Peru. Each sculpture and light fixture is strategically placed within Banner Island Ballpark’s playfield to further the story of Koda’s quest. Some of these art displays include butterflies, owls, and even a smoke-breathing dragon. In addition, live stage acts including a wide range of musical talent, dance, and acrobatics complement the visual experience of the Magic Forest.

“This was all about creating a safe, fun and family friendly event that would welcome the Stockton community and beyond” said Jason Perry, General Manager ASM Global. “From the moment one walks into the ballpark we want them to feel transformed to a magical place that is filled with bright lights, interactive lanterns and something awing at each turn. It is all about new traditions being made, life long memories that we can share for years to come.”

Moreover, for those looking for delicious specialty meals and drinks at the festival various Peruvian-inspired dishes are available for sale at each food stand around the Ballparks concession stands. These dishes include Peru Tacos made with seasoned ground chicken, tomatoes potatoes, green olives, jack cheese, and onion cilantro mix all on a flour tortilla. Top this dish off with delicious fruit spears covered in Tajin and Chamoy and you have yourself a recipe for an immersive experience. Don’t forget to also keep an eye out for souvenirs ranging from miniature art displays to festival merchandise available for sale around the ballpark.

The Stockton Lantern Festival is an extraordinary celebration that blends artistry, culture, and community spirit into a dazzling display of light. From the captivating lantern displays to the immersive cultural experiences, this festival offers a little something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of the Stockton Lantern Festival. It’s an event that will leave you feeling inspired, connected, and in awe of the power of illumination and artistic expression.

Tickets:

Children ages 2-12 start at $19

Adults start at $23

Special Discounts:

Military/Veterans: Save $5 with Valid ID with Proof of Service at Box Office.

Students: Save $3 at the gate on Wednesday’s only with your student ID at Box Office.

Groups: A $3 per ticket discount is available for groups of 10 or more. Call 209-373-1400 or email [email protected] to purchase.

Ticket Locations:

Adventist Health Arena Box Office – 248 W Fremont St. on the North Side of the building.

Monday 11am- 2pm

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: 11am- 2pm

Thursday: Closed

Friday: 11am- 2pm

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Stockton Ballpark Box Office – 404 W Fremont St.

11/25 – 1/14: 2pm to 9pm

Online Tickets are available at stocktonlive.com.

Festival hours/times:

5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM. Please give yourself around 1 hour and a half to enjoy the phenomenal view.

Acrobatic Stage Performance Times:

Mon to Thurs – 5:30, 7pm and 8:30pm

Fri-Sun- 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30pm

Location: Stockton Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton, Ca 95203

Parking: City Lots $15

Wheelchair Access: Yes. Please take note that the event is on grass and dirt.

Website Links / Sources:

http://www.stocktonlive.com

https://www.downtownstockton.org/businesses/banner-island-ballpark

www.visitstockton.org/events/stockton-lantern-festival

Best. Job. Ever

Posted on July 11, 2022March 15, 2023 by digitalgear

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by Gynae Davalos

Getting paid to do what you enjoy is a lifelong goal for many. But what happens when you actually DO reach that goal? Well, I just got this job and I’m freaking out.

What’s this place? Who owns this building? What was this before? Is it for lease? So many questions. . . .

I have to show and tell how awesome Downtown Stockton (and subsequently the whole city) is. I have to give reasons why everyone should come downtown more often. I have to encourage entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses to open or expand their companies downtown. I have to reassure the public that downtown is safe. I have to shine some light on businesses and services that may be on the brink of going out in hopes of possibly saving them. I have to inspire and motivate ideas to fill all the empty buildings and spaces speckled throughout downtown. I have to harness enough energy through my adventures to help revitalize all of downtown as soon as humanly possible.

But I only get 5 hours a day.

Good thing I’m on skates.

I’ll do the best I can do Downtown Stockton, but let’s help each other out! Events, meetings, celebrations, announcements, specials – I need to hear about ALL of it. PLEASE send me an email, a direct message, call me at the office, hand a DSA Safety Ambassador a flyer to give to me – however digitally or physically I can retrieve info, the sooner I can share and let everyone know about all the cool happenings downtown and continue to show and tell how awesome downtown is and is becoming.

I was born in Stockton and I’ve spent the majority of my life here. The grass is NOT greener on the other side. Everything we need to grow and flourish is right here. And I hope everyone rolls right along with me to help Downtown Stockton and the rest of our fine city continue to blossom and thrive. Because this is the best job ever and I love it here!

The Waterfront. From here, you can go anywhere.

Live music returns to downtown Stockton for new series

Posted on April 26, 2022 by digitalgear

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by Ben Sanchez

The Downtown Sounds music series launched this past month with some amazing rockin’ sounds from Haywired. While their weekly music set is coming to an end, we had a variety of questions regarding this new, outdoor music event downtown. We wanted to take all your feedback and answer as many questions you have about Downtown Sounds. We all know you are curious about who is performing next in downtown. Let’s take a look at how this event has evolved over the past year.

What is Downtown Sounds?

Last year, the Downtown Stockton Alliance hosted a series of music events downtown with local musicians. The open space in Janet Leigh Plaza was a great opportunity to present a free outdoor event for the community. In May 2021, University of the Pacific’s Patrick Langham Jazz Sextet was the first group to appear in Janet Leigh Plaza performing live jazz outdoors!

The first outdoor music event was dubbed ‘Jazz in the Plazz’ and throughout the month had more attendance every Tuesday. With the success of the outdoor music series, two more monthly events would appear in 2021. The Mike Torres Jr. band would play in September for Torres Tuesdays and Phillip Bailey Moncrease appeared in October to bring more amazing sounds to downtown.

Initially, the music series did not have an official name tied to each monthly event downtown. Each musical performance was tied to a different, monthly title. This year, we wanted the music series to fall under one title as we introduce Downtown Sounds in 2022. With more performances planned throughout the year, you will want to follow our social media platforms to stay updated on who is playing live on Tuesday nights.

When is Downtown Sounds?

Our music series is every Tuesday night at Janet Leigh Plaza.

Live music starts at 6 PM and will run until 8 PM.

Is there a charge for this event?

No. This event is FREE to the public.

Jazz in the Plazz highlight from 2021.

Will I need to bring a chair?

Plastic chairs will be provided. You may bring your own chair to this event. The plaza has plenty of space for you to sit and enjoy music.

Who has performed this year?

We reached out to Haywired, a “Rockin Americana” style band with dynamic vocals that are welcome sounds to downtown Stockton. With a versatile musical style, this band is inspired by country, rock, pop, folk, R&B and blues.

Will Jazz in the Plazz return to downtown?

Absolutely! We heard all the feedback from the community and are happy to announce that Jazz in the Plazz returns in May for our Downtown Sounds series. Langham, Professor and Program Director of Jazz Studies at the Conservatory of Music at University of the Pacific, is excited to perform for our community in downtown Stockton. You can catch live jazz downtown starting on May 3rd at 6 PM.

Are restaurants open during the live event?

Yes! All restaurants in the surrounding area of Janet Leigh Plaza will be open. Grab food during the show! Drinks are also allowed outdoors! Here is a list of restaurants in the plaza serving tasty food on Tuesday nights.

Grab food and drinks at the Plaza!

Share your #DowntownStockton experience

While you’re exploring downtown – snap a photo and share it on social media with us! Be sure to tag us in your photos at @Downtownstockton and use the hashtag #DowntownStockton for the chance to be featured on our social channels.

Check out the downtown vlog episodes on our YouTube channel!

Subscribe now and catch all new episodes in downtown Stockton.

Downtown Stockton Vlog

Local co-op offers sanctuary for small businesses

Posted on December 18, 2021 by digitalgear

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by Ayaana Williams

In the heart of downtown Stockton lies a hidden gem that is a symbol of local fashion, diversity, and creative influence for the adaptable nomads of the Central Valley.

DRYCLEANERS, is an LGBTQ+/POC-owned co-op store that offers local vendors and creators an opportunity to network, showcase, and sell their goods/art.

“The overall goal is to activate downtown and bring everyone together. We have lots of different communities here,” said Oliver Opus, co-owner of DRYCLEANERS. “We have the queer community, we have POC, we have the streetwear community, we have crafters and creators and musicians and drag queens, and this is a space where all of those people can co-mingle and experience each other’s worlds.”

In terms of activating downtown, DRYCLEANERS aims to invoke liveliness and connection to bring excitement and opportunity to such an underappreciated part of the city.

DRYCLEANERS is locally owned by long-time friends Ruschawn Williams and Oliver Opus, who met in Atlanta prior to moving to Stockton.

“I moved here a while ago and I didn’t really have a place in Stockton for myself,” said Opus. “I didn’t have a place to meet people like me or express interest that I have, so I decided to create it myself.”

Opus and Williams founded DRYCLEANERS after hosting several pop-up shops at Cast Iron Trading Co. and other local entities, using social media as an advertising ground.

A pop-up is a temporary shared retail space where small businesses can sell goods and services.

“Eric (Lee) next-door at Cast Iron was kind of one of the first people to allow me to venture into this,” said Opus. “He gave us the opportunity to do our first pop-up and that was really successful; and then we went on to do a second one here with Launchpad and that was so successful that Launchpad and Cast Iron had this idea to set up shop here, so we did.”

DRYCLEANERS has visitors and vendors travel from all over Northern California.

“Not only does this help us, but this also helps the community,” said Opus. “We do have people from San Francisco, Sacramento, and Oakland setting up shop here, but they don’t have to come here to sell their products; we have a system where we do that for them.”

Vendors pay a booth fee of $5-$15 a day and DRYCLEANERS keeps track of each individual sale with 100% of sales profits going back to the vendor.

Part of their goal is to support and uplift local artists by providing a platform to create passive income and build friendships that strengthen the community.

“We typically have an application in our bio, and we don’t turn people away,” said Opus. “We wanted to create opportunities for vendors to make money during a pandemic and it’s really hard to come across funds.”

People can find DRYCLEANERS on Instagram @shopdrycleaners as well as visit the storefront to meet the owners, vendors and local artists on San Joaquin St. in downtown Stockton.

Sweet Downtown Gifts and Treats For Your Valentine

Posted on February 11, 2021 by digitalgear

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Love is in the air, sweet chocolate and soft teddy bears line the shelves, red roses glisten in floral shops, cupid is shooting off his arrows, and there’s an abundance of heart-shaped everything. You know what this means: Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Whether you’re celebrating with bae or alone (nothing wrong with that, treat yo’self), we’ve compiled a list of sweet downtown gifts and treats you can pick up for your valentine!

Classic, Gorgeous Bouquets from Alex Floral Design

Keep it classic and classy this year with a fragrant bouquet of red roses for your Valentine from Alex Floral Design! Or, you can spice up your arrangement and add some different colors to the mix (pink roses, white lilacs, yellow sunflowers – the possibilities are endless!) Visit the Alex Floral Website to view their dazzling selection of fresh flower arrangements. Don’t forget to add a box of chocolates for a truly classic pairing.

Strawberry Ice Cream Cake Jars from D’lilah’s Cakery

A cake jar for Valentine’s Day? Yes, please! And let’s be honest – cake jars are great any time of year. D’lilah’s Cakery is offering special Strawberry Ice Cream Cake Jars only this Valentine’s Day Weekend, so don’t miss out on your chance to score on a scrumptious jar of fluffy strawberry cake and refreshing strawberry ice cream topped with fresh whipped cream and wafers. Get one to share with your Valentine, or skip sharing and grab one for each of you! Warning: once you step into the cakery, the temptation to buy one of every treat will be hard to resist!

Beautiful (and delicious!) Fruit Arrangements from Edible Arrangements

If your Valentine is a fruit lover, opt for a bouquet of fresh, chocolate dipped strawberries, bananas, pineapples, and more from Edible Arrangements in Downtown Stockton. Other delectable options also include cookie bundles, a Chocolate Strawberry Sweetheart Box, and Chocolate and Truffle boxes. Don’t forget to add on extra special treats like a cute card or balloon!

New Drinks from Empresso’s To Match the Valentine Vibe

Valentine’s Day means pink and red everything! Match the vibe perfectly by picking up one of Empresso Coffee House’s new pink or red-hued drinks: Dragonfruit Smoothie or Lemonade, or the Passion Dragon, which is an organic mango black tea with lemonade, passionfruit and dragonfruit. Pick up two of your faves with your Valentine and enjoy them on Empresso’s patio, or during a walk around downtown, or take ‘em home to enjoy!

Stationary Station and More to Show Your Love from The Freckled Moon

The Freckled Moon is known for its unique gifts and baubles, which already make it the perfect shop to visit when in search of cute valentine gifts! Their Stationary Station is full of amazing treasures that are perfect for Valentines who love to write, keep planners, scrapbook, and more! The Freckled Moon also has an array of items such as adorable potted succulents, fun jewelry, and lovely decorative pieces.

Think Flowers Are Overrated? Get Your Love a Succulent from FarOut Foliage

If your Valentine has a green thumb (or is interested in becoming a plant parent), drop by FarOut Foliage for a fantastic selection of unique plants! Not sure which one to choose or how to take care of them? Don’t worry- Nessie, the friendly owner of FarOut Foliage, LOVES talking plants! She’ll be more than happy to help you select the perfect new plant baby, and will share all the tips and tricks you need to keep it beautiful.

Spread the Love By Getting Dutch Bros

What if I told you you could get Dutch Bros and help our community at the same time? This Sunday, February 14th, is Dutch Luv Day, where $1 from every drink sold in Stockton Dutch Bros goes to the Emergency Food Bank of Stockton to help fight hunger. On average, $1 donated can pay for three meals. Now there’s even more of a reason to pick up Dutch Bros Cold Brews, Freezes, Frosts, Rebels, Teas, Smoothies, Sodas, Lemonades – you get the point, there’s so much to choose from! Now, not only will your Valentine love you for grabbing her/him Dutch Bros, but because you’re also helping a good cause!

Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a safe and lovely Valentine’s Day Weekend Downtown!

Feel the Holiday Spirit in Downtown

Posted on December 14, 2020 by digitalgear

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’Tis the season of twinkling lights, bright decorations, gift shopping and of course- holiday events! The holidays may look different this year because of the pandemic, but there are still many ways we can bring on the cheer! To help you fill up your calendar for the rest of the month, we’ve compiled a list of just a few things you can do in Downtown Stockton this year. Happy Holidays!

1. Vote in the DSA Holiday Contest

WHEN: Dec.14th – Dec. 17th at noon
WHERE: DSA Facebook and Instagram pages
This year, the DSA is hosting a Holiday Contest to challenge our Downtown Stockton businesses owners to share creative holiday photos featuring their business. Even if you’re not a downtown business owner, get involved by viewing the awesome photos and voting to help your favorite businesses win! To vote, head over to our Facebook and Instagram pages and leave a like on your favorite photos. The voting period begins on Monday, December 14th, and will end on Thursday, December 17th at noon. The photos will definitely have you feeling the spirit of Christmas!

2. Virtual Visits with Santa

WHEN: Book now! Available dates: Dec.16,19, 22 & 23
WHERE: Anywhere you want!
This year, the Children’s Museum of Stockton is hosting virtual visits with Saint Nicholas himself. Create a magical moment for you and your loved ones with a visit from the North Pole right into your home (no milk and cookies required!). Imagine how excited the kiddos will be to see and interact with the one, the only, Santa Claus right in their living room for a personalized visit. All proceeds will benefit the Children’s Museum of Stockton and Children’s Museum members receive special pricing. End the year with some magic!

3. Gift Shopping

There are two kinds of people: those who get their Christmas shopping done early, and those who scramble for those last-minute gifts! Whichever you are (we fall into the second category), we’re here to give you some ideas. Our local businesses need our support more than ever, and the holidays are the perfect time to shop local to find fun gifts for your friends and family. Walk into the Freckled Moon for unique gifts and trinkets of all kinds or visit FarOut Foliage to pick up a lush plant that can up the aesthetic of any room. Venture into Edible Arrangements to pick out a beautiful (and delicious) arrangement made of your favorite chocolate covered fruits or opt for a more traditional floral arrangement from Alex Floral. Several downtown restaurants, eatieries, and coffee shops, such as The Downtowner and Trail Coffee Roasters also offer gift cards, which can make great stocking stuffers or gifts on their own. Take a look at our complete directory of downtown businesses to plan your gift search and happy shopping!

4. Treat yourself

Anytime is a good time for self care, but its especially nice to treat yourself at the end of a long year- especially this one! Downtown Stockton is full of salons and barbershops, such as Natural Do and The Golden Rose Barbershop, ready to give you a fresh cut or new look for the holidays. If you’re looking for a refreshing skin treatment, head over to The Beauty Base. During the month of December, 20% from all of their sales/appointments will be used to create care packages for the homeless. Enjoy smooth skin and support a good cause. Speaking of skin, why not gift yourself a brand new tattoo for the holidays? We know you’ve been thinking about it. If you’re unsure about a new hairstyle, facial, or new tattoo, just remember these words: treat yo’self.

5. Indulge in sweets

Add sweet treats to the holiday menu by picking up some scrumptious goods downtown. D’lilah’s Cakery is having their end-of-the-year sale from December 23rd to December 24th from 11am-4:30pm! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to score cupcakes, sweet jars, and cheesecake for some insanely low prices. If you’re looking for some homemade pie to add to the table on Christmas Day, look no further than Trail Coffee Roasters. Choose from sweet potato pie, pear crumble, and mixed berry pie (or get all three) and place your order today. Order by December 17th and pick up at the downtown Trail location on Christmas Eve. Delivery is also available.

Now, we hope you’ve made some new plans for the remainder of December. Thank you for your continued support of our wonderful downtown businesses. We wish you Happy Holidays and look forward to seeing you next year!

Enjoy Downtown From Your Own Living Room

Posted on August 21, 2020 by digitalgear

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In efforts to stay safe and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, many upcoming events have been cancelled or postponed until further notice. However, this doesn’t mean you have to sit at home bored out of your mind during your free time! Today, we decided to compile a list of ways you can enjoy yourself from the comforts of your home- from following tutorials to participating in virtual events, there’s something for everyone!

Events

Virtual FMR
This year, our Full Moon Riders (FMR) event is going virtual! Normally, Full Moon Riders are monthly group bike rides that take place between the months of April and October. The rides typically begin at the Janet Leigh Plaza and end at a downtown restaurant. This year, we will be hosting one virtual FMR bike ride, which means you can bike the predetermined route at your own pace during the month of September! Follow the route, snap pictures along the way (more details to come), send them in to us, and you’ll receive a free FMR face mask and a $20 meal voucher (valid at select downtown eateries)! Additional details will be on our Facebook page soon.

StocktonCon Online
Are you an artist or cosplayer? Are you a fan of all things pop culture? Then make sure to check out this year’s virtual StocktonCon! The event took place August 15th-16th, but all of the livestreams are still available on their Facebook page. Enjoy art tutorials from professional artists and various panels: supreme pro wrestling, cosplay, voice acting panels, and more. Next year’s StocktonCon will take place at the Stockton Area on August 14-15th, so there’s plenty of time to prepare that new cosplay!

Talk to Downtown
Every second Wednesday of the month, the Downtown Stockton Alliance hosts our Talk to Downtown Facebook Livestream. Our goal is to connect you to city, county, and other organizations to answer any questions you may have about our local community. Getting the your questions to us is easy- just leave a comment during the livestream or send an email to our Marketing Director, Jessica, prior to the livestream! This month, our featured guest was Stockton’s City Manager, Harry Black. If you missed the live, you can watch it (and all of our other previous Talk to Downtown livestreams) on our Youtube Channel.

Stockton Strong Marketplace
The Stockmarket is a curated marketplace that features some of the best local crafts, art, and street food. It’s been postponed, but you can still support local artists and makers from home by shopping online at the Stockton Strong Marketplace! Here you’ll find unique earrings to add to your jewelry box, seasoning spice blends to flavor your next meal, aromatic candles to gracefully light up the dark corners of your room, and much more. Happy shopping!

DSA Takeout Challenge
Win a FREE DSA water bottle just for supporting our downtown eateries! It’s a win-win situation for all sides- you get free swag, AND you get to enjoy eating at delicious downtown restaurants. American food, Mexican food, Japanese food, Asian food… so many options, you may struggle to choose! Learn more about the challenge here.

Learn Something New

Advanced Entrepreneurship Online Program
Are you a business owner facing some business challenges? Then this FREE upcoming workshop, hosted by Centro Community Partners, is for you! The best part? You’ll receive over 30 hours of training, coaching, and guidance right from home. All you need is a smartphone or computer, and the dedication to making your business the best it can be! Register before August 27th to reserve your spot.

Show Your Hair Some Love
Just because we’re staying inside doesn’t mean we shouldn’t show some love to our hair! Natural Do, a natural hair care salon catering to individuals with kinky, curly, and wavy hair posts hair tips and tutorials on their Facebook page. The videos feature Valonne Smith, founder and CEO of Natural Do. Her passion and knowledge make following the videos a breeze, so grab your brush and mirror and get started! If you’re up for some reading, Valonne’s E-Book, Girl, Get Your Hair Back Too! The Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Hair Healthier, Fuller, and Longer is also available for purchase.

Become a Plant Enthusiast
Plant lovers rejoice! FarOut Foliage, a new plant shop specializing in rare and unique plants, is opening downtown on Monday, August 24th! Netzel Huffhines, plant enthusiast (she has a personal collection of over 300 plants!) and owner, is excited to share her passion and knowledge of plants with anyone who may be interested in becoming a plant parent (or is already one!). Check out her Instagram page to see some of her gorgeous plants and to learn some plant care tips.

Read our Blog
Looking for some light reading? With over 100 blogs on our website (and counting!), you’ll have a lot to choose from! From community member spotlights, local business highlights, and more, keep yourself entertained and learn something new about downtown.

For the Kids

Children’s Museum of Stockton shares Fun Activities to Do at Home
Although the Children’s Museum of Stockton is closed to the public, the learning and fun continues online! Visit the museum’s website and Facebook page to find fun activities for the kiddos- and hey, you can join in, too (besides, do you really trust your kids with that food coloring?)! Partake in crafting popsicle stick pencils, paper roll apple cores, and many other creations that inspire imagination and creativity.

Reading (and Crafting) is Fun!
Drop by the San Joaquin County Public Library’s Facebook page for lively story times, interesting D.I.Y. craft ideas, and fun book recommendations. Perfect for the little ones, and guaranteed to keep their attention! If there’s a book calling your name and you’d like to borrow it from the library, check out their website for more information about their curbside service.

Bonus: Every Thursday, the library also hosts a Chavez Spanish Club over Zoom. If you’ve ever wanted to learn Spanish, now’s the perfect time!

Now that you’ve got some (virtual) plans added to your calendar, we’ve got one reminder for you: have fun!