Love Fills the Air in Downtown Stockton

Posted on February 12, 2026February 12, 2026 by Intern DSA

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BY: ROSE SON

For the month of February, Downtown Stockton businesses and organizations are showing out with lovely, Valentine’s Day themed activities. With events and deals catered to lovers, families, and friends, anyone and everyone can join in on the fun! So, if you have yet to plan your V-day outing, check out these places!

Love a Good Deal?

These downtown businesses are providing the sweetest deals this week.

Mango Crazy is bringing back a Buy One Get One Free special for their fresh, fruity smoothies. This week from February 9^th to February 15^th , come with a friend, family member, or lover for a second smoothie on the house.

Location: 222 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95202

Stockton Tattoo and Piercing is having a flash tattoo sale for Friday the 13^th. Come in as early as 10AM and as late as 9PM for your pre-designed Valentine’s Day themed tattoo!

Location: 742 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA 95202

Ink’em Out is hosting a Friday the 13th Valentine’s Special with love inspired flash tattoos. Choose between black and red ink and a wide variety of designs as their client-ine!

Location: 159 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202

For a limited time, Adventist Health Arena is having a Valentine’s Day sale for the MercyMe performance happening in April. All tickets starting February 9^th until February 14^th will only be $25 for this show!

Location: 248 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95203

Uniqo Salon has all your hair needs this Valentine’s week from February 13th – February 15^th. With $14 off deals, complimentary roses, and signature drinks, they’re giving you a salon experience like no other. Celebrate yourself or your lover with hair care and more here.

Location: 36 N California St, Stockton, CA 95202

In Search for a Date Night?

Still haven’t made reservations? Don’t worry, we won’t tell. What we can’t keep secret are these exclusive date night experiences happening the night of February 14^th, 2026.

Delta Bistro & Lounge at University Plaza is curating a special night for couples in search of a luxury staycation. With a curated menu for two, photobooths, and guest performance from DJ June, a night at the hotel is bound to be romantic.

Location: 110 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA 95202

Fed Restaurant is curating the right vibes with their RnB Valentine’s night. Musician RudyOnTheSax will be setting the mood with melodies played from his saxophone. Come by with a reservation from 7pm – 9pm to experience this unforgettable event.

Location: 116 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202

Cast Iron Trading Co is providing lovers with immaculate tunes from live music performed by local Central Valley band Loves Therapy this Valentine’ Day. They’re cooking up a special menu with both omnivore and vegan options, making this unique spot for all.

Location: 114 N San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA 95202

Malecon Antro Bar is collaborating with instructor Emelie to give you and your date Salsa Lessons! Come by at 8pm and dance the night away while enjoying live mixes from DJ Omar.

Location: 30 S El Dorado St, Stockton, CA

After dinner plans, make your way to Regal Stockton City Center for the Valentine’s weekend premiere of Wuthering Heights featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. This romantic drama film is based off the classic written by Emily Bronte, and you won’t want to miss it!

Location: 222 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95202

For the Girls

Love isn’t just for the romantic partners in your life. They’re also for celebrating your girlfriends this weekend at these events. Here in Downtown Stockton, businesses know that Galentine’s Day is just as important, and here are the events to show for that.

Fed Restaurant is hosting a Galentine’s Girl Dinner for all the girls looking to celebrate their friends on Friday, February 13th. There will be a special guest bartender, photobooth opportunity, DJ, and even karaoke. Make your reservation now.

Location: 116 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95202

Cucoetc Events has a Botas y Tejana Paint and Sip night on Valentine’s Eve. This girl only event includes Banda, Grupo and Corrido hits from the 90s and 2000s curated by MouthfulofMark so come dressed festively in pink and red and get your groove on.

Location: 445 W Weber Ave, Stockton, CA

The House of Pita is celebrating both the taken and single folks this year on Valentine’s Day. Starting at 6pm on Saturday, there will be music, food, and dancing at the House of Pita Party.

Location: 445 W Weber Ave, Stockton, CA 95203

The Stockton Junk Journal Club is coming to Trail Coffee in Downtown Stockton for a Galentine’s meeting on February 22, 2026. Bring your journal, markers, and scrapbooking decals to enjoy a wholesome journaling session.

Location: 501 E. Main Street, Stockton, CA 95202

If you’re stuck on how to spend your Valentine’s Day, come out to these special events and support your local Downtown Stockton businesses!

Authenticity You Can Taste: Granny’s Soul Food

Posted on February 9, 2026February 9, 2026 by Intern DSA

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By Andy Nguyen

Have you heard of the new soul food spot in Downtown Stockton? It’s called Granny’s Soul Food, and they opened last summer! Located at 28 S California St, Stockton, CA, they’re one of the most down-to-earth, sit-down-and-eat at restaurants around; they serve up delicious food in a family-like atmosphere that you can’t get anywhere else. I recently got to try them for the first time; let me tell you about it.

Taking it Old Fashioned

When I’m looking for a Ma n’ Pa shop, I’m hoping the look of the store is nothing too fancy or modernized. Granny’s keeps its vibe classic; a simple black and white sign letting you know it’s where to get soul food downtown. While the exterior of the shop keeps it simple, the interior dine-in area really draws you in. Beautiful lighting, mouth-watering smells, friendly chatter, and old school music enliven the small space – its a cozy place to eat, just like your grandma’s kitchen.

An Incredible Combo

Ordering from Granny’s is simple; you pick a choice of meat along with two sides of your choosing. Choosing the meat was easy, as their fried chicken is top notch. Deciding between the sides was more difficult than I thought. There’s candy yams, mac & cheese, red beans & rice, and collard greens. All of these side dishes are soul food classics which made me stump to pick two, but I finally settled on my personal favorites: candy yams and mac & cheese.

The fried chicken had a nice crunch with a tender bite inside. The mac & cheese packed so much flavor I was stunned it could be this good. And the candy yams were the perfect way to finish it off.

From Granny Herself

I got to speak with Granny about what made her want to open up the business, why she chose Downtown Stockton, and what to recommend to people who have never tried this place before.

She expressed that it was the idea of her daughter, Leticia, to open up their shop here. They had seen lots of soul food businesses in the Bay Area, but not many in Stockton, which gave her the idea to make her business here.

Granny also received feedback from her customers that they would love to have her business here in Downtown Stockton, where her food would mark a unique cuisine in the area.

Lastly, if you’ve never been to her shop before, she recommends getting the pork chop or fried catfish for your meat, and whichever sides you desire.

The Next Spot to Try

Granny’s Soul Food is a must-try spot to try when you’re in Downtown Stockton. From the classic, homestyle feel of the place to the amazing food that you’re served, this place is a gem. If you’re looking for the next restaurant to try here, this is it! They’re open 12:30pm to 7:30pm from Wednesday to Sunday—make your way here today!

Information

📍Address: Granny’s Soul Food – 28 S California St, Stockton CA 95202

📅Business Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 12:30PM – 7:30PM

📲Phone Number: 209.779.0127

📸Instagram: @grannys_soulfood209

🛍️Website: https://grannyssoulfoodstockton.com/grannys-soul-food-stockton/menu/28-S-California-St/

Emery’s — Downtown Stockton’s Newest Food Spot

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by Intern DSA

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By Andy Nguyen

Have you tried the newest food spot in Downtown Stockton? Located at 40 N. Sutter St., it’s called Emery’s—an American, Black-owned business that specializes in burgers, meats, and everything soul food! I recently visited for the first time; let me tell you about it.

What Feels Like a Mom-and-Pop Shop

The interior and exterior of the restaurant give it the feel of a classic “mom-and-pop” shop you’d find in a big city. The exterior maintains a simple, clean look on the first floor of a multi-story building. Their restaurant name outside supports this simple look with its bold white lettering set against a solid black background.

When you walk inside, the burst of gold and bronze on the walls is the first thing that catches your eye. This, complemented by bar seating with tall stools, makes it feel like a truly classic, old-fashioned eatery.

The Special Menu Experience

The menu offered plenty of options—it was hard to pick just one! I eventually ordered from their specials menu: a BBQ meal with a choice of meat and two sides.

Choosing the meat was easy, as they are best known for their tri-tip. However, narrowing down the sides—which include mac & cheese, fries, baked beans, potato salad, and greens—was a challenge. I finally settled on my personal favorites: fries and mac & cheese.

The tri-tip was tender with an amazing sauce. The mac & cheese had a subtle yet flavorful bite, and the thinly sliced fries were perfectly crispy. Combining that signature tri-tip flavor with my favorite childhood side dishes made this a fantastic first-time choice.

Have you seen our video on Emery’s? Watch it on our Instagram!

From The Owner Himself

I had the chance to speak with the owner, Emery, about his inspiration, why he chose Downtown Stockton, and what he recommends to newcomers.

Emery shared that he wanted to bring high-quality food to Stockton because this city is his home. His vision for the business is for it to become “a staple in our downtown community for the next 20 years.” He’s inspired to “spice up” Downtown Stockton, making this the perfect location.

If you’ve never been to Emery’s, he recommends the tri-tip BBQ sandwich meal. He also mentioned the “eclair cake,” a newly offered dessert: “It’s sweet, refreshing, and a spin on the definition of cake!”

The Next Spot to Try

Emery’s is easily one of the best restaurants I’ve tried in Downtown Stockton. From the selection of meats and burgers to the comforting side dishes, it has quickly become a favorite of mine. They’ve recently extended their hours until 10 PM every day—go try them out!

Information

📍Address: 40 N Sutter St, Stockton CA 95202

📅Business Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11AM – 10PM

📲Phone Number: 209.323.4154

📸Instagram: @emerys_stockton

🚗Doordash – https://www.doordash.com/store/emerys-stockton-north-sutter-st-stockton-38408173/

The best food cravings spot in Downtown Stockton: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Posted on August 7, 2025August 8, 2025 by Intern DSA

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BY ANDY NGUYEN

Lunchtime Cravings, Community Impact

The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks is serving the community in more ways than ever before! Located inside Courthouse Plaza in Downtown Stockton, it offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings, such as Carne Asada tacos, burritos, pizza, hamburgers, and their special Main Street House Fries.

In addition to satiating your hunger, they are dedicated to supporting youth. Launched as a social enterprise, it was founded by Main Street Youth Family and Services, whose goal is to empower youth through various outlets. Young staff members are involved in day-to-day operations, including the shop’s display, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment.

Where Talent and Passion Come Together

This year, The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks placed 2nd in Downtown Stockton’s 4th of July Decoration Contest. Blending in non-traditional decor items with an array of holiday-themed colors, it delivered a unique, enticing view that celebrated the spirit of the holiday. This also reflected the youth staff’s creative contributions, which gives the store a personal touch that customers notice and admire.

How One Purchase Goes a Long Way

By making a purchase of at least $5 dollars from a Courthouse Plaza business, you’re admitted free entry to the Underground Arcade. Here you can play an abundance of classic arcade games from pinball machines, street fighter games, air hockey, free-throw basketball, and more! A quick bite to eat before indulging the arcade is the perfect way to spend your day while supporting the community in Downtown Stockton.

The Newest Way to Enjoy The Kitchen

Recently, their business has expanded into online ordering. You can order ahead of time and skip the line; who doesn’t like that? Whether you’re an early bird needing breakfast fuel or craving a lunchtime must-have, this is a perfect spot to visit in Downtown Stockton. Support local business and order now!

Order Online Here: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Information

Location: 306 E. Main Street, Suite 203, Stockton, CA 95202

Summer Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00AM – 2:00PM

Website: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Instagram: @thekitchenatplazaperks

Facebook: The Kitchen at Plaza Perks

Order Online: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

🍜Discovering Johnny Wokker: A New Culinary Gem in Downtown Stockton

Posted on June 24, 2025June 24, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Olivia Lee

Downtown Stockton has welcomed an exciting new addition to its dining scene with the opening of Johnny Wokker, a vibrant Asian restaurant that promises to bring authentic flavors right to the heart of our city. About two months ago, this restaurant opened its doors for the first time in downtown, conveniently located right next to Regal Cinema, making it the perfect spot for a pre-movie dinner. As someone always on the lookout for great Asian cuisine, I couldn’t wait to experience what Johnny Wokker had to offer.

A Delightful Dining Experience

Walking into Johnny Wokker, I was immediately impressed by the spacious and comfortable interior. The restaurant has a surprisingly large layout that feels both welcoming and modern, creating an atmosphere where you can truly relax and enjoy your meal. For my dining experience, I decided to try two of their signature dishes: the Pad See Ew and Crab Fried Rice with Shrimp.

The Pad See Ew was absolutely phenomenal – featuring perfectly cooked spicy noodles tossed with tender beef and fresh vegetables that created a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each bite delivered just the right amount of heat and savory flavor that left me wanting more. The Crab Fried Rice with Shrimp was equally impressive, packed with generous portions of fresh crab meat and plump shrimp, all well-seasoned and fried to perfection.

What struck me most was not only how delicious both dishes were, but also the generous portion sizes that definitely provided great value for money. The friendly and attentive staff added to the positive experience, making sure we felt welcomed and well taken care of throughout our visit.

Your Next Downtown Dining Destination

If you’re in the mood for authentic Asian food at a reasonable price, Johnny Wokker should definitely be on your list. With its convenient downtown location, comfortable atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service, this new restaurant has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a great meal before catching a movie next door, Johnny Wokker delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss out on experiencing this fantastic new addition to Stockton’s culinary landscape!

Information

Location : 222 N. El Dorado, Suite J, Stockton, CA
Opening Hours : Mon to Sat, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Social Media(IG) : @‌johnnywokker_downtown

🦀 Satisfy your Seafood Cravings with Blazin Cajun! 🦐

Posted on June 23, 2025June 24, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Andy Nguyen

Downtown Stockton is home to the most exhilarating live events, historical landmarks, and home grown, local restaurants you can’t find anywhere else. Located next to the delta waterfront, Blazin Cajun is the perfect spot to satisfy that seafood craving you’ve been having. Here’s why Blazin Cajun should be your go dining spot in Downtown Stockton. 

On the Menu

They offer everything you crave for in a seafood dining experience: Shrimp, Crab, Lobster, Crawfish, Mussels, Fish, Oyster, and more. Choose whether to get seafood by the pound, basket, or their special combo; then customize the sauce & spice level to your liking! Choose from their butter garlic, cajun, or house special for your sauce and elevate the spice level from cajun to flame or blazin.

To compliment your cravings, they offer scrumptious appetizers and side dishes like cajun fries, mozzarella sticks, and chicken wings made with their special house sauce.

For cocktail and beer lovers, they have something for you as well. Enjoy their Happy Hour with $1.25 off all appetizers, beers, shots, and mixed drinks everyday from 3PM – 6PM. You can’t go wrong with a Corona beer with their cajun fries!

“The Bay”

Calvin Khem, son of owner Samphors Khem, cites The Bay as the most popular item their customers enjoy – ½ lb. of Snow Crab, ½ of Headless Shrimp, 2 corns, and 2 potatoes with their house special sauce and flame for spice level. Their house special fries are another item customers order to compliment The Bay. 

From the owners

We spoke with the Khem family, who own Blazin Cajun. They wanted to express their utmost thanks and grace to the customers that have been supporting their family-run business for over 5 years. In these 5 years, they have expanded menu offerings, increased staff, and grown their social media following of over 10,000 followers. Their desire was to share their fresh, flavorful, homecooked-based recipes to Downtown Stockton in a welcoming, modern atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. 

PHOTO “Inside Decor Window Fishnets Edited”

In the Net

This is the perfect place to plan into your trip to Downtown Stockton. You can go to watch a movie at the Regal Cinemas City Centre or experience the fascinating views of Weber Point’s Waterfront; all within walking distance of another! 

Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to try cajun food, Blazin Cajun is the spot for you. Enjoy a cajun feast & call (209) 594-0581 to reserve your table today!

   Information 

Location: 125 Bridge Pl, Stockton, CA 95202

Days & Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 3:00pm – 9:00pm. *Saturdays from 3:00pm – 9:30pm.

Phone Number: (209) 594-0581

Order Online

Socials: Instagram, Facebook, Yelp

The House of Pita: Fresh, Flavorful Mediterranean Eats in Downtown Stockton

Posted on March 17, 2025March 17, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

The House of Pita is a Mediterranean restaurant located at the Waterfront Warehouse – 445 Weber Avenue, #126 – in Downtown Stockton. Opened in September 2024, this new dining spot is already winning over customers with its flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere. Known for its popular spicy garlic pasta and chicken shawarma, the restaurant also offers flexible menu options depending on different diets, including vegetarian and vegan choices. All chicken and gyro meat served here are halal, making it an excellent choice for those seeking halal-certified meals. Additionally, they serve a variety of drinks with a stylish bar area, making it a perfect place for dinner.

Bringing The House of Pita to Downtown Stockton was a personal decision for the owner, who is originally from Stockton and wanted to share her love for Mediterranean cuisine with the community. The restaurant’s location at the Waterfront Warehouse adds to its charm, offering beautiful waterfront views. Dining on the patio offers a great view of the Stockton Arena and Banner Island Ballpark, making it a perfect spot to enjoy your meal.

The House of Pita has exciting plans for the future! Live music performances will be held on the patio during spring and summer, making a lively dining experience. Customers can also enjoy weekend specials, happy hour deals every day, and Taco Tuesdays. The owner is also planning to launch Sunday brunch, expanding the menu even further. She encourages the community to explore what Downtown Stockton has to offer, saying, “Support small businesses in the downtown area! Come and visit the downtown waterfront and enjoy Mediterranean food, from kebabs to pasta.”

If you’ve never tried Mediterranean food before, she has one simple message: “Give it a try! Mediterranean food is healthy, and we have something for everyone.”

Information

Location: 445 W Weber Ave #126, Stockton, CA 95203
Reasons to Visit The House of Pita:
- Diverse Mediterranean Cuisine: With vegetarian, vegan, and halal options available, everyone can find something to enjoy.
- Dining Experience with Waterfront View: You can enjoy your meal on the patio while taking in the beautiful waterfront scenery.
- Exciting Events and Specials: The House of Pita keeps things lively with events such as live music, daily happy hour deals, and Taco Tuesdays.
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Instagram: @‌thehouseofpita_stockton

Orlando’s Market and Deli: A Downtown Stockton Staple for Nearly a Decade

Posted on March 7, 2025March 7, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

For nearly 10 years, Orlando’s Market and Deli has been serving the Downtown Stockton community with fresh deli items, snacks, and everyday essentials. The name comes from the owner’s family name, Orlando, which has been recognized in the area for over 50 years through their family-run convenience stores. Wanting to continue the tradition in a new way, Dante Orlando opened Orlando’s Market and Deli in the heart of downtown, providing locals with quality food and a welcoming atmosphere.

When it comes to food, Orlando’s Market offers a variety of popular deli items, including the turkey bacon avocado sandwich, hot link sandwich, and grilled chicken salad. Patrons can tailor their deli sandwich orders to their unique preferences – just choose your bread, meat, cheese, and condiments! The market also sells an assortment of movie snacks, medicine, lotto tickets, and even trading cards. Plus, they take customer recommendations based on the needs of the downtown community. During my visit, I tried the grilled chicken sandwich and customized it to my taste. The freshly grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and perfectly toasted bread made for a satisfying meal—simple, yet full of flavor. On top of that, Orlando’s Deli also offers catering services for events, office meetings, and gatherings, making it a convenient option for both quick bites and larger occasions.

Dante chose Downtown Stockton for his business because of its vibrant community and central location. With many government offices, businesses, and apartment complexes nearby, the deli has become a hub where people stop by daily. What Dante loves most is the sense of connection—getting to know regular customers and being part of the downtown atmosphere. When I visited, I could see this firsthand—Dante greeted customers with a friendly smile and chatted with them as they placed their orders, making the market feel more like a community space than just a shop.

“Orlando’s market has something for everybody. Whether it’s a nice meal, a snack, beverage, or even a quick conversation. We plan to be a staple in the downtown area for years to come.”

– Dante Orlando

Information

Location: 155 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA 95203
Reasons to Visit Orlando’s Market and Deli:
- A Downtown Favorite: Serving the community for nearly 10 years, Orlando’s Deli has become a go-to spot for locals.
- More Than Just a Deli: From freshly made sandwiches to snacks, beverages, and even household essentials, Orlando’s Deli offers a bit of everything.
- A Business That Cares: Owner Dante Orlando values his customers and takes the time to build real connections.
Orlando’s Doorways to Downtown Video:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xcm9vSQMt4&t=4s
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Instagram: @‌orlandos.downtown.deli

Start Your Day Right with Fresh Coffee at Cooper’s Coffee!

Posted on January 29, 2025January 31, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Nestled at 13 S. San Joaquin Street in Downtown Stockton, Cooper’s Coffee (formerly called Red’s 13) is a small and cozy café that has been a daily favorite for locals for nearly 30 years. The café’s name comes from the owner’s grandfather, and the interior shows her family’s love and warmth. In this welcoming atmosphere, customers can enjoy not only exceptional coffee but also the friendly charm of the owner, Belinda. It’s no surprise that Cooper’s Coffee has so many loyal regulars who describe it as a place full of character—a home away from home.

When it comes to the menu, there’s something for everyone, but the most popular item is the Cubano. This drink combines two shots of espresso, raw sugar, cinnamon, and steamed half-and-half, making a creamy and rich flavor that isn’t too sweet—perfect for those who love smooth coffee without too much sugar. Another standout is their cold brew coffee, made with a unique cold brew machine. The difference is noticeable, and fans of cold brew will definitely be able to tell how smooth and refreshing it tastes.

For non-coffee drinkers, Cooper’s Coffee offers other great options, such as Chai tea, which provides mild caffeine, but isn’t as strong as coffee. They also feature seasonal specialties, like peppermint mocha and gingerbread latte during the winter months. I can’t wait to see what exciting flavors will be introduced next season!

Located just across from Courthouse Plaza in Downtown Stockton, Belinda loves running her business in this area. Downtown is home to a diverse mix of workers, residents, and students, and she enjoys staying busy while being part of this dynamic community. Through her café, she not only serves amazing coffee but also spreads kindness and energy to her customers.

It’s this welcoming vibe and dedication to the community that keep regulars coming back to Cooper’s Coffee time and time again. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, a visit to Cooper’s Coffee is sure to leave you feeling uplifted and ready for the day ahead.

Information

Location: 13 S San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA, 95202
Reasons to Visit Cooper’s Coffee:
- Loyal regulars: Cooper’s Coffee has a strong base of loyal regulars, and the owner goes above and beyond to keep these relationships.
- Unique cold brew machine: Their special cold brew machine creates a distinct and exceptional coffee flavor.
- A piece of history: As one of the oldest cafés in Downtown Stockton, Cooper’s Coffee has been serving the community for nearly 30 years.
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Instagram: @‌coopers_coffeeco

My Magical Night at the Stockton Lantern Festival

Posted on December 18, 2024December 13, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Sungyeon Park

Information:
·        Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 19, 2025!
·        Times: 5PM to 10PM daily, last ticket sold at 9PM
·        Location: Banner Island Ballpark, 404 West Fremont, Stockton
·        Tickets
o   Ticketmaster.com
o   Adventist Health Arena box office: Mon, Wed, Fri 11AM-2PM
o   Banner Island Ballpark, daily starting November 20.

I recently visited the Stockton Lantern Festival, and it
was an unforgettable evening filled with light, culture, and fun. From the
moment I arrived at the ballpark, I was overwhelmed by this year’s “Magic
Ocean” theme. Each year is a new theme creating entirely new experiences;
this year, we have been transported from the Magic Forest of last year to the
Magic Ocean!

Stunning Lantern Displays
The highlight of the festival was, without a doubt, the
stunning lantern displays. Each lantern is a masterpiece, showcasing artistic
details and vibrant colors. Featuring glowing jellyfish, whales, and vibrant
coral reefs, each display was meticulously handcrafted by lantern artisans
using the ancient technique of traditional Chinese lantern making. Also, some
of them were moving and speaking!

Fun for Everyone
The festival offered something for everyone. While I
walked through the lanterns, I was dazzled by the magical interplay of light
and shadow. The interactive lanterns and activities provide quality
entertainment for families with children, but the hand crafted lanterns also create
an amazing and romantic atmosphere perfect for a date night! I think this
festival is a great option for anybody who wants to make a day special.

Captivating Performances
Another standout feature was the live stage
performances. Traditional Chinese dances, accompanied by stunning costumes and
music, created a special performance that was fun to experience. The energy and
skill of the performers made the show a highlight of the evening. There will be
performances throughout the two-month run of the festival showcasing a vibrant
mix of music, dance, and acrobatics.

Food and Souvenirs to Remember
Of course, no festival is complete without delicious
food, and the Stockton Lantern Festival delivers in the best way. They have
traditional winter offerings like hot chocolate, as well as ocean-themed fare, including
Sand Dollar Cookies, Fishbowl Cocktails, and Fish & Chips. They also offer
unique, hand-crafted souvenirs which I recommend to preserve special memories
of your visit!
As Jason Perry, General Manager of ASM Global – Stockton
shared, the “Stockton Lantern Festival is fun for all persons, regardless of
age and is an experience that will allow you to return again, seeing it through
a different perspective each time you walk the baseball field. Come
celebrate the winter season at Stockton Lantern Festival while you create
cherished memories and new traditions with your friends and family.”
The Stockton Lantern Festival was a magical experience,
perfect for families, friends, and couples. If you’re looking for a night to
remember, I highly recommend visiting. There are plenty of days left before the
lantern display leaves Downtown Stockton on January 20th, so don’t
miss your chance to experience this highlight of the holiday season!

For more details, visit:
· Website
· Instagram & Facebook