What’s happening in the arts this October around Modesto? Catch exhibits, favorites and festivals across Stanislaus

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It’s officially time to start dusting off the decorations and pulling out cozy blankets for the eventual autumn weather. As most Valley residents know, we are still in for some warm days, but cool, cool nights.

There is an abundance of art shows this month, including the Stanislaus Artist Open Studio tours, and free exhibits such as ¡MONSTRAS!, an exhibit at the McHenry Museum comes to an end early in the month.

This year, Halloween falls on a Saturday, but most festivities will take place long before then. Oktoberfests, festivals, markets and more are in store for those who need an opportunity to wear the costumes they’ve spent all year putting together.

For fans of local music, keep in mind that voting for the annual Modesto Area Music Awards closes on the 18th. You may have an opportunity to see some of the nominated acts around town before you cast your votes.

Artists and organizers have lots in store this month. Here’s where to find them:

Thursday, October 1

History of Lowriding: The Stanislaus Arts Council hosts local artists for a limited art exhibition titled “The History of Lowriding: Culture, Community and Legacy” featuring local artists Henrietta Sparkman, Analaura Jocol and more.

Gallery hours 12 – 5 p.m. Oct. 1, 12 – 6 p.m. Oct. 2, 3
Stanislaus Arts Council, 1315 J St., Modesto
Free, info

Jazz Night: An evening of jazz with the Johnny Valdez Jazz Trio at the downtown Modesto historic theater’s adjacent cocktail lounge.

7– 9 p.m. Oct. 1
Intermission, 1301 J St., Modesto
Free, info

Friday, October 2

¡Monstras!: The “¡MONSTRAS! Female Legends of Latin America” art show, featuring the touring namesake exhibit dedicated to female legends of Latin America and 30 local artists whose work is also inspired by the lore, is ending its run this weekend at the McHenry Museum.

12 – 4 p.m. Oct. 2, 3, 4
McHenry Museum, 1402 I St., Modesto
Free, info

DoMo First Fridays: Free downtown Modesto night market closes out its 2026 season with vendors, food, entertainment and a chance to see the latest murals in progress. The annual markets by Downtown Modesto Partnership will return in the spring.

5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Oct. 2
Downtown Modesto, Tenth Street, between I and K streets
Free, info

Music in the Plaza: Local musicians perform as part of the outdoor series locals have come to expect from the people behind the Modesto Area Music Awards, from April through October. Stay up to date on Facebook as each theme is announced.

5 – 9 p.m. Oct. 2
Tenth Street Plaza, 1010 10th St., Modesto
Free, info

Punk Show: Queen Bean hosts Modesto-based bands Crucial Kick and eSex alongside artists from Fresno and Sacramento for a night of live punk music in its backyard seating area.

6 p.m. Oct. 2
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St, Modesto
$10 at the door, info

Science Night: This late night event at the Great Valley Museum offers an opportunity to see the stars through telescopes and in the planetarium.

7 – 10 p.m. Oct. 2
MJC East Campus, Science Community Center lobby, 2201 Blue Gum Ave., Modesto
$3 – $8, tickets/info

Silent Sky: Playwright Lauren Gunderson adapts the true story of American Astronomer Henrietta Leavitt for the stage. The show is written by Lauren Gunderson and directed by Roberta Inscho.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10 and 2 p.m. Oct. 4, 11
Prospect Theater Project, 1218 K St., Modesto
$11 student, $31.75 general admission, tickets/info

Saturday, October 3

Fall Market: Vintage at the Garden hosts local artisan vendors for their second market of the year. Food, clothing and more will be available for purchase. Pets are not allowed in the market.

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Oct. 3
Hughson Arboretum & Gardens, 2490 Euclid Ave., Hughson
$3, free for kids 12 and under, info

Poetry Festival: Modesto Stanislaus (MoST) Poetry Center hosts Juan Luzuriaga for the bilingual conference. This year’s theme is “Come to the Table.”

9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Oct. 3
Carnegie Arts Center, 250 N. Broadway, Turlock
$44.52, tickets/info

International Heritage Festival: This annual event, in partnership with the City of Modesto, offers an international fashion show, free crafts, food booths and more.

10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Opening Ceremony at 11 a.m. Oct. 3
Graceda Park, 401 Needham St., Modesto
Free, info

Oktoberfest: For the first time Tayoga and Elevate studio in Modesto present beer, bratwurst, and yoga as a spin on the traditional fall celebration.

11 a.m. Oct. 3
Elevate Community Yoga, 899 W. Roseburg Ave., Modesto
$30, tickets/info

The Dark Room: Andrew Fischer Wong, of ReTold Productions hosts the finale of this year’s horror film competition. 16 short films will be screened and voted on night-of. Attendees are invited to come in costume.

5 p.m. Oct. 3
State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
$22, tickets/info

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives: Five-time Grammy award winning country music artist best known for his prolific work and hit songs “Hillbilly Rock” and “Burn Me Down’ performs in Turlock.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 3
Turlock Community Theatre, 1574 E Canal Dr., Turlock
$44 – $65, tickets/info

Monday, October 5

Rita Barbano: This Oakdale artist’s new exhibit debuts at the Kruse Lucas Art Gallery. Barbano’s mixed media work focuses on emotion, hope and transformation. Each piece invites the viewers to reflect, connect, and discover their own story.

7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Thursday, except holidays
Kruse Lucas Imports, 525 Tully Road, Modesto
Free

Tuesday, October 6

Pat Benatar & Neli Giraldo: Known for their hit songs “Love is a Battlefield,” “We Belong” and much more. This pop-culture defining duo will play at the Gallo Center for one show only.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 6
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$88 – $158, tickets/info

Thursday, October 8

Hudson Westbrook: County artist known for his songs “House Again,” “Painted You Pretty,” and “Take It Slow” will be joined by Kenny Witmire and Ethan Burdick.

6 p.m. Oct. 8
The Fruit Yard Amphitheatre, 7948 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto
$244, tickets

The Ol’man Brothers Band: A San Francisco Bay Area band honoring the Allman Brothers Band’s music stops in Modesto as it makes its way through Northern California.

7 p.m. Oct. 8
State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
$28 – $45, tickets/info

Two Hours from Anywhere Story Slam: Ticket holders can take stage for up to 6 minutes to tell a real story from their lives that relates to the theme of “Never saw it coming.” The best stories win a prize.

7 p.m., Oct. 8
Bookish, 811 Roseburg Ave., Modesto
$5, tickets

Friday, October 9

Raven’s Perch Movie Night: A screening of the 2015 horror-romance movie “Crimson Peak.” Candy, popcorn and drinks will be available.

6:30 p.m. Oct. 9
The Raven’s Perch, 1208 J St., Modesto
$10, info

The Play that Goes Wrong: The Gallo Center Repertory Company presents its fall show, directed by Patrick Norris. This comedy/mystery brings audiences backstage during the opening night of a disastrously chaotic stage play.

7 p.m. Oct. 9, 10, 16 and 2 p.m. Oct. 10, 11, 17, 18
Gallo Center for the Arts, Foster Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$35 – $55, tickets/info

Marlon Wayans: You probably know him best from his roles in “Scary Movie,”(1 and 2) and “White Chicks.” Actor, comedian, writer and producer Marlon Wayans will perform his latest stand up comedy act at the Gallo Center for one night only.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 9
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$48 – $108, tickets/info

Saturday, October 10

MoPRIDE: Drag artist Gigi Banks hosts Modesto’s annual Pride event in Graceada Park. The all-day event will feature performances at the Mancini Bowl, various vendors and community organizations. Sponsored by McHenry Bowl, Sutter Health and Health Plan of San Joaquin.

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Oct. 10
Graceda Park, 401 Needham St., Modesto
Free, info

Catherine Center, author chat: Carnegie Arts Center, Bookish and Friends of the Turlock Library present bestselling author of “comfort reads” such as “The Love Haters” and “The Shippers.”

2 p.m. Oct. 10
Carnegie Arts Center, 250 N. Broadway, Turlock
$15, tickets/info

Lily Tomlin: Best known for her work in “9 to 5” alongside the late Dolly Parton, and Netflix series “Grace and Frankie,” with Jane Fonda, this critically acclaimed comedian and actress performs a nearly sold-out stand-up show at the Gallo Center.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 10
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$58 – $78, tickets/info

Sunday, October 11

Remembering Marirose: A celebration of life for Modesto’s Marirose Powell, who passed away in April 2024. She was known for her performances as the lead singer of Mystic Moon, a Stevie Nicks tribute band. Proceeds from the event will benefit CASA Stanislaus.

2 p.m. Oct. 11
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St, Modesto
$12.51, tickets/info

Tuesday, October 13

Bonnie Raitt: Ten-time Grammy award-winner and blues, rock and R&B artist, Bonnie Raitt will perform in Modesto alongside special guest John Cleary.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 13
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
SOLD OUT, info, waitlist

Wednesday, October 14

Poetry Night & Haiku battle: Modesto Artists Movement hosts an open mic spoken poetry slam followed by haiku competition. The winner receives $100 cash and a handmade trophy.

7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Oct. 14
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St, Modesto
$12.51, tickets/info

Thursday, October 15

Speech Night: Watch Modesto Junior College’s award-winning Speech and Debate Team showcase their creativity in this limited-preparation event directed by Ryan Guy and Taure Shimp.

4 and 7 p.m. Oct. 15
MJC East Campus, Performing Arts Center, 435 College Ave., Modesto
$8 presale, $11 day-of, tickets/info

Jazz Night: An evening of jazz with guitarist Colt Coleman at the downtown Modesto historic theater’s adjacent cocktail lounge.

7– 9 p.m. Oct. 15
Intermission, 1301 J St., Modesto
Free, info

Friday, October 16

Modern Rewind: Four cover bands will perform sets from the 1980s, ‘90s, 2000s and 2010s.

6 p.m. Oct. 16
The Alchemist Cafe, 1311 E St., Modesto
$10 tickets at the door, info

Lucy Darling: Comedian and performer Carisa Hendrix and magician The Great Kaplan have nearly sold out tickets to their variety show at the Gallo Center.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 16
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$48 – $68, tickets/info

Saturday, October 17

Baby Rave, Monster Mash edition: High energy baby-friendly dance party at the Queen Bean. Little ones can enter in the costume parade and contest, enjoy a sensory lab, and more.

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St., Modesto
$12, tickets/info

Fall Open Studio Tours: The Stanislaus Artist Open Studio returns with over 40 local artists in Turlock and Modesto. The free, self-guided tour offers glass blowing demonstrations, oil painters, ceramicists and more.

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Oct 17, 18
Various locations, see map
Free, info

Modesto Confidential: Modesto Police Investigators Association presents a deeper look at real true-crime cases through the lens of local detectives who personally worked on them, including the murder of Diasia Seese and the Garrison Park murder.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 17
State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
$83, tickets/info

Dark Comedy Show: Dark and Darker Comedy brings together local performers including Robert Omoto, Pepe and more. Marc Maple hosts a show that promises no refunds for hurt feelings.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 17
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St, Modesto
$23.18, tickets/info

PTP Radio Cavalcade: Michael Hewitt directs the radio play “Gaslight”, a psychological thriller that follows a woman whose husband manipulates her into believing she is going insane.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 17, 2 p.m. Oct. 18
Prospect Theater Project, 1214 K St., Modesto
Admission $16.25, tickets/info

Sunday, October 18

TaikoProject: Japanese traditional drumming, taiko, meets 21st century sounds with the TaikoProject. The LA-based group has performed at the Academy Awards, the Grammys and more.

5 p.m. Oct. 18
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$58 – $78, tickets/info

Tuesday, October 20

UB40: This UK performer, known for top hit “Red, Red Wine” will visit the Gallo Center during their run of “The Unstoppable Tour,” dedicated to the release of the group’s 45th anniversary album “UB45.”

7:30 p.m. Oct. 20
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$78 – $118, tickets/info

Wednesday, October 21

Bluey’s Big Play: A household name for many parents, Bluey finds its way to the stage in this live adaptation. The Australian cartoon about a family of dogs first started airing in the US in 2018. The show features life-size puppets of the show’s main characters.

6:30 p.m. Oct. 21, 22
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$58 – $78, tickets/info

Modesto Art Night: The Modesto Artists Movement hosts a night of artistic health and wellness. Coloring pages are provided and “no art ‘talent’ or experience required” to get the full experience.

6 p.m. Oct. 21
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St., Modesto
Free, info

Duo Sonik & Friends: An evening of music presented by the Central Valley Guitar Faculty at Modesto Junior College.

7 p.m. Oct. 21
MJC East Campus, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave., Modesto
Free, donations accepted, info

Jim Henson’s Labyrinth in Concert: Touring musicians play along to the 1986 movie starring David Bowe and a cast of puppets. Attendees are encouraged to dress in costume and sing along.

7:30 p.m. Oct 21
Turlock Community Theatre, 1574 E Canal Dr., Turlock
$34 – $132, tickets/info

Thursday, October 22

Curiouser and Curiouser Art Show: Modesto-based artist RemontantMade hosts a group art show featuring 25 artists, their work, limited-edition pieces and a showing of Disney’s 1951 movie “Alice in Wonderland.”

6 p.m. Oct. 22
State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
$17, tickets/info

Trivia Night: Eric Ranes hosts an 18+ night of free to play nights of challenges and quizzes on “highly useful facts.” Food and drink will continue to be available for purchase to the public.

6 – 9 p.m. Oct. 22
Queen Bean Coffee & Social House, 1126 14th St., Modesto
Free, info

Jazz Night: An evening of jazz with the Clinton Day Trio at the downtown Modesto historic theater’s adjacent cocktail lounge.

7– 9 p.m. Oct. 22
Intermission, 1301 J St., Modesto
Free, info

The 39 Steps: Modesto Junior College’s theater students perform Patrick Barlow’s stage adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film, which was based on John Buchan’s 1915 adventure novel.

7 p.m. Oct 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 31
MJC East Campus, Performing Arts Center, Little Theater, 435 College Ave., Modesto
Student $11, senior $16, general admission $19, tickets/info

Friday, October 23

Tribute to John Prine: Local musicians Annabelle Doud, Earl Matthews and more will perform in the “Standing by Peaceful Waters” showcase, a tribute to the American folk-country artist. This tribute concert will benefit the Creative Collective Music Library.

6:30 p.m. Oct. 23
Prospect Theater Project, 1214 K St., Modesto
Admission $21.50, tickets/info

A Night of Music and Movement: Culture, connection and wellness come together for a performance in support of youth programming at the T’ai Chi Chuan Academy. Instructors will demonstrate the practice alongside live musicians.

7 p.m. Oct. 23
State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
$39 – $80, tickets/info

Fright Night: This 18 and up event welcomes horror fans for a haunting celebration of stories that thrill and chill. Tickets include a free beverage, games and discounts on mystery, thriller and horror books.

7 p.m. Oct. 23
Bookish, 811 Roseburg Ave., Modesto
$15, tickets

Montgomery Gentry: Country musician, Eddie Montgomery and an accompanying group will perform his original hits, like “Hillbilly Shoes,” “If You Ever Stop Loving Me,” and more.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 23
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$88 – $118, tickets/info

Saturday, October 24

Make a Monster: Attendees are only asked to bring their creativity to this crafting event, all supplies will be provided.

10 a.m. Oct. 24
Bookish, 811 Roseburg Ave., Modesto
Free, info

Off The Air: Modesto’s indie music series presents Paradise Blossom, a shoegaze duo from Fresno, a Bay Area-based sophisti-pop quartet, Still Ruins and “electronica star” Tricky FM from San Francisco.

7 p.m. Oct. 24
Prospect Theater Project, 1214 K St., Modesto
$10, tickets/info

Queer Magic: An 18 and older Halloween burlesque show and costume contest event, with refreshments and treats available, brought to you by the Glitter Coven.

7 p.m. Oct. 24
Prospect Theater Project, The Artist Lab, 1218 K St., Modesto
$31.75, tickets/info

Henry Cho: This Korean-American standup comedian has nearly sold out tickets for “The Empty Nest Tour” coming to Modesto. Cho is known best for his work on late-night comedy shows.

7:30 p.m. Oct. 24
Gallo Center for the Arts, Rogers Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
$48 – $58, tickets/info

Sunday, October 25

Family Fun Festival 2026: The City of Modesto in partnership with The Gallo Center presents this annual event filled with free activities, including face painting and more. Food trucks will be available on site for attendees to purchase food.

11 a.m. Oct. 25
Gallo Center for the Arts, Foster Theater, 1000 I St., Modesto
Free, tickets/info

Book Launch: Author Linda Scheller presents her latest book “The Ghosts of 16 Larkin Street.” Attendees can enjoy the book signing along with a music performance and refreshments.

2 p.m. Oct. 25
Prospect Theater Project, 1214 K St., Modesto
Free, info

JW Jones: A performance by blues artist and award-winning guitarist best known for his songs “We Fly High,” “Pop Champagne” and “Emotionless” performs.

6 p.m. Oct. 25
State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
$34 – $44, tickets/info

Wednesday, October 28

After Dark: An evening of thoughtful live conversations that invite attendees to challenge how they think while exploring various topics such as psychology, art, desire, identity and more.

6:30 p.m. Oct. 28
Intermission, 1301 J St., Modesto
$12, tickets/info

Thursday, October 29

Elias Medina: PrimeLive presents Elias Medina live in concert. The singer-songwriter from Monterrey, Mexico has a voice that resonates across several genres, including banda, Norteño, mariachi and more.

8 p.m. Oct. 29
The State Theatre, 1301 J St., Modesto
$96 – $268, tickets/info

Friday, October 30

Bites, Booze & Bloodsuckers: A preshow costume contest and party with music and drinks for those 21 and older, followed by a showing of the 1987 vampire movie “The Lost Boys.”

6 p.m. Oct. 30
The State Theatre, 1301 J St., Modesto
$50, tickets/info

The Time Machine: Central West Ballet is cooking up a new production, based on H.G. Wells’ short story “The Time Machine.” Artistic Director Rene Daveluy calls it a “world-premier theatre ballet experience” as everything from the score to the sets are brand new, just for this show.