Just open your eyes

MoBand

There is not really much more that shouts ModestoCana than the annual MoBand (Modesto Band of Stanislaus County) Concerts in the Park. For six amazing Thursdays each summer, the sounds of a big concert band entertain thousands in Modesto’s Graceada Park Mancini Bowl. There are new benches in the bowl, thanks to a huge local fund drive. Picnic Blankets are out early, crowds gather around 6, wine starts flowing soon after and the music starts at 8 pm and wraps around 10 pm. This is one of Modesto’s great gathering events. If you haven’t been to one, you have 2 more chances on July 6 and 13th. If you don’t think you will know anyone, don’t fear, you will have many new friends after just one visit.

There will be a special fund-raiser event on the 20th with Bangarang in the bowl. These are free events thanks to generous local patrons and sponsors. See the schedule, and become a donor, please visit: www.moband.org

Stan County Fair

What’s more iconic than a county fair?

Movies are made about these annual gathering events that feature animals, food, fun, rides, music, history and ag exhibits and so much more. The Stanislaus County Fair has been a part of our county fabric since1911, when it was the Turlock Melon Carnival. The local 4H clubs are on display, and a walk down the fairway, by the ferris wheel, or the zipper, or even the duck races. Eat a hot dog, funnel cake, crepe, grilled corn, and of course a giant corn dog and many more deep fried treats. All fun, all affordable and it is clean and nice.

One of the highlights of the Stan Co Fair is the free concerts on the main stage. Kicking off the season is Parmalee on July 7, Ginuwine-July8, El Dasa – July 9, Plain White Ts – July 10, Revisiting Creedence – July 11, Lit – July 12, All American Rejects – July 13, Blue Oyster Cult – July 14, Ashley McBride – July 15, Los Nuevos Rebeldes – July 16 July 7 – 16 www.stancofair.com