Calendar: Events in and around Modesto

GALLO CENTERFOR THE ARTS

BOZ SCAGGS

Nov. 28

Rock, jazz, R&B and blues artist. 7:30 p.m. $49-$99.

JIM BRICKMAN

Nov. 17

"On a Winter's Night," a solo piano performance. 8 p.m. $19-$69.

"WHITE CHRISTMAS"

Nov. 17-18

Irving Berlin's uplifting musical. 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday $9-$22.

"MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET"

Nov. 23-25

Heartwarming story, originally written for the 1940's classic movie of the same name, is brought to life in a fully-staged musical production. 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday; 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $19-$89.

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY

Nov. 27

Wild and swingin' holiday party show. 7 p.m. $20-$50.

HOLIDAY POPS

Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Presented by Modesto Symphony Orchestra. Features all of your favorite Christmas classics, carols and medleys featuring Modesto's own Broadway stars Jeremy Stolle, Morgan James and the talented MSO Chorus. 8 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. Saturday.

"A CHRISTMAS CAROL"

Dec. 1-2

7:30 p.m. Dec. 1, 2 p.m. Dec. 1-2.

POSADA NAVIDENA

Dec. 2

Shimmering colors and vibrant sounds of Compania Mazatlan Bellas Artes de Sacramento. 3 p.m.

STRAIGHT NO CHASER

Dec. 3

7:30 p.m.

MERCY ME CHRISTMAS TOUR

Dec. 7

8 p.m.

GIFT OF SONG

Dec. 8

YES Company presentation. 3 and 7 p.m.

"THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER"

Dec. 9

2 and 4 p.m.

"THE NUTCRACKER"

Dec. 14-15

Central West Ballet presents the holiday classic. 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Saturday.

AN IRISH CHRISTMAS

Dec. 15

2 p.m.

The Gallo Center for the Arts is located at 1000 I St., Modesto. Box office (209) 338-2100. www.galloarts.org.

MUSIC

THE MODESTO TRADITIONAL JAZZ SOCIETY

Noon jam sets; 1 p.m. featured band. Third Sundays. Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 1612 Sisk Road, Modesto. $8-$12. (209) 524-3517.

ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

Nov. 16

Downtown Life Magazine Anniversary concert featuring Buster Blue, not an airplane and Feeling Gravity's Pull. 7:30 p.m. Merced Multicultural Arts Center, 645 West Main St. $10 advance; $12 door.

MICHAEL MCNEVIN

Nov. 16

Veteran of the folk scene plays steel string guitar work. A Great Valley Acoustic Music Series presentation. 8 p.m. Central Grace Community Church, 918 Sierra Drive, Modesto. $10.

RED DOG ASH

Nov. 16

Award-winning bluegrass band from Central Valley. 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. West Side Theatre, 1331 Main St., Newman. $10 general; $13 reserved. (209) 862-4490.

SYMPHONY BAND CONCERT

Nov. 16

7:30 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

BETTER TOGETHER

Nov. 17

Choirs from seven churches and organizations in benefit concert for area food banks. Attendees are asked to bring a bag of nonperishable groceries. 7:30 p.m. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4300 N. Dale Road. (209) 545-2983.

FALL ROCK CONCERT

Nov. 18

Valley Music Institute presents VMIRocks Fall Tour featuring 17 bands. 1-6:30 p.m. Seasons, 945 McHenry Avenue, Modesto.

"MESSIAH"

Nov. 18

Community sing-along of Handel's Messiah. 4 p.m. Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1600 Carver Road, Modesto. (209) 529-3228.

GOTTSCHALK MUSIC CENTER CONCERT BAND

Nov. 19

Original wind literature, orchestral transcriptions, operatic selections, Broadway show tunes, marches, novelty numbers and solo accompaniments. 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 850 16th St., Modesto. Free. (209) 537-6173.

LOS ORIGINALES PASTELES VERDES

Nov. 23

With Hugho Castellon and Su Band Jalisquena. 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Modesto Banquet Hall, 810 N. 9th St., Modesto. $15 advance; $20 door. (209) 222-8802.

HOTEL CALIFORNIA SALUTE TO THE EAGLES

Nov. 24

Showcase of The Eagles hits such as "Take it Easy," "Heartache Tonight," and "Hotel California" as well as newer releases. Fund-raiser for Castle Air Museum. 8 p.m. Turlock Community Theatre, 1574 E. Canal Drive, Turlock. $38-$48. (209) 668-1169.

BEGINNING VOICE I & II RECITAL

Nov. 26

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

FALL JAZZ BAND CONCERT

Nov. 26

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College Auditorium, 435 College Ave. Free.

INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED VOICE RECITAL

Nov. 28

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

COMPOSITION STUDIO RECITAL

Nov. 29

7:30 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

FALL STRING RECITAL

Nov. 29

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

ROY ZIMMERMAN

Nov. 29

Satirical musician will present his family friendly show "PeaceNick". 7 p.m. UU Fellowship of Stanislaus County, 2172 Kiernan Ave. $18.

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Nov. 30

7:30 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

WOODWIND & BRASS CHAMBER MUSIC RECITAL

Nov. 30

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

CAROLFEST

Dec. 2

2 and 6 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

JAZZ VESPERS CONCERT

Dec. 2

Featuring the Fred Randolph Trio. 5 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 850 16th St., Modesto. Free.

MJC FALL SYMPHONIC BAND CONCERT

Dec. 3

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

A CONCERT FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

Dec. 4

Featuring "Peter and the Wolf." Presented by the MJC Community Orchestra. 7 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. $5 general; $1 students and seniors.

ELECTRONIC OSCILLATIONS

Dec. 5

Presented by the Modesto Junior College Department of Music featuring original electronic music compositions by student composers. 7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free, parking $1.

FALL COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND CONCERT

Dec. 5

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

ADVANCED PIANO WINTER RECITAL

Dec. 6

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. Free.

WIND ENSEMBLE CONCERT

Dec. 6

7:30 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF CHOIRS

Dec. 7

7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, Recital Hall, 435 College Ave. $5 general; $4 students and seniors.

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE CONCERT

Dec. 7

7:30 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

ACOUSTIC ROCK SOCIETY CONCERT

Dec. 8

Featuring The Dustbowl Children, Patty Davis, The Josh Rosenblum Band, and LoveCore Singing Telegrams. 6-10 p.m. Center Stage Conservatory, 948 11 St., Modesto. $5, children 12 and under free.

IT'S A BIG BAND CHRISTMAS

Dec. 9

Featuring Bob Secor on piano and trumpet. 3 p.m. Columbia College Dogwood Theatre, 1160 Columbia College Drive, Sonora.

JAZZ CONCERT

Dec. 10

7:30 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus Amphitheatre, 801 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

CHRISTMAS WITH AARON NEVILLE

Dec. 14

7:30 p.m. Turlock Community Theatre, 1574 E. Canal Drive, Turlock. $32-$52. (209) 668-1169.

STATE THEATRE

PURPLE HAZE

Nov. 17

Jimi Hendrix tribute. Opening the show is Modesto's Cold Shot, a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan. 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. $22.

FILM: "ANATOMY OF A MURDER"

Nov. 18

Courtroom drama that pits small town lawyer James Stewart against prosecutor George C. Scott in the murder trial of Army Lt. Frederick Manion. A Modesto Film Society presentation. 3 p.m.

FILM: "MOONRISE KINGDOM"

Nov. 19-24

Fanciful tale of two 12-year-olds who fall in love, make a secret pact and run away to an island. Call for times.

FILM: "FIGHT CLUB"

Nov. 19-24

Call for times.

NEW CINEMA SOUND SYSTEM DEBUT

Nov. 19-24

Premier of all-new, state-of-the-art, cinema sound system via free screenings of popular films. Five days of matinees are open to all members of the community, at no charge. Classic films also shown at 7 and 9 p.m. at a reduced admission price of $5. Call for times and film schedule.

FILM: "PSYCHO"

Nov. 20

Alfred Hitchcock's journey as an unsuspecting victim (Janet Leigh) visits the Bates Motel and falls prey to one of cinema's most notorious psychopaths. 7 p.m.

FILM: "THE GODFATHER"

Nov. 20-23

Multigenerational crime saga. Call for times.

FILM: "YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN"

Nov. 21

Classic parody from director Mel Brooks stars Gene Wilder as Frederick Frankenstein, who detests his family history but ultimately can't resist the temptation to follow in his infamous grandfather's footsteps. 7 p.m.

FILM: "THE BIRDS"

Nov. 23

Alfred Hitchcock's tale of a town attacked by marauding birds. 7 p.m.

FILM: "THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL"

Nov. 24

The story of English pensioners who abandon their homeland, enticed by advertisements for a seemingly luxurious sanctuary for "the elderly and beautiful" in Jaipur, India. 7 p.m.

FILM: "YOGAWOMAN"

Nov. 25-28

Film takes viewers on a journey and follows the stories of women who have found a lifeline through the ancient practice yoga. Call for times.

FILM: "ARBITRAGE"

Nov. 25-Dec. 4

Suspense thriller about love, loyalty and high finance. Call for times.

FILM: "THE FIGHT FOR WATER"

Nov. 29

Film highlights the human impact an environmental decision had on a farming community when their water supply was shut off. 7 p.m.

FILM: "FLOW STATE"

Nov. 30-Dec.1

Warren Miller's film takes you on a tour of the world's most striking mountains, including peaks in Japan, Switzerland, Norway and beyond. Call for times. $20 .

VERY MERRY HOLIDAY HAPPENING

Dec. 2

Visit with Jolly Old St. Nick, complimentary candy cane and holiday-themed cookie, organ concert, storytelling from the stage, and presentation of 1994 comedy "The Santa Clause," starring Tim Allen. 9:30 a.m. doors.

CRUISE 'N' GOOD'S ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS

Dec. 5

Featuring artist Ed Kowalczyk, Flying Blind, Shaylin Nicole & The Ramblers. Guitar and Music Memorabilia Auction, benefiting the Center For Human Services. 7 p.m. $18-$40.

FILM: "THE BIG LEBOWSKI"

Dec. 6

Comedy-thriller starring Jeff Bridges as Jeffrey Lebowski, an unemployed L.A. slacker and avid bowler who refers to himself as "The Dude." Third film in The State's Cult Classic Series. Call for times.

TOMMY CASTRO AND THE PAINKILLERS

Dec. 7

8 p.m. $30.

THE ILL LIST 9: A POETRY SLAM INVITATIONAL

Dec. 8

Eight nationally renowned spoken word artists will battle through three rounds of original poetry, poets will match metaphors and battle rhyme for rhyme on their quest for $1,500 in cash prizes. Presented by Fidelis Construction. 8 p.m. $15-$30.

"THE NOTCRACKER"

Dec. 15-16

A Strut Performing Arts original production. 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Saturday. $17.

The State Theatre is at 1307 J St., Modesto. Call (209) 527-4697. www.thestate.org

TALENT

YOUTH AUDITIONS

Dec. 4-8

Turlock Youth Performing Arts auditions for "Once on this Island Jr." Open to ages 8-14. Mandatory parent meeting during audition. 6-7:30 p.m. Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 6, 10:30 a.m. Dec. 8. Turlock Community Theatre, 1574 E. Canal Drive, Turlock.

THEATER

"CINDERELLA"

Through Dec. 22

Family holiday celebration features the timeless Rodgers and Hammerstein fairy tale. Presented by Sierra Repertory Theatre. 7 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Wednesday, Saturday-Sunday. Fallon House, Columbia. $26-$32. (209) 532-3120.

"ANGELS! (ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH)"

Through Nov. 20

8 p.m. Nov. 17-19, 2 p.m. Nov. 20. California State University, Stanislaus, Mainstage Theatre, 1 University Circle, Turlock. $7-$10. (209) 667-3166.

LAWRENCE LEMON

Nov. 16

Magic and mind-reading. Part of the "Winter Magic" Dinner Theater series. 7 p.m. seating. Groveland Hotel, 18767 Main St., Groveland. $10. (209) 962-4000.

"SELECTIONS FROM 365 DAYS/365 PLAYS"

Nov. 16-18

A marathon evening of student-directed plays. Presented by Merced College Theatre Department. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16-17, 2 p.m. Nov. 18. Merced College Theater, 3600 M St. $5.

"BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS"

Nov. 16-Dec. 3

Neil Simon's warmhearted and tearful comedy. 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Stage 3 Theatre, 208 S. Green St., Sonora. $12-$20.

"EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD ... AND THENSOME"

Nov. 16-Dec. 16

A mash-up of holiday stories and folklore from around the globe. Rated PG for ages 12 and up. 7 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Wednesday, Saturday-Sunday. Sierra Repertory Theatre-East Sonora Theatre, 13891 Mono Way. $24-$30. (209) 532-3120.

"THE BREAKFAST CLUB DRINKING GAME"

Nov. 25-Dec. 2

A live staged adaptation of this pop culture phenomena presented as a drinking game for actors and audience alike. Must be 21 and over. 7 p.m. Nov. 25 and Dec. 2 Center Stage Conservatory, 948 11 St., Modesto. $5. (209) 846-0179.

"A TUNA CHRISTMAS"

Nov. 29-30

Sequel to "Greater Tuna." 8 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus, Mainstage Theatre, 1 University Circle, Turlock. $15-$20. (209) 667-3166.

"CITY LIGHTS, COUNTRY NIGHTS"

Dec. 1

Celebrate Christmas country style with a musical comedy. Silent auction to benefit Community Cultivators 4-H Club. Presented by Center for Urban Performance and Service and Westside Ministries. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Turlock Community Theatre, 1574 E. Canal Drive, Turlock. Free. (209) 667-9020.

"THE GIVING TREE"

Dec. 8-15

Performance adaptation of the book by Shel Silverstein. 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. Dec. 8 and 15 Center Stage Conservatory, 948 11 St., Modesto. $2. (209) 846-0179.

NAATHAN PHAN

Dec. 14

Magic show presentation aided by a few feathered and furry friends. 7 p.m. Groveland Hotel, 18767 Main St., Groveland. $10. (209) 962-4000.

ART

ART ON MAIN

(209) 728-1888

Exhibits of local artists. Gallery Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 466-B Main St., Murphys.

C'EST JOLI

(209) 324-7111

Ongoing art by Brad and Nancy Hawn. Gallery hours: 1 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.920 13th St., Modesto.

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, STANISLAUS, GALLERY

(209) 667-3186

Through Dec. 19, "Represent the Digital". Gallery hours: Noon-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 6-9 p.m. Thursdays. 1 University Center, Turlock. Free. www.csustan.edu

CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER

(209) 632-5761

Through Feb. 3, "Lines and Colors: Celebrating Degas"; Nov. 16, "Mono-print Madness", Family Friday Night series; Nov. 18, Sunday Arts Lecture Series featuring Diane Wold, "Mary Cassatt, an American Woman Artist: From Oppression to Prominence." 2 p.m. Free. Dec. 2, "Musical Impressionism" lecture by Geoffrey Mulder, Free; Through Jan. 13, "Edgar Degas, The Private Impressionist". Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. 250 N. Broadway, Turlock. $10 general; $9 seniors.

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA ART ASSOCIATION AND MISTLIN GALLERY

(209) 529-3369

Dec. 1 and Dec. 20, Holiday Gift Sale. Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 20, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. Gallery hours: 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday. 1015 J St., Modesto. Free. www.ccartassn.org

DOWNTOWN MERCED

(209) 658-2587

Jan. 19, Art Hop.

DOWNTOWN MODESTO

(209) 529-9303

Dec. 20, Third Thursday Art Walk. 5-9 p.m.

FIRST STREET FRAME CO.

(209) 667-7332

Ongoing, paintings and photographs. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. 226 N. First St., Turlock.

GALLERY CALAVERAS

(209) 754-1774

Through Jan. 5, "Affordable Gifts of Art". Gallery Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. 22 Main St., San Andreas.

GREAT VALLEY MUSEUM

(209) 575-6196

Through Jan. 31, "Visions of the Underworld". 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. 1100 Stoddard Ave., Modesto. $1 admission.

MERCED COUNTY COURTHOUSE MUSEUM

(209) 723-2401

Through Jan. 27, "Merced College: 50 years of Educational Excellence." Exhibit Hours: 1-4 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. 21st and N streets, Merced.

MERCED MULTICULTURAL ARTS CENTER

Through Nov. 16

"The Pond and Other Nature Works" and "Changes". Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday; 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Merced Multicultural Arts Center, 645 West Main St. Free. (209) 388-1090. www.artsmerced.org

OAKDALE COWBOY MUSEUM

(209) 847-5263

Through December, "The Saddle, Tools of the Trade". 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 355 East F St. , Oakdale. $1.

REMEMBER WHEN

(209) 544-1385

Nov. 17, annual Fall and Christmas Parking Lot Sale, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Ongoing, 60 local artists. Hours:10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 3012 McHenry Ave., Modesto.

STANISLAUS CLERK-RECORDER OFFICE

(209) 869-4804

Ongoing, Carol Earle and Eva Williams. Exhibit hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. 1021 I St., Modesto. Free.

TREWIN FRAMERY

(209) 818-6004

Ongoing, Rodney Lough Jr., Tom Pickurel, Chella, Edward Mendes. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays. 5170 Pentecost Drive, Suite 1, Modesto.

UNIQUE BOUTIQUES

(209) 523-3000

Ongoing, 10 local artists. Exhibit hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 180 Leveland Lane, Modesto.

CASINOS

CHICKEN RANCH

(800) 752-4646

16929 Chicken Ranch Road, Jamestown. www.chickenranchbingo.com

EAGLE MOUNTAIN

(800) 903-3353

Nov. 16, Kenny Wayne Shepherd & Robert Cray. 681 South Tule Road, Porterville. www.eaglemtncasino.com

THUNDER VALLEY

(877) 468-8777

Nov. 25, The Legend of Blues Bobby Blue Bland. 1200 Athens Ave., Lincoln. www.thundervalleycasino.com

CHUKCHANSI GOLD

(866) 794-6946

711 Lucky Lane, Coarsegold. www.chukchansigold.com

JACKSON RANCHERIA

(800) 822-9466

Nov. 24, Jimmie Ray's Black Train, a tribute to Johnny Cash; Dec. 15, The Temptations; Jan. 20, The Whispers. 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson. www.jacksonrancheria.com

RED HAWK CASINO

(888) 573-3495

1 Red Hawk Parkway, Placerville.

BLACK OAK

(877) 747-8777

Nov. 16, Ely Brothers and Double Trouble; Nov. 17, Shane Dwight; Nov. 23, Cole Fonseca; Nov. 30, Chains Required; Dec. 6, Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen; Dec. 7, Candye kane; Dec. 8, Lydia Pense and Cold Blood; Dec. 14, Maxx Cabello Jr. and the Breakdown; Dec. 15, Innersoul; Dec. 21, Joni Morris; Dec. 22, Bump City, Tribute to Tower of Power; Dec. 28, Brad Wilson, Dec. 29, Rock of Ages; Dec. 31, Chains Required, New Year's Eve Party. 19400 Tuolumne Road North, Tuolumne. www.blackoakcasino.com.

CACHE CREEK

(800) 772-2243

Nov. 17-18, Richard Gomez, Rico Puno & Patricia Javier; Nov. 23, Elvin Bishop; Nov. 24, Sinbad.14455 Highway 16, Brooks. www.cachecreek.com

COFFEEHOUSES

MODESTO BAHA'I CENTER

(209) 579-1946

First and third Fridays, Cafe Night. 1100 Carver Road, Suite 10.

HUGHSON COFFEE COMPANY

(209) 883-0828

Ongoing live music. 6724 E. Whitmore, Suite J.

QUEEN BEANCOFFEE HOUSE

(209) 521-8000

Sundays, open mic. 1126 14th St., Modesto.

COFFEE BANDITS

Dec. 5, JC Villafan 6 p.m.309 W. Main St., Merced.

DANCE

"FOOTLOOSE"

Nov. 29-30

Davis High School Spartan dancers perform jazz, hip-hop, ballet, Bollywood and more. 7 p.m. Modesto High School Paul Tischer Theatre, H and First streets. $5. (209) 380-9017.

FILM

MOVIE AT THE LIBRARY

Nov. 17

Saturday afternoon at the library featuring "Despicable Me," the 2010 computer-animated comedy. 2 p.m. Patterson Library, 46 N Salado Ave. (209) 892-6473.

MOVIE AT THE LIBRARY

Nov. 17

Saturday afternoon movie at the library featuring "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving." 2 p.m. Oakdale Library, 151 S. First Ave.(209) 847-4204.

SATURDAY FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE

Nov. 17

Tuolumne County Library presents "Hugo," the story of an orphaned boy who secretly lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station where he looks after the clocks. 2 p.m. Tuolumne County Library, 480 Greenley Road, Sonora. Free. (209) 533-5507.

MOVIE NIGHTS AT THE SALIDA LIBRARY

Nov. 20-26

Nov. 20 "The Pirates! Band of Misfits." Nov. 26, "True Grit." Guests are invited to bring a picnic dinner. 6 p.m. Nov. 20, 5:30 p.m. Nov. 26. Salida Regional Library, 4835 Sisk Road. Free.

HOLIDAY

A DIFFERENT KIND OF CHRISTMAS

Through Dec. 12

A video-based study that focuses on overcoming the hype and hassle of the holiday season. Companion children's study and nursery also provided. Wednesdays 6:30 p.m- 7:30 p.m. Centenary United Methodist Church, McHenry Avenue at Norwegian Avenues, Modesto. Free. 527-5441.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE

Nov. 17

Holiday boutique. Lunch available from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Trinity Church, 1900 California St., Escalon.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS BOUTIQUE

Nov. 17

Also serving Apple Orchard Brunch from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for $10-$15. 8: 30 a.m.-3 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 850 16th St., Modesto. (209) 522-9046.

WINTER FARM AND CONSTRUCTION TOY SHOW

Nov. 17

Model farms on display, food available. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Gratton Elementary School gym, 4500 Gratton Road, Denair. $3 adults; $1 children, under 10 admitted free. (209) 669-6286.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

Nov. 17-18

Baklava, Chadee, lunch and dinner, all types of Assyrian foods and pastries. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saint George Parish, 3900 Brickit Court, Ceres. (209) 537-8238.

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

Nov. 17-18

Handmade items from local crafters. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Our Lady of Fatima, 505 W. Granger Ave., Modesto. (209) 524-7421.

HOLIDAY FAIRE

Nov. 17-18

20th Century Club's 41st annual event with unique hand-crafted arts and crafts, live band performances, hourly drawings, great gifts for the holidays. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Hughson High School, Whitmore Avenue and 7th Street. (209) 632-4492.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR

Nov. 18

Vendors from around the valley, food and beverages for purchase and music to set the Christmas mood. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Elks Lodge-Modesto, 645 Charity Way. (209) 524-4421.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CELEBRATION

Nov. 23

14th annual Turlock Festival of Lights transforms Main Street into an evening of dazzling lights, entertainment, shopping, and fun. Christmas tree lighting 6:45 p.m. at Golden State Blvd and Main Street. Carriage rides, pictures with Santa. 4-9 p.m. Downtown Turlock

COWBOY CHRISTMAS GIFT AND CRAFT SHOW

Nov. 23-24

Over 50 unique exhibitors featuring western art, furniture, jewelry and more. Book signing by local author, Dale Jackson on Saturday. 5-8 p.m. Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 24. Gene Bianchi Community Center, 110 S. Second Ave., Oakdale.

SONORA CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 2012

Nov. 23-25

39th annual holiday festival featuring 150 craft and artist booths, live entertainment on three stages, kids activities including a play area and Polar Express train, food, desserts, and seasonal drinks, street performers. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Mother Lode Fairgrounds, 220 Southgate Drive, Sonora. $7 adults; $5 seniors and students; $2 kids 6-12. (209) 533-3473.

A CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE

Nov. 23-Dec. 9

Alleans Creations boutique featuring Christmas decorations, gifts, ornaments and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1313 Westland Drive, Modesto. (209) 612-2556.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE

Nov. 24

Handmade crafts, food, jewelry and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3817 Ararat Ave, Modesto.

DOWNTOWN CHRISTMAS

Nov. 24

Gustine Chamber of Commerce presents holiday celebration featuring breakfast, fire truck rides, craft fair, Santa's workshop and lighted parade down Main Street. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Downtown Gustine

LET CHRISTMAS SHINEFESTIVAL

Nov. 24

44th annual Christmas parade followed by the arrival of Santa at 6:30 p.m. in the plaza. 5:30 p.m. Downtown Riverbank, Riverbank.(209) 404-8992.

RIVERBANK COMMUNITY CENTER

Nov. 24-25

Holiday Craft Faire runs in conjunction with the Riverbank 44th annual Community Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Riverbank Community Center, 3600 Santa Fe St. 869-4804.

OAKDALE HOLIDAY LUNCHEON

Nov. 28

Hosted by Soroptimist International. Proceeds benefit community projects. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bianchi Community Center, 110 S. 2nd St., Oakdale. $10. 847-7033.

LAMPLIGHT TOURS

Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Costumed tour guides will lead participants through decorated Columbia during the walking play "The Seven Pound Christmas Nugget" as the rumor of gold quickly spreads. Refreshments follow tour. Tours leave every 15 minutes. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 30; 5:30 p.m. Dec. 1 Columbia Historic State Park, Main and State streets. $18-$22 adults; ages five and under are free.

ANGELS CAMP CENTENNIAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Dec. 1

This historical event welcomes Santa Claus with a Centennial Holiday Parade. Local merchants join the festivities with special bargains and festive window displays. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Parade begins at 2 p.m. Downtown Angels Camp Free.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Dec. 1

Breakfast, pictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus reads a story, kids can make a holiday craft. 8 a.m. Modesto Senior Center, 211 Bodem St. (209) 577-5344.

CELEBRATIONOF LIGHTS PARADE

Dec. 1

Annual Christmas parade. This year's theme, "Holidays in Who-ville: A Tribute to Dr. Seuss." 5:30 p.m. Downtown Modesto

DICKENS FAIRE

Dec. 1

Costumed carolers, mansion decorated in Christmas Splendor. Hear Christmas tales, street fair with crafts and farmers market. 9 a.m. McHenry Mansion, 906 15th St., Modesto. (209) 575-7558.

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

Dec. 1

Vendors offering cosmetics, jewelry, candles and purses. Raffles and gifts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Round Table Pizza, 2401 East Orangeburg, Modesto. (209) 996-4036.

FESTIVAL OF TREES

Dec. 1-2

Decorated trees, Santa Claus, musical entertainment, craftsman, children craft activities, train rides, museum exhibits. Food available. Presented by San Joaquin County Historical Museum. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Micke Grove Park, 11793 N. Micke Grove Road, Lodi. $8, children 2-10 $1. (209) 331-2055.

HOMETOWN HOLIDAY GALA

Dec. 3

Closing event of the Angels Camp Centennial Holiday Celebration featuring entertainment and buffet. Camps Restaurant, Greenhorn Creek, Angels Camp.

CHRISTMAS AT THE HOUSE

Dec. 6-9

A holiday spectacular with live dancing, comedy and the beauty of Christmas. 7 p.m. Dec. 6-7; 6 p.m. Dec. 8, 9 and 11 a.m. Dec. 9. Calvary Temple Worship Center, 1601 Coffee Road, Modesto. Free. (209) 529-7346.

CALIFORNIA CHRISTMAS PARADE

Dec. 7

The 34th annual Turlock Christmas parade. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Turlock (209) 668-5594.

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE AND BAKE SALE

Dec. 7

Hosted by the C.F. Brown PTA. 4:30-8 p.m. Coleman F. Brown Elementary School, 2024 Vera Cruz Drive, Modesto. (209) 522-1238.

MURPHYS OPEN HOUSE

Dec. 7

Festive downtown Christmas celebration with visits by Santa and complimentary appetizers and beverages provided by local businesses. 5-8 p.m.; community parade, 5:30 p.m. Downtown Murphys (209) 728-8471.

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF WINES

Dec. 7-8

Wine tasting, food and wine pairings. 5-8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Various Wineries in Murphys (209) 728-9467.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR

Dec. 8

Homemade and custom items. Lunch featuring homemade Chicken Tortilla soup and Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches. Fresh baked goods.10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuolumne River Lodge, 2429 River Road, Modesto.(209) 537-6651.

HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE

Dec. 8

Community holiday events include Breakfast and Pictures with Santa 8 a.m-noon; holiday parade on Fifth Street, 11 a.m.; holiday boutique, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; and tree-lighting ceremony, 6:30 p.m. at Manuel Valverde Park. 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Lathrop Senior Center, 15707 Fifth St. $5 breakfast. (209) 941-7364.