Calendar: Events across the Modesto region

Townsend Opera Players present a fusion of the best classic rock songs and opera arias, arranged by professional composers for a rock orchestra and performed by opera singers. Performance held at the Merced Theatre, 301 W. Main St., Merced. 7:30 p.m. $10-$25.

Kickoff for the 85th celebration season with the return of conductor Michael Krajewski and the Modesto Symphony for a thrilling rock retrospective. Performance held at E.&J. Gallo Winery grounds, 600 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto. 4 p.m. grounds open; 7:30 p.m. concert. $19-$57 reserved; $12-$37 general.

Jim Curry presents the music of the late John Denver. Modesto Community Concert Association presentation. 3 p.m. $20-$30.

Comedy recording artist presents his Mandatory World Tour. 7:30 p.m. $39-$75.

Entertainer, songwriter with an off-beat sense of humor and outrageous props presents children’s music. Joined by the Great Valley Academy Choir. 7 p.m. $8-$20.

Comedian known for his distinctly lethargic voice and deadpan delivery of ironic, philosophical and sometimes nonsensical jokes. 8 p.m. $19-$49.

Soulful and current renditions of the ABC’s, 1-2-3’s and learning how to be polite. 2 p.m. $12-$30.

Late-night show host, stand-up comedian, best-selling children’s book author, speaker, TV and movie voice-over artist, pioneering car builder, mechanic and philanthropist. 2015-16 Gallo season-opening event. 4 and 7 p.m. $49-$99.

Master accordionist, vocalist and songwriter. 8 p.m. $49-$99.

Featuring Mavis Staples and Joan Osborne. 8 p.m. $29-$69.

Singer, songwriter, guitarist, composer and lyricist performs a solo acoustic concert. 7 p.m. $49-$89.

Singer, songwriter, musician and producer. 7:30 p.m. $30-$50.

Storyteller, actress and scholar Susan Marie Frontczak portrays Clara Barton, angel of the Civil War battlefield and the 23-year founder and president of the American Red Cross. 7:30 p.m. $20-$30.

Modesto Symphony Orchestra presentation of classics. 8 p.m. $19-$92.

San Francisco stand-up comedy competition 40th anniversary celebration. 8 p.m. $20-$35.

L.A. Theatre Works live radio theater production of Bram Stoker’s “Count Dracula.”

National tour presentation of Tony Award-winning musical. 7 p.m. $39-$99.

Reggae band from Birmingham, England, featuring the voices of Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Virtue. 8 p.m. $59-$99.

David Payne Drama presents a stage adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ best-selling children’s book. 2 and 7 p.m. $20-$40.

Australian Christian singers, brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone. 6 p.m. $19-$69.

Presentation of the music, dance and costumes of Mexican folklore by Ballet Folklórico de México. 7:30 p.m.

“The Spirit of India,” a lively musical journey from Rajasthan to Mumbai. 7:30 p.m. $19-$59.

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

Funstrummers ukulele play and singalong. Songbooks provided. 6 p.m. Tuesdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1600 Carver Road, Modesto. Donation. 209-505-3216.

Beginning group ukulele lessons. 6-8 p.m. Mondays. First United Methodist Church, Modesto, 850 16th St. Donations. 209-505-3216.

Men’s barbershop-style a capella chorus. 7-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Mancini Hall, 718 Tuolumne Blvd., Modesto. 209-524-6139.

Brief ukulele lessons and tips. Other acoustic instruments welcome. 10 a.m.-noon Thursdays. Carnegie Arts Center, 250 N. Broadway, Turlock. Free. 209-634-3311 or 209-667-2272.

Sept. 20, Cell Block 7; Nov. 15, KnightSounds Big Band. 12:30 p.m. jam sets; 1 p.m. featured band. Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 1612 Sisk Road, Modesto. $8-$12. 209-620-0285.

Concert featuring traditional music of the seven Celtic nations presented by trio of harmonies. 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. West Side Theatre, 1331 Main St., Newman. $12 general; $15 reserved. 209-862-4490.

High-voltage tribute to AC/DC. Lawn seating; bring chair. Part of the Copper Concerts September concert series. 7-9 p.m. Copperopolis Town Square, 100 Town Square Road, Copperopolis. Free, $5 parking.

Classical guitar presentation. Part of the Ripon Arts League Concert Series. 7:30 p.m. Ripon High School Auditorium, 301 N. Acacia Ave., Ripon. $30 individual membership includes all concerts. 209-599-7876.

Electronic Los Angeles-based trio presents all-ages concert. 8 p.m. Woodward Reservoir, 14528 26 Mile Road, Oakdale. $260.

Music, poetry and remembrance event to honor the memory of George Rogers and support Rogers Neighborhood Park. Featured performers include The Ratz, The Sensations and Home Grown. Attendees bring picnic lunch, blankets or low-back chairs. 4 p.m. gates open; 5-9 p.m. show. Private residence, 1425 Church St., Modesto. $15 adults; free for under 12. ThinkofMeGR@gmail.com.

Party band. Lawn seating; bring chair. Part of the Copper Concerts September concert series. 7-9 p.m. Copperopolis Town Square, 100 Town Square Road, Copperopolis. Free, $5 parking.

Foreigner/Journey tribute concert. 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. West Side Theatre, 1331 Main St., Newman. $17 general; $20 reserved. 209-862-4490.

Two international guitarists, Francesco Buzzurro and Richard Smith, join to present a benefit concert for Center Stage Summer Youth Conservatory’s children’s programs. 3-5 p.m. Private residence. $20-$55. 209-543-4261.

American Christian rock band. 5 p.m. gates; 7 p.m. concert. River Oak Grace Community Church, 7712 Rodden Road, Oakdale. $10 advance; $15 gate. 209-847-9428.

Tribute to Journey concert. Lawn seating; bring chair. Part of the Copper Concerts September concert series. 7-9 p.m. Copperopolis Town Square, 100 Town Square Road, Copperopolis. Free, $5 parking.

Band from the historic Gold Rush country presents Irish, Scottish, Italian and American folk music, original and traditional. 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. West Side Theatre, 1331 Main St., Newman. $15 general; $18 reserved. 209-862-4490.

Featuring Alex Kash. Love and Light 2015 series presentation. 1 p.m. Columbia Nursery, 22004 Parrots Ferry Road, Sonora. $15 209-532-5305.

American hard-rock band concert presented by JMAX Productions. 7:30 p.m. doors; 8:30 p.m. show. Modesto Centre Plaza, 1000 L St. $26.50 advance; $30 day of show.

Comedic film in which a New York city resident takes her soon-to-be sister-in-law under her wing in the big city.

Evening designed to tell women’s stories, shed light on their collective concerns and challenges, and to empower them through the dynamic medium of film. 5:30 p.m. doors and reception; 6:30 p.m. film fest. $12.

Mystery of identity, illusion and deception unfolds against the turmoil of post-World War II Germany.

Reggae group Win a Bagel tour performance joined by Modesto group The Jam Session. 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. $11-$15.

A penetrating and entertaining look back through archival footage and commentary at politics in 1968, when ABC hired William F. Buckley Jr. and Gore Vidal to boost ratings with a debate during the Democratic and Republican national conventions.

Evening featuring a selection of short films about architecture, landscape and design. Part of the 2015 Modesto Architecture Festival. 6 p.m. reception; 7 p.m. films. Free.

Story of the life and career of the legendary rhythm-and-blues musician Ray Charles. Part of the CareMore Senior Film Series. 10:30 a.m.

All-ages show featuring Triple D & Johnny Moroko, the Third Party Band and The Joe Barretta Band & the Fabulous Sensations. 6 p.m. doors; 7 p.m. show. $15.

Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall star in a film directed by John Huston, where a man visits an old friend’s hotel and finds a gangster running the show. As a hurricane approaches, the two men end up going head to head. A Modesto Film Society presentation. 2 p.m.

The Stanislaus Math Council hosts its first Math at the State. MATHS highlights interesting careers that use mathematics and follows with a fun movie. Speaker will be Adam Sidwell, computer graphics artist; accompanying movie is “Toy Story III.” 1 p.m. doors; 2 p.m. presentation. $7 adults; $4 children 12 and under.

Evening recognizing and honoring the work of artists and filmmakers whose focus is on the counter/geek culture. Hosted by Steam House Coffee Co. 7 p.m. $24-$100.

Intimate portrait of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, who was targeted by the Taliban and severely wounded by a gunshot when returning home on her school bus in Pakistan’s Swat Valley.

1998 comedy featuring idiosyncratic comedy of mistaken identity, surreal dream sequences and unconventional dialog. 6 p.m. doors and cocktails; 7 p.m. film. $6.

Suspenseful drama as a couple deals with the unthinkable in the wake of their son’s disappearance. Q&A with audience. Part of the monthly New York Film Critics Series.

A young group of monster fanatics attempts to save their hometown from Count Dracula and his army of monsters. Part of the CareMore Senior Film Series. 10:30 a.m.

Townsend Opera presents live performance combining opera and slam poetry featuring the Central Valley premiere of Philip Glass’ chamber opera “Hydrogen Jukebox” and performances of original poetry by Modesto-based poets. 6:30 p.m. doors; 7:30 p.m. performance; 9:30 p.m. open-mike after-party. $10.

Modesto Film Society double feature presentation. 2 p.m.

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

Musical presentation on the life of Argentine political leader Eva Perón. 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Playhouse Merced, 452 W. Main St., Merced. 209-725-8587.

Shakespeare’s exploration of the nature of evil and the bloody consequences of ambition. 7 p.m. today-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Sierra Repertory East Sonora Theatre, 13891 Mono Way. $18-$35. 209-532-3120.

Tennessee Williams’ classic four-character play. 7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Stage 3 Theater Company, 208 S. Green St., Sonora. $17-$25. 209-536-1778.

Merced ShakespeareFest presentation. 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Saturdays; 5 p.m. Sundays. Applegate Park, 1045 W. 25th St., Merced, with performances at UC Merced Amphitheater, 7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, Sept. 16-17. Free. 209-723-3265.

Neil Simon’s comedic look at the problems of a middle-aged couple living in New York City. 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Prospect Theater Project, 1214 K St., Modesto. 209-549-9341.

Presented by Hickman Honor Choir. 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 5:30 p.m. Saturday. Hughson High School Auditorium, 7419 E. Whitmore Ave. $5 209-322-9719.

Musical play based on a true story about Patsy Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston names Louise Seger. 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, Wednesdays. Fallon House Theatre, 11175 Washington St., Columbia. $18-$32. 209-532-3120.

Tony Award-winning play produced by Jon Dambacher. 7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Murphys Creek Theatre, 580 S. Algiers St., Angels Camp. $10-$20. 209-728-8422.

One-man show. 8 p.m. California State University, Stanislaus, Main Stage Theatre, 1 University Circle, Turlock. 209-668-3959.

Oscar Wilde comedy in which protagonists take on fictitious characters in order to miss some uncomfortable social situations. 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Playhouse Merced, 452 W. Main St., Merced. 209-725-8587.

Musical comedy as the audience is invited to share a celebrity bride’s uproarious wedding day. 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, Wednesdays. Sierra Repertory East Sonora Theatre, 13891 Mono Way. $18-$32. 209-532-3120.

Saturday, Sept. 12, Second Saturday Art Night, 5-8 p.m. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. 167 S. Washington St., Sonora.

Through Oct. 3, Darrin Martin exhibit. Gallery hours: noon-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; noon-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. 139 W. Main St., Turlock. Free.

Through Oct. 3, “Elisabeth Kohnke: The Perfect.” Gallery hours: noon-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; noon-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. 135 W. Main St., Turlock.

Ongoing, work by Brad and Nancy Hawn. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Friday. 920 13th St., Modesto.

Through Oct. 30, “Chad Hunter: a 20-year retrospective.” Gallery hours: noon-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 6-9 p.m. Thursday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday. 1 University Center, Turlock. Free. www.csustan.edu.

Sept. 26-27, Calaveras County Artists Studio Tour featuring 25 artists and 13 locations. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Gallery hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 22 N. Main St., San Andreas. www.calaverasarts.org.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 1-6 p.m. Thursday, with 1-9, Third Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday. 1224 K St., Modesto.

Through Friday, Sept. 11, “Invitational Photography Show: Collision IV”; Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk. Gallery hours: 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday. 1015 J St., Modesto. Free.

www.ccartassn.org.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. 918 10th St., Modesto.

www.thechartreusemuse.com.

Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays. 1208 J St. www.crowtrading.com.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk. 5-9 p.m.

Through Sept. 30, “Golden Hills & Evening Light” featuring Daniel Mundy. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. 226 N. First St., Turlock. www.firststreetgalleries.com.

Through September, Sarah Anne Graham: “Paper, Print and Painting.” Gallery hours: 1-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; or by appointment. www.tuolumnecountyarts.org/gallery.

Historical society quilt exhibit including archives of the historical society and old sewing machines on display. Gallery hours: 1-4 p.m. Thursday and Sunday. 397 Fourth St., Gustine. www.gustinehistoricalsociety.org.

Ongoing, Mary A. Scheinuck, Waldemar “Walt” Scheinuck and other California artists. Gallery hours: Open by appointment. 18091 Hart Lane, Manteca.

Exhibits of a county recorder’s office, a general store and a re-created blacksmith shop. Gallery hours: noon-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. 1402 I St., Modesto. Free.

Through Sept. 24, Post Rural Artists. Gallery hours: 10 a.m-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday. 435 College Ave. Free.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 1222 J St., Modesto. www.peerartrecoveryproject.org.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. 1030 J. St., Modesto. www.preservationcoffee.com.

Ongoing, artists exhibit. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 3012 McHenry Ave., Modesto.

Saturday, Sept. 12, Second Saturday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m. 140 S. Washington St., Sonora. www.sonorajoes.com.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. 1313 J St., Modesto. www.stillsmokingstore.tripod.com.

Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 128 N. Center St., Turlock.

Thursday, Sept. 17, Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. 909 10th St., Modesto. www.trevinosbarbershop.com.

Ongoing, 10 local artists. Exhibit hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 4459 Spyres Way, Suite A, Modesto.

Yosemite Renaissance is celebrating its 30th year with an exhibit of 49 paintings, photographs, prints and sculptures by 47 artists. Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. daily. 9037 Village Drive, Yosemite Valley.

Folk dancing lessons. No partner or experience necessary. Open to teens and older. $5. For information, call 209-634-8843 or 209-480-0387. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Fridays.

Community-based ukulele strum and singalong. Open to all ages and skill levels, as well as other acoustic instruments. 10:30 a.m. Free. www.turlockukejamz.org.

Annual competition celebrating its 30th year featuring paintings, photographs, prints, textiles, mixed media works and sculpture.

Annual arts gala and special preview for the Alphonse Mucha exhibit. 6-11 p.m. $150.

Selections from the Dhawan Collection.

Themed, juried art show to coincide with the Alphonse Mucha exhibition.

View the Yosemite Renaissance exhibition, explore art made with rocks, learn a little rock science and climb a rock wall. Part of the Family Friday series. 7-8:30 p.m. Free.

CSU Stanislaus jazz studies director Joe Mazzaferro brings in some regional talent for this concert. Music will feature themes of early jazz and ragtime. 7:30-9 p.m. $8 general; $5 students and members.

The Carnegie Arts Center is at 250 N. Broadway, Turlock. Call 209-632-5761. www.carnegieartsturlock.org.

16929 Chicken Ranch Road, Jamestown. 209-984-4806. www.chickenranchcasino.com.

Friday, Sept. 11, Paul Rodgers with John Kay and Steppenwolf. 1200 Athens Ave., Lincoln. www.thundervalleycasino.com.

Saturday, Sept. 12, Lighting Roy Kory Gibbs and the Thundering Blues Band; Thursday, Sept. 17, Lynyrd Skynyrd; Oct. 8, Gordon Lightfoot. 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson. www.jacksoncasino.com.

Friday, Sept. 11, Chad Bushnell; Friday, Sept. 11, Decades; Saturday, Sept. 12, Clean Slate. 1 Red Hawk Parkway, Placerville. www.redhawkcasino.com.

Friday, Sept. 11, Little Joe Y La Familia; Saturday, Sept. 12, Vietnamese Concert; Sunday, Sept. 13, Rocio “La Dama de La Cumbia” y Su Sonora; Sept. 18, Vanessa Williams; Sept. 26, IFC Caged Combat; Sept. 27, William So & Gi Ling Lin. 14455 Highway 16, Brooks. www.cachecreek.com.

Friday, Sept. 11, Purple Ones; Saturday, Sept. 12, Steel Breeze; Wednesday, Sept. 16, Mountain Heart; Sept. 18-19, Foreverland; Sept. 24, Chains Required; Sept. 25, Shane Dwight; Sept. 26, FLO-Funky Latin Orchestra; Oct. 1, Rock of Ages. 19400 Tuolumne Road N., Tuolumne.

A different kind of “happy hour.” Limited seating. 1 p.m. Covenant Village of Turlock, 2125 N. Olive Ave. 877-834-1238.

Comedy tour featuring the finalists and winner of NBC summer competition show “Last Comic Standing.” 7:30 p.m. Turlock Community Theater, 1574 E. Canal Drive. $35-$49. 209-668-1169.

7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show. Famiglia Bistro, 2501 McHenry Ave., Modesto. $10. 209-531-3517.

Food and craft vendors, live entertainment, classic-car show, antique farm equipment, petting zoo and more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Downtown Denair. www.denairfestival.com.

Annual “September Stroll” featuring seven gardens. Ticket purchase includes a map and garden listings. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Various locations, Ripon. $20 adults; $10 children under 12.

LGBT and LGBT-friendly vendors, food and drink, beer garden, teen garden, kids zone games and entertainment. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Graceada Park, 401 Needham Ave., Modesto. 209-605-6685 or 209-605-6685.

18th annual event with authentic food, music, international dance, arts and crafts. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. Assyrian Cultural Center, 3119 S. Central Ave., Ceres. 209-480-9293.

Eighth annual festival featuring exhibits and tours, architecture films, activities for families and kids. Various locations. Free. http://modestoarchfest.com.

Music, art, workshops, playshops, theatrical and circus performances, improv and stand-up comedy. 3 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Woodward Reservoir, 14528 26 Mile Road, Oakdale. $260-$500 four-day passes and camping. http://symbiosisgathering.com.

Kids activities, parade, live entertainment by Threshold, Columbia Jazz and more, auctions, chili and salsa tastings and other activities. Annual chili cook-off competition. 7 a.m., breakfast; 5 p.m. close. Downtown Groveland. www.49erfestival.blogspot.com.

Angels Camp Museum annual family festival featuring live music, historical exhibits, museum tours, $5 gold panning station for kids, food vendors and special guest exhibitors. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Angels Camp Museum, 753 S. Main St., Angels Camp. Free. 209-736-2963.

Live entertainment, classic car show, 7 a.m. Sunday pancake breakfast, arts and crafts and commercial vendor booths and a kids zone. 10 a.m-5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Free. www.hughsonchamber.com.

Authentic food with take-out available, church tours, marketplace, live music and entertainment. Noon-9 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 313 Tokay Ave., Modesto. $14 advance; $17 door; kids under 12 $8.50. 209-522-7694.

Annual festival with coyote howl, horseshoe contest, kids korner, car show and parade. 10 a.m. Downtown Coulterville. Free. 209-878-3015.

31st annual beer tasting event with a sampling of West Coast microbrews, California wine tasting and traditional German fare. Live entertainment. 5:30-10 p.m. John Thurman Field, 601 Neece Drive, Modesto. $25 advance; $30 gate. 209-577-5757.

24th annual event featuring parade of flags, international music, dance, food and children’s crafts. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Modesto Junior College, East Campus, 435 College Ave. Free. 209-521-3852.

Seventh annual event. This year’s theme – “The All Hallows Fantasy Faire Strikes Back” – celebrates the world of “Star Wars.” Live music, craft vendors at the Celtic Village Marketplace, live entertainment including magicians and jugglers and food and drink. Noon-midnight Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Mother Lode Fairgrounds, 220 Southgate Drive, Sonora. $12 advance, $16 gate adults Saturday; $15 adult Sunday; $5 kids 6-12. 800-446-1333.

Artisans, floral displays, demonstrations, food available. Presented by The Calaveras County Garden Club. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Calaveras County Fairgrounds, 101 Frogtown Road, Angels Camp. www.calaverascountygardenclub.org.

Buster Keaton film accompanied by live music by Dave Moreno on the Alhambra Pipe Organ. Part of the Ironstone Vineyards Silent Movie Series. Reservations required. 6 p.m. Ironstone Vineyards, 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys. $22.50. 209-728-1251.

Sunset dinner and Wild West trains, Sunday brunch trains. Call or check website for times and prices. Sierra Railroad Golden Sunset and Daylight Trains, 330 S. Sierra Ave., Oakdale. 800-866-1690. www.sierrarailroad.com.

Sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. 7-11 a.m. Sundays. Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall-Modesto, 2801 W. Hatch Road. $7. 209-537-3360.

Friday night dinner hosted by the VFW Post 3199. 4-7 p.m. Fridays. Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall-Modesto, 2801 W. Hatch Road. $6-$10. 209-537-3360.

Presented by Northern Mariposa County History Center. Eggs, ham or sausage, all-you-can-eat pancakes and fresh fruit. 8-11 a.m. second Sundays. Coulterville School House, Broadway and Cemetery. $5 adults; $3 children.

Hosted by Ripon VFW Post 1051. 5:30-7 p.m. Fridays. Veterans of Foreign Wars-Ripon, 12455 W. Ripon Road. Small donation required. 209-599-6815.

Hosted by VFW 1051 of Ripon. Chicken strips, burgers, fish or shrimp with fries. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Veterans of Foreign Wars-Ripon, 12455 W. Ripon Road. Small donation required. 209-599-6815.

VFW Auxiliary weekly hamburger nights. 5-8 p.m. Fridays. Veterans of Foreign Wars-Turlock, 1405 E. Linwood Ave. $2-$6.50. 209-668-9710.

Livingston VFW monthly hamburger night. 5-7 p.m. last Thursdays. Livingston Veterans Memorial Hall, 1605 Seventh St. $2-$4.50. 209-394-2059. www.vfwlivingston.com.

VFW Auxiliary weekly hamburger night. 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall-Modesto, 2801 W. Hatch Road. $6-$7. 209-668-9710.

8 a.m.-noon Saturdays. 16th St. and Canal, Merced. 209-389-4175.

Hosted by Fraternal Order of Eagles. 8-11 a.m. first Sundays. Eagles Hall, 126 Camellia Way, Modesto. $6. 209-577-2298.

Steak dinner, salad bar, no-host bar. Hosted by the Fraternal Order of Eagles. 5 p.m. social; 7 p.m. dinner first Fridays. Eagles Hall, 126 Camellia Way, Modesto. $12. 209-577-2298.

8 a.m.-noon first Sundays. IOOF Hall, Main Street, Knights Ferry. $5.

Monthly luncheon. 11:15 a.m. third Wednesdays. Denair Community Center, 3850 N. Gratton Road. 209-632-0011. www.sirinc.org.

7-11 a.m. second Sundays. Odd Fellows Hall-La Grange, Main Street. $6.

50-plus club for those with upbeat attitude and good sense of humor. 8:30-9 a.m. Sundays. Denny’s, 1525 McHenry Ave., Modesto. 209-576-0279.

7 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays. 16th Street, between H and I streets. Free. 209-605-8536.

5 p.m. Thursdays. Main Street, Columbia State Historic Park. Free 209-499-8273.

4-8 p.m. Wednesdays. 1040 W. Las Palmas Ave. Free. 209-417-7769.

5 p.m.-dusk. Fridays. Utica Park. Free. 209-736-1333

4-8 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays. Downtown Hughson, Charles Street. 209-883-4054.

Seasonal produce, fresh food highlighting local ingredients and hand-crafted items. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. Downtown Turlock, Main Street and Broadway. 209-225-8177.

Local produce, market vendors. 7:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays. The Promenade, Yosemite Avenue and Paulson Road, Merced. Free. 209-389-4175.

Annual lunch featuring valley products and locally grown produce. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Graceada Park, Modesto. $10-$25. 209-577-5757.

Trap shoot contest, gun raffle and tri-tip/chicken dinner benefit for Healing Arenas. 3 p.m. trap shoot; 6 p.m. awards and social hour; 7 p.m. dinner and raffle. Escalon Sportsmen’s Club, 25195 E. River Road, Escalon. $15-$75. 209-900-7917 or 209-701-0088.

Burbank-Paradise Fire Department’s eighth annual tri-tip dinner. Dine-in or take out available. Raffle prizes. 2-7 p.m. 1313 Beverly Drive, Modesto. $10 adults; $6 children. 209-523-1129.

Calaveras Youth Mentoring Program fundraising wine and cheese reception and dinner. Dancing and auction. Dove Hill Ranch, Highway 49, Angels Camp. $50 per person; $450 table of 10. 209-736-7706.

No-host bar, Mexican buffet dinner, dancing. 5 p.m. SOS Club, 819 Sunset Ave., Modesto. $18. 209-578-5801.

Unity Church of Modesto 85th anniversary barbecue with guitar player Amitabhan. 4:30 p.m. barbecue; 7 p.m. program. Unity Church of Modesto, 2467 Veneman Ave. 209-578-5433.

Stanislaus Library Foundation event featuring local author Paula Treick-DeBoard. Dinner, dessert auction. 6 p.m. Private home. $125. 209-529-1517.

Soroptimist International of Modesto 40th annual event. 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Masonic Center, 800 Rose Ave., Modesto. $6. 209-521-0609.

Ballet, tap, jazz and Mommy & Me classes offered for all ages. Central West Ballet, 5039 Pentecost, Modesto. $10 per class. 209-576-8957. www.centralwestballet.org.

Group geared for children 8 years old and up. Each month club members will be invited to discuss various books, participate in crafts and watch excerpts from films. Refreshments available. 3:30-4:30 p.m. second Fridays. Tuolumne County Library, 480 Greenley Road, Sonora. 209-533-5507.

The Modesto Branch of the Stanislaus County Library is looking for children ages 7-14 to participate in the 46th annual All-Kids Craft Fair scheduled for Oct. 17. Application deadline Sept. 30. Free. Modesto Library, 1500 I St. 209-558-7810.

Antique aircraft display. Sponsored by the Commemorative Air Force. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. second Saturdays. Modesto City County Airport, 700 Tioga Drive, Hangar 1. 209-526-5868. www.cafvalleysquadron.org.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. fourth Saturdays. Turlock Municipal Airport, 13602 Newport Road. 209-620-6312.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Castle Air Museum, 5050 Santa Fe Drive, Atwater. $12 adults; $8 seniors; $5 youths 6-17; free age 5 and under. 209-723-2178.

6:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Perko’s Cafe, 2120 Patterson Road, Riverbank. 209-342-7358.

Successful Thinkers Network-Modesto Learning Zone programs. 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Round Table Pizza, 3848 McHenry Ave., Modesto. 209-712-8997.

Variety of fitness classes including senior classes and beginning line dancing. No registration or membership required. Monday-Friday; call for times. Centenary Methodist Church, 1911 Toyon Ave., Modesto. Donation. 209-988-5655. www.centenarychurch.net.

Toastmasters club Daybreakers 1388. 6:15-7:20 a.m. second, third and fourth Wednesdays. Denny’s, 1525 McHenry Ave., Modesto. www.toastmasters.org.

The Healthy Aging Association offers group exercise classes for those 60 and older. Classes range from strength training, aerobics or tai chi. Call for information on class location and times. Healthy Aging Association, 121 Downey Ave., Suite 102, Modesto. Free. 209-523-2800.

Valley Super Singles weekly social time for singles age 50 and older. 5:30 p.m. first and third Fridays. Bel Piatto Restaurant, 1000 Kansas Ave., Modesto. 209-883-2685.

Presented by Oakdale Grange #435. Food and drink free. 7-9:30 p.m. second Fridays. Oakdale Grange Hall, Lambuth and F streets. $10. 209-556-8524 or 209-838-7421.

Sonora Writers Group meeting. Call for location. 10:30 a.m. second Saturdays. 209-734-8097.

Support group for those either writing for themselves or for publication. 5:30-7 p.m. second Tuesdays. Merced Multicultural Arts Center, 645 W. Main St. Free.

The Genealogical Society of Stanislaus County meets to instruct, inform and educate members in the techniques of research. 7 p.m. third Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church, Telle Center, 1600 Carver Road, Modesto. 209-526-5009.

Modesto Chinese School is holding classes to learn Mandarin Chinese. Ages 5 and older; registration required. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Fridays. Modesto Chinese School, 5901 Sisk Road. 209-602-0763.

City of Modesto Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department presents the family film “Big Hero 6.” Dusk. Graceada Park, Mancini Bowl, 401 Needham St., Modesto. Free. 209-577-5344.

Stanislaus County Library hosts sixth annual event. 9 a.m.-noon. Modesto Library, 1500 I St. Free. 209-558-7810.

Ripon Garden Club 18th annual garden tour. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Various locations. No strollers. $20 adults; $10 children. 209-599-7475.

Studio 49 Fiber Arts Group. Spinning, weaving, knitting, crocheting, anything related to fiber arts. Visitors welcome. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuolumne County Library, 480 Greenley Road, Sonora. Free. 209-533-0593.

Columbia State Historic Park hosts event with music, costume dress-up, hand-cranked ice cream and 1861 school lessons. 4-7 p.m. Columbia State Historic Park, Columbia. Free. 209-532-2023.

A day of international fun featuring multilingual outdoor Mass, procession of international flags, international food, kids’ games, car show, silent auction and live entertainment. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. St. Mary’s Parish, 1225 Olive St., Oakdale. Free. 209-847-2715.

Craig Vierra of the University of the Pacific presents “Spider Silk: A Next Generation of Biomaterial with Outstanding Properties.” Part of the MJC weekly Science Colloquium series. 3-4 p.m. Modesto Junior College, West Campus, Science Community Center, Room 115, 2201 Blue Gum Ave. Free. 209-529-5182.

City of Modesto Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department presents the family film “Paddington.” Dusk. Graceda Park, Mancini Bowl, 401 Needham St., Modesto. Free. 209-577-5344.

Central Sierra Audubon Society hosts speaker Barry Boulton with a presentation on bird behavior. 7 p.m. Tuolumne County Library, Community Room, 480 Greenley Road, Sonora. Free. 209-532-1106.

Modesto Area Partners in Science presentation featuring Derek Madden, professor of biology at Modesto Junior College. 7:30 p.m. Modesto Junior College, West Campus, Sierra Hall 132, 2201 Blue Gum Ave. Free. 209-575-6800.

Outdoor tastings from five West Coast breweries. Food/appetizers available to purchase. Proceeds benefit Columbia College. Noon-4 p.m. The Standard Pour, 19040 Standard Road, Sonora. $25. 209-532-7687.

Horacio Ferriz, CSU Stanislaus geophysicist, presents “Looking into the Earth: The Use of Geophysics to Assess Aquifer Depletion and Flood Control Levees.” Part of the MJC weekly Science Colloquium series. 3-4 p.m. Modesto Junior College, West Campus, Science Community Center, Room 115, 2201 Blue Gum Ave. Free. 209-529-5182.

Sonora Writers Group presents its third annual Tuolumne Writers Retreat featuring Friday night ghost walk, workshops, dinner and readings and entertainment. Begins 6:30 p.m. Friday. Columbia State Historical Park, 11244 Jackson St., Columbia. 209-288-9950.

Presented by American Heart Association. Noncompetitive 5K walk or run with teams of all ages. Health expo follows. Registration free. Modesto Junior College, East Campus, 435 College Ave. 209-598-8220.

Presented by Victory Outreach Modesto. Bike blessing, noon. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 1219 N. Carpenter Road, Modesto. 209-522-3394.

Calaveras County 2015 event, “Creating Gold in the Mother Lode.” 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Calaveras County Fairgrounds, 101 Frogtown Road, Angels Camp. calaveraseexpo@gmail.com.

Maya Leiva presents “Chemotherapy.” Part of the MJC weekly Science Colloquium series. 3-4 p.m. Modesto Junior College, West Campus, Science Community Center, Room 115, 2201 Blue Gum Ave. Free. 209-529-5182.

Hosted by Stanislaus County Bicycle Club with three different distances and routes. Ride benefits Second Harvest Food Bank. 7 a.m. Knights Ferry. www.stancobike.org.

Modesto Tango social dance and practice. 7-9 p.m. Mondays. Urbano Bistro, 1016 H St., Modesto. 209-522-1571.

Dancing and socializing. Different themes monthly. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Riverbank Community Center, 3600 Santa Fe St. $4 members; $6 nonmembers; $12 annual membership. 209-521-7194.

7:30-10 p.m., Wednesdays. Turlock Senior Center, 1191 Cahill St.

Club meets Tuesdays, second Fridays for dance. First-time guests free. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays; 7-10 p.m. second Fridays. Modesto Senior Center, 211 Bodem St. Day: $4 members, $6 nonmembers; night: $5 and $7. 209-534-7663.

Rock and country band. 1-4 p.m. second and fourth Sundays. Manteca Senior Center, 295 Cherry Lane. $4. 209-825-0116.

Monthly dances. 7-10 p.m. second Saturdays. Odd Fellows Hall, 6941 Hughson Ave., Hughson. $5 members; $7 nonmembers. 209-614-8048.

7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Oakdale Grange Hall, Lambuth and F streets. $4. 209-526-4452.

Wednesdays, square dance club workshop nights. 7-9 p.m. American Legion Hall-Turlock, 75 Bothun Road. 209-535-0479. www.facebook.com/turlock.steppinpards.

Potluck meal with prizes. 6 p.m. second Fridays; 1 p.m. fourth Sundays. Hughson Senior Center, 2307 Fourth St. $2 door; $8 membership. 209-538-0362.

Workshops Wednesdays and Saturday Party Nights. Open to singles, couples and children ages 12 and up. 7 p.m. Wednesdays and third Saturdays. Oakdale Grange Hall, Lambuth and F streets. $3-$6 per person; $20 annual dues. 209-236-1628. www.singleskirtsnflirts.ccsda.org.

Featuring music by the band Just Friends and a free samba slide dance lesson. Refreshments available. 1 p.m. fourth Sundays. Merced Community Center Ballroom, 755 W 15th St. $8. 209-723-0839.

A college-community concert band looking for experienced woodwind, brass and percussion players to join. 7 p.m. Mondays. California State University, Stanislaus, music building, 1 University Circle, Turlock. 209-667-3740.

Central West Ballet auditions for “The Nutcracker.” Preregistration available at www.centralwestballet.org. Central West Ballet, 5039 Pentecost Drive, Suite B2, Modesto. 209-576-8957.

This story was originally published September 8, 2015 at 11:56 AM with the headline "Calendar: Events across the Modesto region."