6 things to do this week in and around Modesto

Earth Day in the Park

The city of Modesto celebrates with its 27th annual Earth Day in the Park Festival. The day of “green” education will include more than 100 exhibitor booths. The festivities also feature live entertainment, food and a “Trash-Formation” art contest for students K-12. Free on-site paper shredding, CRV recycling, e-waste drop-off and more available.

WHEN: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 23

WHERE: Graceada Park, Sycamore and Needham streets, Modesto

TICKETS: Free

CALL: 209-577-5495

ONLINE: www.modestogov.com/earthday

Open Studio Tour

The Stanislaus Artist Open Studio Tour returns with a weekend of arts appreciation. The public is invited to meet more than 80 artists at 43 studios and gallery venues across Modesto, Turlock and Oakdale. Artists will have their work on display and for sale while also offering demonstrations. Art will range from paintings to sculptures, photography, jewelry and beyond.

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 23, and noon to 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 24

WHERE: Studios and galleries across Stanislaus County

TICKETS: $10 general, students 18 an under free if accompanied by a map holder

ONLINE: www.stanislausaos.wordpress.com

‘Million Dollar Quartet’

Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Million Dollar Quartet” returns this month to the Gallo Center for the Arts. Inspired by the true story of the famed recording session where Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ’n’ Roll,” brought together icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for one unforgettable night.

WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, April 22, and 2 p.m. Saturday, April 23

WHERE: Rogers Theater, Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I St., Modesto

TICKETS: $59-$99

CALL: 209-338-2100

ONLINE: www.galloarts.org

Love Modesto

The annual citywide community service event known as Love Modesto returns. Started in 2009, the self-improvement drive attracts thousands each year who volunteers their time to work on projects around town. Festivities kick off in front of the Gallo Center for the Arts with free refreshments, music, activities and a kids play area.

WHEN: 8 a.m. Saturday, April 23

WHERE: Kickoff outside the Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I St.; projects in various locations around the city

TICKETS: Free

CALL: 209-566-9343

ONLINE: www.lovemodesto.com

Gold Country Peddler’s Faire

Find whatever it is you’re looking for at the historic and eclectic Knights Ferry Gold Country Peddler’s Faire. The event celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The fair, set next to the famous Knights Ferry covered bridge, features antiques, collectibles, crafts and more than 100 dealers.

WHEN: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, April 24

WHERE: Knights Ferry Recreation Area, 17968 Covered Bridge Road

TICKETS: Free

CALL: 209-480-3602

The Reluctant Dragon

The new LightBox Theatre Company is back with a production of “The Reluctant Dragon.” The nonprofit theatrical group debuted last fall and presents plays aimed at young audiences and students. The latest show is based on a 1898 children’s story by Kenneth Grahame about a boy who meets and befriends a dragon who lives near his village.

WHEN: Opens 7 p.m. Friday, April 22; shows 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday through May 1

WHERE: The Loft Theater, Carnegie Arts Center, 250 N. Broadway, Turlock

TICKETS: $12 general, $10 members, $8 youths

CALL: 209-417-6643

ONLINE: LightBoxForYouth.org

This story was originally published April 19, 2016 at 12:05 PM with the headline "6 things to do this week in and around Modesto."