From the elegance of The Nutcracker to the roaring engines at Stockton Dirt Track, this weekend is loaded with culture, celebration and family-friendly fun. Here’s your guide to the events happening Nov. 7 through Nov. 9:
Read on for a sampling of events from Visit Stockton, Stocktonia’s event calendar and other community event organizers.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
Nov. 7 | 7 p.m. | Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main St., Stockton | $35+
Ring in the holiday season with Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at the historic Bob Hope Theatre. This international touring production brings a fresh take to the beloved classic with hand-crafted European sets and costumes, whimsical puppetry and a cast of professional dancers from around the globe.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this performance offers a nostalgic return to childhood wonder and a shared holiday tradition for all ages. Tickets start at $35.
Pacific Wind Bands Concert
Nov. 7 | 7:30–9 p.m. | Faye Spanos Concert Hall, 3511 Pacific Ave., Stockton | $10–$15
Enjoy an evening of jazz and symphonic flair as the University of the Pacific’s Conservatory of Music presents the Pacific Wind Bands. The concert features faculty trumpeter Joe Mazzaferro performing works by Miles Davis and Gil Evans, along with the ensemble’s take on Frank Ticheli’s “Blue Shades.” Conducted by Professor Vu Nguyen, the performance is free for students and Pacific faculty with valid ID.
Races at the Stockton Dirt Track
Nov. 8 | San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton
Gear up for high-octane excitement as the Stockton Dirt Track hosts another round of competitive racing. The 3/8-mile clay oval brings together Pro Stocks, Sport Mods, A-Mods, Hobby Stocks and more for a night of fast-paced action inside the Fairgrounds.
This family-friendly venue is known for its electric atmosphere and jam-packed race days. Visit the track website for ticket info and exact race times.
Lodi Sandhill Crane Festival
Nov. 8–9 | Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi | Free to enter
Celebrate one of nature’s most majestic migrations during the Lodi Sandhill Crane Festival. Held each fall when thousands of Sandhill Cranes return to the Delta wetlands, this annual event features wildlife tours, art shows, family activities and expert-led workshops.
The cranes’ dramatic call and graceful dance continue to inspire thousands of bird watchers and nature lovers. While exhibits are free to attend, guided tours and presentations require advance registration.
Stockton Hmong New Year
Nov. 8–9 | 8 a.m.–4 p.m. | San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton | $7
Experience the richness of Hmong culture at this annual two-day celebration featuring traditional music, cultural performances, food vendors, sports tournaments and community booths.
Admission is $7 per person, free for seniors over 65 and children under 5. Parking is $10 per vehicle. This family-friendly event is a vibrant display of community, heritage and cultural pride.
Stockton Kings Opening Night vs. San Diego Clippers
Nov. 8 | 5–8 p.m. | Adventist Health Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton
The reigning NBA G League champions return to the hardwood as the Stockton Kings open their 2025–26 season at home against the San Diego Clippers. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m. at Adventist Health Arena. The teams meet again at the arena at 3 p.m. on Nov. 9.
Single-game ticket prices vary. Fans are encouraged to grab a bite in downtown Stockton before or after the game and to arrive early for pregame festivities. For kids ages 6–14, a free youth clinic follows Fan Fest from 2:30–4:30 p.m. (separate RSVP required).
Luis Ángel “El Flaco” y Julio Preciado
Nov. 9 | 7–11 p.m. | Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main St., Stockton | $63.50+
Two giants of Banda music — Luis Ángel “El Flaco” and Julio Preciado — join forces for a powerful night of regional Mexican music. Expect stirring ballads, high-energy brass sections and crowd-pleasing performances at Stockton’s most iconic theater.
Tickets start at $63.50. Check the venue’s FAQ for parking and entry guidelines before the show.
Have an event to share? Add it for free to Stocktonia’s event calendar.