Bargain View Hey Modesto Viewers it’s that fabulous time of year again, Christmas. This morning as I stand among the golden autumn foliage christening my yard and wave goodbye to the last out-of-towners departing I realize that with Thanksgiving just behind us… The Christmas season is here and we are almost upon a New Year! Welcome the season by letting those sleigh bells start jingling ring-ting tingling and make certain you’re a part of all the yuletide activities going down about town. And no need to worry there’s always a great deal for everyone!
Remember remember the first of December. Modesto knows how to bring in the month the right way.
Make your way downtown to take in the Dickens fair. The annual event takes visitors back to the Victorian era with costumed carolers at the McHenry Mansion amid the weekly Farmer’s Market. The house is newly refinished and will be decorated in glorious Christmas brilliance. As you sip your hot cocoa after viewing the mansion take a moment to wander the season’s last Farmer’s Market and mingle with some of Modesto’s finest craftsmen and women selling their wares. For those unable to make the Dickens Fair, don’t worry, the McHenry Mansion plays host to more events over the season, including Candlelight Christmas Tours the weekend of Christmas. Take a look at their schedule here: mchenrymuseum.org/events.html
After you’ve wander the streets in the morning take in the Celebration of Lights Parade in the early evening. This year’s theme is Holidays in Whoville, a fabulous tribute to Dr. Seuss. The parade is a collection of brightly lit floats, marching bands and holiday cheer that begins at 5:30pm at the corner of 15th & I Streets. For more info including a full parade route map see modestogov.com/prnd/events
If your ears need a serious upgrade on musical sounds check out Cruise ‘n Good’s Acoustic Christmas on December 5th. This year marks the annual event’s return to the State Theatre which couldn’t be better timed with the State’s new sound system. The lineup includes musician Ed Kowalczyk of the band Live and local favorites Flying Blind and Shaylin Nichole and The Ramblers. Get tickets soon. They will go quickly! See thestate.org for details and tickets.
Music not your scene? Prefer the spoken word? Take in the illest rhymin’ and stylin’ at the 9th annual Ill List Poetry Slam December 8th at the State Theatre. Check out of the best of the best for three rounds of vocal prowess from eight world-renowned and local spoken word artists. All forms of cheering and audience participation are welcomed at this spoken word boxing match. See thestate.org for details and tickets.
On that note… It’s time to officially break out the holiday music, a bit of eggnog and get a spot under the mistletoe before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st! Merry Christmas Viewers and a have a fabulous Happy New Year! Enjoy!
