By Monica Barber
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Modesto welcomes another holiday season full of cheer and fun! Whenever you’re around town this season, treat yourself to a holiday drink, maybe a hot cocoa or peppermint mocha, from a local café and don’t forget to support small businesses by shopping locally for your gifts to share with loved ones. If you’re looking for things to do in Modesto without dipping into your holiday budget, here’s a few to give you the holiday feels.
Start the season by visiting the coolest place in town, Modesto on Ice. The rink is open for the season and ready for everyone to spend their chilly winter days ice skating and having fun. Make it a date night, a quick day skate, a game of hockey, a family gathering or something else at the rink. The outdoor, covered ice rink is a holiday tradition for all ages to enjoy. Skate sessions are 90 minutes with reservations available online. Tickets are $14/youth and $18/adults which include skate rentals. The ice is open through mid-January. Information: www.facebook.com/modestoonice
Celebrate the holiday with families, friends, and neighbors at the Celebration of Lights Holiday Parade and Downtown Tree Lighting. This year’s event will delight all ages on December 7th in Downtown Modesto. The 2024 parade theme is “Downtown Disco” and will boogie all through downtown Modesto The Annual Tree Lightning in Tenth Street Plaza follows the parade and kicks off the Rockin Holiday 5:30-8:30 pm. Info: www.modestogov.com/553/Holiday-Parade
McHenry Mansion will be hosting Special Candlelight Tours with full walk-throughs of the mansion decorated for the Christmas holiday on December 21st and 22nd from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. The docent-led tours include historical information about the mansion and their Victorian Holiday décor. This event is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. Info: www.facebook.com/mchenrymansion
The Christmas season wouldn’t be the same without a stop to see Santa. Santa’s winter wonderland is at the Vintage Faire Mall and ready for you to visit. Santa and his elves are busy this year, but they have time for everyone to get their photos and a chance to share their Christmas lists. Pre-book early and save time. Prebook times, schedule & Info: www.shopvintagefairemall.com/SantaPhotos
Enjoy a wonderful Christmastime, Modesto!
Kisses, m
m.
