Live music in Ceres, CA

Settle in for a night of live jazz with the Johnny Valdes Jazz Trio. Guitarist, composer, and singer Johnny Valdes hails from Modesto, California and has performed professionally for more than two decades. He is signed to the Rhythmus record label founded by musician and producer Ray Obiedo, and his sound draws from influences that include Wes Montgomery, Bill Evans, Jimi Hendrix, Pat Martino, John Coltrane, and Charlie Parker. Valdes has recorded with John Stowell and has performed with Barry Finnerty of Miles Davis's band and David K. Matthews of Santana, as well as Tower of Power members Mic Gillette and Marc van Wageningen. He is currently preparing to release his debut album.

Music in the Plaza features a live performance by Dave Dow. This ongoing series highlights a wide range of talent across the season, with other dates showcasing artists such as Neon Radio, The Mixtape, Red Pony Band, Delta Rhythms Band, Third Party Legends of the Cruise, Triple D, BluesBox Bayou, The Rewind 209, The Good Ones, THIRD SOL, Third Party, The Vibes, The 132's, Hit Replay, Valley Heat, Remedy, and Denise Choate.

Hosted by Vannacutt Entertainment, this high energy night of live rock and metal at 18 Seventy Brewing in Modesto spotlights California talent on a single stage. Los Angeles band Alibis leads the bill, blending dark rock, metal, and electronic elements with emotionally charged songwriting. Fronted by vocalist Rainy Terrell, Alibis has released Darkside, Mother, Sell Out, and the Damn Love EP, and is known for pairing haunting melodies with heavy instrumentation. The lineup also features local 209 acts Dark Harmony, Planets Collide, All Waves, Tempted, and Sluggnautica. The event is open to all ages. Presale tickets are $15 and can be purchased directly from any performing artist or online with an artist discount code, with tickets priced at $20 on the day of the show. Food and drink specials will be available throughout the night.

Step into an 80s time warp at the Ellington Back To The 80s Dance Paw-ty, an upbeat celebration that helps move the Ellington Sanctuary toward opening. Expect nostalgic bites inspired by cafeteria favorites with an elevated twist, a DJ spinning the decade’s biggest hits, and a scene as bright as neon. Creative throwback attire is encouraged, whether that means leg warmers, leather jackets, sky-high hair, parachute pants, or a favorite 80s persona. This event is for adults 21 and over. Full-event tickets include dinner and the dance, and a dance-only option is also available.

At the historic State Theatre in Modesto, this benefit concert brings the spirit of Camp Jack Hazard to the stage, celebrating more than a century of youth adventure, nature, music, and friendships. The evening unfolds like a day at camp, moving from morning traditions and outdoor thrills to a closing campfire singalong, with singer songwriter Brett Dennen performing throughout to connect each chapter. All proceeds support Camp Jack Hazard’s Campership program, which provides financial assistance so every child has the opportunity to attend camp. Dennen, an Oakdale native and longtime supporter who grew from camper to staff member, shares music shaped by his connection to the Sierra Nevada and the camp community. For VIP ticket inquiries, contact the Camp Jack Hazard office at 209-965-7254.