Events in Merced County, CA

A relaxed breastfeeding cafe offers a come and go format where parents can connect and get practical help. All parents are welcome, including those who are not on WIC. Peer support is available along with guidance from a certified lactation consultant. Get help with latching and flange sizing, take part in weight checks, and find advice for returning to work. Discussions also cover reading baby cues and other everyday questions. Attend at your own pace and leave whenever you need to. Spanish language support is available.

The CalPride Valle Central Seniors LGBTQ+ Support Group welcomes community members aged 50 and older, offering time set aside to connect with peers who share similar life experiences. Participants can build friendships and enjoy thoughtful conversation in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. The group meets monthly.

CalPride Valle Central hosts a supportive gathering for LGBTQ+ youth ages 12 to 17. The group provides a warm, inclusive space to meet peers, share experiences, or simply spend time in a community that understands. Participants can talk, listen, and find encouragement in a positive setting. Parents and guardians with questions about facilitators or how the group works can contact the organizers at (209) 749-2051 or infovc@calpride.org.

Enjoy a free sing-along screening at Merced Theatre featuring The Nightmare Before Christmas. Follow Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town, as he discovers Christmas Town and tries to bring the holiday home, leading to plenty of mix-ups. Audience participation is welcome, so sing along to the songs you love. Costumes are encouraged, but identity-concealing masks are not permitted. Films at this venue begin at the listed start time with no previews, so arriving on time is recommended.

Enjoy a free, monthly community ride that starts at Applegate Park Playground and rolls out for a relaxed spin along Merced bike paths, with a bit of street riding mixed in. This family friendly, no drop outing keeps an easy pace around 8 to 10 mph, typically covering 12 to 15 miles in about two hours so there is time to chat and take in the scenery. Children are welcome, and for younger riders it is recommended they travel with a parent in a trailer, on a tag along, or in a bike seat. Helmets are required. After the ride, participants often head downtown for coffee at Coffee Bandits, which is also when the monthly meeting takes place.

MBC hosts an open meeting where community members can hear updates, share ideas, and raise concerns. Held at Coffee Bandits, it coincides with the group's monthly Community Rides, so participants may take part in the ride beforehand or attend only the meeting. It is a simple way to connect with the organization and contribute to ongoing efforts.

Macbeth, written by William Shakespeare, unfolds as a gripping tragedy about vaulting ambition and its human cost. A devoted couple, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, fix their eyes on the crown after a prophecy from enigmatic witches sparks a dangerous resolve. Their rise is steeped in blood, yet the throne offers no safety. Guilt gathers, paranoia spreads, and the trust that once bound them begins to unravel, while the kingdom bears the weight of a ruler hardened by fear. Directed by Associate Artistic Director Henry Flores, this production explores timeless questions about desire, morality, and what happens to a society when power is pursued without restraint. With the combined work of 30 local actors, designers, and stage managers, the staging brings the play’s darkness and urgency into sharp relief and marks the culmination of a twenty-fifth anniversary season.

Celebrate the season with a one-day fall diamond event offering the year’s best pricing on upgrades to both your diamond and setting. Browse an extensive selection of loose stones and radiant mountings, including favorite brands like Uneek now available at DeVons Jewelers. After you choose your perfect combination, an on-site jeweler will set your new purchase the same day, giving rings, earrings, necklaces, and more a refreshed sparkle. This is an in-store only experience. Appointments are recommended due to high demand, but they are not required.

This community gathering at Los Banos Elks Lodge in Los Banos focuses on assembling 25 boxes to support deployed military personnel. After the packing is complete, a potluck will follow.

An upbeat evening with cocktails as you dance to the sounds of rock and roll.

Celebrating its 52nd edition, this iconic race features 2- and 5-mile options for adults, along with a 1K for children 10 and under. Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as T-shirts are only guaranteed for early registrants. Entry fees increase by 5 dollars on race day, and payment can be made with cash, check, or credit card.

Tour four Los Banos homes in a relaxed, self guided format. Collect a sticker at each stop, then turn in your completed check in sheet to be entered to win $100. Visit on both days for a bonus entry. Presented by Christine Kinsley of BHHS Drysdale Properties. For more information call 209-631-4049, DRE#0130623.

Merced Toy-Anime-Comic Con offers a fun celebration of toys, anime, and comics at American Legion Post 83. All ages are invited to take part in the cosplay costume contest, with sign ups available the day of near the admissions table. Children 10 and under receive free entry. Parking is complimentary, and cameras are welcome. General admission is $10, or $8 when you mention the flyer or coupon shown on the event cover image. Payments are accepted by cash, debit, credit, and Apple Pay.

A free film screening shares the story of George Bailey, overwhelmed by problems at Christmastime and contemplating ending his life. While angels consider his fate, he finds himself rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence, who then reveals what the town would be like without George’s many good deeds. There is no admission charge, and donations for the County Food Bank will be collected.

The Merced Theatre hosts its annual screening of The Polar Express, a holiday story about a young boy who boards a remarkable train to the North Pole and rediscovers the power of belief. Comfortable, appropriate pajamas are encouraged to keep the cozy spirit. After the film, Santa will be available for photos. Admission is $5 at the door. Movies at the Merced Theatre do not include previews, so plan to be seated before showtime.