#35 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

When was the last time you gazed up at the stars? Remember how relaxing and fun it was to explore the last frontier? Avoid the winter evening chill and lie back indoors at the state of the art Clever Planetarium at San Joaquin Delta College.  Every month the Clever Planetarium offers public shows that explore different astronomical wonders. January's public show is being hosted tonight and tomorrow night, January 27th and 28th. This month's show, “Astronauts and the Mayan Calendar” offers two unique experiences. First, glimpse an inside view of what the human body faces as astronauts explore outer space and then transport yourself  back in time to the stars of the ancient Mayan culture which were incorporated into the Mayan calendar, as well as their legends. Learn how the Mayan calendar was created and why this year is significant. Both shows start at 7:30 pm. Cost is $8.00 for adults and $6.00 for children, students, and seniors.

Or, if you want to enjoy the clear winter skies outside, Friday public shows at the Clever Planetarium coincide with the Stockton Astronomical Society's “Sky Tours." Tonight, January 27th, the Stockton Astronomical Society will set up telescopes for “Sky Tours” in the Shima 2 parking lot and it's free.

For more information on the Clever Planetarium and astronomical-themed events like "Sky Tours," check of the official Delta College website and the Stockton Astronomical Society.

#34 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

There is nothing quite like seeing a Stockton Thunder hockey game – the roar of the crowd, the beautiful venue, the drama of the game, the food, and of course the chill of the ice all come together to make for a truly memorable and great time.  Stockton first fell in love with hockey in 2005 and since then we've watched the Stockton Thunder advance to the third round of the Kelly Cup Playoffs in 2010. Go Stockton Thunder!  What do you love the most about the Stockton Thunder?

The 2011-2012 Stockton Thunder schedule ends in March!  Check out VisitStockton.org for the full list of the Stockton Thunder home games.

#33 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

Did you know that the oldest family-owned, continuously operated horse ranch in the entire state of California is here in Stockton?  Jack Tone Ranch has been in existence since 1849 and it's world-famous for its Arabian horses descended from their cherished Fabulous Fadjur. Make sure to mark your calendar for their annual open-barn event on June 2nd this year!

For more information on Jack Tone Ranch, check out VisitStockton.org!

#32 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

The Mexican Heritage Center is an exhibition gallery where visitors and the community can enjoy the Mexican culture through dance, art, and music. In the heart of downtown Stockton, the Mexican Heritage Center proudly showcases local artists' work and hosts many events such as Día de los Muertos and Las Posadas that invite the community to learn about Mexican traditions. The Center even offers traditional Mexican art such as jewelry, pottery, and figurines that visitors can purchase.  Be on the lookout for new exhibits and events at the Mexican Heritage Center!

The Mexican Heritage Center is located at 111 South Sutter Street in Stockton, California.  For more information including visiting hours, head on over to VisitStockton.org.

#31 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

Sometimes all that's needed to make you smile is a little music, and the Stockton Symphony absolutely delivers. As the third oldest, continuously performing orchestra in California, the Stockton Symphony has been entertaining Stockton since 1926 when Manlio Silva conducted his inaugural concert.  Today, the Stockton Symphony is going strong with a proud schedule of concerts conducted by Maestro Peter Jaffe and a deep presence in the community through projects like Harmony Stockton.  

For a listing of the upcoming concerts in the 2012 Stockton Symphony season, check out VisitStockton.org.  And for information on the Harmony Stockton Project, visit the United Way of San Joaquin County.

#30 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

Weber Point is absolutely a star downtown attraction.  The home of many loved Stockton festivals and events, Weber Point also sports a gorgeous panoramic view of the Delta, an interactive water fountain, playground, picnic sites, and of course that huge fabric shade structure that you definitely can’t miss. 

For more information on Weber Point, check out VisitStockton.org!

#29 of 100 Reasons to Smile in Stockton, California

In continuing our tour of some of the beautiful architecture in Stockton, today we focus on the first Roman Catholic church in San Joaquin Valley, Saint Mary’s Church.  Built on land first donated by Captain Charles Weber, Saint Mary’s Church is an example of a brick Gothic design.  The first cornerstone was dedicated in 1861 with the Gothic spire added in 1893.  Saint Mary’s Church is a gorgeous example of Stockton’s rich architectural and religious history as well as the home of a thriving parish today.