
Sacramento Weekend Guide: Nov 14-16 Events & Community Support
As we head into the weekend of November 14-16, Northern California is buzzing with a diverse array of activities. From crucial opportunities to give back to festive celebrations and thrilling entertainment, there’s something for everyone across Sacramento, Stockton, and Modesto. Before you head out, remember to check the latest weather forecast to plan your adventures!
Uplifting Our Community: Holiday Giving & Support
This weekend presents vital opportunities to support local families and veterans, especially critical given recent circumstances like the government shutdown impacting CalFresh benefits. The Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services have reported unprecedented numbers this year, surpassing even peak pandemic levels, underscoring the urgent need for community assistance.
KCRA 3 Annual Turkey Drive
Join KCRA 3 and the Sacramento Food Bank for their annual Turkey Drive at Cal Expo this Friday, November 14, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Last year saw a record 18,002 turkeys donated, and the need is even greater this year. You can bring turkeys in person or scan a QR code (often shown on KCRA broadcasts) to donate cash, with about $20 equalling one turkey. Volunteers will be at the main gate of Cal Expo to assist with donations.
Additional Giving Opportunities
- Mosaic Life Church Turkey Giveaway: On Saturday, November 15, from 9 a.m. to noon, Mosaic Life Church on 77th Street plans to distribute 250 turkeys to community members in need.
- Veterans Grocery Giveaway: VFW Auxiliary Post 8985 on 4th Street will host a grocery giveaway for local veterans on Sunday, November 16, at 1 p.m., providing bags filled with holiday meal fixings.
- Lake Tahoe Polar Plunge: Support the Special Olympics of Northern California by participating in or donating to the Lake Tahoe Polar Plunge at Camp Richardson Resort Beach on Sunday, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Festivals, Celebrations & Family Fun
Sacramento Area Highlights
- Flavors of Tahoe Park: This Saturday, November 15, experience local food and creators, live music, food trucks, an artisan market, a classic car show, and live comedy. A scavenger hunt kicks off at Tahoe Elementary at 9 a.m., with activities in Tahoe Park continuing until 9 p.m.
- Celebrate a NASCAR Champ: Elk Grove honors two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson with a parade at noon on Friday, November 14, at Old Town Plaza.
- St. Andrews AME Church 175th Anniversary: Celebrate history at the “Oldest Black Church on the West Coast” with a living museum on Saturday (11 a.m.-1 p.m., 2 p.m.-4 p.m.) and a Church Service Celebration on Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
- Princess and Superhero Day at the Ice Rink: Downtown Sacramento’s ice rink at Ali Youssefi Square hosts this magical event on Saturday, November 15, from noon to 2 p.m. Kids are encouraged to dress up, get face painted, and skate alongside their favorite characters.
- Harvest Festival: An arts and crafts event takes place at Cal Expo all weekend, from Friday, November 14, through Sunday, November 16.
- Punk Rock Flea Market: Discover original art, clothing, jewelry, and music from vendors at Flower Fist Art Market on Sunday, November 16, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free event is open to all ages.
Stockton & Modesto Region
- Celebrate Culture (Stockton): In honor of Native American Heritage Month, the 4th Annual Celebrate Culture Event is Saturday, November 15, at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), featuring art, food vendors, and live music.
- Lincoln Center Christmas Faire (Stockton): Enjoy festive decor, Santa visits, reindeer, and live music for the whole family on Sunday, November 16, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Drive for Hope Car Show (Modesto): Support Valley Children’s Pelandale Specialty Care Center this Saturday, November 15, with cool rides, food trucks, vendors, and kid-friendly activities.
Concerts, Shows & More Entertainment
The weekend also brings a fantastic lineup of live music and unique performances across the region, catering to diverse tastes.
- Electronic Music Show: Mau P headlines a dance music show with other DJs at the Capitol Mall on Friday, November 14, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Jesse McCartney: Performs at Channel 24 on Friday, November 14; doors open at 7 p.m.
- TY Dolla $ign: Takes the stage at The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino on Friday, November 14, at 7 p.m.
- The Isley Brothers: Experience a legendary performance at Hard Rock Live Sacramento on Friday, November 14, at 8 p.m.
- Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra: Their 50th Season Opening Concert is Saturday, November 15, at 2 p.m. at the Gallo Center for the Arts.
- Brandon Lake: Performs at the Golden 1 Center on Saturday, November 15; doors open at 7 p.m.
- Lucha Libre (Modesto): Catch an action-packed night of wrestling at Persuasion Brewing Co. on Saturday, November 15, starting at 6 p.m.
- Stockton Symphony: Performs “Fantasy and Fate” on Sunday, November 16, at 2:30 p.m.
Weekend Giving Opportunities at a Glance
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| KCRA 3 Turkey Drive | Fri, Nov 14, 7 AM – 7 PM | Cal Expo | Turkeys for families in need |
| Mosaic Life Church Turkey Giveaway | Sat, Nov 15, 9 AM – Noon | 77th Street | 250 turkeys for community |
| Veterans Grocery Giveaway | Sun, Nov 16, 1 PM | VFW Auxiliary Post 8985 (4th St) | Holiday meal groceries for veterans |
| Lake Tahoe Polar Plunge | Sun, Nov 16, 9 AM – 1:30 PM | Camp Richardson Resort Beach | Fundraiser for Special Olympics |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I help with the KCRA 3 Turkey Drive?
You can donate turkeys in person at Cal Expo on Friday, November 14, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., or look for the QR code on KCRA broadcasts to make a secure cash donation online. - Are there family-friendly events happening this weekend?
Absolutely! Consider Flavors of Tahoe Park, Princess and Superhero Day at the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink, the Harvest Festival, the Lincoln Center Christmas Faire, and the Drive for Hope Car Show in Modesto, all offering activities for kids and families. - What’s the weather like for the weekend?
Before heading out, it’s always a good idea to check the latest forecast directly on KCRA’s weather page for up-to-the-minute conditions and any potential impacts on outdoor events. - Are there events outside of the immediate Sacramento area?
Yes, this weekend’s roundup includes several events in Stockton (like Celebrate Culture and the Lincoln Center Christmas Faire) and Modesto (such as the Drive for Hope Car Show and Lucha Libre), offering exciting options for residents across the wider region.
Whether you’re looking to give back to the community, celebrate with family, or enjoy some thrilling live entertainment, this weekend in Northern California offers a wealth of options. Make the most of these opportunities to connect with your community and create lasting memories.
Sacramento Weekend Give Back Enjoy Events


