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A board game at the library, an art project downtown, or a Sunday afternoon with music and reptiles in Modesto: this weekend offers a few alternatives to another trip through a pumpkin patch. Two of these outings have no admission charge, and none requires committing to a seated performance.
Here are three events for October 24-25, 2026, starting with two in Turlock today. All times below are Pacific.
The Weekend at a Glance
- Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Board Game Day at Turlock Library.
- Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Free Saturday Studio at Carnegie Arts Center.
- Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Free Family Fun Festival at the Gallo Center Plaza and Modesto Rotary Music Garden.
Saturday: Try a Different Game at the Library
The Central Valley Game Lovers are hosting Board Game Day at Turlock Library from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, October 24. Bring a game you enjoy or try something unfamiliar. Most games are recommended for ages 10 and up, although the organizer says games for younger players will be available too.
That age guidance helps if you’re choosing between outings for siblings. A child who enjoys learning rules and settling into a game may get more from this than a quick stop between errands. You can also take a favorite game along without buying something new for the occasion.
The branch is at 550 Minaret Avenue, Turlock. The county lists a parking lot and Saturday library hours of 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on its branch information page. Our Turlock Library guide covers more of what the expanded building offers.
Saturday: Drop In for Art at the Carnegie
Saturday Studio runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 24 at Carnegie Arts Center, 250 N. Broadway, Turlock. It’s free, with no preregistration. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
The drop-in format makes this an easier choice when you don’t want a fixed starting time. Arrive within the session window and make art together. This is a family visit, so plan to stay with your children rather than treating it as a drop-off class.
Sunday: Music, Chalk Art and Reptiles in Modesto
The Gallo Center and City of Modesto’s fourth annual Family Fun Festival is Sunday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Gallo Center Plaza and Modesto Rotary Music Garden, by 1000 I Street, Modesto.
Activities include music, dancing, chalk art, lawn games, reptiles, face painting and balloon animals. Listed participants include the Modesto Children’s Museum, Graffiti USA Museum and Python Ron. No ticket purchase is needed. Food trucks sell snacks separately, so free admission doesn’t mean food is included.
Parking and More Weekend Plans
For Sunday, budget for getting there as well as anything you buy. Gallo’s parking page lists its official event garage at 820 12th Street, Modesto, with a $5 cash-only charge during performance hours. The festival listing does not promise free garage parking, so don’t assume admission covers it.
Find more October outings, concerts and holiday dates in our events calendar.
Which Outing Would You Pick?
Board games, making art or the outdoor festival? Share your family’s pick in the discussion on our Facebook post.
