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Picnic at the Pops concert scheduled at Gallo Winery
Ryan Murray
Leading the Modesto Symphony Orchestra in the Picnic at the Pops! event will be Principal Pops Conductor, Ryan Murray. Photo Contributed

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra proudly presents Picnic at the Pops! Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown on Sept.7, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. on the Gallo Winery grounds in Modesto. Picnic at the Pops! is a family-friendly outdoor concert that attracts thousands of music lovers from Modesto and the neighboring communities for an evening of music, dancing, and fun beneath the stars.

This community event promises a full-evening symphonic tribute to the magic of Motown. The program will feature the talented performers of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra led by Principal Pops Conductor, Ryan Murray, and the mesmerizing vocals of guest artists Chester Gregory, Crystal Monee Hall, and Terron Brooks, performing smash-hits made famous by artists like Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, the Temptations, and Stevie Wonder.

“Picnic at the Pops! holds a special place in our hearts not only because it is the MSO’s largest event of the season and our biggest annual fundraiser, but it is truly a beloved community tradition,” said Caroline Nickel, President and CEO. “We’re very excited to be moving and grooving to the music of Motown, and optimistic that we’ll have one of the best Picnics yet – keeping our fingers crossed for the weather to be on our side.”

Picnic at the Pops! is a true community concert, created for the community by the community. The MSO is seeking volunteers to join its Patron Experience Team and help make Picnic a success. Volunteer duties include the setup and breakdown of the venue space, selling beverage tickets during the concert, and more. Visit ModestoSymphony.org/picnicvolunteer for more information and to sign up today.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy all that the space has to offer. Outside alcohol is prohibited; wine generously donated by Gallo and an assortment of beverages are available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting the MSO. For those not looking to pack their own picnic, patrons may pre-order meals from Greens on Tenth, or purchase food on-site from The Sinaloense Food Truck and Yogurt Mill’s Froyo Truck. Full details on food offerings will be available at the website at ModestoSymphony.org/picnic.

Tickets for Picnic at the Pops! are on sale now, online, in-person, and over the phone. General Lawn tickets are $45 for Adults and $12 for Youth under the age of 17. Reserved Lawn tickets are $75 for Adults and $20 for Youth. Groups of 10 or more can receive a 20 percent discount on General Lawn Tickets.

Tickets can be now be purchased by visiting the Gallo Center Ticket Office or calling 209-338-2100. Tickets are also on sale in-person at the Carnegie Arts Center in Turlock, and the MSO Office in Modesto. For more information and to buy tickets online visit ModestoSymphony.org/picnic.

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra: Picnic at the Pops! Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown event will be Saturday, Sept. 7 with the grounds at 600 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto, open at 5 p.m.; the concert begins at 7 p.m.