The 2026 Arts in the Parks event for kids takes place Saturday, Sept. 26, at Library Park.

The free event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. is open to the public.

It includes art projects, games, music, and dance.

It is being conducted by the Manteca Artist Guild in conjunction with Manteca Recreation & Community Services.

Council candidate forums

The Interact Club of Manteca will host the 2026 Manteca Civic Forum on Sunday, Sept. 27, at 6 p.m. at the VFW Veterans Center, at 580 Moffat Blvd.

The forum is designed to provide residents with an opportunity to hear directly from candidates running for Manteca Mayor and the Manteca City Council in advance of the Nov. 3 election.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with the program beginning at 6 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

The Manteca Chamber of Commerce is hosting a forum on Thursday, Oct. 1, at 2 p.m. at the Emory Hall, 1028 West Yosemite Ave.

There is a $10 charge. Refreshments will be served.

Questions can be submitted via the chamber’s website at manteca.org where tickets can be purchased as well.

Lei Ann Varletta Larson is challenging incumbent Dave Breitenbucher for the District 3 seat.

Incumbent Mike Morowit’s challengers for the District 4 seat are Dani Bettencourt and Rogger Gutierrez.

Mayor Gary Singh’s opponent is Jacob Naven.