Cannery Closure Shakes Growers; Big Weekend at Gallo Center

Modesto is heading into the weekend with a mix of tough economic news and a lively downtown calendar.

Del Monte Cannery to Close After 140 Years

A major chapter in Modesto’s agricultural history is coming to an end. The Del Monte fruit cannery is shutting down after more than a century in operation, leaving local growers scrambling for alternatives.

Farmers with existing contracts now face uncertainty about where their fruit will go this season. The closure is expected to ripple beyond the fields, affecting trucking, seasonal workers and related businesses tied to the plant’s long-standing presence in the community.

Local leaders and agricultural advocates say the loss will be felt across the Valley economy, particularly in communities that have relied on the cannery for generations.

Latino Leaders Summit Draws Community to MJC

On Friday, the Latino Leaders Summit brought residents to Modesto Junior College’s West Campus for a day focused on empowerment, networking and civic engagement.

The in-person event highlighted local voices and encouraged professional development within the region’s Latino community. Organizers described it as an opportunity to strengthen connections and celebrate leadership across Stanislaus County.

Selena Tribute and More at Gallo Center

Downtown Modesto is also seeing an uptick in foot traffic this weekend. The Gallo Center for the Arts hosts The Selena Experience on Saturday night, a tribute concert celebrating the music of the late Tejano star.

The performance adds to a busy spring lineup at the venue, as arts groups continue drawing regional audiences into the city’s core. With restaurants and shops nearby, events like this provide a welcome boost to downtown businesses.

From economic headwinds in agriculture to a full slate of cultural events, Modesto enters March balancing challenge and community spirit.

Sources

https://www.kvpr.org/podcast/central-valley-daily/2026-03-05/march-5-a-fruit-cannery-closure-shakes-valley-growers
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/latino-leaders-summit-modesto-tickets-1982376776302
https://www.eventsincalifornia.com/events/music/the-selena-experience-gallo-center-for-the-arts-modesto-ca-mar-7-2026/