Tuolumne Chamber of Commerce

Tuolumne County has become the cultural center of the Mother Lode and continues to encourage quality and diversity of cultural events in the region. There are three repertory theaters which offer year round performances.

Sierra Repertory Theater is located in both East Sonora and at the Fallon House Theatre in Columbia. Recently restored, the Fallon House Theater has enhanced its functional use without disturbing its 1857 design. S.R.T. has received rave reviews for many of its shows which range from musicals to drama and comedy. Talented guest performers and creative directing add to the excitement of S.R.T.'s performances.

Stage 3 Theater, an up and coming third repertory company, has established permanent residence in downtown Sonora in an intimate 88-seat theater. They present the works of new playwrights.

The Central Sierra Arts Council sponsors many annual events including Friday evening Concerts in the Park during the months of July and August. They are responsible for the highly successful Annual Bach Festival in October, the In Focus Photography Show each June, and our annual sculpture show. Other events include poetry readings, productions by touring groups and the annual Halloween Haunt dance in October. The Mother Lode Art Association displays work throughout the county and at special shows.

     Columbia College offers cultural programs including the Jazz Concert Series featuring nationally acclaimed jazz artists. Sonora's picturesque Red Church is the home of the St. James Concert Series, where a wide range of artists perform classical works and holiday recitals. Other musical events run the gamut from the Symphony of the Sierra to banjo, and Dixieland Jamboree and the annual Celtic Festival.

     The local Native American Mi-Wuk people host the Mi-Wuk Acorn Festival; each September at the Tuolumne Rancheria. Visitors can enjoy colorful native dances, see authentic woven baskets and crafts, sample Native American food and visit a roundhouse where tribal councils are still held.

      Other major attractions are the Mother Lode Round-Up & Parade in May featuring an enormous parade and rodeo; and the Railroad Movie Days in September; a celebration of hundreds of western movies filmed in Tuolumne County using one of three steam train engines and features well-known celebrity guests.

     Museums, art galleries and antique stores abound in the historic towns of Tuolumne County. The main library is located on Greenly Road and is modern, spacious, and extensive. There are so many things to do and see. For additional information on visiting or moving to Tuolumne County, please contact our Chamber office at 209-532-4212 or 877-532-4212 or contact the Tuolumne County Visitors' Bureau at 209-533-4420 or 800-446-1333.