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๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz County, CA

From the waves to the redwoods, it's all happening here.

Live music, festivals, art walks, surf contests, trail days and everything in between.

In-person only, on purpose. Everything here is something you can actually show up to. No screens, no streams.

โ˜… Featured this season

Promotional image for Phamily Time! โ˜… Featured Event
Sat, Aug 8, 2026 ยท 4:00 PM

Phamily Time!

๐Ÿ“ Woodhouse Blending & Brewing ยท Downtown Santa Cruz ยท See listing

Phamily Time, presented by Phreeborn is back with a summer edition you wonโ€™t want to miss. There will be something for everyone, so bring the whole phamily! Get tickets for the whole day celebration here: TICKETS

Music Festivals ๐Ÿ“ Downtown Santa Cruz Details โ†’
Music
โ˜… Featured
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 ยท Westside Locations

Chamber Choir Now Auditioning

Beati Quorum, a new and growing Ensemble, is seeking new local members. Beati Quorum is a small, hybrid professional / volunteer ensemble based in Santa Cruz. We focus on a cappella singing, Renaissance through contemporary works, and collaborations with artists from our local network to international groups. Visit www.beatiquorum.org to set up an audition today.

Music ๐Ÿ“ Westside
Promotional image for Movie Night Under the Stars: Screening โ€œSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verseโ€ โ˜… Featured
Tue, Jul 28, 2026 ยท Stevenson College

Movie Night Under the Stars: Screening โ€œSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verseโ€

The DSAS Center for Leadership and Involvement and Summer Edge invite you to join us for our Movie Night Under the Stars event screening โ€œSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verseโ€: Date: Tuesday, July 28th Screening Time: Event entry begins at 7:30 p.m. | Movie starts at 8:00 p.m. Location: Stevenson College Knoll *Bring your own blanket! Limited chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.* Free movie snacks will be available! For any questions or accommodations, please email [email protected] . You Belong Here: The programs and services described here are open to all, consistent with state and federal law, as well as the University of Californiaโ€™s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiativeโ€”whether a student service, faculty program, or community eventโ€”is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and respectful of all identities. To learn more, please visit UC Nondiscrimination Statement or Nondiscrimination Policy for UC Publications .

Education ๐Ÿ“ UCSC
Promotional image for Free Beach BBQ Parties and Concerts โ˜… Featured
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 ยท Santa Cruz Harbor Beach

Free Beach BBQ Parties and Concerts

Every Thursday throughout the summer, enjoy a family-friendly party on the beach at no charge! There will be local bands and DJs performing on the outdoor stage, providing music for dancing and socializing. There will be BBQ food and drinks for purchase all in a beachside setting providing stunning views of the ocean and Walton Lighthouse. Parking is limited in the area, so consider enjoying a free water taxi ride from other parking areas! 2026 Lineup: May 21, 2026: Sambada May 28, 2026: Space Heater June 4, 2026: James Durbin & The Lost Boys June 11, 2026: Ancestree June 18, 2026: Jive Machine June 25, 2026: Cake by the Ocean July 2, 2026: Ripatti Rose Band July 9, 2026: Extra Large July 16, 2026: Fishhook July 23, 2026: Harry & The Hitmen July 30, 2026: Matt Masih & The Messengers August 6, 2026: The Houserockers August 13, 2026: The Joint Chiefs August 20, 2026: La Familia August 27, 2026: Alex Lucero Band September 3, 2026: Sambada

Food & Drink ๐Ÿ“ Seabright & Harbor
Promotional image for Zen Buddhist Meditation Coming up
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 ยท Santa Cruz Zen Center

Zen Buddhist Meditation

Zen Meditation. Open to all. Free of charge.

Music ๐Ÿ“ Downtown Santa Cruz

โ˜€๏ธ Happening today

Saturday, July 25

93 events on today. No plans required, just go.

12:00 AM
$7
SC Beach Boardwalk: National Carousel Day
๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Family
8:00 AM
FREE
Cabrillo Farmers Market
๐Ÿ“ Cabrillo College
Markets
8:00 AM
FREE
Scotts Valley Farmers' Market
๐Ÿ“ Joe and Linda Aliberti Boys and Girls Club
Markets
8:00 AM
FREE
Rally in the Pajaro Valley
๐Ÿ“ Franich Park
Outdoors
8:30 AM
FREE
Zen Buddhist Meditation
๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Zen Center
Music
8:39 AM
FREE
Chamber Choir Now Auditioning
๐Ÿ“ Westside Locations
Music
9:00 AM
FREE
UC Santa Cruz Farm U-Pick
๐Ÿ“ UC Santa Cruz
Food & Drink
9:00 AM
$895
Summer Production (3-weeks): Moana Jr
๐Ÿ“ All About Theatre
Art & Culture
9:00 AM
$59
Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience
๐Ÿ“ Dynomite Farm
Community

What's happening

Filter by category, date, or area. Everything listed is in person, county-wide.

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Showing 30 of 136 upcoming events ยท Family ยท from 2026-07-25 ยท to 2026-08-01

Jul
25

2026 Scotts Valley Motorcycle Show

๐Ÿ“ Scotts Valley High School
๐Ÿ•’ 10:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท See listing

The 2026 event is a vintage, antique motorcycle and e-Bike show for the whole family. Special display class for middle and high school students to display e-Bikes and minibikes. This year, a For Sale area will be provided. The Scotts Valley Motorcycle Show will be held on the baseball fields at Scotts Valley High School in beautiful Scotts Valley, CA. Presented in partnership with the Scotts Valley Kiwanis Club, supporting various programs in the local schools. Sponsored by Motocharities, Motonexus.com, The Scotts Valley Kiwanis Club and Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys. When looking for โ€œThings to do in Scotts Valley CAโ€, The Scotts Valley Motorcycle Show should be at the top of your list.

Jul
25

Santa Cruz Beach Train

๐Ÿ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
๐Ÿ•’ 10:00 AM โ€“ 4:00 PM ยท $32

From Trees to Shining Seas โ€“ Felton to Santa Cruz. Departing from the Santa Cruz Mountains, travel through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, down the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Reverse roundtrips departing from the beach in Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp and back may be purchased from the conductor on the train departing from Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Big Trees & Pacific Railway operates passenger and freight services on one of the oldest and most historic lines in California. When the route opened in 1875 it carried lumber as well as picnickers and tourists to the Big Trees and Santa Cruz. Todayโ€™s Beach Train passengers can start their roundtrip journeys from either Roaring Camp in Felton or from the beach in Santa Cruz. Departs from both the beach in Santa Cruz and Roaring Camp. See departure times for more information. The Beach Train will run weekends and holidays through May, and then daily June through the first week of August, then back to weekends and holidays to the end of September. Please note that the 4 p.m. train leaving Santa Cruz is one-way only. There is no return train to the beach.

Jul
25

RAINBOW PLAYGROUP @ Raรญces y Cariรฑo (Community Offering)

๐Ÿ“ 7 Hangar Way suite b, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
๐Ÿ•’ 10:30 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท FREE

Event: RAINBOW PLAYGROUP @ Raรญces y Cariรฑo Date: 4th Saturday of the Month Saturday, January 25 Time: 10:30 am -12:00 pm Location: RC Fam 7 Hangar Way, Suite B, Watsonville, CA 95076 Ages: 0-10 years old and younger and their caregivers, with siblings welcome. Cost: FREE Event Description: A monthly bilingual playgroup for LGBTQIA+ families and allies. This play group is for children who are 10 years old and younger and their caregivers, with siblings welcome. We will have an art activity, a story, some light snacks, and PLAY! Please, do not bring sick children to Rainbow Playgroup. Families are asked to maintain the confidentiality of all playgroup attendees and no photography is permitted. RSVP Form ยกGrupo de Juego Arcoiris! Un grupo de juego bilingรผe para familias LGBTQIA+ y aliados El cuarto sรกbado del mes 10:30am-12pm, Raรญces y Cariรฑo, 7 Hangar Way, Suite B, Watsonville, CA 95076 Este grupo de juego es para niรฑos de 10 aรฑos o menos y cuidadores, y se admiten hermanos. Tendremos un

Jul
25

Museum of Natural History: Summer Festival

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท FREE

Soak up the sun with family-friendly festivities, food, and fun. Kids of all ages will enjoy an afternoon of food trucks, interactive activities, sweet treats, live animals, and so much more! There will be shows taking place in the amphitheater throughout the day and activities across Tyrrell Park. As a bonus, there will be free admission to the Museum, so you wonโ€™t miss the excitement taking place inside, too! Amphitheater Programming Schedule: 11:30am โ€“ 12:15pm: Costanoan Rumsen Carmel Tribe Hummaya Singers and Dancers 12:30 โ€“ 1:15pm: Wildlife Education & Rehabilitation Center Animal Program 1:30 โ€“ 2:15pm: Full Circle Falconry Show

Jul
25

Wilder Ranch State Park: Guided Coastal Nature Walk

๐Ÿ“ Wilder Ranch State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 1:30 PM ยท FREE

On this 2.5-mile, 2-hour family-friendly walk, you will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the Santa Cruz County coastal bluffs. Bring water, a hat, closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Pre-registration required at the link in the orange button above. Meet next to the park map in the main parking lot. Rain cancels. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.

Jul
25

Summer Fun Festival

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท See listing

Join us for a free community celebration at the Museum ! Summer Fun Fest is a joyful, all-ages festival designed to bring the community together through nature, creativity, and hands-on exploration. Enjoy free admission all day and experience a lively mix of activities and entertainment throughout the museum and outdoor spaces. Guests can look forward to a food truck and sweet treats, interactive activities and hands-on stations, community partner tabling, and live performances in the amphitheater throughout the afternoon. From cultural performances to animal demonstrations and nature-based activities, there will be something for everyone to discover and enjoy. Come celebrate summer with us and connect with your community at the museum! Schedule of performances: 11:30am โ€“ 12:15pm: Costanoan Rumsen Carmel Tribe Hummaya Singers and Dancers 12:30 โ€“ 1:15pm: Wildlife Education & Rehabilitation Center Animal Program 1:30 โ€“ 2:15pm: Full Circle Falconry Show This event is made possible through the support of Dream Inn, Sea Glass Orthodontics, and West Coast Bank.

Jul
25

Family Storytime

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
๐Ÿ•’ 11:30 AM ยท See listing

Saturday, July 25 2026 10:30am - 11:30am Step into a world of imagination with stories, rhymes, and songs for children ages 0โ€“8, shared with families and caregivers in a warm, welcoming space.

Community Family Details โ†’
Jul
25

Harp Lessons for All Ages

๐Ÿ“ Soulcare Studios
๐Ÿ•’ 11:30 AM โ€“ 12:30 PM ยท $40

Discover the calming and creative power of music ๐ŸŽถ Our beginner-friendly harp lessons offer a peaceful space to learn something new, connect with sound, and explore music in a supportive group setting. No experience is needed, and instruments are provided. ๐Ÿ—“ 1st & 3rd Saturdays ๐ŸŽต All levels welcome โš ๏ธ Limited to 10 spotsโ€”advance booking recommended

Jul
25

Role-playing Games at the Library

๐Ÿ“ Freedom Branch Library
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท See listing

Watsonville Public Library and the Santa Cruz County Roleplayin g Games Group invite anyone in the community interested in tabletop role-p laying games (TTRPGs) to come and learn how to play multiple role-playing games. Several games will be presented at the same session at different ta bles. The focus for this session is for people to experience the ga mes without the commitment of lots of sessions or money spent. Everything needed to play will be provided, and all skill levels are welcome! Audience: Adults. https://www.watsonville.gov/calendar.aspx?EID=7416

Art & Culture Family ๐Ÿ“ Watsonville Details โ†’
Jul
25

POKEMON ART CONTEST FOR KIDS!

๐Ÿ“ Comicopolis
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM ยท FREE

It's time to get those crayons sharpened, paints mixed and markers at the ready for our Summer 2026 Pokรฉmon Art Contest for kids 5-12! To join in, create a picture of your favorite Pokรฉmon having a fun moment or striking a cool, dynamic pose. Submissions should be on 8.5 x 11 paper. You can use any medium you like, such as paint, marker, crayon, pencil, etc. No digital art. There will be prizes awarded to two age groups, 5-7 and 8-12. Entries accepted June 1st-July 31st. Winners will be announced on August 6th. BONUS: All participants will receive a free Pokรฉmon:Chaos Rising 11x17 mini-poster (while supplies last) when you hand in your art.

Jul
25

Didgeridoo Down Under

๐Ÿ“ Live Oak Branch Library
๐Ÿ•’ 1:30 PM โ€“ 2:30 PM ยท See listing

Join us for an energetic fusion of Australian music, culture, art, science, comedy, character building, and audience participation. The show also includes storytelling and information about didgeridoo history and crafting. https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/16224944

Art & Culture Family Details โ†’
Jul
25

Didgeridoo Down Under

๐Ÿ“ Capitola
๐Ÿ•’ 1:30 PM โ€“ 2:30 PM ยท See listing

Join us for an energetic fusion of Australian music, culture, art, science, comedy, character building, and audience participation. The show also includes storytelling and information about didgeridoo history and crafting. https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/16224944

Art & Culture Family ๐Ÿ“ Capitola Details โ†’
Jul
25

All About Theatre Presents "Moana Jr"

๐Ÿ“ The Colligan Theater
๐Ÿ•’ 6:30 PM ยท $18

Disneyโ€™s Moana JR. is a musical adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. Moana JR. features all the beloved songs from the film, written by Tonyยฎ, GRAMMY, Emmy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaโ€™i, and Mark Mancina, including โ€œHow Far Iโ€™ll Go,โ€ โ€œShiny,โ€ and โ€œYouโ€™re Welcome.โ€ This thrilling and heartwarming coming-of-age story follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within. With empowering messages of bravery and selflessness, Moana JR. is sure to bring out the hero within each of us.

Jul
25

Jurrasic Jungle Book โ€“ A Three Hour Tour

๐Ÿ“ Park Hall Ben Lomond
๐Ÿ•’ 7:00 PM โ€“ 10:00 PM ยท See listing

Little Peopleโ€™s Repertory Theatre Presents Jurassic Jungle Book: A Three-Hour Tour Little Peopleโ€™s Repertory Theatre (LPRT) presents Jurassic Jungle Book: A Three-Hour Tour, an original rock musical by Jannine Chadwick, Directed by Daria Elise Troxell, Musical Direction Gabe House. During a sightseeing boat tour, seven passengers become castaways when their boat is shipwrecked on a tropical jungle island. The island is sparsely populated by talking jungle animals, Village People, Mowgli (a boy raised by wolves), Huntriz, three singing dino-hunters, four ninja turtles, and Indominus Khan, a tiger who became a mutant after a sinister group of โ€œscientistsโ€ came to โ€œstudyโ€ the island, with the hidden motive of transforming the island into a prehistoric theme park. This sweet and silly mash-up features more than twenty musical numbers. The cast includes children ages 7โ€“14 singing and dancing to parodies of contemporary pop songs and classic rock hits. Itโ€™s alternative childrenโ€™s musical theatre like no other! Shows regularly sell out, so reserve your tickets early. Ticket information and show times are available online at lprt.org. Performances will be held at Park Hall in Ben Lomond from July 15 through July 25. Please visit the website for specific show times.

Jul
25

Sambada

๐Ÿ“ Abbott Square Market
๐Ÿ•’ 7:00 PM ยท See listing

SambaDรก returns to downtown Santa Cruz for a free outdoor show at Abbott Square! Expect infectious Brazilian grooves, Afro-Latin rhythms, powerful vocals, and plenty of opportunities to dance. Grab dinner, bring your friends and family, and join us for a beautiful summer night of music in the heart of Santa Cruz. ๐Ÿ“ Abbott Square, Santa Cruz, CA ๐Ÿ“… July 25 ๐ŸŽŸ Free โ€ข All Ages โ€ข Outdoor Show

Jul
25

LPRT Presents: Jurassic Jungle Book -A Three Hour Tour

๐Ÿ“ Park Hall Ben Lomond
๐Ÿ•’ 7:00 PM ยท $22

Little People's Repertory Theatre Presents Jurassic Jungle Book: A Three-Hour Tour Little People's Repertory Theatre (LPRT) presents Jurassic Jungle Book: A Three-Hour Tour, an original rock musical by Jannine Chadwick, Directed by Daria Elise Troxell, Musical Direction Gabe House. During a sightseeing boat tour, seven passengers become castaways when their boat is shipwrecked on a tropical jungle island. The island is sparsely populated by talking jungle animals, Village People, Mowgli (a boy raised by wolves), Huntriz, three singing dino-hunters, four ninja turtles, and Indominus Khan, a tiger who became a mutant after a sinister group of โ€œscientistsโ€ came to โ€œstudyโ€ the island, with the hidden motive of transforming the island into a prehistoric theme park. This sweet and silly mash-up features more than twenty musical numbers. The cast includes children ages 7โ€“14 singing and dancing to parodies of contemporary pop songs and classic rock hits. It's alternative children's musical theatre like no other! Shows regularly sell out, so reserve your tickets early. Ticket information and show times are available online at lprt.org. Performances will be held at Park Hall in Ben Lomond from July 15 through July 25. Please visit the website for specific show times.

Jul
25

Cabrillo Crocker Theater: Sister Act, The Musical

๐Ÿ“ Cabrillo College Crocker Theater
๐Ÿ•’ 7:30 PM โ€“ 10:00 PM ยท $20

Cabrillo Stage is a musical theatre company dedicated to presenting high-caliber, large-scale musical productions to the area. They are committed to the creation of musicals with Broadway-level production values. In this way, they foster educational opportunities while giving audiences the highest-quality family entertainment. They aim to be a destination point for the best of live theatre. Sister Act hits the stage with the force of a disco ball struck by divine inspiration. Deloris, a bold and big-hearted nightclub singer, lands in a convent for her own protection and winds up transforming a tuneless choir into a soulful powerhouse. Her energy shakes the dust off every pew as she teaches the nuns to sing with joy, courage, and a little sparkling attitude. By the finale, the once-quiet convent is radiating harmony, friendship, and unstoppable fun. Sister Act delivers a burst of laughter, heart, and high-energy music that leaves the audience glowing long after the curtain falls. Click โ€œMore Event Datesโ€ in orange above to see other showtimes, or follow the link in the orange button above to purchase tickets. Locals Love: Stunning, creative sets, talented live orchestras, and passionate performances, often at reasonable prices. First Timers Miss: The theaterโ€™s architecture beautifully complements the overall experience, designed for optimal viewing. Insights: Santa Cruz METRO bus lines 1, 2, 55, and 73 all service Cabrillo College, providing access to the campus and the Crocker Theater. If taking a car, parking in Lot L is free.

Jul
25

Roaring Camp: Sequoia Lights

๐Ÿ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
๐Ÿ•’ 8:30 PM โ€“ 10:00 PM ยท $15.9

This nighttime experience will bring you a magical and immersive perspective on the ancient forest at Roaring Camp. During the 0.8-mile loop walk, you will view 26 unique, lighted lanterns, hung approximately 50 feet above the ground. The lanterns were crafted by local artists including Anna Bobisuthi, Roaring Campโ€™s resident blacksmith, and Chris Butler, who also created the lighting design for Sequoias at Night. Tickets are available at the link in the orange button above. Kids under two enter for free. Roaring Campโ€™s food services and gift shop will be open.

Jul
26

Wharf to Wharf Race

๐Ÿ“ Capitola Wharf
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 AM โ€“ 11:59 PM ยท $59.76

The annual 6-mile, scenic seaside run-by-the-Sea is widely acclaimed as โ€œThe best little road race in Californiaโ€. The Wharf to Wharf is the biggest summer event of its kind on the West Coast. The race route is lined with fans, bands, and all kinds of great fun! Go to Capitola and cheer them on! 2026 Course Update: Due to ongoing construction at the Murray Street Bridge, this yearโ€™s race will start at 30th Avenue and Portola Drive instead of the Santa Cruz Wharf. From there, participants will follow the classic coastal route through Pleasure Point and into Capitola, finishing in the heart of Capitola Village. The finish line celebration remains a highlight, with a festive atmosphere, cheering crowds, and a memorable downhill finish toward the beach.

Jul
26

The Dickens Universe featuring โ€˜Bleak Houseโ€™

๐Ÿ“ Humanities and Social Sciences Facility
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 AM โ€“ 12:59 AM ยท $500

The Dickens Universe is a unique cultural event that brings together scholars, teachers, students, and members of the general public for a week of stimulating discussion and festive social activity on the beautiful Santa Cruz campus of the University of Californiaโ€”all focused on one or two Victorian novels, usually (but not always) one by Charles Dickens. In 2026, the Dickens Universe will feature Bleak House by Charles Dickens. Dickensโ€™s ninth novel, published between 1852-1853, shines a light on social injustice and the devastating effects of a corrupt legal system, following the entangled lives of those caught in the never-ending Jarndyce and Jarndyce case. Told in alternating narrative voices, this rich literary experiment plays with a variety of genres from detective fiction and social realism to melodrama and satire. As characters move from city to suburb, from mansions to slums, we discover unexpected connections among classes, plots, and characters. Now in its 46th year of operation, the Dickens Universe combines features of a scholarly conference, a festival, a book club, and a summer camp. Participants include people of all ages and walks of lifeโ€”distinguished scholars, graduate students, undergraduates, retirees, young professionals, high school teachers, and anyone who loves reading and enjoys long Victorian novels. Here are some things that make the Universe such a special experience. The college lifestyle: participants live on campus, eat together in the student dining hall, and have time to meet and come to know each other in different ways. Everyone is reading the same book. We all have this one important thing in common. The activities include formal lectures, small discussion groups, films, daily Victorian teas, performances, and Victorian dancing. The Universe offers a week of total immersion in the world of Victorian fiction with friendly, like-minded colleagues in a beautiful setting. Whether weโ€™re returning to a Dickens novel that everyone know

Education Family ๐Ÿ“ UCSC Details โ†’
Jul
26

Wharf to Wharf Race

๐Ÿ“ Capitola Wharf
๐Ÿ•’ 8:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท $59.76

The Wharf to Wharf Race is a Santa Cruz summer tradition and one of the most iconic 6-mile races in California. Known for its laid-back coastal vibe and strong community spirit, the race welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. The point-to-point course traces the Monterey Bay coastline, offering stunning ocean views, ocean breezes, and live music from local bands stationed along the route. 2026 Course Update: Due to ongoing construction at the Murray Street Bridge, this yearโ€™s race will start at 30th Avenue and Portola Drive instead of the Santa Cruz Wharf. From there, participants will follow the classic coastal route through Pleasure Point and into Capitola, finishing in the heart of Capitola Village. The finish line celebration remains a highlight, with a festive atmosphere, cheering crowds, and a memorable downhill finish toward the beach. Registration Information: Local Registration (Santa Cruz County residents): Opens March 31, 2026 General Registration: Opens April 1, 2026 The event has a capacity limit and typically fills quickly once registration opens. Participants are encouraged to register early to secure their spot in one of Santa Cruzโ€™s most anticipated annual events.

Jul
26

Santa Cruz Beach Train

๐Ÿ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
๐Ÿ•’ 10:00 AM โ€“ 4:00 PM ยท $32

From Trees to Shining Seas โ€“ Felton to Santa Cruz. Departing from the Santa Cruz Mountains, travel through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, down the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Reverse roundtrips departing from the beach in Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp and back may be purchased from the conductor on the train departing from Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Big Trees & Pacific Railway operates passenger and freight services on one of the oldest and most historic lines in California. When the route opened in 1875 it carried lumber as well as picnickers and tourists to the Big Trees and Santa Cruz. Todayโ€™s Beach Train passengers can start their roundtrip journeys from either Roaring Camp in Felton or from the beach in Santa Cruz. Departs from both the beach in Santa Cruz and Roaring Camp. See departure times for more information. The Beach Train will run weekends and holidays through May, and then daily June through the first week of August, then back to weekends and holidays to the end of September. Please note that the 4 p.m. train leaving Santa Cruz is one-way only. There is no return train to the beach.

Jul
26

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - Cable Car Beach Stroll

๐Ÿ“ Mountain Parks Foundation
๐Ÿ•’ 10:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท See listing

Cable Car Beach Stroll - Join us on a stroll from the Visitor Center to Cable Car Beach, where we will be observers of change as we leave the old growth trees in the grove and enter the second growth populations with an abundance of "fairy rings" alongside the San Lorenzo River. This program meets in front of the Nature Store at 10:00 am on the last Sunday of each month. Be prepared to walk ~2 miles in under two hours. Please bring water, snacks, sun protection, and weather and terrain appropriate clothing. RSVP for this guided walk here!

Jul
26

POKEMON ART CONTEST FOR KIDS!

๐Ÿ“ Comicopolis
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM ยท FREE

It's time to get those crayons sharpened, paints mixed and markers at the ready for our Summer 2026 Pokรฉmon Art Contest for kids 5-12! To join in, create a picture of your favorite Pokรฉmon having a fun moment or striking a cool, dynamic pose. Submissions should be on 8.5 x 11 paper. You can use any medium you like, such as paint, marker, crayon, pencil, etc. No digital art. There will be prizes awarded to two age groups, 5-7 and 8-12. Entries accepted June 1st-July 31st. Winners will be announced on August 6th. BONUS: All participants will receive a free Pokรฉmon:Chaos Rising 11x17 mini-poster (while supplies last) when you hand in your art.

Jul
26

Anime Your Way with Carlos Nieto III

๐Ÿ“ Aptos Branch Library
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 2:15 PM ยท See listing

Learn how to create your own anime character from scratch from former Simpson's artist, Carlos Nieto III, in a fun and easy step-by-step process. No experience necessary! No experience necessary! Using simple shapes and easy to understand instructions, participants will gain the knowledge to create their very own unique anime characters. Open to teens, ages 12-18. Space is limited. Registration required. https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/16116863

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