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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.

๐Ÿ“
In-person only, on purpose.

Every listing is something you can actually show up to, from Davenport down to Watsonville.

No webinars No livestreams Just show up โœ“

โ˜… Featured this season

Cannabis โ˜… Featured Event Treehouse
Fri, Aug 7, 2026 ยท 5:00 PM

Treehouse Dispensary First Friday

๐Ÿ“ Treehouse Dispensary ยท Soquel ยท FREE

Treehouse Dispensary hosts a monthly First Friday event on the first Friday of every month. These events feature live music, local artists, makers, and an art market with up to 20 different vendors, along with shop-wide discounts and community activities. The shop is open 8:00 AM to 9:45 PM daily. We're proud to offer everyday savings for our community: New Members: 10% off your first order Wisdom Discount (65+): 5% off Medical Patients: 10% off Students & Teachers: 20% off with valid ID Veterans: 20% off *Please note that discounts do not stack with other deals. Ask staff for exclusions.

Cannabis Art & Culture ๐Ÿ“ Soquel Details โ†’
โ˜… Featured
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 ยท Santa Cruz Public Libraries

Enthusiastic Bird Watchers @ La Selva Beach

Tuesday, July 21 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm Join us for a bird talk and guided walk in La Selva Beach to spot local birds and enjoy nature together!

Community ๐Ÿ“ Aptos & Seacliff
โ˜… Featured
Wed, Jul 22, 2026 ยท SubRosa Community Space, 703 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

The Art of Building a Future (RSSC Discussion Group)

Join us 4th Wednesdays, 6-8pm at SubRosa for The Art of Building a Future - a cafรฉ for discussion and practice for creating the future we want to live in, now! Hosted by @rojavasc1 Bring your thoughts and experience and enjoy some light refreshments. Will be held in the courtyard weather permitting. COVID precautions encouraged. 6pm - 8pm // totally free! // all-ages // dry space // safe(r) space // anti-capitalist space // respect the space and each other! SubRosa is at 703 Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, CA Also part of the @freeskoolsantacruz 2026 session - more info about other class in bio at @freeskoolsantacruz and @subrosa_space โ€”@@@@@โ€” SubRosa is a collectively run anarchist community space - a place to meet people, share resources and ideas, challenge our assumptions and act on our passions. Letโ€™s create together the world(s) we want to live in now. @subrosa_space And SubRosa is part of the Hub Community Center at 703 Pacific Ave in downtown Santa Cruz - a constellation

Community ๐Ÿ“ Downtown Santa Cruz
โ˜… Featured
Sat, Sep 12, 2026 ยท Capitola Village

43rd Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival

Stroll the festival with friends and family, sipping exceptional wines from Santa Cruz Mountain wineries while admiring the artistic talents of over 100 fine artists. Sway to live music and be inspired by local dance groups while taking in the ocean breeze and breathtaking view of the Monterey Bay. Feed your cravings with tantalizing cuisine from local food purveyors, and cruise through the Artisans Marketplace for locally handcrafted goods. If that isnโ€™t enough, Capitola Village is filled with restaurants for every taste and charming boutiques to satisfy a shopperโ€™s dream. Art, wine, music, and gourmet cuisine in the enchanting beach-side setting of Capitola Villageโ€ฆsummerโ€™s last hurrah, and truly a weekend in paradise! This event is from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, September 12 and from 10am to 5pm on Sunday, September 13. See link to the event in the orange box above.

Food & Drink ๐Ÿ“ Capitola
โ˜… Featured
Mon, Sep 21, 2026 ยท The Cruz Room

The Cruz Room: Hosted Board Game Night

The Game Night Collective provides a curated experience. Every Monday night with a library of 30+ board games, guided game teaching, hosted featured games, and prizes! Whether you arrive alone or with a group, the goal is to make it easy to sit down and start playing. Hosted micโ€™d board games 5 โ€“ 8 Trivia 8 โ€“ 10

Family ๐Ÿ“ Downtown Santa Cruz

โ˜€๏ธ Happening today

Tuesday, July 21

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

12:00 AM
See listing
Bruno's Bar and Grill: Kick-Off Chaos!
๐Ÿ“ Bruno's Bar & Grill
Food & Drink
8:30 AM
$400
Art and Science in Nature Summer Camp
๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Outdoors
9:00 AM
$345
Summer Production (1-week): Moana Jr.
๐Ÿ“ All About Theatre
Art & Culture
9:00 AM
$895
Summer Production (3-weeks): Moana Jr
๐Ÿ“ All About Theatre
Art & Culture
10:00 AM
See listing
Screaming Queens: The Riot of Comptonโ€™s Cafeteria documentary and discussion - Wisdom Workshops @ TDC
๐Ÿ“ 1117 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA
LGBTQ+
10:00 AM
$32
Santa Cruz Beach Train
๐Ÿ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
Family
11:00 AM
See listing
In-person Tech Help @ La Selva Beach
๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community
11:00 AM
See listing
Build Your Own Sensory Bin
๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community
11:00 AM
FREE
Backgammon @ the Library
๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community

What's happening

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128 upcoming events ยท from 2026-07-25 ยท to 2026-07-26

Jul
25

Rally in the Pajaro Valley

๐Ÿ“ Franich Park
๐Ÿ•’ 8:00 AM โ€“ 4:00 PM ยท FREE

Join us at Rally in the Pajaro Valley, our annual community softball tournament! Itโ€™s an event that brings together local organizations, businesses, and residents to raise funds and awareness for programs supporting our youth in the Pajaro Valley. Rally is all about celebrating our community spirit, building connections, and making a positive impact together. Everyone is invited to come out for free, cheer on the teams, and learn about the amazing local nonprofits making a difference. Feel free to stop by to donate on-site during the event, every little bit helps support these important causes. See you there!

Jul
25

Scotts Valley Farmers' Market

๐Ÿ“ Joe and Linda Aliberti Boys and Girls Club
๐Ÿ•’ 8:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท FREE

Every Saturday from late spring through fall, a circle of regional farms, local food businesses and makers set up their stands in Scotts Valley โ€” 9 to 1, sun on the redwoods. It's been running since 2009 alongside the City of Scotts Valley, and it's grown into the kind of seasonal ritual you plan your weekend around. Come for the shopping, stay for the slowing down. The market doubles as a resource for nutritious food and agricultural education, and a gathering place for families, friends and neighbors โ€” whether you're a weekly regular or just passing through the mountain town for the morning. Find it all amid the stalls: organic vegetables, fruits and herbs; pasture-raised chicken and duck eggs; flowers, artisanal meats, fresh bread and seafood; pastries; and ready-to-eat plates you can dig into right there with the music going.

Jul
25

Cars and Coffee

๐Ÿ“ East Lake Village Shopping Center
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 AM โ€“ 11:00 AM ยท FREE

Classic cars and coffee every Saturday morning, in East Lake Village Shopping Center. It doesn't get much better. Come walk around the expansive parking lot, look at some beautifully restored cars, drink delicious coffee, and visit with your community. Stay awhile and enjoy one of the many great eateries in the shopping center!

Food & Drink Community ๐Ÿ“ Watsonville Details โ†’
Jul
25

Beach Cleanup @ Cowell & Main Beach

๐Ÿ“ Cowell Beach
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 AM โ€“ 11:00 AM ยท See listing

Join Save Our Shores for a beach cleanup at Cowell & Main Beach! Registration is required, click here to register. Meet Up Location: Please meet us at the base of the stairs to Cowell Beach, on the right side of the wharf entrance. Facilities & Accessibility: Restrooms and drinking fountains are available onsite. Metered parking in the lot is limited, surrounding streets have additional metered parking available, please plan accordingly. How to Prepare: All volunteers must register to participate, register here. We recommend that all volunteers wear closed-toed shoes, dress in layers, wear sun protection, and bring a filled reusable water bottle. Save Our Shores encourages volunteers to avoid single-use plastics at our cleanups. All cleanup materials are provided, including buckets, grabbers, and gloves. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring their own. You can download the Save Our Shores Marine Tally App (Apple, Google) in advance of the cleanup and use it to record the debris you collect, or you can use the paper data cards that we will provide at the event. Every participant must complete a volunteer waiver. We will have waivers available at the event, however, participants are encouraged to complete this paperwork in advance to save time and bring it with you on the day of the event. Anyone under the age of 18 will require a parent or guardianโ€™s signature on this document. Volunteers under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult (guardian) for the duration of the event. If you have additional questions, please check our FAQ page. This event is in partnership with:

Jul
25

UC Santa Cruz Farm U-Pick

๐Ÿ“ UC Santa Cruz
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท FREE

Come enjoy picking your own organic strawberries and/or flowers at the campus farm! When: U-picks will take place on Saturdays from 9am to 12pm, July 11โ€“August 22, or while supplies last. PLEASE NOTE that u-pick will not occur on Saturday, July 4. Where: Free parking will be available in the Hay Barn lot or lot 115/116 during u-pick hours. Please do not park in the dirt lot at the farmโ€™s back gate. Please walk to the check-in table near the strawberries/flowers at the farm to pre-pay and collect your u-pick container(s). We will have directional signage displayed. There is one ADA parking spot on the farm. The UCSC Farm has uneven, hilly terrain. If you require accommodations to fully participate, please email [email protected] and we will do our best to accommodate. Cost: UCSC students with valid ID get 25% off produce. Strawberry pints โ€“ $4 each Strawberry flats (12 pints) โ€“ $44 Flowers โ€“ $25 for 32oz deli container Flower buckets โ€“ $75 Payment: Credit card payments only (you will need a smartphone to scan a QR code and enter your card info manually). Dogs are not allowed on the UC Santa Cruz campus (service animals are OK).

Jul
25

Westside Santa Cruz Farmers' Market

๐Ÿ“ Mission St Extension & Western Dr
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 AM โ€“ 1:00 PM ยท FREE

Saturday mornings at Hwy 1 and Western Drive, year-round. Fifteen-plus years on the Westside, with 100% certified organic produce, pasture-raised meats, sustainable seafood, flowers, and eggs, plus cook-to-order meals, live local music, and espresso from Syllable. On the edge of the greenbelt, minutes from Natural Bridges and Wilder Ranch, a bike ride from Downtown. Free parking, easy to reach.

Jul
25

City of Santa Cruz Saturday Resource Recovery Facility Public Tour

๐Ÿ“ City of Santa Cruz Resource Recovery Facility
๐Ÿ•’ 10:00 AM ยท FREE

Free Public Tours of the City of Santa Cruz Resource Recovery Facility are here. Don't miss this educational community favorite activity! Summer Public Tours Are Back! Public Tours of the Resource Recovery Facility will be offered every Friday at 10 AM from June 12th through August 14th, 2026. A single Saturday will also be offered on July 25th. Out of consideration for others, please only sign up on Saturday if Fridays are not an option for you. Come join us! Get ready to discover the journey your recycling and food scraps takeโ€”and see firsthand how your actions make a difference! Visitors will see what happens to the 30 to 50 tons of material that Santa Cruzians place into their blue recycle bins every single day. We will also learn why it is important to โ€œrecycle rightโ€ avoid โ€œwish-cycling" and why we can't relay on a triangle and a blue bin any more. Visitors will see a mountain of scrap metal, learn about the facilityโ€™s Household Hazardous Waste Program, and see the Food Scrap Pre-Processor Machine. Donโ€™t miss out on this chance to become a waste reduction pro! Tours are limited to 20 people. Children must be at least 8 years old. Youth ages 8 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited. Pre-registration is required. Registration closes 48 hours before the tour date. No Drop-Ins. Safety Notice: This tour includes stairs and standing/walking for approximately 45 minutes. On this tour, you may be exposed to loud noises, dust, or tight spaces. Please note that this is a working industrial facility with potential hazards, and your safety is our top priority. Please wear closed-toe sturdy shoes and long pants. We will provide safety vests, eye protection, ear protection, and hard hats. Please inform City staff before your tour date if you will need accommodations.

Education Free Details โ†’
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

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

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

Microgreens Plant a Seed with UCSC Master Gardeners

๐Ÿ“ Capitola
๐Ÿ•’ 10:30 AM ยท See listing

Join UCSC Master Gardeners for a workshop focused on planting your own edible bounty! Despite their small size, microgreens pack a nutritional punch and are a great addition to any diet. Join Master Gardener volunteers as we demonstrate a step-by-step process for growing your own microgreens. Registration required. https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/16324653

Wellness Education ๐Ÿ“ Capitola Details โ†’
Jul
25

Write Queer, a creative writing group @TDC

๐Ÿ“ The Diversity Center
๐Ÿ•’ 10:30 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท See listing

Write Queer, a creative writing group Date: May 9, and the Second and Fourth Saturdays in March, April, and May Time: 10:30 am - 12:00 Noon Cost: Free Location: The Diversity Center, 1117 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062 Ages: 18+ Join Jesse and Peggy for all or part of this series, running from March through May. Unleash your creativity at Write Queer, an 18+ group for writers of all levels. Respond to provided prompts, or bring your own projects. Meetings include writing time, optional sharing and positive feedback. Please bring a pen and paper or a laptop. .

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

Santa Cruz Harbor: Free Water Taxi

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Harbor
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 6:00 PM ยท FREE

Go explore the harbor shops, restaurants and experiences with very little car traffic! Passengers may be picked up and dropped off at the following locations: X1 Gate (northeast harbor) AA Dock (southwest harbor) Launch Ramp (southeast harbor) Please visit the Port Districtโ€™s website to view the map for all water taxi pick-up and drop-off locations in the harbor. Visitor parking is available for water taxi passengers in the north harbor near X Dock.

Outdoors Free Details โ†’
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

Didgeridoo Down Under

๐Ÿ“ La Selva Beach Branch Library
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 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/16206168

Jul
25

Santa Cruz Mission SHP Guided Adobe Tour

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท See listing

Staff offers a guided adobe tour centered on the experiences of Native communities in the Santa Cruz mission providing insight into daily life, cultural change, and the impacts of the mission system. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and enduring presence of Indigenous people in the region. Reservation Link:

Community BIPOC Details โ†’
Jul
25

Spa Day Passes

๐Ÿ“ La Bahia Hotel & Spa
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM ยท $54

A notable new offering for the property, La Bahia has introduced Spa Day Passes, now available via ResortPass (based on availability), granting both travelers and locals access to enjoy the propertyโ€™s serene spa amenities for a restorative escape by the sea.

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

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - Redwood Loop Tour

๐Ÿ“ Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 2:00 PM ยท See listing

Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on a guided walk through the Redwood Grove to talk about coast redwoods and to experience the forest together. On this 1-mile stroll, we will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc. and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!

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

Spring Exhibitions at the Institute of the Arts and Sciences

๐Ÿ“ Institute of the Arts and Sciences
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท See listing

Visit the IAS, UCSCโ€™s premier art galleries, for our spring exhibitions. On view April 10โ€“August 16, 2026 are three diverse and interdisciplinary shows: Libia Posada: Everything is Going Right , the first US solo exhibition by the Colombia-based artist and medical doctor; Gina Athena Ulysse: A Redwoods Rasanblaj , a site-specific and immersive exploration of the Haitian kreyol conception of rasanblaj; and Ronaldo V. Wilson: There Are No Words, But Melodies , a mixed-media exhibition emerging at the intersections of Black poetics, performance, and visual art. The IAS Galleries are open Wednesday-Sunday, 12 pm โ€“ 5 pm. Admission is free to the public. Libia Posada: Everything is Going Right Libia Posadaโ€™s first solo exhibition in the United States features installations, sculptures, and drawings meticulously constructed from surgical instruments, gauze bandages, crutches, used books, and domestic picture frames. The new and existing works in the exhibition powerfully stitch together the personal, social, and political disorders and afflictions that currently trouble the world, from the wars that resonate across the globe to the violences of aging in US prisons. Gina Athena Ulysse: A Redwoods Rasanblaj: Origins & Disentanglements The internationally-lauded work of humanities professor Gina Athena Ulysse is on view as a premier Faculty Spotlight Exhibition. The site-specific installation, produced in community from things collected, found, purchased and donated, centers on the Haitian concept of rasanblaj, a form of assembly and collage that transcends the formal use of materials to draw together people, spirits, and ideas. Ronaldo V. Wilson: There Are No Words, But Melodies Collage is both a material practice and a structural interrogation in the Faculty Spotlight Exhibition artworks by literature professor Ronaldo V. Wilson. In video, painting, and installation, layers and folds conceal and reveal, delving into the experience, both bodily and emotive, of living in time

Education Art & Culture ๐Ÿ“ Westside Details โ†’
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

Henry Cowell Redwoods SP: Redwood Grove Guided Walk

๐Ÿ“ Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 1:30 PM ยท FREE

Experience an old-growth redwood forest filled with ancient trees over 200 ft. tall, and connect one on one with park staff. On this 1-mile stroll, you will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc., and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. You donโ€™t want to miss this! Meet me at the visitor center. Although the event is free, the vehicle day-use fee is $10. Hold on to that receipt! Once you have paid for parking at one state park, you have paid for them all. There are 14 state parks in Santa Cruz County alone!

Jul
25

Lester Estate Wines: Guided Hike

๐Ÿ“ Lester Estate Wines
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 12:30 PM ยท $75

Explore and discover the beauty of Deer Park Ranch with a 90-minute guided hike through the vineyards and ranch with Lester Estate brand ambassador, Steve Johnson. Get your heart pumping as you hear about the wineโ€™s journey from soil to glass. Learn about the wineryโ€™s history & vineyard practices while taking in 360-degree views of the Monterey Bay. Part education, part exercise, part wine experience with sips and snacks along the way. This is a moderate hike with some small hills. Please note, this experience is not available to those guests who have mobility constraints or require assistance with walking or standing.

Jul
25

Nicholson Vineyards: Summer Series

๐Ÿ“ Nicholson Vineyards
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 4:00 PM ยท $25

Enjoy summer weekend afternoons at the beautiful Nicholson Vineyards! Saturdays from noon to 5pm โ€“ Enjoy perusing art from local artists Sundays from 1pm to 4pm โ€“ Enjoy listening to local musicians Pack a picnic spread, gather your friends and family, and sip on their refreshing summer wine flight, featuring the best of our warm-weather selections. Book your reservation today! July 11 & 12: The Clay Chalet and music by Dos Bros July 18 & 19: Indigo and Vine and music by Jo Coleman July 25 & 26: Sour Sammy Sourdough and music by Six String Mixtape August 1 & 2: Scout and Sea and music by Half Pass August 8 & 9: Lili Arnold Studios and music by Eden Edell August 15 & 16: Desert Moon Design and music by Kip Allert August 22 & 23: Papelline Jewelry and music by Zach Bailey August 29 & 30: Anna Gail Designs and music by Jeff Smith September 5 & 6: All You Knead and music by Cake Party!

Food & Drink Art & Culture ๐Ÿ“ Aptos & Seacliff Details โ†’
Jul
25

LGBTQ+ Gamers Group @ TDC

๐Ÿ“ The Diversity Center
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 4:00 PM ยท See listing

LGBTQ+ Gamers Group Date: Saturday, July 25 Time: 1:00 - 4:00 pm Location: The Diversity Center Ages: 18+ For gamers of all types, to socialize and game. Join for our monthly meetup, and bring your favorite board games and card games to play! In the groupโ€™s Discord we discuss event times, computer games, and other gaming topics.

Jul
25

Annieglass Craftbar: Color Theory Collage Workshop

๐Ÿ“ Annieglass
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท $110

Get your hands dirty with award-winning artist Suzanne McCourt. Suzanne will be hands-on to help create a mixed media canvas 12 x 12โ€ along with a small practice canvas. Explore color theory collage on canvas which include spray paint stencils, layering paper, painting with acrylic, collages and getting as creative as possible! Unravel the mysteries of color theory and have a great time. Be sure to bring your apron or paint t-shirt. Youโ€™ll also receive 15% off Annieglass first-quality pieces on the day of the event. Sparkling waters provided. Half bottles & bottles of wine available for purchase.

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

Annieglass Craftbar: Glass Coasters Workshop

๐Ÿ“ Annieglass
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท $85

Make your own beautiful set of four glass coasters with Smithsonian artist, Annie Morhauser. Everything you need will be providedโ€”glass, stencils, colorful glass enamels, adhesive feet, and expert guidance throughout the process. Youโ€™ll design and decorate 4โ€ณ glass squares, then load them into the kilns (donโ€™t worryโ€”theyโ€™ll be off!). Annieglass will fire your pieces for you, and you can have them shipped to your home. Want a full set of eight? Book two workshops! Youโ€™ll also receive 15% off Annieglass first-quality pieces on the day of the event. Sparkling waters provided. Half bottles & bottles of wine available for purchase.

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

Wilder Ranch State Park - Ranch History Tour

๐Ÿ“ Wilder Ranch State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 2:30 PM ยท See listing

Want to learn about the rich dairy history of Wilder Ranch State Park? Dreamt of peeking inside our beautiful Victorian homes and barns? Join us weekly on Saturdays and Sundays for a 1.5 hour long tour of the historic buildings of Wilder Ranch! Meet at the visitor's center at 1 pm. Pre-register here or join us on the day-of. This tour is free. Parking in Day-use lot is $10. Questions?Call (669)758-1963or email [email protected]

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

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

All About Theatre Presents "Moana Jr"

๐Ÿ“ The Colligan Theater
๐Ÿ•’ 1:30 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

Beehive Dive & Honey Tasting

๐Ÿ“ Chaminade Resort and Spa
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท $140

Through the hands-on exploration of a bustling beehive on Chaminade's grounds, you will learn about the intriguing world of honey bees in a way that very few get to experience. Your hive tour, led by Northern Roots Bee Co.โ€™s professional beekeepers, will include suiting up in beekeeping attire and learning about the different roles and contributions that bees make in the colony. Weโ€™ll finish the experience with a honey tasting where participants delight in the nuanced flavors of varietal honeys. This experience is open to overnight resort guests and community members.

Outdoors Education ๐Ÿ“ Midtown Details โ†’
Jul
25

Audrey Stanley Grove: Much Ado About Nothing

๐Ÿ“ Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท $25

Santa Cruz Shakespeare invites you to experience Shakespeareโ€™s Much Ado About Nothing, un-der the trees and stars of the Audrey Stanley Grove in Santa Cruzโ€™s DeLaveaga Park this summer. Much Ado About Nothing By William Shakespeare Directed by Charles Pasternak One of Shakespeareโ€™s wittiest and most beloved comedies, the 2026 season will open with Shakespeareโ€™s Much Ado About Nothing. Of all the couples in Shakespeare, perhaps none is more widely loved than Beatrice and Benedick. Their battle of wits; their antagonism turned to eroticism; their history. Before the play begins, they already seem to define each other. The audience, like the other characters in the play, wait with excitement as their wits clash, and eventually, as their love blossoms. Much Ado About Nothing runs July 11 โ€“ August 30. More information or to purchase tickets, follow the link in the orange above, or contact the box office Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4pm at the number listed above.

Jul
25

SIX is for 6enocide Powerful Poetry by Daniel Reyes

๐Ÿ“ Capitola
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM ยท See listing

Daniel reads from his powerful book of poetry, SIX is for 6enocide. Copies of the book are available for purchase and signing. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is recommended. Join us as Daniel Reyes reads from his book SIX is for 6enocide, which is dedicated to the Alaydi family in Gaza, Palestine. Local Palestinian poet Howla Jardali will read a poem and introduce Daniel. Professor Stephen Zunes, Program Director of USF's Middle Eastern Studies Program will be present to answer any questions about the history and politics of the region. Registration required. https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/16418611

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

SIX is for 6enocide

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
๐Ÿ•’ 3:00 PM ยท See listing

Saturday, July 25 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm Daniel reads from his powerful book of poetry, SIX is for 6enocide. Copies of the book are available for purchase and signing. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is recommended.

Community Art & Culture Details โ†’
Jul
25

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - Tree Identification

๐Ÿ“ Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 3:00 PM โ€“ 4:30 PM ยท See listing

Learning about different tree species? How in-tree-guing! During this 1 mile walk, we'll be chattin' about a handful of trees that reside in the park, and giving you the tools you need to identify species during your future park visits. Beleaf us, it'll be a great time! This free program will meet in front of the Visitor Center and meander down River Trail and back through the Redwood Grove. Hard rain cancels! Hope to see you there! Click here to RSVP.

Jul
25

Rivets & Rust

๐Ÿ“ Discretion Brewing
๐Ÿ•’ 5:30 PM โ€“ 7:30 PM ยท See listing

5:30-7:30pm Formed in 2022, Rivets & Rust are a Santa Cruz Rock, Folk, Americana Band. Their music encompasses a unique variety of singer-songwriter originals as well as a collection of classic covers. The band's delivery of a mellow vibe with soaring vocals and smoking guitar passages resonates with a wide range of audiences. Rivets & Rust are: Tim Bennett- Rhythm Guitar/Lead Vocals, Angela Bennett- Keys/Harmony Vocals, Glenn MacPherson- Lead Guitar, Jeff Arlt- Drums, and Mark Hull- Bass.

Music Food & Drink ๐Ÿ“ Soquel Details โ†’
Jul
25

Moonlight Dinner Party

๐Ÿ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
๐Ÿ•’ 6:00 PM โ€“ 10:00 PM ยท See listing

This is the one folks. Head out into the woods for some good ol' fashioned fun! Your night begins at the town of Roaring Camp with a delicious BBQ dinner and enjoy just-like-Grandma-made-it apple pie. After dinner, board the historic steam train and head to the top of the mountain for music and hot cider

Jul
25

Queer Speed Dating @ Little Giant Collective

๐Ÿ“ Little Giant Collective
๐Ÿ•’ 6:00 PM โ€“ 8:45 PM ยท $5

Queer Speed Dating is back after a brief hiatus! Skip the apps and come find some summer lovin' at our July event hosted at Little Giant Collective. All gender identities and sexual orientations welcome and encouraged to attend. This time we're trying something a little different... Our first round from 6:00-7:15pm will be for speed daters ages 35+ Our second round from 7:30-8:45 we will be for daters aged 25-40 We've got a packed schedule, so please arrive on time for the start corresponding with your age group! Priced on a sliding scale $5โ€“15 | NOTAFLOF Be kind, be respectful, be sexy! See y'all there ๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿ’‹ Follow us @queerspeeddatingsc on instagram --- Little Giant Collective is located next to Mobo Sushi on115 River Street South, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Accessibility notes: Ground floor location, restrooms available (gendered single stalls, restrooms are shared with other businesses in the Galeria). Centrally located in downtown Santa Cruz.

Community LGBTQ+ Details โ†’
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

Escaping Queens

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Actors' Theatre
๐Ÿ•’ 7:00 PM โ€“ 10:00 PM ยท $16

A story written by Capitolaโ€™s very own, Joe Ortiz, comes to life at The SC Actors Theatre. Escaping Queens follows an immigrant family as they navigate the challenges of poverty and a fatherโ€™s problems with gambling, alcohol, and women. This funny, edgy, ultimately hopeful musical paints a cast of colorful characters, from neighborhood bookies to a doo wop group to all the shades and personalities in a mixed Italian and Puerto Rican family. Based on Oritzโ€™s own memoir, Pastinaโ€”My Fatherโ€™s Misfortune, My Motherโ€™s Good Soup, the emotional turbulence of navigating an escape from New York is presented as a compelling and sophisticated story that asks if children are fated to repeat their parentsโ€™ mistakes. -Shelly Novo; Good Times Santa Cruz

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

Fernando Ortega Concert

๐Ÿ“ Mount Hermon Camp & Conference Center
๐Ÿ•’ 7:00 PM ยท See listing

In the early 1990s, young composer and pianist Fernando Ortega, classically trained and musically complex, entered the Christian music scene. His distinctively earthy sound perplexed and even defied the pop status quo. Descended from eight generations of Mexican weavers, this son of the Rio Grande entwined thoughtful melodies with Celtic, bluegrass, classical and Latin American influences to create something unique and rare. Today, Fernando is one of Christian musicโ€™s most respected artists, his works encompassing modern hymns, liturgical songs, and Inspirational and praise & worship favorites. With three Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and a Billboard Latin Music Award to his credit, Fernandoโ€™s Christian radio hits include โ€œThis Good Day,โ€ โ€œJesus, King of Angelsโ€ and โ€œSleepless Night.โ€ Renowned for his stirring arrangements of beloved hymnsโ€” โ€œGive Me Jesusโ€ and โ€œBe Thou My Vision,โ€ among othersโ€” his solo discography features 18 projects in a heralded career spanning more than 25 years. His latest offering, the much-anticipated The Crucifixion of Jesus, follows the same devotional trajectory of 2011โ€™s Come Down O Love Divine, this time centering on the events of Holy Week. Co-produced with Bernard Chadwick in a customized recording space in Fernandoโ€™s Albuquerque home, itโ€™s the most intentionally devotional project heโ€™s ever released, a meticulous labor of love. Engineered and mixed by GRAMMYยฎ Award-winner Brandon Bell, the project was an epiphany of sorts for Fernando. โ€œIt was about finding my way through the mystery of Holy Week,โ€ he explains, โ€œworking my way through the events leading up to Christโ€™s death, the betrayal, the communionโ€ฆall of it a meditation.โ€ Featuring 11 contemplative songs and six readings, the album is a sweeping narrative which carries the listener from Palm Sunday to the Crucifixion. In stark and stunning compositions like โ€œIn My Fatherโ€™s Kingdomโ€ (the Last Supper), โ€œStay With Me Hereโ€ (Garden of Getsemane), โ€œAh Holy Jesus, How Have You

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

Macbeth, presented by Santa Cruz Shakespeare

๐Ÿ“ The Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park
๐Ÿ•’ 8:00 PM ยท See listing

Something wicked this way comes, indeed. Starting this weekend and running through August 30th, Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents one of The Bardโ€™s most infamous plays, Macbeth. Coincidentally the playโ€™s first ever performance is believed to have been in 1606 marking this as the 420th anniversary, which is very Santa Cruz. And for anyone familiar with Macbeth, itโ€™s easy to see why itโ€™s lasted throughout the ages. Witches, murder, moral failings and tons of tragedy are beautifully sewn throughout the acts, stitched together with lines such as โ€œBlood will have blood,โ€ and โ€œthe wine of life is drawn.โ€ -Mat Weir; Good Times Santa Cruz

Art & Culture Outdoors ๐Ÿ“ Midtown Details โ†’
Jul
25

SC Beach Boardwalk: Evenings on the Colonnade

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
๐Ÿ•’ 8:30 PM โ€“ 9:30 PM ยท FREE

Stay for the entertainment from 8:30pm to 9:30pm on the Colonnade Deck! Where you can listen to live music with delicious food & drink in your hand, be amazed by Magicians & acrobats, and show off your best dance moves with a DJ dance party at the Plaza stage. Admission is free! Monday, June 15, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Magic with Kris Bentz Tuesday, June 16, 2026 8:30pm Magic with Kris Bentz 9:00pm Acrobatics with Molly Keczan Wednesday, June 17, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Magic with Kris Bentz Thursday, June 18, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ Live Music with Fire Peach Friday, June 19, 2026 โ€“ Free showing of Ferris Buellerโ€™s Day Off movie on the beach at 9pm Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Monday, June 22, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Circus Acrobatics with MeeZee! Tuesday, June 23, 2026 8:30pm Circus Acrobatics with MeeZee! 9:00pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza Wednesday, June 24, 2026: World Cup Watch Party for Mexico Game Thursday, June 25, 2026: World Cup Watch Party for USA Game Friday, June 26, 2026 โ€“ Free showing of the movie Kicking and Screaming on the beach at 9pm Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Monday, June 29, 2026 8:30pm Magic with Patrick Livingstone 9:00pm Surfing Magic with Doug Hofkins Tuesday, June 30, 2026 8:30pm Magic with Patrick Livingstone 9:00pm Surfing Magic with Doug Hofkins Wednesday, July 1, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Circus Acrobatics with MeeZee! Thursday, July 2, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ Live Music with El Brick Friday, July 3, 2026 โ€“ Independence Day Celebrations Saturday, July 4, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday,

Jul
25

Sean and the Skinwalkers

๐Ÿ“ Joe's Bar
๐Ÿ•’ 8:30 PM ยท See listing

Sean and the Skinwalkers is a blues rock trio from Monterey County California. Just as comfortable playing traditional blues as they are tearing through a psychedelic rock song, the common thread is always the blues and the intensity that they bring to every performance. No two performances are ever the same as everything is raw and changes on the fly, with improvised wild guitar solos that often take place in the audience. Sometimes compared to the legends of the 70s blues rock scene, Sean and the Skinwalkers does cover a wide range of music in addition to playing originals. You'll hear covers and inspiration from artists like Led Zeppelin, Rory Gallagher, Howlin Wolf, Muddy Waters, Johnny Winter, Free, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, Black Sabbath, David Bowie, Marcus King, Stray Cats, Jeff Healey, Tab Benoit and more, but always with the Skinwalker's unique flavor. Keep your camera ready as you never know what to expect, Sean is likely to jump into the audience and use your beer bottle to play slide guitar or ask you to hit the strings while he frets notes for a solo and has a conversation with you about your day. Nobody ever forgets a Sean and the Skinwalkers performance! Original music on every streaming platform, with a new album releasing soon! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wolfmanblues/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6AQRQZEOJxIlim78Gi7HIt?si=9htrXeE1RXG2cVjmWyFnbQ Youtube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa2wGtmVpbPZNtThEKxERS_PTsXxzYZIK

Jul
25

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - Star Walk Tour

๐Ÿ“ Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
๐Ÿ•’ 8:45 PM โ€“ 9:45 PM ยท See listing

Star Walks - Astronomy-based program where participants are guided up to the observation deck, where they will participate in activities and learn about the night sky. This involves a 1 mile round trip hike. Meet in the campfire center of the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park campground. RSVP for this hike here .

Jul
25

Lawnmover

๐Ÿ“ Jury Room
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 PM ยท $10

Those familiar with the darker, seedier, drunker corners of the Santa Cruz music scene probably already know Lawnmower. For everyone else, listen up! Formed in 2024, Lawnmower is a degenerate trio of punks who play a โ€œwho cares about practicingโ€ brand of the genre mixed with a tinge of downbeat sludge. In all honesty they actually do practice and write some of the funniest-without-being-satire songs currently in the scene. Lawnmower is raw with hoarse vocals screamed with all the fury and honesty of someone who identifies with Michael Douglas in Falling Down. This band rules and their show at the Jury Room with Total Joke and Apricot Court will be anything but a buzzkill. -Mat Weir; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
25

Fully Fullwood Band ft. Ginger Roots w/ Militia of Love

๐Ÿ“ Moe's Alley
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 PM ยท See listing

Moes Alley presents Fully Fullwood Band ft. Ginger Roots, plus Militia of Love! Saturday, July 25, 2026Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm$25 in advance / $30 day of show21+ * All sales are final* Avoid scammers! Only purchase tickets from moesalley.com or ticketweb.com* Tickets requested by email will be delivered 3 days prior to the event* Will Call tickets will be available at the door on the day of the event====FULLY FULLWOODA truly well-earned recognition as being one of the Greats of the music industry, deeply creative and positively innovative, we introduce Fully Fullwood. Fully Fullwood is one of the most popular and well-known bass players in the world and has worked and recorded with every major artist out of Jamaica. His list of credits reads like a whos-who of the twentieth centurys most important musical artists. Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Michael Rose, Mikey Dread, The Mighty Diamonds, Black Uhuru, Joe Higgs, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Frankie Paul, Big Youth, U-Roy, Sister Carol, John Holt, Judy Mowatt, Ken Boothe, Andrew Tosh, Delroy Wilson, and many more have utilized the outstanding talents of this absolutely amazing composer, producer and musician. The originator and leader of the Soul Syndicate Band, Fully Fullwood has the distinction of also being a member of reggae superstar Peter Toshs famous band, Word, Sound and Power whom he recorded with and also toured with extensively until the singers untimely passing.

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

Cabrillo Festival 2026 Opening Night

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 AM ยท See listing

โ€œWe the Dreamers is both an invitation and a responsibilityโ€; says Music Director Cristian Mฤƒcelaru. โ€œAt this historic moment, we are asking how music can help us imagine a more expansive โ€˜weโ€™โ€”one that listens deeply, embraces complexity, and dares to hope. These works remind us that dreaming is essential to shaping a more just and connected future.โ€ The Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music presents its 64th season, We the Dreamers, running July 26 through August 9, 2026. Framed by the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this transformative season asks one of the most resonant civic questions of our time: Who is the โ€œweโ€ of Americaโ€”and who are โ€œweโ€ still becoming? The answers unfold across four world premiere Festival Commissions, eight West Coast premieres, and two U.S. premieres, brought to life by a dynamic global roster of over 20 composers and an extraordinary array of guest artists. Highlights include the second-ever performance and West Coast premiere of Philip Glassโ€™s Symphony No. 15 Lincoln, which draws on Lincolnโ€™s urgent reverence for the Constitution and his prescient warnings against internal division, alongside an appearance by Former U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove and new works by Clarice Assad, Vivian Fung, Sarah Hennies, and Pedro Emanuel Pereiraโ€”together offering a compelling portrait of our contemporary moment through the lens of history, civic reckoning, and global perspective. For more information: Cabrillo Festival 2026 Co-sponsored by the Humanities Institute

Festivals Music Details โ†’
Jul
26

2026 Dickens Universe

๐Ÿ“ UC Santa Cruz
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 AM ยท See listing

The Dickens Project at UC Santa Cruz invites the community to the 2026 Dickens Universe, held July 26โ€“August 1, a weeklong scholarly gathering devoted to Charles Dickensโ€™s Bleak House. The Universe brings together scholars, students, teachers, and lifelong learners for lectures, discussion groups, film screenings, Victorian tea, festive dance, and a variety of other immersive experiencesโ€”all set among the redwoods on the UCSC campus. This retreat celebrates the power of literature to build community, spark conversation, and connect readers across generations. For more information please visit: 2026 Dickens Universe

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

SC Civic Auditorium: Festival of Contemporary Music

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 AM โ€“ 11:59 PM ยท See listing

In late July and early August each year, audiences are joined by both preeminent and emerging composers, spectacular guest artists, and an orchestra of dedicated professional musicians from across the globe to give voice to works which are rarely more than a year or two old, and sometimes still wet on the page. The Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, even at a seasoned 60 years old, is all about the newโ€”the here and now of contemporary works for orchestra. To quote Financial Times music critic Allan Ulrich, โ€œโ€ฆin the surf mecca of Santa Cruz, 75 miles south of San Francisco, the Cabrillo Festival has made the contemporary repertoire sound urgent, indispensable and even sexy.โ€

Jul
26

Cabrillo Festival 2026 โ€“ Opening Night

๐Ÿ“ UC Santa Cruz
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 AM โ€“ 12:59 AM ยท See listing

โ€œWe the Dreamers is both an invitation and a responsibilityโ€; says Music Director Cristian Mฤƒcelaru. โ€œAt this historic moment, we are asking how music can help us imagine a more expansive โ€˜weโ€™โ€”one that listens deeply, embraces complexity, and dares to hope. These works remind us that dreaming is essential to shaping a more just and connected future.โ€ The Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music presents its 64th season, We the Dreamers, running July 26 through August 9, 2026 . Framed by the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this transformative season asks one of the most resonant civic questions of our time: Who is the โ€œweโ€ of Americaโ€”and who are โ€œweโ€ still becoming? The answers unfold across four world premiere Festival Commissions, eight West Coast premieres, and two U.S. premieres , brought to life by a dynamic global roster of over 20 composers and an extraordinary array of guest artists. Highlights include the second-ever performance and West Coast premiere of Philip Glassโ€™s Symphony No. 15 Lincoln , which draws on Lincolnโ€™s urgent reverence for the Constitution and his prescient warnings against internal division, alongside an appearance by Former U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove and new works by Clarice Assad, Vivian Fung, Sarah Hennies , and Pedro Emanuel Pereira โ€”together offering a compelling portrait of our contemporary moment through the lens of history, civic reckoning, and global perspective. For more information: Cabrillo Festival 2026

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

Drop-in Meditation

๐Ÿ“ Land of Medicine Buddha โ€“ In the Gompa
๐Ÿ•’ 9:00 AM โ€“ 10:00 AM ยท See listing

Join us for Sunday drop-in Meditations 9-10 am weekly. In person onlyโ€“ in the Gompa at Land of Medicine Buddha with Venerable Yangchen! Venerable Yangchen's guided meditations bring together a refreshing and precious combination of simplicity, depth, and accessibility. These weekly, hour-long sessions are of great relevance and value to long-term Buddhist practitioners as well as to complete newcomers to meditation. The practice begins with brief instruction, 10 minutes of silent meditation, followed by guided analytical meditation and discussion based on the theme of the week.

Community Wellness ๐Ÿ“ Soquel Details โ†’
Jul
26

Earth Friendly Gardening Classes: Plant Selection

๐Ÿ“ UCSC Arboretum
๐Ÿ•’ 10:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM ยท See listing

Join the UC Master Gardeners of Monterey, San Benito & Santa Cruz Counties for this hands-on summer workshop at the UCSC Arboretum! Classes are free with paid admission, but registration is required to attend. You are welcome to take one, two, or all four classes which occur on the last Sunday of the month, June through September. Register Here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/earth-friendly-gardening-analyzing-your-space Earth-friendly gardening begins with working with your environment to create landscapes that are beautiful, resilient, and easier to maintain. During this workshop, weโ€™ll learn to: Select climate-wise, water-smart, native, and drought-tolerant plants Choose the right plants for your gardenโ€™s conditions and needs Support pollinators and soil health Avoid plants that may create future problems Get plants established and keep them healthy with less maintenance Weโ€™ll also introduce helpful resources to guide your plant choices and help you grow a garden that is beautiful, sustainable, and easier to care for over time. Classes are free with an Arboretum membership which includes free admission to the gardens as well as a whole host of great benefits. Consider becoming a member today by visiting our website: arboretum.ucsc.edu

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

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

Santa Cruz Harbor: Free Water Taxi

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Harbor
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 6:00 PM ยท FREE

Go explore the harbor shops, restaurants and experiences with very little car traffic! Passengers may be picked up and dropped off at the following locations: X1 Gate (northeast harbor) AA Dock (southwest harbor) Launch Ramp (southeast harbor) Please visit the Port Districtโ€™s website to view the map for all water taxi pick-up and drop-off locations in the harbor. Visitor parking is available for water taxi passengers in the north harbor near X Dock.

Outdoors Free Details โ†’
Jul
26

Corralitos Farm and Garden Market

๐Ÿ“ Corralitos farm and garden market
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท FREE

A small but mighty amazing community market. In beautiful Corralitos, which is located in south Santa Cruz county. The country feel is real with local produce, local flowers, local honey, baked goods, plants, crafts, and so much more. An amazing Jewel hidden in the south County of Santa Cruz also we are right next to Aldridge Park and the famous Corralitos meat market. See you all there. Rain or Shine. Located 127 Hames Road Corralitos 11-3pm plenty additional parkiing @Aldridgepark

Jul
26

FSSC - Beginner Bluegrass Slow Jam

๐Ÿ“ SubRosa Community Space, 703 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 12:30 PM ยท See listing

Beginner Bluegrass Slow Jam โ€“ Sunday, June 28th / 11 a.m. with Bashi ([email protected]) Location: SubRosa courtyard, 703 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA Description: Bluegrass standards for beginners, played at a very slow 60-90 bpm. If you can play a G, D, and A chord on your instrument, you're able to take part in this group jam. If not, come and learn! Materials: BYO instrument Accessibility: We will be outside

Jul
26

Local Specials

๐Ÿ“ La Bahia Hotel & Spa
๐Ÿ•’ 11:00 AM โ€“ 6:00 PM ยท FREE

For a more casual local draw, Low Tide features weekly dining specials including The Monday Slice ($20 signature pizzas), Wine Down Wednesdays (ยฝ price bottles under $80), and Sunday Golden Hour offerings (4PM-6PM with $6 draft beer and house wine)

Jul
26

Henry Cowell Redwoods SP: Redwood Grove Guided Walk

๐Ÿ“ Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 1:30 PM ยท FREE

Experience an old-growth redwood forest filled with ancient trees over 200 ft. tall, and connect one on one with park staff. On this 1-mile stroll, you will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc., and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. You donโ€™t want to miss this! Meet me at the visitor center. Although the event is free, the vehicle day-use fee is $10. Hold on to that receipt! Once you have paid for parking at one state park, you have paid for them all. There are 14 state parks in Santa Cruz County alone!

Jul
26

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - Redwood Loop Tour

๐Ÿ“ Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 2:00 PM ยท See listing

Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on a guided walk through the Redwood Grove to talk about coast redwoods and to experience the forest together. On this 1-mile stroll, we will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc. and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!

Jul
26

Spring Exhibitions at the Institute of the Arts and Sciences

๐Ÿ“ Institute of the Arts and Sciences
๐Ÿ•’ 12:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท See listing

Visit the IAS, UCSCโ€™s premier art galleries, for our spring exhibitions. On view April 10โ€“August 16, 2026 are three diverse and interdisciplinary shows: Libia Posada: Everything is Going Right , the first US solo exhibition by the Colombia-based artist and medical doctor; Gina Athena Ulysse: A Redwoods Rasanblaj , a site-specific and immersive exploration of the Haitian kreyol conception of rasanblaj; and Ronaldo V. Wilson: There Are No Words, But Melodies , a mixed-media exhibition emerging at the intersections of Black poetics, performance, and visual art. The IAS Galleries are open Wednesday-Sunday, 12 pm โ€“ 5 pm. Admission is free to the public. Libia Posada: Everything is Going Right Libia Posadaโ€™s first solo exhibition in the United States features installations, sculptures, and drawings meticulously constructed from surgical instruments, gauze bandages, crutches, used books, and domestic picture frames. The new and existing works in the exhibition powerfully stitch together the personal, social, and political disorders and afflictions that currently trouble the world, from the wars that resonate across the globe to the violences of aging in US prisons. Gina Athena Ulysse: A Redwoods Rasanblaj: Origins & Disentanglements The internationally-lauded work of humanities professor Gina Athena Ulysse is on view as a premier Faculty Spotlight Exhibition. The site-specific installation, produced in community from things collected, found, purchased and donated, centers on the Haitian concept of rasanblaj, a form of assembly and collage that transcends the formal use of materials to draw together people, spirits, and ideas. Ronaldo V. Wilson: There Are No Words, But Melodies Collage is both a material practice and a structural interrogation in the Faculty Spotlight Exhibition artworks by literature professor Ronaldo V. Wilson. In video, painting, and installation, layers and folds conceal and reveal, delving into the experience, both bodily and emotive, of living in time

Education Art & Culture ๐Ÿ“ Westside Details โ†’
Jul
26

Rite Life - A Writing Group Amongst the Dead

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 3:00 PM ยท See listing

This monthly series of writing workshops in Evergreen Cemetery is facilitated by local poet Gabriel Kittle-Cervine. Rite Life is a workshop that blends the act of automatic writing, with our individual practices of ancestor veneration, to confront that which haunts us, and to celebrate that which allows us to live. The workshop was born in 2016 from the vision of a profound poet and spiritual teacher named Honeysun, just a couple of years before she passed beyond this life. Her initial concept for the Rite Life workshop is preserved in the way it's practiced today; still facilitated by Gabe, her friend and pupil, alongside a bright circle of local writers and practitioners of craft. Learn more at www.blankmetafour.com or follow @unclegabe831 on Instagram. All ages welcome, and we'll be there rain or shine-see y'all in the cemetery!

Jul
26

Nicholson Vineyards: Summer Series

๐Ÿ“ Nicholson Vineyards
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 4:00 PM ยท $25

Enjoy summer weekend afternoons at the beautiful Nicholson Vineyards! Saturdays from noon to 5pm โ€“ Enjoy perusing art from local artists Sundays from 1pm to 4pm โ€“ Enjoy listening to local musicians Pack a picnic spread, gather your friends and family, and sip on their refreshing summer wine flight, featuring the best of our warm-weather selections. Book your reservation today! July 11 & 12: The Clay Chalet and music by Dos Bros July 18 & 19: Indigo and Vine and music by Jo Coleman July 25 & 26: Sour Sammy Sourdough and music by Six String Mixtape August 1 & 2: Scout and Sea and music by Half Pass August 8 & 9: Lili Arnold Studios and music by Eden Edell August 15 & 16: Desert Moon Design and music by Kip Allert August 22 & 23: Papelline Jewelry and music by Zach Bailey August 29 & 30: Anna Gail Designs and music by Jeff Smith September 5 & 6: All You Knead and music by Cake Party!

Food & Drink Art & Culture ๐Ÿ“ Aptos & Seacliff Details โ†’
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

Jul
26

Wilder Ranch State Park - Ranch History Tour

๐Ÿ“ Wilder Ranch State Park
๐Ÿ•’ 1:00 PM โ€“ 2:30 PM ยท See listing

Want to learn about the rich dairy history of Wilder Ranch State Park? Dreamt of peeking inside our beautiful Victorian homes and barns? Join us weekly on Saturdays and Sundays for a 1.5 hour long tour of the historic buildings of Wilder Ranch! Meet at the visitor's center at 1 pm. Pre-register here or join us on the day-of. This tour is free. Parking in Day-use lot is $10. Questions?Call (669)758-1963or email [email protected]

Jul
26

All About Theatre Presents "Moana Jr"

๐Ÿ“ The Colligan Theater
๐Ÿ•’ 1:30 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
26

Cabrillo Crocker Theater: Sister Act, The Musical

๐Ÿ“ Cabrillo College Crocker Theater
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM โ€“ 4:30 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
26

Anime Your Way

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM ยท See listing

Sunday, July 26 2026 1:00pm - 2:15pm 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!

Community Art & Culture Details โ†’
Jul
26

Jurrasic Jungle Book โ€“ A Three Hour Tour

๐Ÿ“ Park Hall Ben Lomond
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 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
26

LPRT Presents: Jurassic Jungle Book -A Three Hour Tour

๐Ÿ“ Park Hall Ben Lomond
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 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
26

Escaping Queens

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Actors' Theatre
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท $16

A story written by Capitolaโ€™s very own, Joe Ortiz, comes to life at The SC Actors Theatre. Escaping Queens follows an immigrant family as they navigate the challenges of poverty and a fatherโ€™s problems with gambling, alcohol, and women. This funny, edgy, ultimately hopeful musical paints a cast of colorful characters, from neighborhood bookies to a doo wop group to all the shades and personalities in a mixed Italian and Puerto Rican family. Based on Oritzโ€™s own memoir, Pastinaโ€”My Fatherโ€™s Misfortune, My Motherโ€™s Good Soup, the emotional turbulence of navigating an escape from New York is presented as a compelling and sophisticated story that asks if children are fated to repeat their parentsโ€™ mistakes. -Shelly Novo; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
26

Macbeth, presented by Santa Cruz Shakespeare

๐Ÿ“ The Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park
๐Ÿ•’ 2:00 PM ยท See listing

Something wicked this way comes, indeed. Starting this weekend and running through August 30th, Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents one of The Bardโ€™s most infamous plays, Macbeth. Coincidentally the playโ€™s first ever performance is believed to have been in 1606 marking this as the 420th anniversary, which is very Santa Cruz. And for anyone familiar with Macbeth, itโ€™s easy to see why itโ€™s lasted throughout the ages. Witches, murder, moral failings and tons of tragedy are beautifully sewn throughout the acts, stitched together with lines such as โ€œBlood will have blood,โ€ and โ€œthe wine of life is drawn.โ€ -Mat Weir; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
26

Frances Ancheta

๐Ÿ“ Streetlight Records
๐Ÿ•’ 3:00 PM โ€“ 12:00 AM ยท See listing

Bay Area singer-songwriter and creative arts therapist Frances Ancheta draws upon her Filipina heritage, folk, pop, British new wave, world and roots music in the creation of her original, acoustic-based songs. Anchetaโ€™s debut album, 2008โ€™s Now Weโ€™re Here was followed by a second album three years later. After that, she took a sabbatical from music to focus on family, her work as a music therapist and a battle with cancer. That latter challenge had a happy outcome and also brought forth a bounty of songs that would fill her next several albums. Her latest release is 2025โ€™s upbeat Saving Graces. -Bill Kopp; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
26

Lefty Rosa

๐Ÿ“ Discretion Brewing
๐Ÿ•’ 3:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM ยท See listing

3:00-5:00pm Lefty Rosa was born in Santa Cruz county but has traveled far and wide to perfect its dreamy brand of original Americana music. It features Ezzie DeGiovanni (acoustic guitar/vocals), Joel Murach (Telecaster/vocals/harmonica), Chris Weinress (upright bass), and Tom Murach (drums).

Jul
26

Karaoke with Moondog

๐Ÿ“ Fast Eddy's Billiards Dart Room
๐Ÿ•’ 3:00 PM ยท FREE

Sing your heart out! We will start at 3pm....ends when the cops show up or when I throw in the towel....No way you can be too late to get into the rotation.....We use Karafun, so the artists who own the songs get paid ROYALTIES via BMI or ASCAP. Venmo & TIP JAR FOR THE KJ. Beer and Wine , Bar Food Menu. Plenty of free parking.

Jul
26

Moe's Alley Presents: Sue Foley

๐Ÿ“ Moe's Alley
๐Ÿ•’ 4:00 PM ยท See listing

Sue Foley is bringing her band back to Moes to rock your world! Sunday, July 26, 2026Doors: 3pm / Show: 4pm$30 in advance / $35 day of the show21+* No Refunds | All sales are final* Avoid scammers! Only purchase tickets from moesalley.com or ticketweb.com* Tickets requested by email will be delivered 3 days prior to the event* Will Call tickets will be available at the door on the day of the event====SUE FOLEYSue Foley is a multi-award-winning blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose latest album, One Guitar Woman: A Tribute to the Female Pioneers of Guitar, was nominated for the 2025 GRAMMY Award for Best Traditional Blues Album. Known for her fiery playing and soulful voice, Foley blends Texas blues grit with refined fingerstyle technique, whether on her signature pink paisley Fender Telecaster or a hand-built flamenco guitar. Born in Ottawa, Canada, Foley began performing professionally at 16 and made her mark in Austin, Texas, with the legendary Antones label. Since her 1992 debut Young Girl Blues, shes toured internationally, sharing stages with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and Billy F Gibbons. Foley is a five-time consecutive Blues Music Award winner for Traditional Blues Female Artist (20202025) and a recipient of multiple other honors, including a JUNO Award and the 2024 Maple Blues Lifetime Achievement Award. A passionate scholar as well as a performer, Foley holds a PhD in Musicology and will release her first book, Guitar Women, in 2026. As the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote, Foley has a killer voice, an impossibly alluring blend of sex and innocence to go with those blazing guitar chops. With One Guitar Woman, she reclaims history and redefines what a guitar hero can be.

Jul
26

Open Mic

๐Ÿ“ SubRosa Community Space, 703 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
๐Ÿ•’ 6:00 PM โ€“ 10:00 PM ยท See listing

Usually 4th Thursday but hereโ€™s a special last Sunday open mic! Doors 7pm to sign up Performances 7:30pm $5 notaflof Bring songs, poems, or whatever you please, and be prepared for a delightful evening sharing our creativity. Future open mics will be happening on the fourth Thursday of each month, with the exception of Julyโ€™s, which is on the last Sunday! Sign-Ups 7pm & Performances 7:30pm // $5 at door - notaflof!* // all-ages // dry space // safe(r) space // anti-capitalist space // respect the space and each other! *no one turned away for lack of funds SubRosa is at 703 Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, CA โ€”@@@@@โ€” SubRosa is a collectively run anarchist community space - a place to meet people, share resources and ideas, challenge our assumptions and act on our passions. Letโ€™s create together the world(s) we want to live in now. @subrosa_space And SubRosa is part of the Hub Community Center at 703 Pacific Ave in downtown Santa Cruz - a constellation of projects that support ski

Jul
26

Hanna Rumora

๐Ÿ“ Civic Auditorium
๐Ÿ•’ 7:00 PM ยท See listing

Cellist Hanna Rumora is a versatile artist who approaches old and new works with commitment and curiosity. Hannaโ€™s dedication to new music has led to performances with Eighth Blackbird, Hub New Music, and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, as well as recording alongside the JACK Quartet. Hanna has also played with Des Moines Metro Opera and Orchestra Iowa. As a cross-genre artist, Hanna has performed with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Michael Bublรฉ, and a Beatles tribute band. Recently, Hanna gave a premiere at Roosevelt Universityโ€™s Electro-Acoustic Festival, accompanied multi-style cellist Ben Sollee at one of his tour stops, and traveled to Bangkok, Thailand to perform at an international music festival. Hanna is a founding member of the Burch Trio, a string trio that performs and teaches across Eastern Iowa. She is also a founding member of Room 1078, a string quartet whose daring programming ranges from contemporary classical premieres to arrangements of renaissance folk music to through-composed, narrated story-songs by the ensemble. You can hear Hanna play on the Grammy-nominated album Sila: The Breath of the World, Room 1078โ€™s debut album By the Skin of Our Teeth, or on Feverโ€™s Candlelight Concert Series throughout the Midwest. Hanna is the Cello Instructor at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She has led masterclasses across the country, at schools such as Sacramento State, University of the Pacific, Dickinson College, and Drake University. Hanna earned her doctorate in performance at the University of Iowa after completing her masters at the University of Michigan. Her principal teachers include Tony Elliott, Amir Eldan, and Anthony Arnone. Hannaโ€™s favorite activities outside of playing the cello include petting her three cats, stargazing, and playing the banjo.

Jul
26

SC Beach Boardwalk: Evenings on the Colonnade

๐Ÿ“ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
๐Ÿ•’ 8:30 PM โ€“ 9:30 PM ยท FREE

Stay for the entertainment from 8:30pm to 9:30pm on the Colonnade Deck! Where you can listen to live music with delicious food & drink in your hand, be amazed by Magicians & acrobats, and show off your best dance moves with a DJ dance party at the Plaza stage. Admission is free! Monday, June 15, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Magic with Kris Bentz Tuesday, June 16, 2026 8:30pm Magic with Kris Bentz 9:00pm Acrobatics with Molly Keczan Wednesday, June 17, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Magic with Kris Bentz Thursday, June 18, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ Live Music with Fire Peach Friday, June 19, 2026 โ€“ Free showing of Ferris Buellerโ€™s Day Off movie on the beach at 9pm Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Monday, June 22, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Circus Acrobatics with MeeZee! Tuesday, June 23, 2026 8:30pm Circus Acrobatics with MeeZee! 9:00pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza Wednesday, June 24, 2026: World Cup Watch Party for Mexico Game Thursday, June 25, 2026: World Cup Watch Party for USA Game Friday, June 26, 2026 โ€“ Free showing of the movie Kicking and Screaming on the beach at 9pm Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Monday, June 29, 2026 8:30pm Magic with Patrick Livingstone 9:00pm Surfing Magic with Doug Hofkins Tuesday, June 30, 2026 8:30pm Magic with Patrick Livingstone 9:00pm Surfing Magic with Doug Hofkins Wednesday, July 1, 2026 8:30pm Circus Comedy with Coventry & Kaluza 9:00pm Circus Acrobatics with MeeZee! Thursday, July 2, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ Live Music with El Brick Friday, July 3, 2026 โ€“ Independence Day Celebrations Saturday, July 4, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm โ€“ DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday,

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