Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery August 13-September 19, 2026 Opening celebration and Artist Talk Saturday, August 15, 2-4:30 p.m Light refreshments will be served. Summer Gallery Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 1-5pm ReView: UC Santa Cruz Arts Alumni Exhibition features Arts Division alumni from the Monterey and San Francisco Bay Areas. Curated by Valéria Miranda, the Sesnon’s Director, ReView includes a wide variety of media and techniques highlighting the diversity of contemporary practice of alumni who graduated from 1972 to 2025. The exhibition title alludes to the portfolio critique process and suggests ideas of reflection and reevaluation—whether revisiting past work, rethinking materials, or tracing how a practice evolves over time. This exhibition celebrates the creative path of artists who began their journeys at UC Santa Cruz. United by shared roots yet defined by distinct paths, the participating alumni reflect the lasting influence of the Arts Division programs. Their works speak to the spirit of inquiry, experimentation, and perseverance that has long shaped the university’s artistic community. ReView presents an opportunity for the campus and larger community to see the professional practice of these artists who continue to build on the creative foundation that they received at UCSC and to inspire our current students, offering visualization of their own future artistic journeys after graduation. ReView offers a unique opportunity for returning alumni to celebrate their creative expressions while reconnecting with classmates and the university community. Admission is free and open to the public. More Information
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.
★ Featured this season
Treehouse Dispensary First Friday
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.
Coming up
Kids Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
Weekly kids' classes in traditional hula and Tahitian dance, led by Te Hau Nui School at The 418 Project in Santa Cruz.
Dual Demons - JAM
A weekly music jam session in downtown Santa Cruz, featuring lights and fun for all musicians.
Coming up
Del Mar Trio
Free live music every Tuesday night with the Del Mar Trio at Callahan's in Santa Cruz.
Coming up
La Luz
With over a decade of carving out a sound that belongs entirely to them, La Luz’s blend of surf noir, garage rock, and haunted psychedelia wraps listeners in layered harmonies somewhere between doo-wop and folk. Guitarist and songwriter Shana Cleveland, the band's founding member, is one of indie rock's most original voices. Through metaphysical poetry, she takes listeners to rural Californian landscapes and science fiction dimensions. La Luz’s most recent album, News of the Universe, is ambitious, brutal, and blissful. They bring an electric energy to the stage with Soul Train-inspired dance contests and swaggering riffs that spin the room into action. -Shelly Novo; Good Times Santa Cruz
☀️ Happening today
Tuesday, August 2547 events on today. No plans required, just go.
What's happening
Filter by category, date, or area. Everything listed is in person, county-wide.
47 upcoming events · from 2026-08-25 · to 2026-08-25
Soft Pastel Painting runs in six week intervals taught by instructor Sarah Orre. A short demo will be taught the first class meeting with reference photos that will teach color theory, underpainting, texture, layering, and movement. Students are encouraged to bring additional reference photos for inspiration. Participants bring their own soft pastels (not oils), and sanded paper. The remainder of the class meetings are used for studio time. The last day we have a group peer review to discuss our work and give and receive feedback.
Enjoy Dynomite Farm’s show-quality dahlia beds for intimate, unhurried cutting experiences where you and your friends have the field to yourselves. No crowds. No rushing. Just you, your people, and a thousand flowers. Companion passes are available for guests who want to join the fun, explore the farm, and take in the beauty without cutting flowers. Friendly chickens roam the property, there are swings for little ones.
Senior Legal Services: A Free Clinic
A free legal clinic on the topic of Planning for the Future, hosted by Senior Legal Services for Seniors aged 60+. A short presentation and Q&A on Powers of Attorney, Statutory Wills and Advanced Health Care Directives, followed by a chance to speak one-on-one with an attorney, receive fillable legal documents and a free notary service to execute the documents.
Join us for a drop-in clinic to plan for your future at the Scotts Valley Library! Registration is optional, and not required! Receive on-site assistance and information on Advance Healthcare Directives, simple wills, and Powers of Attorney. For ages 60+ residing in Santa Cruz or San Benito county.
1980s Music Bingo with Nic - Wisdom Workshops @ TDC
Date: Every Tuesday, except Holidays Time: 10am - 12:00 pm Location: The Diversity Center Event Description: Join your community every Tuesday between 10am-12pm at the Diversity Center. Nic is ready with a different activity or workshop each week, and volunteers are on hand with snacks, beverages, and community. August Activities: August 4: Tote Bag Painting activity with Nic Get your beach bag ready and customize your own tote bag with Nic. All supplies provided. August 11: Qigong with Tara Settle the mind and body and engage in gently movement. All levels welcome. August 18: “Word is Out - Stories from Some of Our Lives” (1977) documentary viewing and discussion with Nic One of the most important LGBTQ+ documentaries ever made, it is considered the first documentary about gay people by gay people. Though it is criminally under-watched, Word is Out had a huge impact, even on pioneers like Vito Russo. This film was made by six LGBTQ+ filmmakers and features interviews with 26 LGBTQ+ pe
Roaring Camp Railroads: Redwood Forest Steam Train
Travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain as conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad and the forest.
Tuesday, August 25 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm Join us Tuesdays at Aptos Library to learn, play, and compete in Backgammon! All skill levels welcome - enjoy strategy, fun, and friendly competition in a relaxed social setting.
Tuesday, August 25 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm Are you stuck with a technology question? You can make a free appointment with a tech savvy library staff member!
Tuesday, August 25 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm Are you stuck with a technology question? You can make a free appointment with a tech savvy library staff member!
Tuesday, August 25 2026 10:00am - 11:30am A free legal clinic on the topic of Planning for the Future, hosted by Senior Legal Services for Seniors aged 60+.
Tuesday, August 25 2026 10:00am - 3:00pm Providing equitable care with a monthly visit on the 4th Tuesday of the month to the Boulder Creek Branch Library.
Tuesday, August 25 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm Are you stuck with a technology question? You can make a free appointment with a tech savvy library staff member!
Virtual Author Talk with Plant Biologist Beronda Montgomery
Tuesday, August 25 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm Virtual Author Talk with Award-Winning Plant Biologist and Author Beronda Montgomery. When Trees Testify: Reclaiming America’s Black Botanical Legacy.
0 booked, 4 available Glazing
Tuesday, August 25 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm Housing navigation services for people experiencing homelessness.
Conversations in Español - Community club to foster fluency
Tuesday, August 25 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm This club is designed for intermediate-level participants, so if you're just starting out, you might find it a bit challenging at first.
WATERCOLOR FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS AND RECOVERING PERFECTIONISTS (1/4)
0 booked, 8 available Maria Ayllon
The Felton Farmers’ Market is a treasured weekly gathering place – started in 1987 it is the second longest running market in Santa Cruz County. SCCFM took over operations in 2009 and our team has developed deep ties to the community. Every Tuesday a quality collection of regional farms and food businesses throw up their tents to sell a colorful array of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, artisanal bread, seafood and other staple foods. Connecting residents directly with local farms, the Felton Market is an essential part of the regional food system as well as a resource for nutritious organic foods and basic agricultural education.
Tuesdays, May through October — over 30 years running, and the second-oldest market in the county (started in 1987). Regional farms set up tents full of fresh produce, meats, eggs, artisanal bread, and seafood, connecting you straight to the people who grow your food. Run by SCCFM since 2009, with deep ties to Felton. The kind of market regulars call a second home.
Tuesday, August 25 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm Practice your English and make new friends!
In this workshop, you will: Learn how to get involved with the campus community and how it supports student success. The Successful Slug Workshop series, hosted by Learning Support Services Peer Coaches, are open to all UCSC undergraduate students and focus on academic skills and tools to support your success as a student. At each workshop, you will be introduced to a topic, engage in active learning, be given resources to begin implementing the same day, and have an opportunity to learn more if you are interested. 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 California’s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiative—whether a student service, faculty program, or community event—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.
Fall Semester Maker Classes (August 11 – December 20, 2026) Join us for a semester of hands-on creativity at SC Maker Studios! Students explore 3D printing, laser engraving, woodworking, sewing, robotics, beading, arts & crafts, and more, creating projects to take home each week. All materials are included (except electronic robot components). Weekly Class Times: Youth (Ages 6½–12) Tuesdays: 3:00–5:00 PM Wednesdays: 1:00–3:00 PM & 3:00–5:00 PM Thursdays: 3:00–5:00 PM Sundays: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Teens (Ages 11–17) Sundays: 12:30–2:30 PM Register for the full semester to reserve your spot [https://scmakerstudios.com/fall-semester-2026/], or join us for individual Maker Sunday drop-in sessions [https://scmakerstudios.com/sunday-maker-registration/]. Spaces are limited!
Youth Bloom Studio Art with Sarah Orre, nurtures creativity, confidence, and curiosity through hands-on learning. Each class encourages young artists to explore new materials, techniques, and ideas while building foundational art skills in a supportive studio environment. From painting and drawing to air dry clay and mixed media, students learn to see like artists and express their own unique voice. Enroll in as many sessions as you like!
Step into a realm of revitalization at our pharmacy, where we proudly introduce our exclusive hydration injection services. Designed to replenish your body’s essential fluids and nutrients swiftly and effectively, our hydration injections offer a rejuvenating experience that goes beyond traditional methods. Our skilled and caring professionals utilize cutting-edge techniques to administer a customized blend of hydration, vitamins, and minerals directly into your system, ensuring a rapid and targeted response. Whether you’re seeking a post-workout boost, recovering from illness, or simply aiming to enhance your overall well-being, our hydration injections provide a quick and convenient solution. Experience the transformative power of hydration at our pharmacy, where health and vitality converge for a renewed and invigorated you.
Kids Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
Weekly kids' classes in traditional hula and Tahitian dance, led by Te Hau Nui School at The 418 Project in Santa Cruz.
Tuesday, August 25 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm Aptos Youth Chess Club. Open to players ages 6 to 18 with knowledge of basic rules (how the pieces move). Instructor is Chess Master Dana Mackenzie.
Kaika Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
A weekly hula and Tahitian dance class with Te Hau Nui School, offering cultural movement, rhythm, and a welcoming space to learn.
Wing Chun martial arts classes with instructor Marcus at The 418 Project in Santa Cruz, meeting multiple times per week.
A weekly music jam session in downtown Santa Cruz, featuring lights and fun for all musicians.
Join us for an evening of creativity inspired by the beauty of our local coastline! Sip a glass of wine while local artist Calene Luczo Fletcher guides you through watercolor techniques to create your own kelp and seaweed painting. Whether you’re an experienced artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, you’ll learn approachable watercolor techniques in a relaxed, welcoming environment. By the end of the evening, you’ll leave with a finished piece of artwork inspired by the vibrant forms and colors of our marine forests. Program sold out, please email [email protected] to join the waitlist All materials are provided, along with wine and light refreshments. Capacity : 20 Ticket Price : $35 Discounts : $5 Member discount Age limit : 12+ Location : Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History Refund Policy
Join us at New Brighton Middle School (250 Washburn Ave)l for an in-person open house on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 pm. Learn about and provide feedback on design concepts for adaptation sites Learn about and share feedback on camping opportunity sites being studied to replace camping opportunities lost at Seacliff SB Can’t attend in person? An online survey will be available for sharing feedback starting August 25, 2026
Neighbors for Neighbors: Belonging Builds Community - Branciforte
Join us for Neighbors for Neighbors: Belonging Builds Community, presented by Housing Matters in partnership with Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Neighbors for Neighbors is a welcoming space where community members, both housed and unhoused, can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. The format for our meetings focuses on building community. The discussion is an active participatory experience. To register visit: https://housingmatterssc.org/event/neighbors-for-neighbors-branciforte/ https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/15509572
Welcome back to Tuesday Night Live at the Wharf Common’s stage! Every 2 nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, head to the Wharf for live music and additional shows from 6 to 8pm. Check out Wharf Business pop ups, or make a dinner reservation before the shows. Be sure to bring a chair or wear your dancing shoes! May 26, 2026: SambaDá June 9, 2026: The Viva Santana Show June 23: 2026: The Unauthorized Rolling Stones July 14: 2026: Sweet VooDoo July 28: The Lost Boys Featuring James Durbin August 11, 2026: Santa Cruda August 25, 2026: The Joint Chiefs September 8, 2026: Extra Large After parties after every show will take place upstairs at Vino by the Sea !
3 booked, 4 available Kathryn Pierno
Join us for Neighbors for Neighbors: Belonging Builds Community, presented by Housing Matters in partnership with Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Neighbors for Neighbors is a welcoming space where community members, both housed and unhoused, can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. The format for our meetings focuses on building community. The discussion is an active participatory experience. To register visit: https://housingmatterssc.org/event/neighbors-for-neighbors/ https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/15509566
Trivia Night at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
Hugging Porcupines Productions presents Trivia Night, every Tuesday evening at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing. Trivia is always free to play. Grab your team and challenge yourself to 6 rounds of fun trivia.
Next Trivia Night: 8/25 6:30-8:00pm Hosted by Michael Cahalan Pair one of our 16 beers on tap with some lively Taproom Trivia, every Tuesday at 6:30pm. No sign-ups required. Just come a little early to snag a table. Free to play | Prizes | Up to 6 per team
Beginning adult ceramics with instructor Nora Sarkissian. Learn the basics of hand building, pinch, and coil. Nora will provide demos and projects as well as time for independent clay creation. Class is held at Redwood and Ranunculus downtown Felton. Tuesdays, 6-8:30 PM $234 for 6 weeks (7% service fee due at checkout) plus a $20 material fee due to instructor at first class Clay, glazes, and tools provided. Session I: August 18, 25, Sept 1, 8, 15, 22 Session II: Sept 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov 3
Tuesday, August 25 2026 6:00pm - 7:30pm Join us for Neighbors for Neighbors: Belonging Builds Community, presented by Housing Matters in partnership with Santa Cruz Public Libraries.
Rainbow Sangha at Insight Meditation Center (Outside Community Event)
Rainbow Sangha Sit, on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 pm. The Rainbow Sangha group offers a safer space for individuals who identify as queer, non-binary, transgender, lesbian, bisexual, trans*, gay, intersex, questioning, and others who identify outside of cisgender, heterosexual mainstream culture. Please see more information on the Rainbow Sangha page at Insight Santa Cruz . .
Celebrating Veterans with Joseph Jason Santiago LaCour at SatoriArts
Writers of Color hosts a monthly Open Mic reading at Satori Arts featuring writers of poetry, prose, one-act plays, and on occasion, music. This month, we celebrate Veterans of all Wars. This month we feature Joseph Jason Santiago Lacour, a local spoken word artist and writer, and a special appearance by General Phlint, a Santa Cruz local poet, DJ, and musician. Bring your writing for Open Mic to share for a 5-minute segment.
To celebrate the release of Winter in America (Still, the Bookshop Santa Cruz will be gathering local poets. This release is a sequel anthology and features various voices responding to this moment in history. It is not meant to be reactionary. It aims to bring forward the “quieter reverberations” of how all the events swirling around affect the daily lives of Americans. It aims to bring people together, putting compassion forward. It dives deep into the actual impact and consequences of the 2024 election. Through these reflections, the anthology may help shed light on the direction we are going and what we will become. -Isabella Marie Sangaline; Good Times Santa Cruz
0 booked, 7 available
Audrey Stanley Grove: Live Drama in the Redwoods
Santa Cruz Shakespeare invites you to experience August Wilson’s Fences, under the trees and stars of the Audrey Stanley Grove in Santa Cruz’s DeLaveaga Park this summer. Fences By August Wilson Directed by Susan Dalian August Wilson joins the Santa Cruz Shakespeare stage for the first time in 45 years. Fences is the perfect offering, wonderfully in line with the Santa Cruz Shakespeare season’s theme: Till Death Do Us Part. Troy Maxson is one of Wilson’s great creations; Shakespearean in scope; a wordsmith and brilliant storyteller. He has survived the terrible trauma of his past and built himself a good life. But the backbone of that life, the spine that keeps it standing strong, is his wife Rose. Like all of Wilson’s best work, Fences is both mythic and intimate; the questions it asks both human and eternal. Fences runs July 28 – August 28. Tickets available for purchase starting May 1. More information through the link in the orange button above. Seasonal box office hours beginning May 1 are Tuesday through Friday from 12p.m. to 4p.m. Call the number above.
With over a decade of carving out a sound that belongs entirely to them, La Luz’s blend of surf noir, garage rock, and haunted psychedelia wraps listeners in layered harmonies somewhere between doo-wop and folk. Guitarist and songwriter Shana Cleveland, the band's founding member, is one of indie rock's most original voices. Through metaphysical poetry, she takes listeners to rural Californian landscapes and science fiction dimensions. La Luz’s most recent album, News of the Universe, is ambitious, brutal, and blissful. They bring an electric energy to the stage with Soul Train-inspired dance contests and swaggering riffs that spin the room into action. -Shelly Novo; Good Times Santa Cruz
Free live music every Tuesday night with the Del Mar Trio at Callahan's in Santa Cruz.
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