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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.

πŸ“
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 βœ“

β˜… Featured this season

Cannabis β˜… Featured Event Treehouse
Fri, Aug 7, 2026 Β· 5:00 PM

Treehouse Dispensary First Friday

πŸ“ Treehouse Dispensary Β· Soquel Β· 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 πŸ“ Soquel Details β†’
β˜… Featured
Sat, Sep 12, 2026 Β· 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 isn’t enough, Capitola Village is filled with restaurants for every taste and charming boutiques to satisfy a shopper’s dream. Art, wine, music, and gourmet cuisine in the enchanting beach-side setting of Capitola Village…summer’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 πŸ“ Capitola
β˜… Featured
Mon, Sep 21, 2026 Β· 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 mic’d board games 5 – 8 Trivia 8 – 10

Family πŸ“ Downtown Santa Cruz

β˜€οΈ Happening today

Thursday, July 23

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

12:00 AM
See listing
Busy
πŸ“ The 418 Project
Art & Culture
8:30 AM
$400
Art and Science in Nature Summer Camp
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Outdoors
9:00 AM
$895
Summer Production (3-weeks): Moana Jr
πŸ“ All About Theatre
Art & Culture
9:00 AM
See listing
BEGINNING/INTERMEDIATE SEWING (6/6)
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center
Community
9:00 AM
$345
Summer Production (1-week): Moana Jr.
πŸ“ All About Theatre
Art & Culture
10:00 AM
See listing
Chen, X. (STAT) – Changepoint Detection and Clustering Methods for Multivariate Time Series and Attributed Networks
πŸ“ UC Santa Cruz
Education
10:00 AM
$32
Santa Cruz Beach Train
πŸ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
Family
10:00 AM
See listing
CLAY INDEPENDENT LAB TIME
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center
Art & Culture
10:30 AM
See listing
Storytime in the Park: Read and Ride
πŸ“ Watsonville
Outdoors

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Showing 90 of 464 upcoming events Β· from 2026-07-23 Β· to 2026-07-30

Jul
23

Art and Science in Nature Summer Camp

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
πŸ•’ 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM Β· $400

Calling young artists and scientists curious about nature! This summer, young explorers can join us on a journey to investigate symmetries, patterns, and curiosities in the natural world. Spend the week exploring nearby beach, creek, and garden habitats, and making all sorts of art inspired by what we discover.

Jul
23

Santa Cruz Beach Train

πŸ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Β· $32

From Trees to Shining Seas – 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. Today’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
23

Time series data with dependence arise across a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines, often presenting challenging inferential problems related to structural change and clustering. This Ph.D. proposal addresses several related problems in statistical inference for multivariate and network-indexed time series. First, we develop a weighted multivariate $U$-statistic procedure for detecting a single changepoint in the mean of a multivariate stationary time series. The proposed framework accommodates short-range dependence, encompasses classical CUSUM and Wilcoxon tests as special cases, and admits a tractable limiting distribution after a pre-whitening transformation. Second, we study nodal clustering in graphs with dynamic attributes through a decoder-only latent space framework that integrates temporal dynamics and structural information via a graph-fused LASSO regularization. An extension of this framework, in which the neural network decoder is replaced by an autoregressive structure at each node, is also introduced. Lastly, a future research project is proposed on modeling and changepoint inference for Arctic sea ice coverage data, whose marginal distribution is doubly inflated with point masses at zero and one. A latent Gaussian process transformation approach is outlined that accommodates this exotic marginal structure while permitting temporal and spatial autocorrelation, trends, and seasonal dynamics. In tandem, these efforts aim to provide flexible and theoretically grounded tools for analyzing complex dependent data. Event Host: Xi Chen, Ph.D. Student, Statistical Science Advisor: Robert Lund Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/97760514185?pwd=ImfeI5uEdBvq9eoiFXnF5pecmwfVHd.1 Passcode: 333103

Jul
23

Storytime in the Park - Books and Bikes

πŸ“ Callaghan Park
πŸ•’ 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM Β· See listing

It’s storytime in the park with an exciting twistβ€”bikes. Join us for storytime and stay at the park for a special bike series hosted by Ecology Action. These programs will take place at 10:30am at Callaghan Park (225 Sudden St) on the following dates: July 16: Bike rodeo on the basketball courts July 23: Bike safety talk with the SC Bike Team July 30: Family bike ride with the SC Bike Team Bring blankets, hats, and sunscreen. Biking is optional. All participants who want to ride must have a parent signed waiver and be fitted with a helmet before biking. Audience: Children aged 0-5 and their caregivers. ESPAΓ‘OL Es la hora de cuentos en el parque, pero con un toque divertido: las bicicletas. AcompÑñanos a la hora de cuentos y quΓ©date en el parque para disfrutar de una serie especial de actividades con bicicletas organizadas por Ecology Action. Estos programas se llevarΓ‘n a cabo a las 10:30am en el Parque Callaghan (225 Sudden St) las siguientes fechas: 16 de julio: Rodeo en bicicleta en las canchas de bΓ‘squetbol 23 de julio: Charla sobre seguridad en bicicleta con SC Bike Team 30 de julio: Paseo familiar en bicicleta con SC Bike Team No se le olvide traer cobijas, sombreros y protector solar. Montar en bicicleta es opcional. Todos los participantes que quieran montar deben traer un casco puesto, y sus padres deben firmar una exenciΓ³n de responsabilidad. Audiencia: NiΓ±os de 0 a 5 aΓ±os y sus cuidadores.

Jul
23

Tibetan Qigong

πŸ“ Wisdom Center of Santa Cruz
πŸ•’ 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM Β· See listing

Qigong acknowledges our inherent infinite wisdom. Through movement and meditation, Tibetan Qigong can rapidly increase and balance the energies in the body, reduce stress and enhance the immune system. One Finger Zen Dynamic Form strengthens the body’s natural energy pathways and clears the body of disease to improve and maintain good health. Through nine different movements, this practice was taught to the elite Shaolin monks by the great Indian Saint Bodhidharma. Five Element Stake Qigong is a standing meditation form that purifies and balances the five formative elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. It is based on ancient understandings of the universe: Yin/Yang Bagua, Five Element theory, mudras and Dharma. This qigong form allows us to connect with the energy field of the universe and to absorb the energy into our system so that healing can occur on all levels of our being.

Wellness Details β†’
Jul
23

Spa Day Passes

πŸ“ La Bahia Hotel & Spa
πŸ•’ 11:00 AM Β· $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 property’s serene spa amenities for a restorative escape by the sea.

Jul
23

Guided Mindfulness for Queers and Friends Hosted by TDC @ TDC

πŸ“ 1117 Soquel Ave.
πŸ•’ 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Β· FREE

Well-being offering: Guided Mindfulness Group Date: Weekly on Thursdays Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: The Diversity Center 1117 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz Ages: Adults and teens welcome Cost: FREE Program description: Give your brain a break, and reconnect with the present moment, using guided breathing and mindfulness techniques. All LGBTQ+ people and allies are welcome. If you have questions about this well-being offering, please contact Tara Maxon, Wellbeing Coordinator, at: [email protected] View our Community Agreements for Diversity Center groups.

Jul
23

Rules Are Not Neutral: Play As Sense-Making, Acts Of Resistance, And Imagining Otherwise

πŸ“ Eloise Pickard Smith Gallery
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Β· FREE

This exhibition brings together a range of analog games – including board, card, role-playing, and other participatory works – that engage social and political realities in different ways. The works span widely circulated commercial games to independently produced projects, one-of-a-kind artworks by artists, faculty, alumni, and students, and materials drawn from UC Santa Cruz Special Collections and Archives. In part, the exhibition challenges the persistent assumption that games and play are detached from social and political life. On the contrary, game designers and artists across diverse perspectives and positions have long used play to engage questions of social systems, lived experience, and how power operates. This exhibition does not attempt to represent that full spectrum. Instead, it brings together a particular set of works that foreground how games can make systems visible, intervene in them, and imagine alternatives. All games embody values, whether intentional or not. – Mary Flanagan , game designer and scholar Across all of these works, games are not only forms of entertainment, though they may be that as well. They are encountered in multiple ways: as objects, as systems, as artworks, and as experiences that unfold unpredictably through interaction. In each case, rules and constraints shape what participants can do. In these different forms, the works stage systems – such as housing and land ownership, capitalism, race and identity, civil rights and protest, fascism, and colonialism – in ways that are simplified and easy to see, opening space to recognize similar structures beyond the game. In this sense, the works suggest that rules are not neutral – they organize experience, distribute power, and produce meaning. Games are the art of agency. – C. Thi Nguyen , philosopher The exhibition is intentionally dense. This abundance reflects the breadth of ways games operate across contexts, from activism and education to art and everyday life. While it cel

Education Art & Culture πŸ“ UCSC Details β†’
Jul
23

POKEMON ART CONTEST FOR KIDS!

πŸ“ Comicopolis
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM Β· FREE

It's time to get those crayons sharpened, paints mixed and markers at the ready for our Summer 2026 PokΓ©mon Art Contest for kids 5-12! To join in, create a picture of your favorite PokΓ©mon 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 PokΓ©mon:Chaos Rising 11x17 mini-poster (while supplies last) when you hand in your art.

Jul
23

Interview Preparation Workshop

πŸ“ UC Santa Cruz
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Β· See listing

Join Career Success for an interactive workshop on Interview Best Practices, followed by Mock Interview Practice! Note: You must Register via Zoom for this event. Once registered, make sure to add the event to your calendar. We will provide captions for the presentation. If you have disability-related needs, please contact the Career Success office at [email protected] as soon as possible. YOU BELONG HERE Programs and services are open to all, consistent with state and federal law, as well as the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiativeβ€”whether a student service, faculty program, or community eventβ€”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.

Jul
23

Fueling for Fitness: Nutrition to Support Energy, Performance, and Recovery

πŸ“ UC Santa Cruz
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Β· See listing

When: Thursday, July 23 Time: 12:00 PM -1:00 PM Where: Register for the Zoom link . The workshop will be recorded, and a link to the recording will be sent out after the first session. Whether you’re walking at lunch, lifting weights after work, training for your first 5K, or simply trying to stay active, what you eat can make a noticeable difference in how you feel, perform, and recover. We will explore the fundamentals of how to nourish your body for fitness without restrictive diets or complicated meal plans. In this workshop, you will learn how to: Time meals and snacks around workouts for sustained energy Build balanced meals using carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats Avoid common nutrition myths that can hinder progress

Education Wellness πŸ“ UCSC Details β†’

Three learners who fail the same level of an educational game the same number of times can be failing in three different ways, and the difference determines what each should do next. Yet the measures a game’s logs are usually reduced to (completion time, error counts, mastery estimates) render the three identical. This proposal takes one breakdown as its object: failure-to-adapt, the case where the game has repeatedly surfaced evidence that a learner’s current approach is failing and the learner’s approach shows no responsive change. The construct is grounded in Winne and Hadwin’s monitor-and-control model of self-regulated learning and defined at the level of the learner’s plan. To detect it, a plan-recognition engine maintains a continuously updated probability estimate of which strategy the learner is executing across the whole trace; an episode is flagged when that estimate shows no evidence-responsive revision. Because behavior alone cannot settle what broke down, flagged episodes are validated against learners’ own verbal reports, coded blind, and decomposed into monitoring failure, control failure, or control the trace cannot show. Three studies carry the work: detection and diagnosis on real telemetry from an educational game, including a comparison against the analytics the field already runs; a formative study of what a facilitator (an instructor or teaching assistant running a class play session) must see to judge correctly which learners need attention; and a documented authoring case carrying the detection to a second game. The contribution is knowledge for game-based-learning researchers: a theory-grounded construct, a validated way to detect it from play, and the authoring knowledge to embed that detection in new games. Event Host: Jiahong Li, Ph.D. Student, Computational Media Advisor: Magy Seif El-Nasr Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/93238603235?pwd=zENRsu82HRj4JYKcMEn9MZibU8kC7F.1 Passcode: 835328

Jul
23

Latte's and Learn

πŸ“ California Coffee
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Β· FREE

Join us Wednesday, May 21st from 12:00 PM- 1:00 PM at California Coffee for an informative and uplifting workshop you won't want tfor suo miss! Our featured guest speaker, Manas S. Kshirsagar, AD, MS a NAMA Board Certified Ayurvedic Doctor with years of experience in holistic wellness and healing, will be presenting "Tools for Stress and Anxiety". With today's fast-paced world and the stress levels many of us are unduring, this workshop will offer valuable insight, practical tools and wellness strategies to help bring more balance, peace and calm into our daily lives. Lunch Special Available: Half Sandwich + Chips just $9.99 California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 cacoffeeaptos.com Thank you from myself Sylvia Reyes, and my amazing team for supporting our small business and community events!

Education Wellness πŸ“ Soquel Details β†’
Jul
23

Spring Exhibitions at the Institute of the Arts and Sciences

πŸ“ Institute of the Arts and Sciences
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Β· See listing

Visit the IAS, UCSC’s premier art galleries, for our spring exhibitions. On view April 10–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 – 5 pm. Admission is free to the public. Libia Posada: Everything is Going Right Libia Posada’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 πŸ“ Westside Details β†’
Jul
23

Open Archives

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
πŸ•’ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Β· See listing

Step into the MAH's Archives Reading Room during our weekly Open Archives hours. Meet the archivist, see a unique item from the collection on display, and discover where Santa Cruz history is preserved. Please note: Open Archives is an informal drop-in experience, not a time for in-depth research appointments. If you'd like to schedule research time, please contact us in advance by email or phone. We usually pop open the archives every week-though every now and then we take a break. For more information, email [email protected]

Jul
23

Far West Fungi: Myco-Mixer

πŸ“ Far West Fungi
πŸ•’ 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Β· FREE

Far West Fungi’s Santa Cruz Store & CafΓ© is launching Myco-Mixers – Enjoy an afternoon of food, fun, and fungi! Each Myco-Mixer will feature complimentary bites, product samples, and happy hour discounts on cafΓ© favorites. Guests can meet the Far West Fungi team, learn about unique mushroom products, and discover new flavors to take home. Head Far West in Santa Cruz each week to taste house-made tacos, explore featured products, and find your new favorite mushroom treats. Whether you’re a foodie, mushroom enthusiast, or just looking for a fun Thursday outing, Myco-Mixers are the perfect way to experience local one-of-a-kind flavors!

Food & Drink Free πŸ“ Westside Details β†’
Jul
23

Mark Van Haren – '70s pop-soul

πŸ“ Jack O'Neil Restaurant and Lounge
πŸ•’ 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Β· See listing

Step back into the golden era of ’70s pop-soul with Mark Van Harenβ€”guitarist, vocalist, and lifelong devotee of the music that made AM radio magic. Raised on Stevie Wonder, Hall & Oates, Al Green, James Taylor, Steely Dan, Bill Withers, Bacharach, and the Beatles, Mark brings that era’s warmth, melody, and heart to life. His sets blend rich vocals, rhythmic guitar, and harmonically complex arrangements, mixing familiar-but-forgotten favorites like β€œBaby Come Back” with soulful deep cuts such as β€œKnocks Me Off My Feet.” Every song is chosen for connectionβ€”music that feels good, hits deep, and brings audiences together.

Jul
23

Mah Jongg Club

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
πŸ•’ 3:00 PM Β· See listing

Thursday, July 23 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm Play Mahjong with fellow enthusiasts! Beginners welcome with weekly Hong Kong Style lessons. Other styles offered too. Tiles provided or bring your own.

Community Details β†’
Jul
23

Tech Cafe

πŸ“ Freedom Branch Library
πŸ•’ 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM Β· See listing

Are you interested in learning about technology? Visit us during our weekly Tech CafΓ© program where you have the opportunity to get basic tech-related questions answered and test a new piece of technology. This program will take place on Thursdays from 4:30-6:30pm at the Main Library (unless otherwise indicated). The technology we demo will change each month; here is a list of what technology will be featured: - January (program starts on the 15th): Doodle Pens - February: Makey Makeys (circuit boards) - March: 3D Printer - April: Spheros (programmable robots) - May: Cricut - June: Glowforge - laser cutter (This program will take place at the Freedom Branch) - July: iPad Stop Motion movies - August: Spheros (programmable robots) - September: 3D Printer - October: Doodle Pens - November: Cricut - December: Makey Makeys (circuit boards) Audience: All Ages ΒΏLe interesa aprender sobre tecnologΓ­a? VisΓ­tanos durante nuestro programa semanal Tech CafΓ©, donde tendrΓ‘s la oportunidad de obtener respuestas a preguntas bΓ‘sicas relacionadas con la tecnologΓ­a y probar una nueva tecnologΓ­a. Este programa se llevarΓ‘ a cabo los jueves de 4:30 a 6:30pm en la Biblioteca Principal (a menos que se indique otro horario o lugar). La tecnologΓ­a que mostraremos cambiarΓ‘ cada mes; las tecnologΓ­as que se presentarΓ‘n: - enero (el programa comienza el dΓ­a 15): Doodle Pens - febrero: Makey Makeys (placas de circuitos) - marzo: Impresora 3D - abril: Spheros (robots programables) - mayo: Cricut - junio: Glowforge - cortadora lΓ‘ser (este programa se llevarΓ‘ a cabo en la sucursal Freedom) - julio: iPad Stop Motion (pelΓ­culas) - agosto: Spheros (robots programables) - septiembre: Impresora 3D - octubre: Doodle Pens - noviembre: Cricut - diciembre: Makey Makeys (placas de circuitos) Audiencia: Para todas las edades

Art & Culture Family πŸ“ Watsonville Details β†’
Jul
23

Persephone Restaurant Thursday Night Pasta Special

πŸ“ Persephone Restaurant
πŸ•’ 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM Β· $40

Every Thursday along with our regular menu we offer a prix fixe pasta dinner! Enjoy three courses starting with a fresh farmers market mixed green salad, your choice of Pappardelle Bolognese, Truffled Tortiglioni or our seasonal risotto. Finish with a scoop of our housemade chocolate gelato or seasonal sorbet. Three courses for $40!

Markets Food & Drink πŸ“ Soquel Details β†’
Jul
23

Santa Cruz Harbor: Free Water Taxi

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Harbor
πŸ•’ 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Β· 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 District’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 β†’
Jul
23

Crow’s Nest: Free Beach BBQ Parties and Concerts

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Harbor Beach
πŸ•’ 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM Β· FREE

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

Jul
23

Bargetto Winery: Music in the Courtyard

πŸ“ Bargetto Winery
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· FREE

Head to Bargetto Winery’s creekside courtyard in Soquel on Thursday evenings for Live Music and Wine! There is no cover charge and wine by the glass and light snacks are available for purchase. May 7, 2026: Alex Lucero May 14, 2026: James Durbin May 21, 2026: The Joint Chiefs May 28, 2026: Sambada June 4, 2026: Alex Lucero June 11, 2026: The Breaux Show June 18, 2026: Beach Cowboys June 25, 2026: The Joint Chiefs July 2, 2026: Alex Lucero July 9, 2026: James Durbin July 16, 2026: 10 O’Clock Lunch Band July 23, 2026: Highwater Blues July 30, 2026: The Joint Chiefs August 6, 2026: TBD August 13, 2026: TBD August 20, 2026: TBD August 27, 2026: TBD September 3, 2026: TBD

Food & Drink Free πŸ“ Soquel Details β†’
Jul
23

Tacos and Tapas: Celebrate local talent

πŸ“ El Pajaro CDC
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Β· $80

Tacos and Tapas: Celebrate local talent, one bite at a time, while supporting the small businesses in the community! Watsonville, CA- June 9, 2026- El PΓ‘jaro Community Development Corporation (El PΓ‘jaro CDC) is excited to present Tacos & Tapas, a lively community celebration taking place at our Commercial Kitchen Incubator. This signature fundraising event brings people together to embrace cultural diversity, savor incredible flavors, and support the growth of small businesses. Guests will enjoy an array of unique dishes and refreshments, with all proceeds directly funding El PΓ‘jaro CDC's programs for emerging entrepreneurs. This special evening will feature: An exclusive selection of tacos and tapas Craft beverages from local breweries and wineries Live salsa music by Flor de CaΓ±a, where you can dance to vibrant rhythms We are proud to feature over 20 talented food entrepreneurs, celebrating the creativity and passion, each with a unique story rooted in heritage and tradition. Tacos & Tapas is more than just a night of food and entertainment; it is a perfect opportunity to celebrate with friends and community, all while supporting local businesses and honoring the thriving entrepreneurial spirit in our area. Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026 Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: El Pajaro CDC Commercial Kitchen Incubator, 412 Riverside Dr, Watsonville, CA 95076 Tickets: $80 per person (General admission and includes 5 tickets for food and/or drinks. Additional tickets available for purchase at the event.) Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Wells Fargo Bank; our Bronze Chef Sponsors, Rebecca and Bud Colligan; and our Sous Chef Sponsor, Bay Federal Credit Union. For sponsorship opportunities email: [email protected]. About El PΓ‘jaro CDC: Founded in 1979, El PΓ‘jaro Community Development Corporation supports economic development and entrepreneurship through business training, technical assistance, capital and access to other resources. The Commercial Kitchen Incubato

Food & Drink Community πŸ“ Watsonville Details β†’
Jul
23

Highwater Blues LIVE at Thursday Night Music!

πŸ“ Soquel
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 8:07 PM Β· See listing

Join us at Bargetto Winery in Soquel on Thursday evenings for Live Music and Wine! 6-8PM No cover charge. Wine by-the-glass for purchase. Food will be available for purchase by ItaliaFire Open seating, no reservations required. No outside food is permitted. For more info please call: (831) 475-2258 ext. 110

Jul
23

Bargetto Winery's Thursday Night Music

πŸ“ Bargetto Winery
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· FREE

Join us at Bargetto Winery in Soquel on Thursday evenings for Live Music and Wine! 6-8PM No cover charge. Wine by-the-glass for purchase. Food will be available for purchase. Open seating, no reservations required. No outside food is permitted. For more info please call: (831) 475-2258

Jul
23

Pokemon Club

πŸ“ Watsonville
πŸ•’ 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Β· See listing

Calling all PokΓ©mon enthusiasts! Join us for our PokΓ©mon Club on the fourth Thursday of every month from 6:30-7:30pm at the Main Library. This will be an opportunity to understand PokΓ©mon cards, learn how to build a deck, and how to play the card game. Beginners to pros of all ages are welcome to attend. Β‘AtenciΓ³n a todos los entusiastas de PokΓ©mon! Los invitamos al Club de PokΓ©mon el cuarto jueves de cada mes de las 6:30-7:30pm en la Biblioteca Principal. Es una oportunidad para entender las cartas de PokΓ©mon, aprender a construir una baraja, y cΓ³mo jugar el juego de cartas. Se invita a principiantes a profesionales de todas las edades a participar.

Jul
23

LPRT Presents: Jurassic Jungle Book -A Three Hour Tour

πŸ“ Park Hall Ben Lomond
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM Β· $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 β€œscientists” came to β€œstudy” 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 7–14 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
23

Michael Wolff Quartet

πŸ“ Kuumbwa Jazz
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM Β· See listing

Michael Wolff is a renowned jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader known for his virtuoso performances and innovative style. He has recorded with artists ranging from Cal Tjader to Christian McBride, Tony Williams, and more. He has performed with and conducted over twenty-five symphony orchestras including the Dallas Symphony and Fort Worth Symphony, and has been a featured soloist with the Memphis National Symphony and Pittsburgh Symphony. After a miraculous triumph over a four-year battle with a rare form of misdiagnosed cancer, Wolff continues to celebrate his incredible recovery and life on Memoir, his first studio album after four years, released in 2024. A recipient of the BMI Music Award, Japan’s Gold Disc Award, and Hamptons International Film Festival’s award for best film score, Wolff has also composed scores for many film and television projects, such as The Tic Code, Made Up, Dark Angel, Who’s the Man, The Naked Brothers Band, and Stella’s Last Weekend. Michael Wolff Website (Ticket Includes 5% City of Santa Cruz Admission Tax)

Jul
23

Escaping Queens

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Actors' Theatre
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Β· $16

A story written by Capitola’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 father’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 Oritz’s own memoir, Pastinaβ€”My Father’s Misfortune, My Mother’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 parents’ mistakes. -Shelly Novo; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
23

Santa Cruz Synth Cooperative: Electronic Music Open Mic

πŸ“ Indexical
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM Β· See listing

A sign-up based Open Mic night for anyone involved in making electronic music, whatever the style, genre or format - anything from ambient and drone through synth pop, techno to industrial, noise and beyond! The intent is to showcase live performances of music that is PRIMARILY ELECTRONIC IN NATURE - e.g. acts using hardware or software synthesizers, electronic instruments, laptops, groove boxes, drum machines, sequencers and so forth. Interested in performing? Sign up at

Music Community Details β†’
Jul
23

Bookshop Santa Cruz: Daniel Mason | COUNTRY PEOPLE

πŸ“ Bookshop Santa Cruz
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· FREE

FREE IN-STORE EVENT: Bookshop welcomes Pulitzer Prize finalist Daniel Mason (North Woods) for a reading and signing of his new novel Country Peopleβ€”a rollicking, lyrical year in the life of a family as they strike out into the unknown (aka Vermont), leaving all of the comforts of home behind.

Jul
23

Jurrasic Jungle Book – A Three Hour Tour

πŸ“ Park Hall Ben Lomond
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Β· See listing

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 β€œscientists” came to β€œstudy” 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 7–14 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
23

Cabrillo Crocker Theater: Sister Act, The Musical

πŸ“ Cabrillo College Crocker Theater
πŸ•’ 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM Β· $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 β€œMore Event Dates” 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 theater’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
23

James McMurtry and the Martial Law Review :: Rio Theatre Santa Cruz 7/23

πŸ“ Rio Theatre for the Performing Arts
πŸ•’ 8:00 PM Β· $55.58

Named one of America’s greatest living songwriters by Rolling Stone, James McMurty is a true craftsman, beloved by his peers. His wonderfully poetic and transportive lyrics draw from his family history. His smart songwriting was influenced by his late novelist father, who gave him his first guitar at age seven, with odes to his hallucinations, The Black Dog, and The Wandering Boy, the title of his latest album. McMurty’s rock sensibilities give him a gritty fierceness that he weaves together with an Americana twang that has audiences’ ears continually perking up. -Shelly Novo; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
23

Larry and His Flask "All That We Know" 15-Year Anniversary Tour w/ Diggin' Trails

πŸ“ Moe's Alley
πŸ•’ 8:00 PM Β· See listing

Moes Alley presents the triumphant return of Larry and His Flask celebrating the 15-year anniversary of their fan favorite record All The We Know! Special guests Diggin Trails opens the show!Thursday, July 23, 2026Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm$20 in advance / $25 day of the 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====LARRY AND HIS FLASKAfter a 7-year hiatus, LAHF is back for the 15 year anniversary of our album All That We Know(Yes, it has been that long).For a little band from a small town in Central Oregon, we were able to achieve amazing things and use our music to see the world!We were very much off the beaten path. When we grew up there was no major airport, no interstate highway and no reason to think that we could ever be an international touring band. Until a few years ago most people had not even heard of Bend Oregon, let alone Redmond (Where LAHF started). We were not from a major music town. We had no ties to the music industry, and we had no money to help us get in front of the right people. To get our music out there, we had to hit the road. And so, that is what we did.Most of the time we had no money at all. When we were hungry, we stole food from the supermarket or busked. When we needed a place to sleep, we made new friends in a new town. Everything we achieved was through tenacity and the kindness of our friends, family and fans. We owe everything to you. Thank you!After a daunting tour schedule that would put any band to the test, we needed to go into hibernation. From 2010-2014, LAHF played 200-250 shows a year. On top of that, we busked constantly to earn gas money and food. No town was safe from our brand of Americana Punk and the beer-fueled chaos that followed. We constantly criss-crossed and zig-zagged North America and Europe. We have been thro

Music Adults 21+ πŸ“ Midtown Details β†’
Jul
23

CAM GIRL

πŸ“ The Blue Lagoon
πŸ•’ 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Β· See listing

It’s the triumphant return of Cam Girl to the Blue Lagoon! Coming all the way out from Asheville, North Carolina, Cam Girl is a transwoman-fronted, futuristic glam metal band that shreds and looks good doing it. They’re raw, heavy and have catchy riffs that defy anyone not to headbang. Plus, they have a killer neon sign with their name on it instead of the generic banner which really adds to their sci-fi themes. They will be joined by Santa Cruz’s punk rock wrestling accompaniment collective, The Randy Savages and San Jose/Oakland-based punks The Roughies to celebrate the birth of Jesse Williams. Those who know, know. -Mat Weir; Good Times Santa Cruz

Jul
23

SC Beach Boardwalk: Evenings on the Colonnade

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
πŸ•’ 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM Β· 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 – Live Music with Fire Peach Friday, June 19, 2026 – Free showing of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off movie on the beach at 9pm Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm – DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm – 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 – Free showing of the movie Kicking and Screaming on the beach at 9pm Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm – DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm – 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 – Live Music with El Brick Friday, July 3, 2026 – Independence Day Celebrations Saturday, July 4, 2026 from 8:30-9:30pm – DJ Dance Party with Santa Cruz DJ Company Sunday,

Jul
23

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Free Live Music

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
πŸ•’ 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM Β· FREE

Enjoy free live music every Thursday evening throughout the summer at the Boardwalk’s Colonnade Stage. Grab a bite, enjoy a refreshing drink, and dance along to a rotating lineup of bands and talented artists with the ocean as your backdrop. 2026 Lineup: β€’ June 18, 2026: Fire Peach β€’ July 2, 2026: El Brick β€’ July 9, 2026: Shawn Yanez β€’ July 16, 2026: Flaco El Jandro β€’ July 23, 2026: Papiba & Friends β€’ July 30, 2026: The Deadlies β€’ August 6, 2026: Anthony Arya

Jul
23

Summer Camp (ages 7-12) Santa Cruz Maker Studios

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Maker Studios
πŸ•’ 9:00 PM – 2:00 PM Β· $720

Join us this summer for a maker experience where students (ages 7 – 12) design and build custom creations they can proudly take home. Our summer camps combine creativity, engineering, and craftsmanship in a supportive studio environment designed for both first time makers and returning students. Each camp week provides access to our 3D printing, woodworking, and textiles stations, with dedicated instructors in each area guiding students through tools, techniques, and projects. Every week also features a themed focus that inspires ideas across our maker zones and gives students a starting point for their creations. While themes provide structure, students are encouraged to explore projects that interest them, combine ideas across weeks, or pursue custom builds with instructor support. Camp Schedule and Daily Flow Summer camp runs from May 29 through July 31, 2026, with ten themed camp sessions offered throughout the season. Camp hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Camps are designed for students ages 7 to 12 and take place at Santa Cruz Maker Studios, located at 427 A. Swift Street in Santa Cruz. Session 1: May 27 & 29 (Two-Day Camp) Choose Your Mini Project – $144.00 This one day camp is designed for creative exploration and flexibility. Students choose a mini project based on their interests and skill level and spend the day designing, building, and finishing something they are excited about. Projects may include woodworking builds, simple robots, sewing projects, laser cut designs, or 3D printed creations. This session is a great introduction for new students and a fun option for returning makers looking to try something new. Session 2: June 1 – June 5 Arcades and Games – $720.00 Students step into the role of game designers and builders. Using woodworking, laser cutting, and 3D printing, campers create playable arcade style games such as a mini foosball table and mini-golf course. Others may design custom board games, chess boards and pieces,

Jul
24

Art and Science in Nature Summer Camp

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
πŸ•’ 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM Β· $400

Calling young artists and scientists curious about nature! This summer, young explorers can join us on a journey to investigate symmetries, patterns, and curiosities in the natural world. Spend the week exploring nearby beach, creek, and garden habitats, and making all sorts of art inspired by what we discover.

Jul
24

Mindful Movement with Horses

πŸ“ BEYOND liberty
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Β· $10

Mindful Movement with Horses Blending Tai Chi, Qigong, Horses and Mindfulness and informed by Polyvagal Theory, this class supports nervous system regulation, embodied awareness, and safe connectionβ€”with yourself, the herd, and the natural world. All proceeds benefit BEYOND liberty, a nonprofit horse sanctuary and equine education center improving the lives of both humans and horses through education, experiential learning and wellness and enrichment programs. $10 drop-in. Registration required: https://BeyondLibertyandPMR.as.me/MindfulnessThroughMovement

Jul
24

Evergreen Volunteer Days

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
πŸ•’ 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Β· See listing

Leave your mark on Santa Cruz history by volunteering at the historic Evergreen Cemetery every Friday from 9:30am-12pm. No need to register, just show up ready to work! All ages are welcome to help, including high school students seeking community service hours. Tools and work gloves will be provided. Please bring a mask and your own bottled water. For more information, email [email protected]

Jul
24

Resource Recovery Public Summer Tours

πŸ“ City of Santa Cruz Resource Recovery Facility
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Β· 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 takeβ€”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 β€œrecycle right,” avoid β€œwish-cycling," and why we can't rely on a triangle and a blue bin anymore. Visitors will see a mountain of scrap metal, learn about the facility’s Household Hazardous Waste Program, and see the Food Scrap Pre-Processor Machine. Don’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.

Community Free Details β†’
Jul
24

Santa Cruz Beach Train

πŸ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Β· $32

From Trees to Shining Seas – 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. Today’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
24

Wilder Ranch Junior Rangers Program

πŸ“ Wilder Ranch State Park
πŸ•’ 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Β· FREE

Young adventurers are invited to join the Junior Ranger Program at Wilder Ranch State Park this summer! The free program is 11 a.m. to noon. Kids ages 7-12 are invited. Parents and guardians can learn more and register their young adventurers online. Parking is $10 and helps Friends support the park.

Jul
24

Spa Day Passes

πŸ“ La Bahia Hotel & Spa
πŸ•’ 11:00 AM Β· $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 property’s serene spa amenities for a restorative escape by the sea.

Jul
24

Spring Exhibitions at the Institute of the Arts and Sciences

πŸ“ Institute of the Arts and Sciences
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Β· See listing

Visit the IAS, UCSC’s premier art galleries, for our spring exhibitions. On view April 10–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 – 5 pm. Admission is free to the public. Libia Posada: Everything is Going Right Libia Posada’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 πŸ“ Westside Details β†’
Jul
24

POKEMON ART CONTEST FOR KIDS!

πŸ“ Comicopolis
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM Β· FREE

It's time to get those crayons sharpened, paints mixed and markers at the ready for our Summer 2026 PokΓ©mon Art Contest for kids 5-12! To join in, create a picture of your favorite PokΓ©mon 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 PokΓ©mon:Chaos Rising 11x17 mini-poster (while supplies last) when you hand in your art.

Jul
24

Guided Tour

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
πŸ•’ 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM Β· See listing

Take a guided tour of the MAH by one of our staff members! At the MAH, our tours don't just take you through art and history. They immerse you in it and connect you to Santa Cruz and beyond. If you're ready to dive into a new perspective, join us every Friday for an informative private tour free with admission. Art experts, historians, and educators are here to help. Plus, stick around to meet new people or check out our new gift shop. If you are an educator and interested in booking a tour for your class or group, browse our educational field trips here.

Jul
24

North Bookmobile Pajaro Park - Tie-Dye

πŸ“ Pajaro Park
πŸ•’ 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Β· See listing

Tie-Dye: Join MCFL staff to tie-dye a book bag. Adult and Teen Workshops - Ages 13 and up Registration required - Materials provided - No experience needed Call the branch directly to register Please note, programs will be cancelled if no one is registered 24 hours before the program This program is brought to you by the Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries. Sign up for the Summer Reading Club at any MCFL branch between June 1st and July 31st. Or sign up online at https://emcfl.beanstack.com/reader365

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