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πŸ“ Santa Cruz County, CA

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

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

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

β˜… Featured this season

Cannabis
β˜… Featured Event Treehouse
Fri, Sep 4, 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†’
Promotional image for Contact Improv Coming up
Mon, Aug 24, 2026 Β· The 418 Project

Contact Improv

Contact Improv dance session at The 418 Project in Santa Cruz, offered weekly on Mondays.

Comedy πŸ“ Downtown Santa Cruz
Music
Coming up
Mon, Aug 24, 2026 Β· The Cruz Room

Trivia Night β€” 2026-08-24

8 - 10pm Β· Weekly trivia night β€” gather your team and come test your knowledge!

Music πŸ“ Downtown Santa Cruz
Promotional image for Kids Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance Coming up
Tue, Aug 25, 2026 Β· The 418 Project

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.

Family πŸ“ Downtown Santa Cruz
Community
Coming up
Tue, Aug 25, 2026 Β· The 418 Project

Dual Demons - JAM

A weekly music jam session in downtown Santa Cruz, featuring lights and fun for all musicians.

Community πŸ“ Downtown Santa Cruz

β˜€οΈ Happening today

Monday, August 24

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

1:00 AM
See listing
ReView
πŸ“ Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery
Education
1:00 AM
See listing
R.E.A.D: Reach Every Amazing Detail Sign Ups Start Today
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community
9:00 AM
$59
Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience
πŸ“ Dynomite Farm
Community
9:00 AM
$59
Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience
πŸ“ Dynomite Farm
Community
10:30 AM
$26.45
Roaring Camp Railroads: Redwood Forest Steam Train
πŸ“ Roaring Camp Railroads
Cultural Event
11:30 AM
See listing
Mahjong Club @ Branciforte
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community
11:30 AM
See listing
Seniors Share @ Felton Library
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community
11:30 AM
See listing
Aptos Bridge Club
πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Community
12:00 PM
FREE
The Spoken Experience
πŸ“ Capitola Branch Library
Art & Culture

What's happening

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Showing 90 of 365 upcoming events Β· from 2026-08-24 Β· to 2026-08-31

Aug
24

ReView

πŸ“ Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery
πŸ•’ 1:00 AM – 12:59 AM Β· See listing

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 ValΓ©ria 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 reevaluationβ€”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

Education Free πŸ“ UCSC Details β†’
Aug
24

Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience

πŸ“ Dynomite Farm
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Β· $59

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.

Community Outdoors Details β†’
Aug
24

Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience

πŸ“ Dynomite Farm
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Β· $59

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.

Community Details β†’
Aug
24

The Spoken Experience

πŸ“ Capitola Branch Library
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Β· FREE

Next up for The Spoken Experience: the poetry of Lucille Clifton. Come, join this community of readers who meet up to enjoy a featured poet's work. The next gathering happens Monday, August 24 at noon, in the front room of the Capitola Branch Library. Hope to see you. (Facilitated by local poets Paola Bruni, Elaine Fletcher Chapman and Jessica Cohn)

Art & Culture Free πŸ“ Capitola Details β†’
Aug
24

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!

Aug
24

Reading Poems Together

πŸ“ Capitola Branch Library
πŸ•’ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Β· See listing

Come join a community of readers who meet the 4th Monday of each month to hear poetry and discuss its curious powers. Come join a community of readers who meet the 4th Monday of each month to hear poetry and discuss its curious powers. Discussions facilitated by Paola Bruni, Elaine Fletcher Chapman, and Jessica Cohn. Registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome. https://santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/14321587 Poets in 2026 January 26 Joy Harjo February 23 Billy Collins March 23 Eavan Boland April 27 Arthur Sze May 18 * Emily Dickinson June 22 Gary Snyder July 27 Dean Young August 24 Lucille Clifton September 28 Sharon Olds October 26 Juan Felipe Herrera November 23 Ada Limon December 28 Jericho Brown *Note: Third Monday in May because of Memorial Day

Art & Culture Community πŸ“ Capitola Details β†’
Aug
24

Modern autonomous-driving models increasingly rely on learned representations and generated reasoning to interpret complex scenes and produce predictions or actions. However, it remains unclear what information these models encode, how that information is exposed through common interpretation methods, and whether their stated reasoning meaningfully influences their behavior. This research investigates these questions across motion-forecasting and vision-language-action models. Event Host: Manasi Pawar, Ph.D. Student, Computer Science & Engineering Advisor: Leilani Gilpin Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/92653015420?pwd=xEyOcy5ZuTcHN04La9w2KP1cmVY1ao.1 Passcode: 309299

Aug
24

Paradigm Sport Defense Clinic

πŸ“ Jade Street Park
πŸ•’ 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM Β· $250

A Softball specific weekly clinic designed to keep our gloves and our feet smooth on defense. This clinic is held once a week at Jade Street Park by our college level coaches that are working on fundamentals, form, and execution. Clinic is for 12+ athletes.

Aug
24

Open Mic Β· Every Monday 5-8p

πŸ“ The Ugly Mug
πŸ•’ 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· See listing

you Are A Star! Come share what you love Β· what you are working on Every Monday 5pm - 8pm Β· Lottery signups begin @5:15 One 5 minute song or two 3 minute songs We welcome: Poetry Β· Spoken Word Β· Music Β· Originals & Covers Hosted by SteveV Beer, Coffee, Tea and Cafe Snacks are always available. Non-performers are always welcomed & Appreciated We Cannot Wait to see you!

Aug
24

The Cruz Room: Hosted Board Game Night

πŸ“ The Cruz Room
πŸ•’ 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Β· FREE

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

Aug
24

Queer & Trans Yoga Hosted by Sapphire Yoga Collective @ TDC

πŸ“ The Diversity Center of Santa Cruz County, 1117 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM Β· FREE

Queer & Trans Yoga by Sapphire Yoga Collective Weekly Yoga Class @ TDC Mondays from 6:00 PM -7:15 PM This is a trauma-sensitive, all-levels, all-bodies/abilities class taught by a rotating queer-identifying yoga teacher each week. We highlight self nurturance through yoga asana and meditation, a somatic and mindfulness healing practice that resources us for our own resilience as well as community care. No prior yoga experience necessary. Ultimately, this is a brave space for LGBTQIA++ identifying folks to gather and take deep care. Please bring your our yoga mat and water bottle. Cost: $10-20 suggested donation. No one turned away for lack of funds! @sapphireyogacollective and @yogaforallmovement Questions? Contact Tara Maxon, Well-being Coordinator email: tara.maxon @diversitycenter.org

Aug
24

Keyon Harrold

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

β€œKeyon Harrold is the future of the trumpet” – Wynton Marsalis Keyon Harrold is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, songwriter, and producer. Harrold first came into the international spotlight for his critically acclaimed album, The Mugician, and his work as the trumpet voice behind the GRAMMY winning Don Cheadle film Miles Ahead. As a bandleader, he has created a compelling new statement with a riveting mix of jazz, Afrobeat, soul, spoken word, hip-hop, blues, rock, and American folk. As a soloist, his distinctly warm trumpet sound simmers in the middle register; creating drama without aggrandizing, and mesmerizing live audiences with an emotionally charged concert presentation. Harrold has collaborated with many of the top hip hop and pop artists including: Snoop Dogg, Jay Z, Beyonce, Rihanna, Eminem, Maxwell, and Anthony Hamilton, as well as rock legends Keith Richards and Jeff Beck. His current touring ensemble can best be described as β€˜Bop Pop Hip-Hop Jazz.’ Rooted in jazz, the band freestyles and solos with authority and weaves the spectrum of African American music into a sonic expression. Keyon Harrold – Foreverland will showcase his GRAMMY nominated recording Foreverland, an acclaimed crossover success, which features a bevy of collaborators, along with the single β€œBeautiful Day” which received world-wide radio play.

Aug
25

ReView

πŸ“ Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery
πŸ•’ 1:00 AM – 12:59 AM Β· See listing

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 ValΓ©ria 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 reevaluationβ€”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

Education Free πŸ“ UCSC Details β†’
Aug
25

Pastel Painting Class

πŸ“ Community Through Art
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM Β· $198

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.

Aug
25

Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience

πŸ“ Dynomite Farm
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Β· $59

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.

Community Outdoors Details β†’
Aug
25

Senior Legal Services: A Free Clinic

πŸ“ Scotts Valley Branch Library
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Β· See listing

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.

Aug
25

Planning for the Future

πŸ“ Scotts Valley Branch Library
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Β· FREE

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.

Aug
25

1980s Music Bingo with Nic - Wisdom Workshops @ TDC

πŸ“ 1117 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, USA
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Β· See listing

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: β€œWord 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

LGBTQ+ Community πŸ“ Midtown Details β†’
Aug
25

Backgammon @ the Library

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
πŸ•’ 11:00 AM Β· See listing

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.

Community Free Details β†’
Aug
25

Santa Cruz Farmers Markets

πŸ“ The Felton Market
πŸ•’ 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM Β· See listing

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.

Aug
25

Getting Involved in Your Campus Community

πŸ“ UC Santa Cruz
πŸ•’ 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM Β· See listing

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 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.

Education Community πŸ“ UCSC Details β†’
Aug
25

Fall 2026 Afterschool & Maker Sundays at SCMS!

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Maker Studios
πŸ•’ 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Β· $37

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!

Aug
25

Youth Studio Art

πŸ“ Community Through Art
πŸ•’ 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM Β· $255

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!

Aug
25

B12 Shot Clinic

πŸ“ OneSource Compounding Pharmacy
πŸ•’ 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Β· See listing

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.

Aug
25

Seaweed Sip & Paint

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· See listing

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

Aug
25

Seacliff Resilience: Phase 3 Open House

πŸ“ New Brighton Middle School
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· FREE

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

Aug
25

Neighbors for Neighbors: Belonging Builds Community - Branciforte

πŸ“ Branciforte Branch Library
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Β· See listing

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

Aug
25

Santa Cruz Wharf: Live Concert Series

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Wharf
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· FREE

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: SambaDΓ‘ 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 !

Aug
25

Neighbors for Neighbors: Belonging Builds Community

πŸ“ Capitola
πŸ•’ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Β· See listing

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

Aug
25

Trivia Tuesdays at Discretion

πŸ“ Discretion Brewing
πŸ•’ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Β· See listing

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

Food & Drink Free πŸ“ Soquel Details β†’
Aug
25

Adult Ceramics Class

πŸ“ Community Through Art
πŸ•’ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Β· $250

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

Art & Culture Adults 21+ πŸ“ San Lorenzo Valley Details β†’
Aug
25

Rainbow Sangha at Insight Meditation Center (Outside Community Event)

πŸ“ Insight Santa Cruz, 740 Front Street (2nd floor of the Galleria building)
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Β· See listing

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 . .

Aug
25

Celebrating Veterans with Joseph Jason Santiago LaCour at SatoriArts

πŸ“ Satori Arts
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Β· FREE

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.

Art & Culture Cultural Event πŸ“ Westside Details β†’
Aug
25

Winter in America (Still

πŸ“ Santa Cruz
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Β· See listing

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 β€œquieter 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

Art & Culture Free Details β†’
Aug
25

Audrey Stanley Grove: Live Drama in the Redwoods

πŸ“ Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park
πŸ•’ 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Β· $25

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.

Outdoors Art & Culture πŸ“ Midtown Details β†’
Aug
25

La Luz

πŸ“ Felton Music Hall
πŸ•’ 8:00 PM Β· See listing

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

Aug
26

Summer Beer Sails

πŸ“ Discretion Brewing
πŸ•’ 12:00 AM Β· See listing

Enjoy Discretion on a boat! For schedule of beer cruises & tickets, visit the links below. We'll see you out on the ocean… Chardonnay Sailing Charters Discretion sails on 5/27, 8/26, 9/16, 10/21 O'Neill Yacht Charters Discretion sails on 6/27, 7/30, 8/9, 9/19, 10/11

Food & Drink Outdoors πŸ“ Soquel Details β†’
Aug
26

ReView

πŸ“ Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery
πŸ•’ 1:00 AM – 12:59 AM Β· See listing

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 ValΓ©ria 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 reevaluationβ€”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

Education Free πŸ“ UCSC Details β†’
Aug
26

Pilates & Posture in the Pasture

πŸ“ Beyond Liberty
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Β· $10

Horses are deeply attuned to nonverbal cues; our posture, breath, and inner state shape how they respond. When we’re centered, they notice. This gentle, horse aligned class explores the power of postureβ€”and how we show up . Through foundational Pilates-based movement, you’ll deepen postural alignment, improve stability, and cultivate a calm, grounded presence.No experience needed.$10/class Free with membership: https://beyondliberty.org/groupwellnessmembership

Aug
26

Dynomite Farm: Private Dahlia U-Cut Experience

πŸ“ Dynomite Farm
πŸ•’ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Β· $59

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.

Community Outdoors Details β†’
Aug
26

International Overdose Awareness Day

πŸ“ Watsonville Community Hospital
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Β· FREE

Please join us for our International Overdose Awareness Day event on August 26th at Watsonville Community Hospital from 10am-2pm. We hope to see you there! Everyday, we see lives around us being changed and lost to overdose. Overdose does not discriminate – it could be you or someone you love, a friend, colleague or your neighbor. This year for International Overdose Awareness Day, Santa Cruz County needs your support. Get involved to prevent the tragedy of overdose. Knowing the drugs you take, the effects on your body, and how to prevent overdose really makes all the difference. SafeRx Santa Cruz from the Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz County is teaming up with Watsonville Community Hospital, Janus of Santa Cruz, and the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency to come together and honor the loved ones we have lost. Join us on Wednesday, August 26th from 10am to 2pm at Watsonville Community Hospital (75 Nielson St, Watsonville, CA 95076) for a community event featuring organizations from across Santa Cruz County. At the event, you’ll learn about local resources, receive free naloxone, get trained in overdose response– and don’t forget to stop by the Farmer’s Market to grab a snack! Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for any questions or accommodations. In Memory. In Community. In Action. SafeRx Santa Cruz, Watsonville Community Hospital, Janus of Santa Cruz, and the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency

Aug
26

Mobile Health Clinic

πŸ“ Santa Cruz Public Libraries
πŸ•’ 10:00 AM Β· See listing

Wednesday, August 26 2026 9:00am - 3:00pm Dignity Mobile Wellness Clinic and Santa Cruz Public Libraries are partnering to offer services that support the health of patrons with weekly Wednesday visits to the Scotts Valley branch library.

Community Wellness Details β†’

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