There will be dancing in the streets! ...Literally. Watch cultural, classical, modern and everything in between. There will be mid-day exhibitions and dazzling night shows. Would you like to participate? […]
During this 4-week course, each afternoon, you will practice mindfulness, grounding, and breath work while sitting and walking in nature. Practicing the cultivation of mindful moments and finding awe in […]
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH), is debuting Accidentally Wes Anderson: Adventures in Santa Cruz, in collaboration with the online phenomenon and community of the same name […]
The Watsonville Farmers Market is every Friday afternoon from 2-7 all year round at the City Plaza in Downtown Watsonville. Don't miss out on the wonderful locally grown fresh fruits, […]
Head to Skypark in Scotts Valley for the area’s largest food truck festival! Lots of excitement, more food vendors, the fabulous SVEF Beer & Wine Garden, amazing Live Music and […]
Go green this Earth Day by creating a work of art from upcycled beach glass! As part of this special seasonal offering, discover the beauty of beach combing as you […]
Head up to the redwoods for this indoor hip hop and funk music and arts festival. Go for just one day or both days to experience live art performances and […]
All performances will be free and open to the public! The annual April in Santa Cruz Festival (AiSC) returns in 2024 with UC Santa Cruz faculty and graduate students, renowned […]
Logjam! annually attracts over 100 competitors ranging in age from 7 to 60+, from all over California. Contestants bring their cherished vintage “logs,” pre-1970 longboards weighing 20 lbs. or more. […]
Market customers appreciate the bountiful selection of top quality produce and specialty foods as well as the opportunity to connect with the farmers and vendors who produce it. Ninety vendors, […]
Bay Area ornithologist Jeff Smith will lead a short interpretive hike around Loch Lomond with a focus on bird identification by sight and sound. This free event is a great […]
The Westside Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday, year round at the corner of Hwy 1 and Western Drive. Here we serve the communities of the west end of Santa […]
Docent-led tours of the Elkhorn Slough Reserve are every Saturday AND Sunday, at 10 am and 11 am. Tours are on a first-come, first-serve basis - visitors may sign up […]
Enjoy a guided wildflower walk at Elkhorn Highlands Reserve. The walk will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. You will be traversing uneven terrain, so proper footwear (hiking shoes or trail […]
During this program, you will be introduced to a craft used by indigenous peoples around the world: coiled basketry. CA basketry is some of the most ornate in the world, […]
The Wheels at Watsonville Car Show is an annual event that showcases collectible cars and trucks at the Watsonville Municipal Airport. The show is for hot rod enthusiasts and celebrates […]
This 90-minute, behind-the-scenes hiking tour takes visitors into Younger Lagoon Reserve adjacent to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Part of the University of California Natural Reserve System, Younger Lagoon Reserve contains diverse […]
Learn about the story of Big Basin: past, present, and future while wandering under the guardian old-growth redwoods that have seen it all! This program is a 1 hour walk […]
On this 2.5-mile, 2-hour family-friendly walk, you will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the Santa Cruz County coastal bluffs. Bring water, a hat, closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and […]
Celebrate Shared Adventures 31st Anniversary and celebrate autism awareness at the same time! Come for live music, dancing, delicious food and fun activities. Stay to see vendors with accessibility services […]
Artists and art-lovers, this one’s for you! Head to Wilder Ranch State Park for Art in the Park! Go celebrate the incredible artistic talent in Santa Cruz County, especially artists […]
An Artist Talk, Book Signing and Pop-Up Exhibition by award-winning photographer and author, Oliver Klink, who will be talking about and sharing images from his beautiful new book, Poetry in […]
Chaminade Resort & Spa welcomes you and your furry friends to our dog-friendly property for an afternoon of play, treats and pup-worthy pampering. Enjoy activities like Photo Booths, Pet Portraits, […]
The Surfers Path Half Marathon consists of a 13.1 mile run from Santa Cruz to Capitola and back. The event starts at the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and travels […]
Go outside and learn to paint gouache and watercolor landscapes while surrounded by nature as inspiration. This open-air art workshop will teach the techniques necessary to capture environmental perspectives through […]
Enjoy the 20th Annual celebration of Vive Oaxaca Guelaguetza. This cultural festival brings together food, music, dance, crafts, and community to celebrate the wonderful traditions of Oaxaca, Mexico. Local dancers […]
This 90-minute tour is led by State Park docents who will share the history of the Castro family, and the two-story adobe hacienda built over 170 years ago. Enjoy a […]
Every Sunday at Noon Experience a guided hike through an old-growth redwood forest filled with ancient trees over 200 feet tall. Connect one on one with park staff. […]
This event is family-friendly and free of charge. Participate in games and activities relating to climate action and climate solutions. Learn about local resources and efforts to become more resilient […]
The Felton Farmers’ Market is a treasured weekly gathering May through October, now running for over 30 years. We appreciate the dedicated customers who call this market a second home. […]
The Downtown Santa Cruz Market runs year-round on Wednesdays, 1-5pm year round. Our largest and oldest market, it is situated in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz, one block off […]
Santa Cruz is known near and far for its surfing legacy, but there is another water sport that finds a niche on our coast, with a similarly devoted following. Sailboats […]
Chardonnay Sailing Charters features a different local winery every Friday evening from May through October. Enjoy the fabulous wines provided and entice your palate with complimentary hours-d'oeuvres while taking in […]
On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block […]
Now, who doesn't love carnival? This is going to be so much fun! You will find unique arts and crafts at vendor booths throughout the downtown core, food trucks, and […]
Get to know Santa Cruz’s WILD SIDE at the Museum of Natural History. Nerd out on your night out during monthly after-hours events, featuring rotating themes, vendors, and activities. Free […]
Discover the wonders of mushrooms! Through wild mushroom exploration, cooking and cultivation demos, functional mushroom talks, and DIY workshops, the Santa Cruz Mountain Mushroom Festival offers an incredible opportunity to […]
Established in 2009 with the City of Scotts Valley, this market has become a seasonal treasure to the local community and to those visiting the area looking for a place […]
Around the World in 60-90 Minutes! The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South […]
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Event is free, day-use parking fee is $10.
Love nature, science, and art but don’t know where to start? Here is your opportunity to master a new skill and bring home your own environmentally inspired masterpiece after just […]
It's Kids Day in Downtown Santa Cruz! Exhibitors will be lined up on Cooper Street and Pacific Ave (between Church St. & Locust St.), along with performances and demonstrations at […]
The Trail Running Film Festival returning to Santa Cruz for a great night of films and inspiration. Go explore potential and pursue some new dreams. There will be stories from […]
Want to hear music that is trending on social media played by a live orchestra? Did you know that Mozart died during the part that you use to add drama […]
Time for the 12th Annual SCM Makers Market in Felton! Hallcrest Vineyards is just a minute up Felton Empire from Highway 9. Celebrating 12 years of Makers Markets in the […]
Book your Cinco de Mayo dinner overlooking the river or beautiful gardens. Enter by cable car or do a leisurely walk down the garden path to your reservation. There will […]
Vine to View Dinner Series - Join us from April to October as Chef Samuels and his culinary team create gourmet four-course dinners expertly paired with wines from California vineyards. […]
She.is.beautiful Santa Cruz Race welcomes all levels and abilities. This race event is female-focused and welcomes ALL PEOPLE. This is the perfect race to set a goal to work towards! […]
Celebrate Mother's Day and enjoy a garden tea party at a beautiful farm! Blend your own herbal teas from farm-grown and curated ingredients.
The Spring Art Market returns to the Tannery Arts Center just in time for Mother's Day! Shop local art and fresh flowers, dine with a variety of local food vendors, […]
Thomas Family Farm: Mother’s Day Tea Party Celebrate Mom at a beautiful tea party at the Thomas Family Farmhouse! You are welcome to pick up your own sparkling wine for […]
Bring your friends, family and neighbors and come out to enjoy good old-fashioned activities such as spinning wool, cheese making, wooden cow milking and ice cream making! You can even […]
Enjoy a super fun afternoon celebrating all the moms with live crafts, build your own bouquet bar, raffle prizes, gift baskets, drinks, local vendors and more! This parking lot pop-up […]
Enjoy over 40 local Santa Cruz artists and free admission to the museum just in time to grab a gift for Mother’s Day! There will be a wide array of […]
Starting in April, on both Saturday and Sunday of the second weekend of each month, the City of Santa Cruz staff will lead tours of Loch Lomond Reservoir on the […]
Roberts Ranch has the perfect gift for Moms! (Or Moms, grab another mother figure and celebrate together! Bring her to a Roberts Ranch Tea on the Terrace, complete with savory […]
Whizz through Santa Cruz history while biking or walking with friends and friendly competitors. Sign-up as a team of 2 to 5 people then (or on your own), work to […]
Enjoy sipping local wines and beers while strolling through our charming shops and boutiques in Capitola by the Sea. Pre-registration includes: – Capitola Village Sip & Stroll commemorative glass – […]
Just in time for some summer creative fun . Enjoy one of the most popular workshops at Annieglass with local artist, Heidi Michelle. The class starts with basic watercolor techniques […]
Whether you dance East Coast, West Coast, Lindy Hop, Charleston, Jitterbug, Balboa, Collegiate Shag or Blues you will find music, friends, and food while you improve your dancing digs! All […]
Acoustic musical guests make for a lively accompaniment to the afternoon! Enjoy a tasting of 5 of the current Roberts Ranch wines complete with abundant charcuterie boards! Meats, cheeses, crackers, […]
Treat Mom to something memorable on her special day with a delectable Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet accompanied with live music. After a lovely brunch, relax with a train ride through […]
Head to The View Restaurant for a special Mother's Day Brunch Buffet overlooking Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay. Indoor and outdoor seating available. Tentative Menu Includes: French Toast Honey Cured […]
The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am-5pm, weather permitting. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles […]
Show Mom you’re thinking of her! Head to Lighthouse Point on West Cliff Drive to find artisan goods, specialty food and music, and something for everyone! Enjoy shopping with the […]
Treat Mom to brunch or dinner overlooking the river or beautiful gardens. Enter by cable car or do a leisurely walk down the garden path to your reservation. The Rock […]
Treat mom to an excursion at a brewery that uses solar energy and sustainable farming practices and hear the rich acoustic mix of varied musical genres of Wild Iris for […]
With up close views of the ocean and Santa Cruz Wharf, you can enjoy Mother’s Day in the heart of surf culture. Mother's Day Set Menu: First (Choose One) […]
Welcome back to Tuesday Night Live at the Wharf Common’s stage! Every 2nd Tuesday of the month, head to the Wharf for live music and games from 6 to 8pm. […]
Free and open to the public with light refreshments as available. Check out the UC Santa Cruz Arts division at this salon-style gathering presenting the work of UCSC's Digital Arts […]
May is Micro Month at the Museum! Big fun can come in small packages! Micro May will magnify your curiosity with naturalists who specialize in the science of small. Explore […]
Check website for times of operation.
Head to the park on Monterey Ave. in Capitola to enjoy local centric food and entertainment in a fun, family friendly environment. Enjoy top-notch food from some of Santa Cruz […]
Get to know your destination by digging in and getting dirty! Meet at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, then join the Society for Conservation Biology as they show […]
The first ever VDubs in the Village is open to the public for everyone to come spend the day in Capitola Village and check out some beautiful vintage Volkswagen cars. […]
Enjoy art of all media and discover the abundance of artistic talent in the San Lorenzo Valley. Admission to all studios is free. Studios will be open to the public […]
Enjoy a delightful afternoon of exploration and indulgence as you embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of Santa Cruz! Indulge in four hours of unlimited delights including delectable […]
Celebrate the start of summer and watch the sky come to life with a spectacular drone show over Main Beach!
Enjoy the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market every THIRD Sunday in 2025! Featuring 40+ local makers & artists, this market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. Find some […]
The price listed above is per vehicle, not per person! The Redwoods Festival offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to families looking for fun and adventure. Enjoy: 🚂 A […]
Kuumbwa, a Swahili word meaning “act of spontaneous creation,” is going back to their roots at the duck pond stage for their 50th anniversary. This day of feel-good music will […]
Omari Tau is not just a world class baritone. Sure, he’s performed opera, Broadway, jazz and pop, but he’s also a composer. He has also written operas and composed arrangements […]
Presenting the Downtown Santa Cruz Spring Wine Walk 2025! Enjoy the heart of the Central Coast and taste great wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. Enjoy sipping while […]
Pound for pound, Brad Williams is the funniest comedian in the country right now and has become one of the most in-demand comedians working today. Williams started doing stand-up comedy […]
Climb aboard and explore a wide variety of vehicles up close! From heavy-duty trucks to specialized equipment, there's something for everyone to discover. You can also watch skilled operators showcase […]
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Santa Cruz. Get your tickets now to see the Listeso String […]
Get ready for a thrilling evening with a special screening of the classic thriller, “Jaws” right by the water! Experience the suspense like never before as you float in the […]
Don’t miss this special, limited-time opportunity for a private guided tour of the Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument – before it’s even open to the public! Guided by land stewards and […]
This month’s nature hike at Loch Lomond Recreation Area will feature noted botanist Andy Werner, who will discuss native plant species found in the Newell Creek watershed. In addition to […]
Every year on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, head to the beautiful mountains for "Felton Remembers." This family event features a traditional parade honoring those who have served our country […]
This Memorial Day Weekend Day, take either the Redwood Forest Steam Train up to Bear Mountain and return. Enjoy the Town of Roaring Camp for family-friendly activities. ACTIVITIES: Blacksmith Gold […]
Enjoy Disney-Pixar's Luca while floating in the pool or lounging poolside, surrounded by the ambiance of a seaside town just like the film. Bring your favorite floatie or lawn chair […]
The historic Capitola Wharf broke in half in the huge waves of winter 2023. The pier is now reopened, repaired, and revived with a new deck and pilings. Out Standing […]
Go Celebrate all the vibrancy of Midtown at the Summer Block Party, happening every Friday! Food – Artists – Live Music – Vendors The summer series of free events will […]
One night only. See the pop-up exhibit in the park next to the Museum of Natural History and meet the artists, designers and conservationists behind all 10 of the beautifully […]
Ranch 1917 and Chaminade Resort are bringing Nashville back to Santa Cruz! The hit concert series continues Friday, May 30 with country sensation Eric Paslay. Overnight packages and tickets are […]
Dance the day away to live music with your friends and family while enjoying tasty locally made food, cold beer, cider and wine in an open field surrounded by redwoods […]
The City of Watsonville and the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture are pleased to partner together to present their 6th Annual Wine, Beer, and Art walk in historic […]
Seeking whimsy and wonder, the first Outstanding in the Field farm fête was here in the summer of 1999. The chef and the farmer were not so close back then, […]
Discover the charm of the Wee Kirk Market, a delightful new monthly farmers/makers marketplace celebrating local farmers, artisans, and makers in the heart of Ben Lomond. Held on the first […]
Santa Cruz Pride is the largest LGBTQ+ event on the Central Coast (the third oldest annual Pride Parade and Festival celebrated in California), attracting more than 7,000 participants every year […]
As a volunteer docent for the County of Santa Cruz Park system, Richard James has researched the colorful history of Quail Hollow Ranch for years. His new tour, “Within These […]
The river makes the call on table location. Some years, the river is low, and we choose a table site alongside the apple trees or near the ripe strawberries. This […]
Boulder Creek is famous for its community strength and pride. This Friday, Boulder Creek will be celebrating this and the wonderful diversity the area offers! Enjoy live music, great food, […]
In 1879, only 4% of fruit and vegetable crops originated in Santa Cruz county. Thirteen years later, the first Japanese immigrants arrived in Watsonville. Just a couple decades later, Santa […]
The free, inner-harbor water taxi operates between 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM, on summer weekends and holidays. In addition to weekend service, the water taxi will operate on Thursday evenings […]
5:00 PM - STREET PARTY Where you will find live music, food trucks, costumes, and dancing! 7:00 PM - POPS CONCERT Featuring selections from Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Harry […]
Bring chairs, jackets, a picnic supper, and the family to enjoy free live music and the sunset! Concerts begin at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and take place at the Esplanade […]
The actor who played Alan Frog in The Lost Boys movie (Jamison Newlander) will be available to sign memorabilia at the comic bookstore from the very same movie! Bring your […]
Every Friday night on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate movie night! Watch your favorite movies […]
Enjoy a day of music, over 85 vendors, wine, cider and food!!! What more could you ask for? Free admission and free parking? Ok, they've got you too! Activities for […]
This year, Roberts Ranch Vineyards is celebrating the French Provençal communal tradition of the Déjeuner d'Ouvrier, also known as the Worker‘s Lunch. This is a perfect time to grab some […]
Juneteenth is a special day for anyone who believes in freedom and equality for all people. Attend and enjoy music, poetry, dance, delicious soul food, arts & crafts, basketball skills […]
Salute Dad on Father’s Day by treating him to a ride on the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train and lunch. In addition, enjoy live music […]
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 3:30 PM- Woodies Parade off the Wharf
Pleasure Point will be buzzing as the community takes to the street to enjoy the Pleasure Point Street Fair. This event will be held on Portola Drive between 41st and […]
Get ready to step on board the Circus Bubble Train. Zillions of Bubbles will float through the air as you travel down the tracks through the Redwood Forest. Meet the […]
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
The most anticipated Central Coast geek gathering of the year! Nerdville Comic Con celebrates the diversity of nerd and geek culture. All fans are invited to gather and have fun […]
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Boulder Creek! Enjoy a parade, a block party with vendors, BBQ, and live music!
This Fourth of July, take either the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train. Enjoy the nostalgic town of Roaring Camp for family-friendly activities, live music and […]
12:00 PM
Treat yourself to an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp's Redwood Evening Dinner Train Party. Start with a hearty BBQ dinner while you enjoy live musical entertainment. After, […]
Delaveaga Park has been the home of the Western Collegiate Mountain Biking Championship held by UCSC Cycling for many years. It features an outstanding XC course with very diverse terrain […]
Don’t forget to remember the famous Jack! There will be a lot of surfing to watch or participate in a beach area clean up at Jack O’Neill Park, near his […]
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
Run through 300 foot tall, 1500 year-old Coastal Redwoods, lush stream canyons, open meadows, pine and oak forests, and high dry chaparral-covered ridges. The Half Marathon, 30K, Marathon, and 50K […]
A fun event at Twin Lakes Church for the whole family. Kingsmen have always had over 120 classic and modern cars and trucks to check out! There will be a […]
Shared Adventures presents its annual Day on the Beach event at Cowell Beach, Saturday, July 12, 2025. Each year, over 300 people with special needs participate in adaptive ocean sports […]
This Loch Walk coincides with the international Secchi Dip-In annual event! Participate in citizen science recognized around the world by heading to the hidden gem of Loch Lomond in the […]
This family and dog friendly beer festival is celebrating fun in the sun with craft brews from far and wide! Santa Cruz’s booming craft beverage scene will also be heavily […]
Head to DeLavega Park to enjoy the full outdoor theatre experience! You can bring your own picnic basket and drinks to enjoy the picnic bluff area or check out concession […]
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
Enjoy free admission to Family Fun Day at Skypark in Scotts Valley! There will be fun-filled booths and games, multiple bounce houses, face painting, music, delicious food, refreshing drinks and […]
Just in time for Summer Break, head to the outdoor market with unique artisans while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one-of-a-kind market will be held in […]
Enjoy a weekend filled with Art, Wine and Live Music! Shop over 32+ Local Artists and Food Vendors! Jewelry, leather goods, paintings & watercolors, mosaics, photography, textiles, woodworks, candles, succulent […]
Evening train and dinner excursion departs from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and travels along the San Lorenzo River through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park to Roaring Camp. Upon arrival, […]
Celebrate National Carousel Day and our Looff Carousel’s 114th Anniversary. First 100 riders on the Carousel will receive a brass souvenir carousel ring. Normal ride pricing and restrictions apply.
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
In late July and early August each year, audiences are joined by both preeminent and emerging composers, spectacular guest artists, and an orchestra of dedicated professional musicians from across the globe to give […]
The Watsonville Strawberry Festival provides a fun, family-friendly experience in historic downtown Watsonville. Head to the plaza for a full weekend of carnival attractions, live entertainment and delicious strawberry treats! […]
Discover local artisans, makers and crafters! There will be music for your strolling enjoyment. Delicious food and drinks will be available for purchase.
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
This is a moderate hilly, fun course that begins and ends at the temporary location, Landmark Elementary School in Watsonville while Ramsay Park is being renovated. You will traverse Watsonville's […]
Roaring Camp presents the Annual Brewgrass Festival featuring local breweries, music from favorite bluegrass artists, and food from our popular local food trucks. VIP Brewgrass Tasting Train roundtrip from Santa […]
Every Friday night (Except 4th of July this year) on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate […]
Nationally recognized Pit-Masters and local Grill Gurus alike battle it out for cash prizes, trophies and the honor of having their secret recipes voted Best BBQ at the Roaring Camp […]
Tri Santa Cruz is one of the most fun and scenic events on the west coast. The race has a sprint and international (Olympic) distance triathlon, with relays and aquabike […]
Roaring camp will be open to the public for viewing of the California Blacksmith Association as they demonstrate how they push the boundaries of hot metal and bring ancient techniques […]
Celebrate National Roller Coaster Day by taking a spin on our National Historic Landmark, the Giant Dipper. First 100 riders on the Giant Dipper will receive a Boardwalk Souvenir Cup. […]
Scotts Valley Art, Wine, and Beer Festival is back in the beautiful park setting of Skypark in Scotts Valley. This premier summer festival in the Santa Cruz Mountains has something […]
Known as the King of Rant, the Grammy Award®–winning stand-up Lewis Black uses his trademark style of comedic yelling and finger-pointing to expose the absurdities of life. His comedic brilliance […]
Head to Esplanade Park bandstand stage and see a movie on the beach! The movie will begin at dusk. Bring your own low back chairs and blankets to get comfy. […]
The Capitola 10k, a 6.2-mile and 3.8 mile run/walk that starts in the heart of Capitola Village. The scenic route takes participants through vibrant Pleasure Point and along East Cliff […]
Ranch 1917 and Chaminade Resort are bringing Nashville back to Santa Cruz! The hit concert series continues Friday, August 29 with country sensation Cannan Smith. Overnight packages and tickets are […]
This free community event helps you kick off Labor Day weekend celebrations! Watsonville's Airport Open House includes first responder aviation assets, local agri-business flight departments, antique aircraft, flyovers, parachute flag […]
Artists will be set up throughout downtown amongst street food sold by local restaurants and live music. There will be a chalk painting contest and more!
Come celebrate the vibrant traditions of the Latino community with mariachi, folklorico dancers, and a free beach concert. Enjoy Boardwalk rides and games plus fun food and beverage specials throughout […]
This event builds on the history of one of California's longest-running events. Santa Cruz has all things outdoors; surf, sand, and sun. From the historic lighthouse Santa Cruz Surfing Museum […]
12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Wednesday - Friday 12:00-11:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Executive Chef Samuels and his culinary team create gourmet four-course dinners expertly paired with wines from the local Corralitos vineyard, Alfaro Family Vineyards. Purchase just the dinner or get the […]
Head to Esplanade Park bandstand stage and see a movie on the beach! The movie will begin at dusk. Bring your own low back chairs and blankets to get comfy. […]
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 […]
Frequency is a biennial festival of light, sound, and digital culture hosted in and around the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. This 4-night downtown takeover activates the museum, […]
The Pu Pu 'O Hawaii Outrigger Club is ready to race! These short-course outrigger races are designed especially for the new or novice paddlers. Come out and support the racers […]
Redwood Records presents a free street festival with live bands, DJ's, record swap, vintage village, family-friendly zone, food and beverages! and so much more!!!
Join the celebration from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Penny Ice Creamery's 15th Birthday Bash being held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, on the 900 block of Cedar Street. […]
6:30 AM - 9:00 PM See website for details.
Taste, sip and tap your toes as you sample local eateries, farms, breweries, vintners and musicians of the Soquel neighborhood! Enjoy kids' games, prizes and more!
Head to Downtown Boulder Creek to enjoy the 4th Annual Treat Walk where both artists and merchants will be handing out candy and treats to the kiddos. Although you are welcome […]
Bay Area ornithologist Jeff Smith will lead a short interpretive hike around Loch Lomond with a focus on bird identification by sight and sound. This free event is a great […]
The third annual VW Wharf Invasion is open to the public for everyone to come spend the day in the Santa Cruz area and check out some beautiful vintage Volkswagen […]
10:30 AM - 2:30, Saturdays and Sundays, October 4th and 5th, 11th and 12th, 26th and 24th, 26th.
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays October 5th and 6th - North County; October 12th and 13th - South County; October 19th and 20th - All County
Get ready for a celebration of autumn's abundance at the first annual Harvest Festival! Enjoy a day filled with fun, food, and festivities under the crisp fall sky. This family-friendly […]
The Secret Film Festival is once again at the historic Del Mar Theatre. The festival runs all night with the titles revealed as each screening begins. All the films are […]
Mark the fall migration at one of the most beautiful places on the planet for the Monterey Bay Festival of Birds featuring field trips, workshops, family-fun activities, and keynote speakers. […]
Head to the Chaminade Resort and Spa as Executive Chef Samuels and his culinary team create a gourmet four-course dinner expertly paired with wines from Bargetto Winery (Santa Cruz, CA). […]
Check out the Classic, Vintage and Retro Thunderbirds on display then stick around to enjoy fabulous shopping and/or grab a bite at one of the many fine local eateries with […]
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays October 5th and 6th - North County; October 12th and 13th - South County; October 19th and 20th - All County
Enjoy welcoming the monarch butterflies back to the park, where they will spend the winter. There will be arts and crafts, active games for kids, live music, information booths on […]
The Festival of Monsters is an academic conference on the social and artistic research surrounding monsters. The festival opens with an evening of free events in front of the Santa […]
Go see an exciting musical parade as 55 Northern California high school and junior high school marching bands compete next to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in the ONLY […]
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays October 5th and 6th - North County; October 12th and 13th - South County; October 19th and 20th - All County
This delightful event combines the joy of autumn with the charm of scarecrows. Participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite scarecrows displayed in various businesses while sipping […]
Enjoy the 27th annual Halloween Festival, including mask-making, creepy carnival games, All About Theatre Halloween performances and Thriller dance.
Bring your appetite and join the fun as both professional and amateur chefs work their culinary magic and compete for the title of Best Chili!
Recognized by audiences, critics and fellow musicians alike as one of the most gifted young artists of modern times, Jacob Collier already boasts a seemingly endless list of achievements including […]
Put on your silliest, scariest or wackiest costume and join the Boulder Creek Downtown Trick or Treat on Halloween! Go by the Business Association table in front of the Sheriff […]
See community altars and live/dead performances. There will be family activities and a market of the dead. Celebrate this beautiful tradition featuring altars, live music and dance and hands-on activities.
Artists set up their easels on the wharf, shore, and streets of beautiful Capitola, to paint live for four days. You'll find hundreds of paintings on display, for sale, and […]
California King Tides are coming to the shores of Santa Cruz County this winter! These naturally occurring and predictable events are when the highest and lowest tides hit our shores […]
Head to Downtown Boulder Creek to discover art and crafts for the season! Enjoy live music as you stroll and find tasty food and drink to purchase along the way!
The Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival features genuine sea glass and artist-made creations while benefiting our local marine environment. This year the festival celebrates its 16th anniversary. […]
Bundle up in the tackiest sweater you’ve ever been gifted for the holidays and head to the redwoods! As you look through arts and crafts, you will be treated to […]
The traditional holiday parade is the official kickoff for the winter holidays celebration. One never knows exactly what to expect at the Parade, but you can be sure to expect […]
The Boulder Creek Winter Festival is a celebration of the holiday season, bringing together families and friends to enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment. From the enchanting tree lighting […]
The Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. Limited viewing is available from the Murray Street bridge, from the East Harbor […]
Get into the holiday spirit and explore Santa Cruz’s creative heart at the Annual Winter Art Market, presented by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County. Enjoy live music, tasty food, […]
Experience the magic of the season at the Wee Kirk Holiday Market, a special evening celebration inspired by traditional European Christmas markets. Enjoy an enchanting night of festive lights, local […]
A seasonal tradition returns to Santa Cruz with the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train. Vintage excursion cars, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, roll through city streets past homes of […]
Attention chowder lovers! Taste the best at the 45th Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off! Sample chowder from Amateur Chefs on Saturday, followed by Professional Chefs on Sunday. Both days feature Boston […]
Swap out your flip flops for running shoes and join the fun with this family-friendly race through the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! Run a 1k or a 5k, on this […]
