The holiday spirit has hit Santa Cruz County and we’ve got a sleigh full of family fun to celebrate the season! The Lighted Boat Parade, Holiday Lights Train, Winter Wonderland at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Downtown Holiday Parade, outdoor Holiday Markets, and more, we’ve got all the festive events you don’t want to miss!
SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK: WINTER WONDERLAND
Select dates: November 28, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Get in the holiday spirit – celebrate the season at the beach!
Activities Include: Selection of Boardwalk Rides, Games, and Arcades, Festive Holiday Decorations and Lights (Including a 3-story tall Christmas tree!), Photos with Santa (Select Days), Delicious Boardwalk Treats, Fire Pit Rentals & Holiday S’Mores, Winter Wonderland Package , Holiday Shopping, and don’t forget the breathtaking beach view!
SANTA CRUZ HOLIDAY LIGHTS TRAIN
November 28 – 29, December 6 – 7, December 13 – 23, 2025
The 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 Santa Cruz. Holiday Lights Train runs on November 28-29, December 6-7, December 13-23.
Itinerary: Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Trains depart and return in front of Neptune’s Kingdom on the Boardwalk of Santa Cruz at 5:00pm, 6:30, and 8:00 pm for a 60-minute round-trip excursion. Click HERE to check for day/time availability.
ROARING CAMP NEW YEAR’S TRAIN
December 26 – 31, 2025 @ 6:30pm
Bring in the new year aboard the New Years Holiday Lights Train. Ride vintage train cars beautifully decorated with holiday lights through the streets of Santa Cruz. Light-up hula hoopers and a live DJ will keep spirits bright and help bring in 2026 right.
ROARING CAMP RAILROADS: HOLIDAY TREE WALK
November 28 – 30 and December 6-87, 13-14, 20-23, 2025 @ 10am – 5pm
Get in the holiday spirit by bringing the family to ride the Redwood Forest Steam Train through the wintry redwoods to Bear Mountain. Sip hot cocoa while greeting Santa Claus. In town, enjoy winter-themed activities.
And be sure to enjoy the festive spirit, decorations, and shopping in the Capitola Village, Downtown Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and other shopping areas throughout the county this season! Visit our website Events Page for even more holiday-inspired events!
PAST EVENTS – MAYBE NEXT YEAR!
SANTA CRUZ TURKEY TROT
November 23, 2024 @ 7am – 10am
Go on. Earn that feast! Flat, fast out and back courses that begin & end on Delaware Street by the back entrance to Natural Bridges. A run with spectacular ocean views!
WEST CLIFF HOLIDAY OUTDOOR MARKET 2024
November 29 – 30, 2024 @ 10am – 4pm
Come enjoy our holiday outdoor market with unique artisans and food trucks while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one of a kind market will be held in two parking lots along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz. This is always a popular spot for locals and tourists, as it over looks the famous Steamer Lane surf spot. The market will feature hand crafted gifts and a chance to do some holiday shopping before the rush. Admission is FREE! They will also be giving away free tokens every hour to random shoppers. The tokens can be used towards any vendor of your choice. So come down and get your free gift! See you on the cliffs for some holiday cheer!
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: REINDEER ROUND-UP
November 29 – December 23, 2024 @ 10am – 6pm
Santa has lost his reindeer, but you can help find them! Pick up a map at the Downtown Santa Cruz Information Kiosk, located at 1130 Pacific Avenue K2, the corner of Pacific and Soquel Avenues or at Pacific Cookie Company to find participating businesses, and then visit them all to search for the beautiful hidden reindeer for prizes!
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: HOLIDAY LIGHTS
November 29 – December 24, 2024
The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project will again present HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2024 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Walk thru lights will come on at 5:30pm each evening. There will be a Holiday Craft & Gift Fair both days from noon to 9pm.
SEABRIGHT: FARLEY’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND
November 29, 2024 – January 1, 2025 @ 5:30pm – 8:30pm
This is a walk-in Christmas display located in the midtown of Santa Cruz, CA. Their exhibit is very traditional: lots of Christmas trees, garlands, sleighs, an elf village, miniature village’s, and a log cabin that Santa uses for his rest stops. Being Irish, where you have elves you have fairies, so there is a fairy grotto with 2 waterfalls and fairies that can be viewed on special nights. Also, on those special nights, there is a special California version of snow here!
SANTA CRUZ MOUTAINS HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET
November 30, 2024 @ 10am – 5pm
Time for the 12th Annual SCM Holiday Makers Market! Get your holiday shopping on at the Felton Community Hall on Saturday, November 30, from 10 am-5 pm! Shop with over 35 local artists and makers hosting a beautiful variety of handmade goods! There’s something for everyone on your list! A portion of the proceeds goes to benefit Mountain Community Resources. Shop small this holiday and #supportthelocals! Visit www.scmmakersmarket.com to see the full list of participating artists.
Santa Cruz Mountains Holiday Makers Market
November 30 @ 10am – 5pm
It’s the 11th Annual SCM Holiday Makers Market! Over a decade of Makers Markets in Felton! Let the holiday shopping begin! Head to the Felton Community Hall for Free admission! Shop wight over 35 local artists and makers hosting a beautiful variety of handmade goods! There’s something for everyone on your list!
SURFIN’ SANTA VISITS CAPITOLA
November 30, 2024 @ 12pm – 3pm
Take the whole family to welcome Surfin’ Santa to the shores of Capitola Beach! Santa will be riding the waves via Outrigger canoe, rain or shine, for his annual visit to Capitola Village, arriving at 12pm to visit with all the kids until 3pm. Once toweled off, he’ll settle in his beach chair for a nice, long visit. Be sure to bring your camera to capture Santa’s wave riding arrival, and your little ones special visit with Santa. It makes a great holiday photo!
BOULDER CREEK: TREE LIGHTING AND SANTA VISIT
November 30, 2024 @ 2pm – 7pm
Santa has it on his calendar to come to Boulder Creek again! There will be vendors, a band, activities, and Santa himself! Don’t miss the fun and the countdown to lighting the town tree!
HALLCREST VINEYARDS: HOLIDAY MARKET
December 1, 2024 @ 11am – 5pm
Get your friends and family together for a free event full of fun vendors, kid’s activities, Santa, wine and so much more!
RIO THEATRE: BIG BAND HOLIDAYS
December 6, 2024 @7:30pm
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO) spreads holiday cheer on its annual Big Band Holidays tour. Rising star vocalists Ekep Nkwelle and Robbie Lee join the JLCO to bring Yuletide greetings to dozens of cities across the country. Under the music direction of JLCO trombonist Chris Crenshaw, the evening will feature soulful renditions of holiday classics, playful improvisation, and entertaining storytelling. Enjoyed by audiences of all ages, these uplifting performances create lasting memories that will keep you returning to Big Band Holidays for years to come. Please note: Wynton Marsalis will not appear with the JLCO on this performance.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
December 6 – 7, 2024 @ 12pm – 9pm
Heritage Holiday Craft and Gift Fair returns for its 47th season! Go see what has become the official start of the holiday season in the Pajaro Valley. With three big buildings to shop, you will find crafts, gifts, antiques, collectibles, toys, and much more. Many crafters have been regular appearances here for years. Great food favorites will be available in the Heritage Holiday Kitchens for your enjoyment. Bring the family for a great shopping experience, enjoy a great dinner, and walk through the holiday lights that will be found throughout the fairgrounds.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: HOLIDAY LIGHTS (WALK-THRU ONLY)
December 6-7, 2024 @ 5:30pm – 9pm
Special Walk-Thru Only Weekend of the 1/2 mile HOLIDAY LIGHTS display at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Giant Christmas trees twinkling with lights – Santa – reindeer – snowmen – lighted tunnels, and many more magical moments.
ANNIEGLASS: FACTORY SALE
December 6-8, 2024 @ 9am – 4pm (11am – 3pm on December 8)
Ready to give that special someone some handcrafted art glass dinner ware or home decor that looks like you spent a fortune? Be sure not to miss the Anniglass Factory Sale full of prototypes, new designs and major markdowns on the factory seconds. There will be 25% off the entire retail store.
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: A CHRISTMAS CAROL
November 23 – December 24, 2024 @ various times
Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents a world premiere adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, by Artistic Director Charles Pasternak. This Carol will hew closely to Dickens’ original text while embracing the exciting, inspiring spirit that SCS is known for. Featuring Mike Ryan as Scrooge, as well as local favorite Julie James, the production will take place at the historic Santa Cruz County Veteran’s Memorial Building.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT CHAMINADE
December 7, 2024 @ 9am – 11am – $25++per person – Reservations Closed
Join Chaminade Resort & Spa for a festive holiday buffet featuring Christmas favorites and a special appearance from Santa himself!
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE DREAM INN
December 7, 2024 @ 9am – 11am – Sales Ended
Head to the Santa Cruz Dream Inn for their 5th annual breakfast with Santa. Enjoy beautiful ocean views, a breakfast buffet, a full bar (for the parents, not the elves), cookie decorating, arts & crafts, face painting, story time, and a visit from Santa. Tickets are limited – purchase here.
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: HOLIDAY PARADE
December 7, 2024 @ 10am – 12pm
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 whole community to show up and have a great time. The man of the hour is welcomed back to Downtown Santa Cruz. Bring the family or participate! The parade route starts at the intersection of Laurel Street and Pacific Avenue and ends at the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Water Street.
DREAM INN: CHRISTMAS MARKETPLACE
December 7, 2024 @ 11am – 3pm
Head to the Santa Cruz Dream Inn for the Dreaminn‘ Christmas Marketplace. Over 10 local artisan vendors, Christmas Cheer, face painting, and much more.
APTOS VILLAGE GREEN: HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR AND TREE LIGHTING
December 7, 2024 @ 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Head to the Aptos Village Green to see local craft vendors, sip coffee or hot chocolate with your cookies and have a picture with Santa. Enjoy music, performances, and of course the tree lighting ceremony!
LESTER ESTATE WINES: HOLIDAY MARKET
December 7, 2024 @ 2pm – 4pm
Find that perfect gift from a selection of locally made, hand crafted wares while enjoying one of the scenic stops along the Corralitos Wine Trail. Enjoy a glass of Lester Estate wine while you shop and spend a relaxing afternoon with friends. Reservations are not needed unless you would like to stay for a seated tasting.
FELTON SANTACON
December 7, 2024 @ 3pm – 7pm
Keep calm & get your ho ho ho on—Dress in your craziest, zaniest holiday wear and join us in taking over a bevvy of bars in Felton! Meet at 73 pm at Humble Sea Tavern. Be sure to bring your ID, cash and TIP YOUR BARTENDER. If you plan to get a little extra jolly, please bring a designated reindeer or take a taxi/uber home. For ages 21+. This SantaCon event is completely FREE to attend – no tickets or registration
SANTA CRUZ HARBOR: LIGHTED BOAT PARADE
December 7, 2024 @ 5:30pm – 7:30pm
The Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully-decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. This is a family event with hot drinks and snacks available at various locations through the south harbor.
HOLY CROSS: CABRILLO COLLEGE MUSIC FOR THE FEAST OF CHRISTMAS
December 7, 2024 @ 8:00pm – 9:00pm
The way to begin your Holiday! The Cabrillo Symphonic Chorus will present its annual Music for the Feast of Christmas performance.
CAPITOLA: HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK
December 7 – 8, 2024 @ 11am – 4pm
Take a walk around historic Capitola Village and fill your box with delicious holiday cookies from participating stores! The Capitola Village Cookie Walk is a fun, family-centered activity taking place in Capitola Village on December 7 and 8. Start out at Capitola Candy Cafe where you can register and obtain boxes for the cookies. Then take a walk around historic Capitola Village and fill your box with delicious holiday cookies from participating stores.
BARGETTO WINERY: ART IN THE CELLARS
December 7 – 8, 2024 @ 11am – 5pm
Join us for our Annual Art in the Cellars Holiday Festival. Enjoy a weekend filled with Art and Wine. Shop over 30+ Local Artists and Food Vendors. Admission is free, $20 Wine Tasting with Festival Glass $15 (Wine Club Members), Food for purchase and dress warmly.
BRUNCH WITH SANTA AT THE BOARDWALK’S COCOANUT GROVE
December 8, 2024 @ 9am – 12pm
Grab your friends and loved ones and have a merry morning with Santa in the Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove! Enjoy a gourmet brunch buffet, story time with the big guy himself, and festive cookie decorating.
MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: CREATE A LIVING HOLIDAY WREATH
December 8, 2024 @ 10am
Deck the halls and get into the holiday spirit by crafting a living botanical wreath. This course will satisfy both plant and art lovers alike; learn the science of epiphytes while you design and mount native flowers, succulents, and air plants. Create a masterpiece for your holiday decor or a treasured gift for a friend or family member, all wrapped up in a fun activity.
WATSONVILLE: SANTA TOUR
December 11 – 13, 2024 @ 4pm – 7pm
For three days, December 11-13, from 4pm-7pm each evening, Santa and his special guests will spread holiday cheer as they visit parts of Watsonville.
ANNUAL TOMASEEN FOLEY’S A CELTIC CHRISTMAS
December 13, 2024 @ 3pm
Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas recreates the joy and innocence of a night before Christmas in a remote farmhouse in the parish of Teampall an Ghleanntáin in the west of Ireland—where the neighboring families gather around the fire to grace the wintry night with the haunting melodies of traditional Irish Christmas carols, to raise the rafters with the joy of their music and to knock sparks off the flagstone floor with traditional dances, and to fill the night with the laughter of their stories.
HENRY J MELLO CENTER: WATSONVILLE COMMUNITY BAND 76TH WINTER CONCERT SERIES
December 13, 2024 @ 7pm – 8:30pm
The Watsonville Community Band will perform various holiday favorites as we celebrate the season with a Winter Concert. Conductor Brad Gronroos leads a family-friendly concert to spread the holiday cheer with our hometown community.
HOLY CROSS: CABRILLO COLLEGE CONCERT FOR A WINTERS’ EVE
December 13, 2024 @ 8pm
A gorgeous evening of choral music by the stunning voices of Cantíamo! Purchase tickets here.
MOUNT HERMON: CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
December 13 – 22, 2024 (various weekend times and events)
This holiday, immerse yourself in the joy of the season with the annual Mount Hermon Christmas concerts, Buffet dinner (or Sunday lunch), and Christmas Craft Boutique. For the concert, Tim Zimmerman and The King’s Brass present hymn classics with a contemporary flair December 13-15. On December 20-22, The Blue Gospel Scripts will have a fabulous cast of narrators portray Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, telling the gospel story between musical numbers performed by A-list musicians and singers.
Friday, December 13th and 20th: 1:30 – 7:30 PM Craft Boutique; 5:00 – 6:00 PM Buffet Dinner Seating; 7:30 PM Concert
Saturday, December 14th and 21st: 1:30 – 7:30 PM Craft Boutique; 5:00 – 6:00 PM Buffet Dinner Seating: 7:30 PM Concert
Sunday, December 15 and 22nd: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Craft Boutique; 12:00 – 1:00 PM Buffet Lunch Seating; 2:30 PM Concert
Get tickets here.
ANNIEGLASS HOLIDAY ORNAMENT MAKING WORKSHOP
December 14 and 21, 2024 (various times) – $90
Make your holidays extra special with DIY Christmas ornaments! Decorate 4 frosted glass holiday-shaped ornaments with gold & silver decorations. Take them home with you that day! Finished ornaments make great gifts for friends and family. There will be stencils for tracing directly onto the glass and inspiration for decorating the ornaments. This workshop is not appropriate for children under 10. See website for details and workshop times.
CAPITOLA MALL: FREE SANTA PHOTO
December 14, 20 and 21, 2024 (various times)
Get a FREE digital photo with Santa and a gift for children. No reservations required. Photos are first-come, first-serve. Photos and giveaways are while supplies last. When Santa is not there, feel free to take your own photos in their holiday themed selfie station!
TANNERY ARTS CENTER: WINTER ART MARKET
December 14, 2024 @ 10am – 5pm
Get into the holiday spirit and explore Santa Cruz’s creative heart at the 12th Annual Winter Art Market, presented by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County. Enjoy live music, tasty food, and festive family-friendly activities. Browse over 20 artist studios filled with handmade holiday gifts and meet guest artists and makers offering unique treasures, from local favorites like Spontaneous Confections and Lil Jax Clothing to the curated Small Works Gift Show at Radius Gallery.
DEL MAR THEATER: FREE ‘WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY’ MOVIE
December 14, 2024 @ 11am – 1pm
Head to downtown Santa Cruz for a Wonka-ful Family Movie! There will be free admission to Willy Wonka at the historic Del Mar Theatre! Take the whole family for a magical day of chocolatey goodness and pure imagination. Enjoy this classic film on the big screen, and expect some Family Flurry Fun as you exit the theatre!
WILDER RANCH STATE PARK: VICTORIAN HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE
December 14, 2024 @ 11am – 3pm
Celebrate the winter holidays as folks did in Victorian and early 20th century Santa Cruz during Holidays. Enjoy live caroling, sample Victorian-era holiday goodies, watch demonstrations in the blacksmith and machine shop, explore the historical houses, and make your very own wreath and candle. This is a free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY: GINGERBREAD HOUSE BUILDING
December 14, 2024 @ 11am – 4pm
Mrs. Claus is going to the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery and opening her magical bake shop for one day only! Enjoy a festive day of cookie and gingerbread house decorating with Mrs. Claus! Indulge in the sweet scents of the holidays, hot chocolate, and a delicious spread of candy and frosting.
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS ART CENTER: FREE HOLIDAY CRAFT WORKSHOP
December 14, 2024 @ 12pm – 3pm
Fun for the whole family! Head to the Santa Cruz Mountains for an afternoon of creativity and fun for the whole family. Drop in any time during the workshop to make a variety of beautiful holiday crafts and gifts and have some festive snacks. If you are there at 1:30, you can even snap a shot of your youngsters with Santa!
SANTA CRUZ WHARF: WINTER ON THE WHARF
December 14, 2024 @ 2pm – 5pm
Come enjoy holiday decorations, Wharf specials and see Santa arrive on the Wharf by a vintage fire engine! Take photos with Santa from 2:30PM-4:30PM, checkout Wharf Business Specials, play in the snow area with Elsa and Anna from Disney’s Frozen, and enjoy custom balloon designs from Lee Balloons!
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: THE NAUGHTY LIST
December 14, 2024 @ 6pm – 9pm
Celebrate your status on The Naughty List with this fun holiday-themed pub crawl and scavenger hunt. On December 14th, Downtown bars are offering EXCLUSIVE drink discounts to ticket holders. There’ll be exclusive access to naughty activities, bar games & raffle prizes at the end of the evening. Please note that this is for those 21+ only – make sure to bring your ID with you.
MISSION HILL: CHRISTMAS WITH THE SANTA CRUZ CHORALE
December 14, 2024 @ 8pm on December 15 @ 4pm
The program features Johann Pachelbel’s Jauchzet dem Herrn alle Welt and Francesco Durante’s Magnificat, as well as some modern gems. The concert ends with beloved carols spanning centuries and countries- Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, England, Spain and others.
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET
December 15, 2024 @ 10am – 5pm
Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists in beautiful Downtown Santa Cruz! Located on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln Streets, this market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods!
FELTON COVERED BRIDGE: HOLIDAY MARKET
December 15, 2024 @ 11am – 3pm
The annual tradition of the Felton Holiday Market will again take place on the historic covered bridge. Activities include arts & crafts, delicious food & beverages, music, holiday lights, and other festivities!
BIRDSONG ORCHARDS: HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING
December 15, 2024 @ 1pm – 3pm
Snuggle up in your sturdy, closed-toe shoes, bring a water bottle and your favorite garden snippers and head to Birdsong orchard! They’ve foraged farms and forests to have everything you need to make a beautiful wreath for the holidays. Suitable for ages 16 and up.
SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK: MOVIE WITH SANTA “THE GRINCH MOVIE”
December 15, 2024 @ 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Tis the season for an evening of joy and holiday cheer inside the historic Cocoanut Grove Ballroom! Holiday Pajamas are encouraged! Each attendee also receives a fun holiday headband! Snacks available for purchase. Banquet chair seating. Fun inflatable chairs available on a first-come first-served basis. 4:30pm Doors open, Cookie Decorating; 5:00pm Storytime with Santa; 5:30pm Movie Screening in Sunroom – ‘The Grinch Movie’.
VINO CRUZ BISTRO: CORK & CRAFT
December 17, 2024 @ 5pm – 8pm
Go to the Adorable French Bistro at Vino Cruz and craft a variety of ornaments and other gifts while enjoying a complementary on tap beverage. There will be music by Junebug Bayer. It is $25 for entry into this pet friendly event!
JOE’S BAR: TWISTED XMAS SINGALONG
December 19, 2024 @ 7:30pm – 10pm
Sing and laugh along with the Trolley Drops as they play songs like: Reindeers on the Rise to Credence Clearwater’s Bad Moon Rising, Hey Mr. St. Nick to The Byrds’ Hey Mr. Spaceman, and I Just Bought a gift to the Beatles’ I just Saw a Face. If you haven’t been to Joe’s, you haven’t been to Boulder Creek! 21+ Event
COCOANUT GROVE: CANDLELIGHT NUTCRACKER MUSIC
December 19, 2024 @ 8:45pm
Hear the Listeso String Quartet perform holiday music by candlelight at the Cocoanut Grove right by the beach! There will be lots of holiday musical favorites, not just the Nutcracker. There will be two showings: One at 6:30pm and another at 9:30pm. Head to this link to get your tickets and find more information!
SANTA CRUZ MAH: WINTER FAMILY DAY
December 21, 2024 @ 2pm – 6pm: Toy Trains in the MAH atrium; 1pm – 4pm: Winter art activity in the Garden Room + hot cocoa (while supplies last)
Enjoy free admission to all current exhibitions at the Museum of Art and History. Enjoy the Toy Trains display in the Atrium all day! Participate in a winter themed art activity, and warm up with complimentary hot cocoa (first come, first served).
CABRILLO COLLEGE: THE NUTCRACKER
December 21 – 22, 2024 – Two Performances Each Day @ 1pm and 4:30pm
Get swept away by the beauty of Clara and friends as you travel to the magical Land of Sweets for this imaginative holiday classic and wonderful family tradition, now in it’s 17th year. Holiday fun the whole family will enjoy! One weekend only at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater. The SCCB full-length Nutcracker is alive with innovative choreography, stunning dancers, beautiful sets and brilliant costumes. This production has become an annual tradition, showcasing over 100 local dancers from ages four to sixty-four, as well guest artists from the bay area and beyond.
SANTA CRUZ BALLET THEATRE: THE NUTCRACKER
December 21 – 22, 2024 – Two Performances Each Day @ 1pm and 4:30pm
The newly established Santa Cruz Dance Theater is set to bring holiday magic to the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium this December with its inaugural performance of The Nutcracker. The production promises to be a stunning display of talent, featuring special guest artist Lucien Postlewaite, principal dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet. Postlewaite, a Santa Cruz native, returns to his hometown stage under the direction of Artistic Director Conrad Useldinger, who is committed to celebrating continuity and tradition in the local arts community.
BOULDER CREEK REINDEER RUN
December 24, 2024 @ 9am
The 8th Annual Reindeer Run in Boulder Creek will be on Christmas eve! Go work off that plum pudding and promote togetherness, silliness, and and active lifestyle. Bring your family. Bring your pet. Walk or run the 5k around the beautiful mountain town of downtown Boulder Creek and Irwin Way while dressed in holiday attire! Bring your holiday pajamas, funky holiday outfits, full on costumes, or just that ugly sweater. 9am runners, 9:20am joggers, 9:40am families and joggers, 10am animals.
CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET AT CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA
December 25, 2024 from 10am – 7pm
Seasonal Salads, Local Organic Fruit, Chilled Seafood Station, Chef Carving Station: Prime Rib, Organic Turkey, Fresh Crepes, Omelet Bar, Caramelized Yams, Dessert Display, and more. $85++ Adults; $35++ Children 3-12.
SHADOWBROOK: CHRISTMAS MEAL
December 25, 2024 (see reservations link and times below)
Dining Room reservations for Christmas Day should be made in advance – limited times available. A reduced dinner menu, including Shadowbrook’s most popular items, will be available along with Holiday Specials. Rock Room Bar & Lounge, & Roof Top Terrace will accept walk-ins from 11:00am-10:00pm. Guitarist Ken Constable will be playing in the Rock Room Lounge from 12:30pm-3:30pm. Guitarist and vocalist Elie Mabanza will be playing in the Rock Room Lounge from 4:30pm-7:30pm.
SANTA CRUZ MAH: TOY TRAINS
December 19 – 22; 26 – 29, 2024 @ 12pm – 6pm
Get whisked away into the whimsical world of Toy Trains and enjoy this beloved annual pop-up exhibit at the MAH. Members of the Golden State Toy Train Operators will be on hand to once again share their amazing collection of toy trains at the MAH. The public is invited to view Toy Trains in the MAH’s Atrium for free. To access other exhibitions and gallery spaces in the museum, there is a small entrance fee.
LUPULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE: CHANUKAH CRAFT AFTERNOON
December 29, 2024 @ 11:30am – 2:30pm
Enjoy a relaxed and fun-filled Chanukah craft event! This free event offers a variety of easy and enjoyable crafts including making Chanukah cards and dreidel painting. Open to all ages!
BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ: CHANUKAH STORY TIME
December 30, 2024 @ 5pm
Perfect for families with children of all ages! You’ll light the menorah, sing the blessings, read stories, and sing songs.
CHILDRENS MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY: NOON YEARS EVE
December 31, 2024 @ 10:30am – 1pm
Ring in the “Noon” Year at the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery with a celebration bursting with fun for the whole family! Enjoy a dazzling countdown to noon featuring a non-alcoholic bubble bar with sparkling mocktails, hands-on crafts to create party crowns and confetti launchers, an exciting kids’ glow rave room filled with party lights and fun beats. The grand finale? A spectacular confetti explosion and ball drop at the stroke of noon! It’s the perfect way to end the year with laughter, joy, and magical memories your family will cherish.
BLUE LAGOON: NEW YEARS EVE DANCE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 4pm – 2am
By day, the Blue Lagoon is a bar, but at night it will transform into the annual New Year’s Eve party with two dance floors, multiple DJs, no cover and a free champagne toast at midnight! Make sure to get there early, as they usually pack out to capacity!
HOOK AND LINE: NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER
December 31, 2024 @ 5pm – 9pm
Hook + Line has an exclusive New Year’s Eve menu crafted to make your evening unforgettable! Make your reservations through Resy to secure this exclusive dining experience.
PERSEPHONE:NYE DINNER
December 31, 2024 @ 5- 10pm
Ring in the New Year with a delicious celebration at Persephone Restaurant. Chef Cori has crafted a magnificent menu that will delight your taste buds and set the perfect tone for a memorable evening. Special Champagne selections will also be available for purchase.
DOWNTOWN PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL: KARAOKE NIGHT
December 31, 2024 @ 6pm – 9pm
Gather your friends, pick your favorite songs, and sing your heart out as you welcome 2025! Large groups are welcome – bring the whole crew for an unforgettable evening. Enjoy delicious drinks, good vibes and the aloha spirit. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate in true island style!
VINO BY THE SEA: ROARING 20’S NYE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 6pm – 1am
Vino by the Sea, upstairs at the Santa Cruz Wharf, is having a Roaring Twenties New Years Eve party! There will be a two drink minimum, but why not go for dinner tickets? Dinner starts at 6pm. Collision Course, a classic rock band, will start playing at 7pm and will keep the party going until 1am. There will be a ball drop, toast and countdown for 2025!
IBIZA: NYE PAELLA DINNER
December 31, 2024 @ 6:30 – 8:15pm
Get your reservation in for a special paella party at Ibiza. Grab your family and friends and enjoy enormous paellas featuring chicken, chanterelle mushrooms and farmers market vegetables. Don’t forget the Churros!
THE CATALYST: WORLD ELECTRONIC NYE PARTY
December 31, 2024 – Doors Open at 8m; Show is at 9pm
Ring in the new year with Beats Antique, a world fusion and electronic music group that combines music, performance art, and storytelling into a stage show! There will be a special guest appearance from Yaima, a Cascadian Folktronic Duo that will blend some new age mysticism into your new year! Ages 16 and up welcome.
INN AT PASATIEMPO: ROARING 20’S THEME NYE PARTY WITH THE LOST BOYS FEATURING JAMES DURBIN
December 31, 2024 @ 8pm – 12:30am
The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin will be hosting another New Years Eve celebration. This years theme is “A Night At The Speakeasy”. Dress to the nines in your best roaring 20’s attire, if you choose. Enjoy an evening of music, hors d’oeuvres, and a no host bar.
BRUNO’S BAR AND GRILL: NYE BLACK AND WHITE BALL
December 31, 2024 @8pm – 12am
You don’t have to break the bank to have fun this year! For just $25, Bruno’s will have party crowns & hats, noise makers, 2 full bars open, late-night appetizers available to purchase and best of all, a live performance by the absolute best 90’s cover band – Fire Peach! You’ll be dancing all night to the greatest grunge, alt-rock, and 90’s pop-punk songs. Go early and eat dinner upstairs in “The Jim” or downstairs in the dining room, and they will have a prime selection of delicious American-style food waiting for you.
SEVY’S BAR + KITCHEN: NEW YEARS EVE BASH
December 31, 2024 @ 8pm – 12:30am
Head to Sevy’s for a night of fun and good times! They will have food & drink specials all night with special menus, including a reverse Happy Hour from 8pm until 10pm, and live music from the Joint Chiefs from 8pm-12:30am! Book a reservation at Open Table or take a chance with the first-come, first-serve bar seating.
THE 418 PROJECT: GRATITUDE NYE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 8pm – 2am
Head to the 418 as they create the warmest New Year: dance the night away to Sitar Power and MaMuse, add your memories and dreams to the constellation sculpture, grab a Chai or a cocktail at the bars, enjoy an open mic with live music, and thrill to midnight aerial dance and spoken word as you welcome in 2025. Splash out and get a VIP table or grab a general admission ticket.
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: GRATEFUL DEAD NYE CELEBRATION
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 12:30am
The China Cats are a Grateful Dead tribute band based in Santa Cruz and are known for their creative jams and ability to capture the spirit of the Dead’s live shows. Liquid Light Productions will be adding a light show, and there will be a balloon drop from the rafters of the gorgeously restored 1930’s era Chris Matthews Ballroom. Dress to the nines! There will be champagne at the Shakedown Street vendor market, and a fully decked out evening of dancing and merrymaking.
JOE’S BAR: NEW YEARS EVE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 9:30pm – 12:30am
Rock and Alt-Rock Dance all night long with power trio of Ted Welty (aka T. Rollin), Daniel Lewis, and Rop Ouse! They will be covering ZZ Top, Cream, Pearl Jam, Robin Trower, Stone Temple Pilots, Rolling Stones, Black Crowes, Led Zeppelin, originals and much more. If you haven’t been to Joe’s, you haven’t been to Boulder Creek!
THE CROW’S NEST: FISHOOK NYE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 12:30pm
Fishhook is the band that does not let up on the gas! You will hear all your favorite songs “leveled up” the FISHHOOK way! Go experience some of the best Rock and Roll in town and bring friends for a party! There will be party favors and champagne toast!
MOE’S ALLEY: SPACE DISCO NYE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 12:30pm
Ring in the new year at Moe’s Ally with intergalactic funksters Space Heater plus DJ traveler! There will be a countdown with a champagne toast, photo booth and more! Get your funky disco threads on and party! 21+ only.
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA: NEW YEAR’S LATE NIGHT BASH
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am
Head to The View, a Treeside Restaurant to dance the night away to live music by Vintage Point at Chaminade’s 21+ New Year’s Party. Spend your evening ringing in 2025 while enjoying a champagne toast, assorted light bite desserts and a cash bar. Reserve dinner early for a memorable New Year’s Eve Dinner dining experience overlooking Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay.
CATALYST: NYE CELEBRATION
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am
Ring in the new year with Beats Antique, a world fusion and electronic music group that combines music, performance art, and storytelling into a stage show! There will be a special guest appearance from Yaima, a Cascadian Folktronic Duo that will blend some new age mysticism into your new year! Ages 16 and up welcome.
SANTA CRUZ CIVIC CENTER: NYE GALACTIC BALL
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am
Get ready to ring in the New Year like never before! Head to the Civic Center for an unforgettable night filled with magic, music and starlit celebrations! Dance to the stars, enjoy out of this world drinks, and blast off into the year 2025!
ROSIE MCCANN’S: NYE 2025 CELEBRATION
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am
Ring in the New Year with a bang at Rosie McCann’s! Dance the night away to DJ Miguel, enjoy delicious drinks, and savor festive appetizers. Celebrate with friends and loved ones as you count down to midnight with a champagne toast, a midnight balloon drop, and a sprinkle of Irish magic. – the perfect place to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new!
LUPULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE: NYE GATHERING AND DANCE PARTY
December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am
Ring in the new year with friends old and new at Lúpulo! Circle around a table and reminisce about the highlights of 2024, play a game, or put on your dancing shoes and boogie to the tunes of DJ Real Abstraction! Come as you are or get decked out in tails and sequins. NYE at Lúpulo is always a funky heart-warming good time! The event is free and is welcoming to all adults over 21.
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA: PJ BRUNCH
January 1, 2025 @ 7am – 1pm
Start the New Year off right with some mimosas, cider, hot cocoa, live jazz and an a la carte brunch. And all with 15% off if you show up in your pajamas!
FIRST DAY HIKES
January 1, 2025 (various times)
Kick off the new year with a First Day Hike at one of Santa Cruz County’s state parks! Hikes range in location, geography, and difficulty. Find first day hikes at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Castle Rock State Park, and Wilder Ranch State Park. Check the California State Parks website for more on reservations, times, trail and habitat information, and more.
THE FOREST OF NISENE MARKS STATE PARK: 1ST DAY HISTORY WALK
January 1, 2025 @ 9am – 1pm
Enjoy a four mile, four hour walk at George’s Picnic Area and take Loma Prieta Grade Trail to the Porter House site to the site where the town of Loma Prieta was located and the hidden spot deep in the redwood forest where marine fossils can be found. Participants will encounter the remains of the old lumber mill, follow the trail of the ghost trestles and learn about the wonders of the giant redwoods and their survival. Meet at Georges Picnic Area near the Winter Gate.
WILDER RANCH STATE PARK: 1ST DAY BACKCOUNTRY HIKE
January 1, 2025 @ 11am – 2pm
On this 2.5 mile family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of the coastal bluffs. Meet next to park map in Wilder Ranch main parking lot. Rain cancels. 2.5 mile loop trail is easy, with no elevation. Meet by large map sign in Wilder Ranch parking lot for the Old Cove Landing Trail. Meet by large map sign in Wilder Ranch parking lot for the Old Cove Landing Trail. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
BIG BASIN REDWOODS STATE PARK: 1ST DAY HIKE OCEAN VIEW SUMMIT
January 1, 2025 @ 11am – 2pm
Join a State Park docent and plant enthusiast for a first day hike at Big Basin starting at 11 a.m. from the Visitor Center. This hike will be a little over four miles in length with a steady climb up to the Ocean View Summit. Please allow at least 3 hours for this outing. Bring plenty of water, snacks and layers. Binoculars are optional!
SHADOWBROOK: NEW YEARS DAY FEAST
January 1, 2025 @ 2pm – 10:30pm
Make reservations for a New Year’s Day Feast at Shadowbrook. Enjoy delicious food, beautiful views and transportation that makes travel part of the experience! Dress up nicely and enjoy a free shuttle service in a vintage taxi if you are staying within a 3-mile radius of Shadowbrook. Or you can park and take the trolley through the gardens to the entrance. Of course, there is nothing stopping you from meandering through the gardens on foot! Either way, mark your calendars for the end of the year to secure your New Years adventure as soon as possible!
CHANUKAH TRAIN
January 2, 2025 @ 5pm – 9pm
We’ll share in Chanukah traditions and ride the train through the streets of Santa Cruz listening to Chanukah stories, playing dreidel and enjoying kosher refreshments provided by Chabad by the Sea. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Trains depart and return in front of Neptune’s Kingdom on the Boardwalk of Santa Cruz at 5:00pm, 6:30, and 8:00 pm for a 60-minute round-trip excursion. Click HERE to check for day/time availability.