Santa Cruz County is buzzing with unforgettable events! Here’s your quick guide to the top events happening this week in one of California’s most vibrant coastal spots.
And for summer transportation ease and fun, take a ride on the Santa Cruzer – a convenient shuttle service connecting Downtown Santa Cruz to the beach and wharf area – or the Free Water Taxi at the Santa Cruz Harbor – a scenic ride traveling between the north and south side of the harbor.
For a full list of events happening around Santa Cruz County, check our Events Page.
WEEKEND OF July 24-28, 2026
Midtown Santa Cruz Summer Block Party
Friday, July 24 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm
The Ripatti Rose Band will be hitting the stage while some of the best local food trucks in town will be there for your latest cravings. You’ll also find amazing local artists, makers, vendors, specialty drinks, family-friendly activities, and all kinds of fun surprises!
1111 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz
National Carousel Day
Saturday, July 25 from 11am to 10pm
Celebrate National Carousel Day and our Looff Carousel’s 115th Anniversary. First 100 riders on the Carousel will receive a brass souvenir carousel ring. Normal ride pricing and restrictions apply.
400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Henry Cowell Redwoods SP: Guided Star Walk
Saturday, July 25, 8:45pm to 11pm
Enjoy this astronomy-based guided hike where you will be guided up to the Observation Deck, perched on an ancient seabed, over 800 feet above sea level and 17 miles from the beach. You will participate in activities and learn about the night sky.
2591 Graham Hill Road, Scotts Valley
Wharf to Wharf Race
Sunday, July 26, 8am to 2pm
This year, the race starts in the Pleasure Point neighborhood of Santa Cruz. Cheer the runners along the classic coastal route through Pleasure Point and Capitola. Don’t miss the festive celebration at the finish line by the beach!
Portola Drive and 30th Avenue, Santa Cruz
Shakespearian Actors Play Live DnD
Monday, July 27 from 7pm to 9pm
The Santa Cruz Shakespeare Cast Plays D&D – Live! Enjoy a one-night-only live Dungeons & Dragons adventure where the script doesn’t exist, the stakes are real, and the story unfolds in front of your eyes. Every battle, every spell, every unexpected twist is determined in the moment.
501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Wharf: Free Rock Concert
Tuesday, July 28 from 6pm to 8pm
The Lost Boys Featuring James Durbin will be performing at the Wharf. Make a dinner reservation before the show at one of the wharf restaurants! Be sure to bring a chair or wear your dancing shoes!
21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
Find a full list of events on our Events page.