Santa Cruz is a great year-round vacation destination, but the winter months offer some very special reasons to visit that you might not expect. While Santa Cruz is known for soaking up the sunshine during summer, winter provides a unique way to experience some of Santa Cruz’s best features, like huge waves, extremely low tides, and even monarch migrations! If you’re considering exploring Santa Cruz County this winter, here’s a short list of the top 5 ways to enjoy the area during the holiday season!
Monarch Butterflies at Lighthouse Field State Beach by Jenn Day
1. ) Experience the Natural Wonders of Winter
From the forests to the sea, the winter season in Santa Cruz brings an abundance of natural wonders you don’t want to miss, like witnessing the monarch migration or going tide pooling during King Tides. The Monarch butterflies congregate in Santa Cruz and the wider Monterey area around mid-October through mid-February, with a peak season of November – December. In Natural Bridges State Beach, one of the best spots for butterfly viewing, visitors can see the butterflies cluster on the eucalyptus branches and form a “city in the trees,” according to State Park officials. Monarchs can also be found at Lighthouse Field State Beach. Another great natural wonder of winter is the yearly predictable tidal event known as King Tides, which features the year’s highest and lowest tides. This year’s King Tides will take place on November 5-7, 2025; December 4-6, 2025; and January 1-3, 2026, however, there are even more dates with these extreme tides! Extreme low tides (and high tides) will be present on the days leading up to and after the dates listed. Winter is also the best time to enjoy our other small creatures, like the banana slug or the California newt, which emerge during the winter’s wetter months.
Neptune’s Kingdom at the Beach Boardwalk by Jenn Day
2. ) Go Christmas Lights Viewing
Watching Santa Cruz come to life with Christmas lights is the best way to get in the spirit of winter festivities! December kicks off with the Lighted Boat Parade at the Harbor where 50 beautifully-decorated power and sailboats parade through the Santa Cruz Harbor. This year, you can watch the boat parade at 5:30 pm on December 6, 2025. Another great spot for Christmas lights and decorations is Farley’s Christmas Wonderland in Midtown, a walk-in Christmas experience. This festive exhibit celebrates the traditional wonders of Christmas and visitors can wander through elf villages, sit on fairy benches, and enjoy the holiday spirit. Over at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Holiday Lights, enjoy 1/2 mile of giant Christmas trees twinkling with lights, Santa, reindeer, snowmen, lighted tunnels, and many more magical moments. Enjoy lights by train on the Holiday Lights Train that departs from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Be sure to stick around the Winder Wonderland at the Boardwalk for more festive lights, photos with Santa, a 3-story tall Christmas tree and more!
Across all of Santa Cruz, locals get in the holiday spirit and decorate their homes with fantastic displays of Christmas lights you have to see to believe. From iconic homes like 2580 Bean Creek Rd in Scotts Valley to neighborhoods like Depot Hill in Capitola or historic Walnut Avenue in Downtown Santa Cruz, just driving around to find your favorite decorations is a wonderful way to enjoy winter here in Santa Cruz.
Wild Mushrooms in the Santa Cruz Mountains
3. ) Enjoy All Things Fungus
Mushroom hunting or foraging is a huge part of the Santa Cruz local culture in the winter months when higher rains lead to mushroom booms in the forests! After the first rain of the season, mushrooms begin to crop up everywhere in the natural spaces in Santa Cruz. Some of the best spots to go see mushrooms are the UCSC upper campus and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Whether you’re a full-blown mycophile or just interested in discovering the bountiful world of mushrooms here in Santa Cruz, there are events happening all winter long for all levels of interest. From guided mushroom walks at Schwan Lake to the Fungus Fair happening this January 9-11th, the winter season is truly mushroom time! If you’re less interested in mushroom hikes, or expert-guided mushroom hunting expeditions, you can always enjoy delicious fungus-forward foods at Far West Fungi, which has one of the best grilled cheeses in town! Always remember to be safe when mushroom foraging and consult experts before attempting to eat or pick them for yourself. Be sure to follow collection guidelines since California State Parks don’t allow for mushroom picking for personal use but enjoy looking at the beautiful bounty that nature creates right in our own backyards!
Fall Creek by Daniel Gorostieta
4. ) Hike Waterfalls and River Trails
Winter is one of the best times for hiking on trails with rivers and waterfalls, like in Henry Cowell State Park and Fall Creek. The increased rainfall rejuvenates the landscapes, turning the lush trails into a canvas of vibrant greens and cascading rivers. One of the most enchanting winter activities is embarking on hikes along the many water features that come to life during this season. Santa Cruz boasts an array of spectacular trails, where rivers and waterfalls take center stage, like the Lime Kiln Trail, which follows along a rushing river and offers several different waterfalls to enjoy. The winter rains transform these normally tranquil waterways into dynamic, rushing currents, adding an extra layer of excitement to the adventure. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, exploring Santa Cruz’s water-centric trails during the winter unveils a captivating beauty that is unique to this season. This is also the perfect time to see banana slugs and newts along the damp forest trails!
The Sunset from West Cliff Drive
5. ) Watch Spectacular Winter Sunsets
During the winter months here in Santa Cruz, the sunsets are truly phenomenal. The early setting sun sets the sky on fire with deep rich pink, orange, and red colors that will leave you awestruck. Santa Cruz winters bring cooler weather and rain, resulting in low humidity and crisp clean air. As a result, the winter air contains fewer particulates that can dull sunset colors or leave the air looking hazy. The daily light show of sunsets that look more like paintings than reality is best viewed in the Santa Cruz area between November and February. Find the best sunset viewing spots in the winter along West Cliff Drive or north at the beaches and bluffs along Highway 1 near Davenport like Four Mile Beach or Davenport Landing.
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!
ANNIEGLASS HOLIDAY ORNAMENT MAKING WORKSHOP November 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 December 12 and 13, 2025 @ 1pm – 2:30pm – $80 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.
SANTA CRUZ TURKEY TROT November 22, 2025 @ 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!
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.
SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE: A CHRISTMAS CAROL November 23 – December 24, 2025 @ various times Following a sold out run in 2024, A Christmas Carol returns as a holiday tradition for the whole family! Audiences can expect a theatrical and music-filled adaptation of this classic play in the heart of Santa Cruz at the historic Santa Cruz County Veteran’s Memorial Building.
WEST CLIFF HOLIDAY OUTDOOR MARKET 2025 November 28 – 29, 2025 @ 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! !
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: REINDEER ROUND-UP November 28 – December 23, 2025 @ 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 28 – December 24, 2025 The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project will again present HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2025 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.
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.
SEABRIGHT: FARLEY’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND November 28 – December 31, 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 29, 2025 @ 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.
SURFIN’ SANTA VISITS CAPITOLA November 29, 2025 @ 12pm – 2pm 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!
SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK WINTER OPENING DRONE SHOW November 29, 2025 @ 6pm Gather your loved ones and head to the Boardwalk’s Main Plaza to kick off Winter Wonderland with a tree lighting countdown and a festive drone show! Enjoy free entertainment, and cookies and hot cocoa while supplies last.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY: WREATH MAKING AND MIMOSAS November 30, 2025 @ 10am – 12pm and 12pm – 2pm Escape the holiday chaos and create lasting memories with friends at MOD’s Festive Wreath-Making Workshop! Let the kids explore the museum while you create, or enjoy a relaxing morning with your friends. It’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the season!
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR December 5 – 6, 2025 @ 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 5-6, 2025 @ 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.
ABBOTT SQUARE: SANTACON December 5, 2025 @ 6:30pm – 11:30pm Keep calm & get your ho ho ho on—Dress in your craziest, zaniest holiday wear and enjoy taking over a bevvy of bars in Downtown Santa Cruz! Meet at Front & Cooper inside of Abbott Square. 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
HOLY CROSS: CABRILLO COLLEGE MUSIC FOR THE FEAST OF CHRISTMAS December 5-7, 2025 @ 8:00pm Friday and Saturday, and 4pm on Sunday The way to begin your Holiday! The Cabrillo Symphonic Chorus will present its annual Music for the Feast of Christmas performance.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT CHAMINADE December 6 & 13, 2025 @ 9am – 11am – $35++per person – Reservations Required Join Chaminade Resort & Spa for a festive holiday buffet featuring Christmas favorites and a special appearance from Santa himself!
WATSONVILLE: HOLIDAY FACTORY SALES December 6, 2025 @ 9am – 4pm So many favorite things are made from start to finish in the Pajaro Valley right here in Santa Cruz County! Get some shopping done right from the factories!
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: HOLIDAY PARADE December 6, 2025 @ 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.
CAPITOLA: HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK December 6, 2025 @ 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 6 – 7, 2025 @ 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. You will be able to purchase a Wine Tasting with Festival Glass. Food will also be available for purchase. Dress warmly.
SEA TO SKY FARM: WREATH MAKING December 6, 2026 @ 11:30am – 1:30pm Go check out the Sea to Sky farm house, and learn to make a beautiful locally sourced, seasonal wreath to adorn your home for the winter months. They will have a bas, wire, and all the greenery and floral materials on hand for use, and of course, expert help and instruction on hand!
LESTER ESTATE WINES: HOLIDAY MARKET December 6, 2025 @ 12pm – 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.
APTOS VILLAGE GREEN: HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR AND TREE LIGHTING December 6, 2025 @ 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!
BOULDER CREEK: TREE LIGHTING AND SANTA VISIT December 6, 2025 @ 1pm – 6:30pm 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!
SANTA CRUZ HARBOR: LIGHTED BOAT PARADE December 6, 2025 @ 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.
HALLCREST VINEYARDS: HOLIDAY MARKET December 7, 2025 @ 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!
SEASCAPE RESORT: HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR December 7, 2025 @ 1pm – 4pm Go for the crafts, stay for the joy and find one of a kind gifts made with heart! Stroll through a beachy winter wonderland of local vendors. Enjoy drinks from a no-host bar, featuring holiday cocktails available for purchase. Santa Claus will be stopping by for photos and holiday cheer!
IVETA DOWNTOWN: PAINT AND SIP HOLIDAY PALMS December 7, 2025 @ 2pm – 4pm Create your own Holiday Palm inspired masterpiece! In just two hours you will be guided, step by step, in creating the painting of the day. Learn and practice various painting techniques as you go, with plenty of room for creativity. One-on-one help is always available & all supplies are included.
SCOTTS VALLEY: CRAFTS AND COCOA December 12, 2025 @ 6pm – 8pm Enjoy crafts, cocoa, and decorating cookies for all ages at the Scotts Valley Community Center. The $5 entry ticket covers crafts and cocoa. Materials for the crafts are provided. Holiday crafts for you to take home. Cookies cost $2 each.
MOUNT HERMON: CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS December 12 – 20, 2025 (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. Friday and Saturday concert starts at 7:30pm, and the Sunday concert at 2:30pm. Buffet seating precedes the concert. Purchase tickets here.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE DREAM INN December 13, 2025 @ 9am – 12pm Head to the Santa Cruz Dream Inn for their 7th 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.
TANNERY ARTS CENTER: WINTER ART MARKET December 13, 2025 @ 10am – 5pm Kick off the holiday season by immersing yourself in the creative spirit of Santa Cruz at the Tannery Art Center’s Winter Art Market, presented by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County. This annual event features live music, delicious food, and festive, family-friendly activities. Explore over 20 artist studios showcasing handmade gifts and discover unique treasures from local makers and guest artists.
WILDER RANCH STATE PARK: VICTORIAN HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE December 13, 2025 @ 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.
ROBERTS RANCH VINEYARDS: HOLIDAY MERRIMENT December 13, 2025 @ 1pm – 4pm Enjoy the Steve Abrams Jazz Trio as you make merry at the Holiday Wine and Charcuterie celebration. Go get your first pour and plate at the crush pad, then find a comfy spot to enjoy the views! Attended children and well-behaved pups are welcome to join.
SANTA CRUZ CIVIC AUDITORIUM: SYMPHONY HOLIDAY CONCERT December 13, 2025 @ 7:30pm And December 14, 2025 @ 1pm Santa Cruz Symphony’s Holiday Pops Concert offers festive favorites including holiday music by Leroy Anderson, the lighthearted and nostalgic Symphony -Hanukkah, selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, and singalong tunes in a variety of December traditions.
BRUNCH WITH SANTA AT THE BOARDWALK’S COCOANUT GROVE December 14, 2025 @ 9am – 12pm Grab your friends and loved ones and have a merry morning with Santa in the Boardwalk’s Historic Grove! Enjoy a gourmet brunch buffet, story time with the big guy himself, and festive cookie decorating.
FELTON COVERED BRIDGE: HOLIDAY MARKET December 14, 2025 @ 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!
LUPULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE: CHANUKAH CRAFT AFTERNOON December 14, 2025 @ 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!
VENUS WESTSIDE: HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET December 14, 2025 @ 2pm – 5pm Head to Venus Spirits to experience a pop-up Makers Market! There will be ceramics, stained glass, candles, mixed media art and more! Stop for a handcrafted cocktail or maybe some contemporary California cuisine, and make a holi-day of it!
WATSONVILLE PLAZA: NIGHT OF SPARKLE December 14, 2025 @ 2pm – 7pm Enjoy Noche de Brillo (Night of Sparkle), a FREE family-friendly evening filled with snow, lights, and holiday cheer. In addition to the California style snow play area, there will be a train ride, crafts, a holiday market, live entertainment. Be sure not to miss the light parade or the photos with Santa!
SANTA CRUZ MAH: TOY TRAINS December 18 – 22; 26 – 29, 2025 @ various times 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.
SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK: MOVIE WITH SANTA “ELF” December 18, 2025 @ 4:30pm – 7:30pm Tis the season for an evening of joy and holiday cheer inside the historic 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 – ‘Elf’.
SANTA CRUZ MAH: WINTER FAMILY DAY December 20, 2025 @ 12pm – 6pm: Toy Trains in the MAH atrium; 1pm – 3pm: 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 20 – 21, 2025 – 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 18th 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 20 – 21, 2025 – Two Performances Each Day @ 1:30pm and 4:30pm Experience Santa Cruz’s spectacular holiday tradition with Santa Cruz Dance Theater’s production of The Nutcracker, taking place at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. This year, welcome Lucien Postlewaite, principal dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet, who will be gracing the stage in a special performance. Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Lucien brings his world-class talent back to his hometown for a production not to be missed.
SANTA CRUZ WHARF: WINTER ON THE WHARF December 20, 2025 @ 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!
MISSION HILL: CHRISTMAS WITH THE SANTA CRUZ CHORALE December 20, 2025 @ 8pm on December 21 @ 4pm Christmas is a time of joy and tradition. Our audiences tell us they love our mix of early music and carols old and new.
BOULDER CREEK REINDEER RUN December 24, 2025 @ 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.
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.
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA: NEW YEAR’S December 31, 2025 @ 9pm – 1am Head to The View, a Treeside Restaurant to dance the night away to live music by The Alex Lucero Band 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.
CHANUKAH TRAIN January 2, 2026 @ 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.
California King Tides are coming to the shores of Santa Cruz County this fall and winter season! These naturally occurring and predictable events are when the highest and lowest tides hit our shores and create an even more dramatic coastline. At high tide, the powerful waves often crash against seawalls and extend beyond their usual natural borders. The extreme low tides expose tide pools rarely seen and allow miles of beach walking and extended exploration. The 2025 official King Tide dates are November 5-7, 2025; December 4-6, 2025; and January 1-3, 2026. Here are the low tide times for December and January:
Take a peek below for more information on timing your visit (yes, timing matters), where to go and what to look for, and for responsible tide pooling information.
And for those from out of the area, California King Tides is the perfect time to plan a winter getaway in Santa Cruz County! Book your stay and don’t miss this extraordinary time of year on the coast!
Time Your Visit
As we mentioned, timing matters! The best thing to do is consult a tide chart where you are able to see the exact times of the highest and lowest tides. For ease, we put the low tides for the official King Tide dates below. At least an hour before and after low and high tides yield extreme tides worthy of exploration! And another Insider’s Tip: as mentioned above, the day(s) before and day(s) after the official King Tides dates often still present extreme tides as well.
December 4: Low tide @ 4:04pm; -1.6 December 5: Low tide @ 4:54pm; -1.8 December 6: Low tide @ 5:45pm; -1.7 January 1: Low tide @ 3:08pm; -1.5 January 2: Low tide @ 3:55pm; -1.7 January 3: Low tide @ 4:41pm; -1.7
Where to Go and What to Look For
TIDE POOL AT LOW TIDE Tide pooling is at its best during King Tides. The exceptionally low tides reveal an underwater world of creatures and habitats well worth the find. From the usual sightings like crabs, hermit crabs, mussels, anemones, sea snails, and starfish (the leather starfish have been a particularly popular find last year!) to the more rare discoveries like urchins, sea cucumbers, nudibranch (pictured above!), and octopus, the low tides are a fascinating peek into the Monterey Bay. But please remember to watch your step and leave the creatures alone. We want to protect and preserve this beautiful coastline and the wildlife and ecosystems that call it home. Here are 6 of the top spots for tide pooling during King Tides:
Pleasure Point: Starts at 32nd Street and offers a huge expanse of tide pools uncovered by the receding waves during low tide events.
The Hook: This famous surf spot also doubles as a perfect tide pooling location! To find this spot, head to the Hook County Park parking lot at the end of 41st avenue and find the closest staircase across the street.
Natural Bridges State Park: Located at the end of Santa Cruz’s iconic West Cliff Drive, this easily accessible beach is a perfect place to squeeze in some tide pool time while staying close to the heart of the Santa Cruz area.
Capitola: Known for its quaint seaside small-town vibe, Capitola is equally the perfect place to explore at low tide! Visitors can walk from the Capitola Esplanade onto the beach to New Brighton State Park when the ocean recedes.
Scott Creek Beach: If you’re looking for a little more adventure, head North of Santa Cruz on Highway 1 to Scott Creek Beach for an unforgettable tide pool experience. This gorgeous beach features high craggy cliffs that tower over huge expanses of elevated tide pool areas full of a wide variety of sea life.
Greyhound Rock: Another North County treasure, Greyhound Rock is a wonderland of rocky tide pools teeming with marine life. Low tide is key for the pools to be visible.
And don’t forget to reference that tide chart! Read more on the tide pool locations listed above in our Tide Pooling Guide.
TAKE A WALK ON THE BEACH – A LONG ONE During the lowest tides, you are able to cover a lot more ground on your beach walk! Many spots that are usually un-walkable become walkable as beach sand is revealed to guide your steps. A few of our favorite long stretches are from Aptos to Capitola, the collection of Live Oak Beaches, and Watsonville beaches to Aptos. And for the little explorers, try the shorter low tide walk from New Brighton State Beach to Capitola Beach.
WATCH THE HIGH SURF FROM THE COAST If you’d rather post up on the coast and watch the impressive high tides, places like West Cliff, Pleasure Point, and Davenport will be excellent spots to view the high surf. But be sure to watch from a safe distance since the waves can reach new levels, and when coupled with a typical winter swell of larger waves, can be dangerous if too close. Remember to never turn your back on the ocean!
Protect and Preserve the Wildlife and Ecosystem: Best Tide Pooling Practices
Please remember to watch where you step and tread lightly on this delicate and beautiful ecosystem. Please leave creatures alone and only take photos of your King Tide experiences. Help us protect and preserve this beautiful coast so everyone can enjoy for years to come!
California King Tides Project
The California King Tides Project helps us visualize future sea level by observing the highest tides of today. You can help by taking and sharing photos of the shoreline during King Tides to create a record of changes to our coast and estuaries.
Enjoy some more photos from January 2025’s King Tides at Greyhound Rock Beach by Liz Birnbaum, The Curated Feast:
Halloween is upon us and Santa Cruz County has all the spooky fun this October! Trick-or-Treating on the Wharf, Halloween Parades, Pumpkin Patches, and so much more! Check out some of the best Halloween events throughout the county!
Pumpkin Patches Throughout October Whether you’re looking for pumpkin picking with ocean views or patches decked out with spooky decor, Santa Cruz County has plenty of spots to get you (and your home) in the fall spirit! Check our list here for the best places to pick your perfect pumpkin in Santa Cruz County this fall!
Roaring Camp Railroads: Thomas and Percy’s Halloween Party October 25 – 26, 2025 Little engineers won’t believe their eyes, or their ears! Percy will be joining Thomas the Tank Engine on the rails! Also, Thomas the Tank Engine™ will be able to talk to his fans! Dress up for Halloween with favorites Thomas™ and Percy™, for a 20 minute train ride, entertainment, and fun filled activities for the entire family. Activities include: face painting, story telling, train play tables, pick a pumpkin, cookie decorating, coloring, and more.
13 Days of Halloween on the Wharf October 19 – 31, 2025 Join the Santa Cruz Wharf for 13 days of frightful fun! Take part in the Great Pumpkin BINGO Hunt, snap a photo at our scenic photo booth, and enjoy festive Wharf specials ALL 13 days! It all kicks off October 19. For the Great Pumpkin BINGO Hunt, take your Bingo Card to the Wharf any day during the 13 Days of Halloween on the Wharf. Find hidden pumpkins on the Wharf. Match their ghoulish image on your bingo card and stamp your card. There’s also a photo booth on the Wharf Stage for all 13 days: Snap a festive photo with your family with the scenic Monterey Bay and Lighthouse as your backdrop. Wharf Specials – all 13 days – enjoy fabulous, unique specials from restaurants and gift shops perfectly catered to the Halloween theme. And of course, Trick-o-Treating on the Wharf – October 31, 3:00 – 6:00 pm. Bring the family to show off your creative costumes and trick-o-treat at Wharf businesses.
Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center: Nightmare Before The Nutcracker October 23-25, 2025; Various Times What if the rats win? Go to the ballet in your Halloween costume! It does not have to be Nutcracker-related, but there will be a prize for the winner! This twist on a holiday classic has some scarry dances that might not be okay for kids under the age of 8.
Skypark: Halloween Food Trucks October 24, 2025; 4:30pm – 7:30pm There will be a great lineup of Food Trucks and an amazing local band playing your favorite rock songs – the Dad Beats! There will be beer and wine for the grownups and face panting and a pumpkin patch for the not-so-grown ups. Even Fido is invited for the howl-o-ween dog costume contest!
Chaminade Resort & Spa: Vampire Ball October 24, 2025 (21+ event) Enjoy drinks (cash bar), a heavy bites station, a vampire DJ, dancing, a costume contest, photo ops and entertainment including fortune tellers & fire dancers!
County Sheriff’s Office: Trunk or Treat October 24, 2025; 5pm – 8pm Join the county Sheriff’s Department for their annual Trunk or Treat event! Decorated Trunks, candy, games, food vendors and more! Free parking and shuttle service will be provided at the Capitola Mall.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Chili Cook-Off October 25, 2025; see time details below 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! Cook-Off Schedule: 9:00 am – 10:00 am: Chef’s prep (no heat); 10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Chili cook time; 10:00 am: Tasting kits go on sale; 1:00 pm: Public tasting begins; 4:00 pm: Winners announced at the Colonnade Stage (front of Pirate Ship). Although not Halloween specific, there are plenty of folks dressed up, in great spirits, and serving up amazing chili!
West Cliff Drive: Day of the Dead Outdoor Market October 25, 2025; 10:00am – 5:00pm Just in time for Halloween, 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 two parking lots along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz. This is always a popular spot for locals and tourists, as it overlooks the famous Steamer Lane surf spot. The market will feature hand-crafted gifts and admission is free!
Santa Cruz Harbor: Trick-Or-Treat October 25, 2025; 4:00pm – 7:00pm The Santa Cruz Port District is excited to announce that Haunted Harbor will return this year for an evening of spooky fun and trick-or-treating. Participating in trick-or-treating qualifies for a Harboropoly stamp. so be sure to double up your fun!
Natural History Museum: Macabre Halloween Party October 25, 2025; 6pm – 9pm Come in costume and imbibe cauldron-concocted cocktails while exploring the chasms of the world beneath our feet. The eighth annual Museum of the Macabre will be bigger than ever with freakish festivities and special exhibits outdoors and inside the Museum’s galleries.
Witches Ball at the Brookdale Lodge October 25, 2025 Fall is coming soon and so is the Witches Ball. Don your most fabulous frock for the best party of the year! Go to the Brookdale Lodge, the most haunted place in California …. if you dare! Vendors and multiple bars to tickle your fancy. Spellbinding witch hat and costume contest. Dance the night away. An exquisite time to be had by all! Lots of spooky vendors! Party will be held both inside and outside. For ages 21 and up.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Trick-Or-Treating October 26, 2025; 12:00pm – 7:00pm Celebrate Halloween on Saturday, the 26th with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and spooktacular Boardwalk fun! It is always free to enter the Boardwalk, but if you would like to receive a collectible Boardwalk bag with a punch card for trick-or-treating, follow the link above! Head to the Main Entrance photo op banner to take a costume photo to enter the costume contest. If you win, your prize will be mailed to you! Will you be brave enough to venture under the Boardwalk? Fright Walk has been upgraded with Additional scares and more square footage. There will be some high-tech surprises and some good old-fashioned frights.
Santa Cruz MAH: Dia De Los Muertos October 26, 2025; 1pm – 4pm This October look forward to another vibrant gathering as we collectively celebrate life and death. For the past 7 years, the team at the MAH has had the opportunity to experience, grow, and share Día de los Muertos with more and more of Santa Cruz County.
Downtown Watsonville: Candy Crawl October 26, 2025; 2pm – 6pm Enjoy a hauntingly good time as you trick-or-treat your way through downtown Watsonville businesses! Save the date and fill your bags with treats and memories that will last a lifetime! No pre-registration is required — just show up!
The Grove Ballroom: “Halloween” Fright Flick October 29, 2025; 7:30pm – 10:30pm Bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this classic horror and suspense film that pays homage to an earlier classic horror and suspense film in the Boardwalk’s historic Grove ballroom. Your ticket includes your first drink from the full bar featuring signature drinks. You are encouraged to come in costume, but leave that Michael Myers mask at home, as masks are not allowed for anyone not being projected on the screen.
Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History: Classic Horror Movie Screening October 30, 2025; 7pm – 9pm Go see “The Citizen Kane of horror movies” on the eve of all hallows eve, or the eve of witches new year for a fantastic evening! The cult classic horror film The Wicker Man (1973) will be shown. This screening will be prefaced by a short 20-minute lecture on the History of Folk Horror by MAH’s Executive Director Ginger Shulick Porcella.
Downtown Santa Cruz Trick or Treat October 31, 2025; 2pm – 5pm Every Halloween, the Santa Cruz Police Department and the City of Santa Cruz close down Pacific Avenue for kids to trick or treat! Watch for signs in the windows of participating businesses.
Aptos Village: Halloween Parade October 31, 2025; 3pm – 4pm Get ready for the spookiest, most thrilling event of the year! The Halloween Aptos Chamber Parade is creeping into town, and you won’t want to miss it! Enjoy a fang-tastic time in front of the New Leaf Community Markets in the Aptos Village as the ghouls and goblins take over the streets. Dress up in your most creative and spine-chilling costumes and bring your family and friends.
Trick-Or-Treat on the Santa Cruz Wharf October 31, 2025; 3pm – 6pm Little witches, goblins, ghosts, superheroes and their parents can enjoy trick-or-treating on the beautiful Santa Cruz Wharf. Stroll the Wharf and visit your favorite businesses for sweet surprises. The event is free!
Abbott Square: Dog Halloween Costume Contest October 31, 2025; 5:00pm – 6:00pm It’s your Fur Baby’s time to shine! Sign up your dog to model their costume on the Abbott Square Stage during the Halloween Dog Costume Contest. Prizes for best costumes. Follow the link above for more details as the date gets closer.
Abbott Square: Halloween Bash October 31, 2025; 5:00pm – 10:00pm Bring the kiddos for trick-or-treating around the market. With delicious food, festive drinks, live music, costume contests, and plenty of Halloween cheer, this is one downtown celebration you won’t want to miss!
Boulder Creek Halloween Celebration October 31, 2025; 5:00pm – 7:00pm Put on your silliest, scariest or wackiest costume and join the Boulder Creek Downtown Trick or Treat on Halloween! This is one of the BCBA’s favorite events to host. There will be traffic control volunteers at the intersections and crosswalks from 5-7 ONLY! Please do not cross at Forest Street. Crossing the highway will be allowed at Lomond Street and at the 9/236 intersection. The highway will not be closed, so limiting the places to cross will keep you and your kids safer! Trick or treat!!
Catalyst: Halloween Costume Party October 31, 2025; 8:30pm – 11:30pm For ages 16 and up, head to the Catalyst for a costume party featuring Pacific Roots. Quickly becoming one of Santa Cruz’s next premier Reggae/Rock groups, Pacific Roots is building their popularity by shredding the stage with upbeat reggae jams mixed with punk rock swells and solos.
Hotel Paradox: Halloween Party October 31, 2024; 7pm – 11:59pm Big Queer Events invites all allies to a burlesque & drag show, plus a fully costumed DJ Dance Party lasting until the witching hour! Costume contest at 8pm, Drag and Burlesque show at 8:30 and DJ;s Mothership Connection from 10pm to midnight.
Joe’s Bar: Halloween Dance Party October 31, 2025; 8:30pm – 11:30pm Get ready to hit the dance floor with Jacks and Dogs, your new favorite Americana/rock and roll fusion crew, set to sweep you off your feet with their sweet tunes. Go hang out, grab a cold one, and let your feet move and your soul groove. If you haven’t been to Joe’s, you haven’t been to Boulder Creek!
Passed Events
The Grove Ballroom: “Us” Fright Flick October 1, 2025; 7:30pm – 10pm In “Us”, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk serves as the pivotal setting for the movie’s opening and climax, representing the place where the protagonist Adelaide first encountered her doppelganger in a flashback and where the final confrontation occurs. Will watching this movie in the place it was filmed increase the sense of unease and foreboding? Take your 21 and older friends with you to find out, and enjoy a signature drink!
Downtown Boulder Creek: Treat Walk October 3, 2025; 5pm – 8pm Head to Downtown Boulder Creek to enjoy the Annual Treat Walk where both artists and merchants will be handing out candy and treats to the kiddos. Although you are welcome to break out your Halloween costume early, it is not required.
The Grove Ballroom: “Scream” Fright Flick October 8, 2025; 7:30pm – 11:00pm Bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this fun movie blending scares, laughs and sharp wit upending classic horror cliches at the Boardwalk’s historic Grove ballroom. There will be themed giveaways for the first 50 attendees and a full bar with signature drinks and snacks available for purchase.
Tractor or Treat at the Agriculture History Project October 11, 2025; 11am – 3pm Come on out for some amazing fall fun! Second Saturday on the farm, Tractor or Treat! Kids and families will enjoy trick-or-treating around the farm, fall crafts, drive a tractor, enjoy a hay wagon ride around the fairgrounds and so much more!
Felton Farmer’s Market: Pumpkin Decorating Bonanza October 14, 2025; 2pm – 5pm Welcome the fall and its fading light with free pumpkin decorating! At this annual tradition, kids and adults alike will sit down to celebrate the harvest season, the coming holidays and the joy of playing with food. Rodoni pumpkins of all shapes and sizes will be dressed up with veggies, string, pipe cleaners, buttons, and googly eyes. Vendors take advantage of the theme – when you are done with the market hunt seek out some pumpkin ice cream and cardamom carrot pumpkin bread!
Festival of Monsters October 15, 2025; 5:30pm – 7:30pm and October 18, 2025; 11:00am – 6:00pm To go with the UCSC conference surrounding the academic research of monsters, public events around Santa Cruz will be taking place. See David Livingstone Smith, author of Making Monsters speak on The Uncanny Power of Dehumanization at 5:30pm on Wednesday, October 15 at 5:30pm at the MAH. Then, on Saturday, October 18, head to Bookshop Santa Cruz for a free panel discussion of horror writers at 11:00am. RSVP here. Then, walk from the panel discussion to Atlantis Fantasy World from 2-5pm to have Cole Lemke sign his latest graphic novel for you! Finally, just across the street, join a themed bluffing game overseen by a storyteller at 6pm at Game Santa Cruz. $20 tickets for the game only here.
The Grove Ballroom: “Nightmare on Elm Street” Fright Flick October 15, 2025; 7:30pm – 10:30pm Not to be confused with the Elm Street in Santa Cruz, where the Elm Street Mission encourages visitors to volunteer to help the needy, bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this classic horror film and signature drinks from the full bar. Fun inflatable chairs are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Heritage Harvest Festival at Wilder Ranch State Park October 18, 2025; 11am – 4pm It’s time to celebrate harvest time! Participate in historical activities and living history demonstrations including blacksmithing, the Pelton water wheel, and machine shop demonstrations. Enjoy live old-time music, baked goods, and hand-cranked pumpkin ice cream for sale. Enjoy kids’ crafts and games and partake in the apple cider press and heritage apple tasting!
Downtown Santa Cruz: Halloween Mask Making Festival October 18, 2025; 12pm – 4pm Enjoy the 26th annual Halloween Festival, including mask-making, creepy carnival games, All About Theatre Halloween performances and Thriller dance!
Simpkins Swim Center: Floating Pumpkin Patch October 18, 2025; 1:00pm – 4:00pm The Santa Cruz County Parks Department hosts an annual Floating Pumpkin Patch at Simkins Family Swim Center in Santa Cruz. The event allows people to swim and dive for pumpkins, which they can then decorate at a station with crafts. The event also includes games, prizes, and open swim time.
Kianti’s Pizza and Pasta Bar: Halloween Pizza and Drinks Throughout October Have Kianti cook up your Halloween nightmares! Drink the frightening Lucifer’s Lemon Drop or Put the Fright in the Coconut. Indulge in the kids Spider Pizza if you are dining in. If you need to feed a crowd at your haunted house, there are delivery and Halloween specials!
Roaring Camp Railroads Harvest Faire October 5 – 6, 2024 Welcome Fall with the Harvest Faire at Roaring Camp! Take the Redwood Forest Steam Train to Bear Mountain. Pick a pumpkin from the town pumpkin patch. Activities include: Pick a Pumpkin, Harvest Themed Kids Crafts, Blacksmith, Gold Panning, Live Entertainment.
Museum of Natural History: Creepy Crawly Watercolor Class October 8, 2024; 6pm – 8pm Featuring chilling insect displays, and the rarely seen insect taxidermy collection, this program is perfect for aspiring artists and entomologists alike. Taught by a professional entomological illustrator, this workshop will begin with a scientific presentation on insects before transitioning to the painting portion.
Scarecrow Sip and Stroll in Downtown Felton October 12, 2024; 12pm – 4pm Sip apple cider as you stroll charming Downtown Felton and cast your votes at the shops with your favorite scarecrow display.
Scotts Valley: Family Halloween Fun Fest October 19, 2024; 10am – 3pm Shop from a variety of local artisans and business. Enjoy games, crafts, costume contests, and Halloween-themed activities for kids of all ages. Win exciting goodies from generous vendors!
Venus Spirits: Tiki Macabre October 23, 2024 Embrace the dark and delightful world of Tiki Macabre with Lindsay Eshleman at Venus Spirits Tasting Room. Explore the spooky side of tiki cocktails in this thrilling and spooky class.
Bookshop Santa Cruz: Fang Fiction October 24, 2024 Bookshop Santa Cruz welcomes bestselling author, Kate Styaman-London for a reading and signing of her fun new vampire romance, Fang Fiction. Stayman-London will be in conversation with Dr. Rebecca London, Professor of Sociology and Faculty Director of Campus and Community at UC Santa Cruz. The paperback is $19 but attendance is free.
Scotts Valley: Haunted House October 24 – 26, 2024; 4pm – 8pm Haunted Schmetterling Village is calling all young children to trick-or-treat at its doors. Costumes encouraged! The tour is designed for children and their parents. The outdoor festival has something for everyone, including coffee and other vendors, a 125-foot maze, and roaming Thriller zombies. Scary, but not gruesome or terrifying, the climbing and crawling features are not designed for teens and adults, but childlike parents are welcome to join in where they can!
Museum of Discovery: Halloween Wizarding Adventure October 25 – 31, 2024; 10am – 5pm Enter a world of spellbinding wonder where you can send letters via Owl Post, master the art of potion making, fly through a game of Quidditch, embark on a wizardly scavenger hunt, and craft your own magical creations all free with museum admission. Wizards, witches, and muggles welcome & costumes are encouraged!
Cabrillo College: Haunted Halloween Music October 25, 2024 Go to Cabrillo College for some very spooky music of all genres in a collaborative effort of the entire music department! Costumes recommended.
Scotts Valley: Halloween Treasure Hunt October 26 and 31, 2024, 10am – 9pm Join the fifth annual Scotts Valley Halloween Treasure Hunt! Pickup your Treasure Map Saturday October 26th or Thursday October 31st from Togo’s Scotts Valley and begin your journey. They have expanded the treasure hunt to a second day to give more people the opportunity to participate. Event runs from 10am – 9pm on both days and participating businesses on the map will be sharing treasure.
Soquel: Howl-o-ween Doggie Date Night October 26, 2025; 6pm – 9pm Go to the dog parade and costume contest, then linger to watch Haunted Mansion with your pooch outside in the park. Don’t have a pet, but love dogs? Go anyway and cuddle with one that is up for adoption! Free and no registration needed.
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics at the Cabrillo College October 26, 2024; 6:30pm & 9pm 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 discover Halloween-inspired music at Cabrillo College under the gentle glow of candlelight.
Santa Cruz Harbor Witches SUP October 26-28, 2024; 10:00am – 12:00pm Join the SUP Shack for their 13th annual Halloween Paddle, where they bewitch onlookers and have general shenanigans on this witchly day at Santa Cruz Harbor. There are three outings. They are all at10am to noon for both Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
Capitola Village Halloween Parade and Trick or Treating October 27, 2024; 1:30pm – 3:00pm Ghosts, goblins, boys and ghouls… Don’t miss the annual Capitola Village Halloween Parade! Line up begins at 1:30 pm in the Beach & Village Parking Lot. Parade begins promptly at 2:00 pm. Parade will head down Capitola Avenue, wind through Capitola Village to the Esplanade, ending at Esplanade Park, where trick-or-treat bags and refreshments will be waiting. Trick-or-treating at Capitola Village shops following parade.
Watsonville Youth Center: Maze of Horror October 30 and 31, 2024; 5pm – 6:30pm The Youth Center Maze of Horror is BACK! Don’t get lost in the twists and turns of their annual Maze of Horror, where every corner may hold a spooky surprise… Can you make it all the way through?? Head over there to find out. 5pm – 6:30pm on both Wednesday and Thursday nights.
Museum of Natural History: Things That Go Bump in the Night October 30, 2024; 6:00pm – 8:00pm Go hear Dr. Jason Xavier Prochaska, with UCSC’s Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics, teach you how he uses sound to discover the edge of infinity. From listening to neutron stars, to the sound of an accelerating universe, it turns out there’s a lot of potential suspects when trying to uncover what things are going bump in the night!
Boulder Creek Sawmill: Halloween October 31, 2024; 7pm – 10pm Head to the Sawmill Restaurant & Ale House for their first annual Halloween party! They are setting up an outdoor movie from 7-9pm where fido is welcome. Inside there will be Karaoke shenanigans from 7-10pm. They are offering $100 restaurant credit for the best costume in the house!
Oblò Cocktails & Kitchen: Yeobo Halloween October 31, 2024; 8:30pm – 11:59pm Get ready for a night of frights, delights, and everything in between. Dress up in your best costume and get ready to dance the night away with Yeobo, Cold Water Law Firm, Desert Rider, Encounters of the Funky Kind! There will be a costume contest with significant prizes, and the first 50 ticket purchasers will receive a free drink from the band.
Whether you’re looking for pumpkin picking with ocean views or patches decked out with decor, Santa Cruz County has plenty of spots to get you (and your home) in the fall spirit! Check our list below for the best places to pick your perfect pumpkin in Santa Cruz County this fall!
Rodoni Farms
Farmers’ market regulars will recognize Rodoni Farms, an organic farm known for their pristine artichokes and Brussels sprouts. During the fall, you can visit their picture-perfect pumpkin patch with rows of the festive squash lining a gentle hill overlooking the ocean. Pumpkin Patch Open Daily from 9am – 6pm Beginning September 27th 4444 Cabrillo Hwy, Santa Cruz
Post Street Farm
For those sticking in Santa Cruz proper, Post Street Farm is a local favorite for fall fun. Their festive decorations, large variety of pumpkins, and other seasonal vegetables and flowers, make this urban farm a gem of the season! Make sure your phone or camera are charged – you’ll love all the photo ops at this place – and all the scares! Open Daily from 9am – 9pm 122 Post Street, Santa Cruz
Crystal Bay Farm
Located in Watsonville, Crystal Bay Farm is a fall favorite! With a variety of pumpkins and festive Halloween decor, this small local organic farm also offers u-pick sunflowers, vendors, music on the weekends, food trucks, and more! Entrance fee of $2 per person; no pets please. Open October: Weekdays from 10am – 6pm; Weekends 11am – 6pm 40 Zils Road, Watsonville
Clearview Orchards: U-Pick Apples and Pumpkins
Clearview Orchards sells fresh apples, apple juice, delicious apple turnovers, organic squash, pumpkins, dried lavender, honey, and more. The orchards are in a beautiful terraced setting overlooking the valley of Watsonville, Only 3 miles from the ocean and La Selva Beach! See their website for more information and to book, as space (and parking) is limited. September and October: Open Weekends from 10am – 4pm 646 Trabing Road, Watsonville
Corralitos Hills Farm
It’s Corralitos Hills Farm’s second season and they are welcoming visitors to their Pumpkin Patch on weekends from September 27 through October 26! Come out and enjoy a day of fun with your family where you can pick from a wide variety of locally grown and sourced pumpkins and gourds. They have fun games like bocce ball, cornhole, and horseshoes plus, picnic tables to enjoy a beautiful day at the farm in the countryside of Corralitos. Open Weekends, September 27 – October 26, 10am – 5pm 3240 Freedom Boulevard, Watsonville
Swanton Berry Farm
You’ll want to pull over when you see the old yellow pick-up truck that marks the incredibly charming Swanton Berry Farm. Swing open the screen door and step into the cozy farm stand teeming with a giddy assortment of strawberries, jams you can sample, pies, cobblers, warm cider, and pumpkins. Once you’ve assembled your sweet haul, plop some money into the honor system till and dig in at the blue picnic tables outside. The Farmstand is Open Daily from 8am – 5pm 25 Swanton Road, Davenport
Rodoni’s Farm Fresh Produce
Formally Fambrini’s, Rodoni Farm Fresh Produce is a quaint farm stand with a variety of organic and fresh fruits and veggies, flowers, snacks and cold drinks, frozen treats; locally made goods like soap, honey – and more; everything you need for your local gift buying! During the month of October, you can also take home a pumpkin or two! Open seasonally May – October: 10am-6pm Daily Located approximately 2 Miles South of Davenport, on Highway 1
Sunnyside Pumpkin Patch
The best of a traditional pumpkin patch, plus family friendly fun! Sunnyside Pumpkin Patch is centrally located in Soquel and is open from every day for the month of October. In addition to their pumpkins, Sunnyside also has gourds, squash, a gift shop, games, photo ops, and a jump house! Open 11am – 7pm Weekdays; 10am – 8pm Weekends 2831 Daubenbiss Avenue, Soquel
Capitola Produce
Sister company to Sunnyside Pumpkin Patch, Capitola Produce is an excellent local spot in the heart of Capitola! Get in the fall spirit and enjoy the best harvest of the season. Open 11am – 7pm Weekdays; 10am – 8pm Weekends 700A Bay Avenue, Capitola
The Great Pumpkin Patch
Conveniently located and family-friendly, never scary, but always festive feel, The Great Pumpkin Patch is great for little ones! Open October 1st – 31st from 10am to 8pm 2124 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz
Farmer’s Markets
And of course, if you’d rather pick your pumpkins (and gourds) as you shop the vast agricultural abundance of the county, stop by one of our farmer’s markets! With a market nearly every day of the week, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the farmers’ bounty! See the farmer’s market locations and schedules here.
Happy fall and happy pumpkin picking in Santa Cruz County!
Santa Cruz County is home to a vibrant community of artists, creators, and makers who open up their private studio spaces to the public once a year to share the beauty of their artistic endeavors. Open Studios is a free annual event that spans the first three weeks of October and allows visitors and locals alike the unique opportunity to see artists at work in their own spaces and buy directly from the source. If you have never experienced this phenomenal event, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Open Studios.
Charles Prentiss, Artist #18, paintings at the La Selva Commune – Photo and header photo by Liz Birnbaum, The Curated Feast
The Arts Council of Santa Cruz County hosts the Open Studios Art Tour every year to connect art lovers with artists from every corner of the county. The event, which features over 300+ talented artists and their spaces, is entirely free and self-guided, through a printed guide, a website and an app. The Open Studios Art Tour divides the participating artists by their counties so that each weekend (with the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor as the dividing point between counties), the public can visit artists in a given area during the beginning of October. The third and final weekend is encore time, where select artists reopen their studios all across the county at the same time.
Save the Dates for Open Studios 2025:
October 4 & 5: South County artists – from the Yacht Harbor and South
October 11 & 12: North County artists – from the Yacht Harbor and North
October 18 & 19: All County
Tom Watson, Artist #79, pottery studio in Soquel – Photo by Liz Birnbaum, The Curated Feast
Planning your Open Studios Time
With over 300 talented participating artists and studios to visit, it can feel hard to pick or plan out which ones to visit! The best way to plan your time is to grab a free artists guide from numerous locations across Santa Cruz County after September 16. You can pick yours up at any Good Times drop-off locations or head over to the Arts Council offices at 1070 River Street in Santa Cruz during open hours. Within the artists guide, you will find information about all the artists, where to find them, the mediums they use, and a sneak-peek picture of their works. There are some new featured symbols in the guide this year including Habla Español and New Artist.
The Santa Cruz Art League Preview Exhibit is another fantastic way to discover artists and plan your tour from there. Starting September 26 through October 19, there will be special preview exhibits where you can view select pieces from the participating artists to help you decide which you want to visit. Come stop by the gallery to find artwork that intrigues you, and make a note of which studios you want to visit from there. Finally, you can also attend the Reception on September 28, from 1-4pm.
Main Exhibit at Santa Cruz Art League September 26 – October 19 | Wed–Sun, 12–5pm Opening Reception: Sunday, September 28, 1–4pm | First Friday: Oct 3, 6–8pm 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz | @santacruzartleague | scal.org
Ercilia Medeiros, Artist #123 in South County – Photo by Michael Baba
In Watsonville, get a sneak peek at Open Studios at the Satellite Exhibit at Pajaro Valley Arts! From September 26 – October 19, 2025, the PVA Porter Building, 280 Main Street, Watsonville, will be featuring art exclusively for artists in La Selva Beach, Watsonville, Davenport, Bonny Doon, San Lorenzo Valley, and Scotts Valley. Exhibit Dates: September 21 – October 20; Preview Exhibit Public Reception: Saturday, September 21, 2-4 pm; Regular Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11-4pm; Open Studio Weekend Hours: 11am-5pm. Please note PVA will be closed on Saturday, September 28, for the PVA 40th Anniversary Party and Building Campaign Launch. See website for more information on exhibit dates and times.
Satellite Exhibit at Pajaro Valley Arts – Porter Building September 20 – October 19 | Fri–Sun, 11–4pm Opening Reception: Sunday, September 20, 2–4pm 280 Main Street, Watsonville | @pajarovalleyarts | pvarts.org
Another great way to plan your time is by viewing the Art Council’s Open Studios Artist Directory. Browse Open Studios artists by location, medium, or name and get a taste for their artistry. There is also a free app available soon on iTunes & Google Play (search for “Open Studios Art Tour”). You can mark your favorite artists in the app, map their location, and then build a tour around that. Follow @artscouncilsc on Instagram and Facebook for updates on the app and the events.
Photo by Liz Birnbaum, The Curated Feast
What to Expect
Once you’ve planned out which artists to visit, you might wonder what awaits you during the Open Studios Art Tour. On Open Studios weekends, bright green signs will be posted all over the county featuring the artists’ names, guide numbers, and arrows pointing to help you locate the studios. These lime green signs will guide the way to artists nearby and act as a personal invitation for you to come to explore their studios!
Every artist has a unique studio or pop-up space to share with visitors, but generally, at each open studio you can expect to enter the home, studio, or pop-up space of the artist where you can often find snacks or refreshments as well as a wide array of their artwork on display. The displayed artwork is for viewing and purchase. Some artists will even have live demonstrations of their artistic process or display the drafts of work-in-progress projects.
Open Studios is more than a chance to look at beautiful artwork in all of its mediums. This event highlights the wealth of creative talent in Santa Cruz County by connecting our community through creative pursuits. Whether you are a friend, family, neighbor, art-connoisseur, collector, or artist, Open Studios Art Tour is the best way to join and support the thriving community of artists here in Santa Cruz County.
Fall in Santa Cruz County combines the region’s warmest weather with the hallmarks of the harvest season. September and October bring long, sunny days and clear evenings, often warmer than midsummer, while the county shifts into the colors and traditions of autumn. Beaches are quieter but still perfect for swimming and surfing, the coastal fields along Highway 1 transform into rows of bright orange pumpkins, and the apple orchards of Watsonville come alive with picking season. In the redwoods, golden light filters through the trees, and at Natural Bridges State Beach, thousands of monarch butterflies cluster in eucalyptus groves. Local wineries mark the harvest with tastings and festivals, while farm stands overflow with late-season produce and fresh-baked pies. This guide collects the defining experiences of fall in Santa Cruz County, from outdoor adventures and classic local activities to seasonal flavors and community events.
Outdoor Nature Adventures
Fall in Santa Cruz offers some of the county’s best outdoor experiences. Warm, crowd-free beaches, glowing redwood trails, and seasonal wildlife migrations make this the perfect time to explore nature.
Chase Fall Color at Fall Creek The Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers nearly 20 miles of trails that burst with seasonal color. Maples and alders turn shades of yellow and orange against the redwoods, making it one of the county’s most striking fall landscapes.
Hike in Henry Cowell’s Golden Light Fall brings crisp mornings and soft golden light to the redwoods. Hike the River Trail or Eagle Creek for a peaceful autumn forest escape.
Stroll the Coastal Bluffs in Davenport The fall ocean swells put on a show, and the dramatic cliffs north of Santa Cruz make the perfect vantage point. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views.
Kayak Elkhorn Slough Fall is a quieter time to paddle this wildlife-rich estuary in Moss Landing. Spot otters, harbor seals, and migratory birds in their seasonal habitat.
See the Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges Every fall beginning in late October, thousands of monarchs cluster in the eucalyptus grove at Natural Bridges State Beach, filling the trees with delicate orange wings. It’s one of the county’s most magical natural spectacles.
Beach Bonfire Nights Cooler evenings mean it’s bonfire season. Head to Seabright, Twin Lakes, or Rio Del Mar with friends, blankets, and marshmallows for the perfect fall night.
Take a Scenic Backroad Drive through Bonny Doon As vineyards begin changing colors, drive through the rolling hills covered in colorful rows of grape vines transforming into fiery fields.
California King Tides – November 5–7, 2025 Witness the year’s most dramatic tides as powerful waves crash against seawalls at high tide and rarely exposed tide pools appear at low tide. From tide pooling to long beach walks, these extreme tides transform the Santa Cruz shoreline into a striking natural spectacle.
Iconic Local Activities
Autumn brings a fresh perspective to Santa Cruz’s most beloved activities. From orchards and pumpkin patches to train rides and seaside strolls, these experiences take on their own seasonal magic in the fall.
Pick Apples at Gizdich Ranch Load up a basket in the Watsonville orchards, then treat yourself to fresh cider and a slice of their legendary pie. Their season opens September 14 until supplies run out!
Pick Dahlias at Beeline Blooms Dahlia Farm In the Santa Cruz Mountains, Beeline Blooms Dahlia Farm opens its fields each fall for u-pick flowers. The season wraps up by early to mid-October, so plan your visit early to stroll the colorful rows and take home a bouquet of vibrant blooms.
Pumpkin Patches & Fall Photo Ops From the coastal fields of Rodoni Farms to the family-friendly Post Street Farm, local patches deliver classic fall fun and a perfect backdrop for pumpkin picking.
Ride the Roaring Camp Steam Train Departing daily from Roaring Camp in Felton, these narrow-gauge trains climb through towering redwoods and over trestles to the summit of Bear Mountain. Conductors narrate the history of the railroad and forest on this one-hour roundtrip ride.
Explore Capitola Village in Autumn Calm Summer crowds fade, but Capitola’s colorful seaside shops and restaurants are still full of charm. Stroll the beach and enjoy the mellow vibes.
Backroad Drive through Corralitos and Aptos Hills Wind through apple orchards, vineyards, and rolling hills dotted with fall colors. Stop at Corralitos Market for a sausage and cider.
Stroll Walnut Avenue’s Historic Homes Downtown Santa Cruz’s Walnut Avenue is lined with elegant Victorian houses framed by trees that blaze with color in autumn. It’s one of the best spots in the county to enjoy fall foliage while also taking in the charm and history of Santa Cruz’s architecture.
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races – Through October Watch the harbor fill with sails as local racers take to the water each Wednesday evening. Harbor restaurants and nearby beaches make perfect vantage points for soaking up the spectacle of boats racing against a fall sunset.
Saturday Guided Adobe Tours Join an interpreter at the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park for a guided tour of the adobe, held every Saturday at 11 a.m. Learn about daily life for Indigenous people before European contact, and explore how colonization and the mission system transformed their world.
Mushroom Foraging Walks With the first fall rains, the forests of Santa Cruz County come alive with mushrooms. Chanterelles and other wild varieties emerge along the forest floor, and local naturalists often lead guided walks to teach safe and sustainable foraging practices.
Seasonal Bites & Sips
Fall flavors shine across Santa Cruz County, from orchard-fresh apples and cozy pies to small-batch ciders and harvest-season wines. Local restaurants and tasting rooms bring the best of autumn to the table.
Sip Local Hard Cider Fall is apple season, and local ciders shine. Try Santa Cruz Cider Company in Watsonville, Tanuki Cider in Soquel, or Hallcrest Vineyards with Scrumpy Ciders in Felton for small-batch, crisp flavors.
Taste Fall Flavors at Local Restaurants Menus across the county shift to cozy seasonal fare that highlight the richness of our local flavors at restaurants like Home, Trestles, Jack O’Neill, and Persephone.
Sip Seasonal Drinks at Local Coffee Shops From spiced lattes to pumpkin mochas, Santa Cruz coffee shops embrace the season in style. Stop by favorites like 11th Hour, Verve, or Cat & Cloud to warm up with autumn-inspired drinks and enjoy a cozy café atmosphere.
Pick Your Own at Crystal Bay Farm Beyond pumpkins, this organic farm in Watsonville offers late-season produce and a sweet roadside stand.
Harvest Season in the Vineyards The Santa Cruz Mountains wineries are alive with harvest energy. Enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir while taking in the autumn views at Beauregard, Soquel Vineyards, Big Basin Vineyards, Windy Oaks, or Alfaro for the most scenic views.
Fresh-Baked Apple Pie from Gizdich Nothing tastes more like fall in Santa Cruz than a slice of still-warm pie made from apples picked right on-site.
Events & Local Happenings
Fall in Santa Cruz County is filled with festivals, art tours, and community gatherings that celebrate the season’s abundance and cultural traditions. Mark your calendar for these highlights:
Santa Cruz County Fair – September 10 – 14 Held in Watsonville, the county fair blends agricultural traditions with carnival rides, exhibits, live entertainment, and plenty of fair food.
31st Annual Aloha Outrigger Races – September 20, 2025 Head to the Santa Cruz Wharf to watch novice and community paddlers compete in short-course outrigger canoe races. The event also features hula performances and a lively celebration of Hawaiian culture by the bay.
Capitola Beach Festival – September 27-28 This two-day event welcomes the season with sandcastle contests, a fishing derby, a lighted nautical parade, and live music by the sea.
Glass Pumpkin Fest – September 27–28, 2025 The heirloom garden at the Live Oak Grange transforms into a sparkling patch filled with hand-blown glass pumpkins and gourds crafted by Chris Johnson Glass. Explore colorful works of art, meet local glassblowers, and enjoy a family-friendly, dog-friendly fall tradition.
La Bahia Hotel and Spa Open! Now open, experience the long-awaited La Bahia Hotel & Spa—Santa Cruz’s newest oceanfront luxury resort just steps from the Boardwalk.
Downtown Santa Cruz Harvest Festival – October 4, 2025 Celebrate the season with live performances, artisan booths, farm stands, and plenty of food in the heart of downtown. Families can enjoy carnival games, crafts, and a full day of fall festivities under the autumn sky.
Open Studios Artist, Beth Grippenstraw
Open Studios Art Tour – October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 2025 Open Studios is your opportunity to explore creativity in Santa Cruz County. For for over 35 years, their goal has been simple: connect artists with people who love art. For the first three weekends in October, artists from the redwoods to the bay open their studios so that friends, neighbors, and strangers from near and far can discover art in this stunning county. Location: October 4-5: Various Locations in North County; October 11-12: Various Locations in South County; October 18-19: All County
Monterey Bay Festival of Birds – October 10–12, 2025 Celebrate fall migration with field trips, workshops, and family activities across the Monterey Bay region, including events in Santa Cruz and Watsonville. This year’s theme honors both the joy of birds and the importance of conservation.
T-Birds on the Wharf – October 11, 2025 Vintage and classic Thunderbirds line the Santa Cruz Wharf for a day of car-spotting by the sea. Stay to enjoy waterfront dining and shopping with the best views in town.
Santa Cruz Mountains Passport Day – October 25, 2025 Passport holders gain access to more than 35 wineries across the Santa Cruz Mountains, each offering unique tasting flights, entertainment, and seasonal celebrations. It’s the perfect way to explore the vineyards and sip your way through the region.
The secret’s out! The fall season boasts some of the best weather of the year in Santa Cruz County, plus it’s chock-full of awesome events you don’t want to miss! From music, sea glass, and wine festivals to art and monarch butterfly tours, there is something for everyone this fall in Santa Cruz County. Take a look below for some of the best events happening this season:
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races Wednesdays through October 2025 Enjoy an incredible fall sunset! Harbor restaurants & the beach are great viewing areas to watch the sailboat races against the setting sun. Location: Santa Cruz Harbor, 135 5th Avenue, Santa Cruz
Elkhorn Slough: Free Tour of the Preserve Saturdays and Sundays; 10am & 11am; throughout the year 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 at the Visitor Center front desk, or call ahead the morning of using the phone number below. The Docent will craft a walk that meets the groups needs and abilities.
Redwood Forest Steam Train Rides Trains depart daily; check the Roaring Camp website for times and tickets Travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain as conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest. (One hour roundtrip). Location: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton
Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market Saturdays through 3rd Saturdays through November Come and get your fill of fresh, healthy, locally grown fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised eggs and meats, and local and sustainably caught seafood. In addition, find ready-to-eat cuisine, baked goods, and a full coffee and espresso bar. Location: 5060 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley
Fire in the Sky August 30, 2025 Kick off your Labor Day weekend and the start of Fall at the Fire in the Sky and Airport Open House. Watsonville’s Airport Open House includes first responder aviation assets, local agri-business flight departments, antique aircraft, flyovers, parachute flag jump, live music, free Kidz Zone, food vendors, and fireworks are returning this year! Location: Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way #A, Watsonville
First Friday Art Tour Santa Cruz September 5, October 3, and November 7, 2025; 5pm – 8pm 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 party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. Many venues entice attendees with yummy cheese-and-wine-filled spreads, while others have food trucks joining in on the fun. Read our Guide to First Friday for tips on where to begin and more!
Multicultural Fair September 6, 2025 Spend an afternoon wondering booths of cultural displays. Explore different cultures through their food, or admire the art, dances and music. Your group might decide to even join in a song and dance or two! Be sure not to miss the fashion show displaying traditional clothing of different cultures. Location: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley
Santa Cruz County Fair September 10 – 14, 2025 The show-stopping Santa Cruz County Fair returns September 11-15th for family fun, great entertainment, live shows, animal displays, carnival rides, and more! 2024 entertainment includes: Wednesday 9/11 & Thursday 9/12 Monster Trucks and Motocross; live music every night at the Amphitheater Stage, and nightly drone light shows! Location: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville
41st Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival September 13 – 14, 2025 Stroll the festival with friends and family, sipping exceptional wines from Santa Cruz Mountain wineries while admiring the artistic talents of over 100 fine artists. Sway to live music and be inspired by local dance groups while taking in the ocean breeze and breathtaking view of the Monterey Bay. Feed your cravings with tantalizing cuisine from local food purveyors, and cruise through the Artisans Marketplace for locally handcrafted goods. If that isn’t enough, Capitola Village is filled with restaurants for every taste and charming boutiques to satisfy a shopper’s dream. Art, wine, music, and gourmet cuisine in the enchanting beach-side setting of Capitola Village…summer’s last hurrah, and truly a weekend in paradise! Location: Capitola Village, Capitola
U-Pick Apples at Gizdich Ranch Weekends starting September 14 until supplies run out. Call Gizdich before you go to verify. It’s finally time! If you have not had a Gizdich pie have you really visited Santa Cruz County? Bring some containers to collect your own apples or purchase some there. When everyone is ready for lunch, enjoy a picnic behind their sales barn, and let the young-at-heart keep playing. Location: 55 Peckham Road, Watsonville
31st Annual Aloha Outrigger Races September 20, 2025 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 as well as enjoy hula performances by Kūhai Hālau O Mehanakealohakalaua’eikapoli Pā ‘Ōlapa Kahiko. Location: Santa Cruz Wharf
Santa Cruz Mountain Harvest Festival September 27, 2025 from 1pm – 6:30pm Head to the mountains above Santa Cruz to enjoy 4 live bands, beverage and food booths, local artisans, a bounce house, petting zoo, axe throwing, instructed line dancing, hay rides and more! It is free to enter the festival. A $15 wristband grants kids access to all the kids activities, and a $16 wristband gets adults a Harvest Festival glass and their first drink. Location: 13264 Middleton Ave., Boulder Creek
Glass Pumpkin Fest September 27 – 28, 2025 Enjoy the annual Live Oak Glass Pumpkin Patch, in the beautiful heirloom garden of the Live Oak Grange! The pumpkin crew at Chris Johnson Glass has been working all summer long to create a bountiful harvest of beautiful hand-blown pumpkins and gourds in every size and color. Locally grown and locally blown in our Davenport glass studio! This is a family-friendly, dog-friendly, and inclusive event, open to all art lovers and pumpkin enthusiasts. No purchase required. Location: Live Oak Grange, Santa Cruz
Capitola Beach Festival September 27-28, 2025 Capitola’s Annual Beach Festival will have something for everyone to enjoy! The community event will include a 3-Miler Fun Run hosted by the Wharf to Wharf, a Horseshoe Tournament, the Lighted Nautical Parade, a Fishing Derby, a Sand Sculpture Contest, the Chalk Art Event, a Concert in Esplanade Park, Rowboat Races and more! Join in on the fun at this free, family-friendly event! Location: Capitola Village, Esplanade Park, Capitola
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Bites and Brews October 2 – November 22; Thursdays – Saturdays; 4pm – 8pm (Excluding 10/3, 10/10 and 10/31) Head to the Boardwalk for great food and good vibes! Treat yourself to mouthwatering specialty pub-style dishes, available for a limited time. They are even better when paired with one of the Bay Area’s best craft brews. Stay for trivia, live music, or even a movie! Location: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz Harvest Festival October 4, 2025 Enjoy a day filled with fun, food, and festivities under the crisp fall sky. This family-friendly event brings together a wide variety of local performers, artisans, food vendors, farm stands, classic carnival games and crafts. Location: Pacific Avenue Between Water and Locust Streets, Santa Cruz.
Open Studios Art Tour October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 2025 Open Studios is your opportunity to explore creativity in Santa Cruz County. For for over 35 years, their goal has been simple: connect artists with people who love art. For the first three weekends in October, artists from the redwoods to the bay open their studios so that friends, neighbors, and strangers from near and far can discover art in this stunning county. Location: October 4-5: Various Locations in North County; October 11-12: Various Locations in South County; October 18-19: All County
Monterey Bay Festival of Birds October 10-12, 2025 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. Activities are planned throughout the Monterey Bay area in the cities of Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Salinas, and Monterey. This year the theme is “A joyful celebration of the life and the death of birds”. Celebrate the birds we have now, while learning about declining populations and conservation efforts. This theme is to honor and give space for different cultures and the different ways we commemorate death. Check out the website linked below for updates as they arrive.
T-Birds on the Wharf October 11, 2025 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 the best views in Santa Cruz! Location: Santa Cruz Wharf
Open Farm Tours October 11-12, 2025 Get to know your farmers and get a behind-the-scenes look into our regions vibrant working agricultural landscapes at the Open Farm Tours! There are 15 participating farms this year and a variety of activities. Press apples for fresh juice at one farm, taste over 10 varieties of figs at another, and then head over to another farm to pick tomatoes. Touring farms is a fantastic outdoor family activity and fall is a great time to get out and explore! Location: Various Farms; see map for location information
Welcome Back Monarchs Day! October 12, 2025 Join Natural Bridges State Beach in welcoming the monarch butterflies back to the park, where they will spend the winter. Enjoy arts and crafts, active games for kids, live music by the 5Ms, hand-cranked “monarch” pumpkin-flavored ice cream, information booths on monarch butterflies and butterfly gardens, and more! Free event.
Pleasure Point Fall Sip and Stroll October 18, 2025 Enjoy a fun-filled day of sipping and shopping in beautiful Pleasure Point. This in-person event is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support local businesses. Grab your tickets now and get ready for a memorable experience Starting Location: 3811 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz
Self-Guided Monarch Butterfly Tours October – January Take a self-guided tour of the Monarch Grove at Natural Bridges State Beach. Monarchs tend to arrive at Natural Bridges in mid-October, have peak observation numbers in late-November and early-December, and migrate out of the area by mid to late-January, but sometimes into February. The Monarch Grove Trail is open for self-guided monarch tours during park hours (8am to sunset.) Parking is $10. Location: Natural Bridges State Beach, 2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Mountains Passport Days October 25, 2025 The Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Passport is the ultimate way to explore the region’s award-winning wineries. This exclusive pass provides access to over 35+ participating wineries, each offering unique tasting experiences and unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. With the Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Passport, you’ll be able to taste them all and discover the unique flavors and characteristics that make each winery so special. With your Passport in hand, you’ll be able to explore the stunning vineyards, enjoy a complimentary tasting flight at each winery, as well gain as access to exclusive events and promotions throughout the year. On Celebration Days Passport holders are welcomed into participating wineries throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains, each offering a unique winery experience from special flights and entertainment to food trucks and more – making them perfect days to explore the region. The Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Passport is available for purchase online or at any participating winery. Location: Various Wineries and Vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Chili Cook-Off at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk October 25, 2025 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! Location: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Goat Hill Unique Antique and Artisan Fair October 31 & November 1, 2025; 10am – 4pm It’s back! Goat Hill is a community event not to be missed. If you have a love for vintage ~ styling your home with old-style objects, wearing vintage jewelry & clothing, and collecting unique art and objects then this is somewhere you need to visit! With over 100 vendors, you can find gardens, rusty, French, farmhouses, industrial and more! Food & adult beverages sold onsite. Location: Santa Cruz County Fair, 2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville
Capitola Plein Air Festival November 3 – November 9, 2025 Capitola Plein Air is back! This season, forty professional artists will arrive in Capitola to paint the town…literally! Artists set up their easels on the wharf, shore, and streets of beautiful Capitola, to paint live for four days (between November 4 – November 8). You’ll find hundreds of paintings on display, for sale, and entered into a competition on Sunday, November 9. You can take home a piece of Capitola culture, vote for your favorites for the People’s Choice Award, have a delicious meal from the food trucks, or get creative and make some art yourself. Location: Various locations in Capitola and the Capitola Village
California King Tides November 5-7, 2025 These naturally occurring and predictable events are when the highest and lowest tides hit our shores and create an even more dramatic coastline. At high tide, the powerful waves often crash against seawalls and extend beyond their usual natural borders. The extreme low tides expose tide pools rarely seen and allow miles of beach walking and extended exploration. Location: Whole County Shoreline
Giving Thanks Party November 7, 2025; 5pm-8pm 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! Location: Downtown Boulder Creek
Hot Rods at the Beach November 8, 2025 Check out hundreds of sweet hot rods, street rods, vintage, muscle, custom, and classic cars in the Boardwalk Parking Lot. Free admission! Location: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Sea Glass and Ocean Art Festival November 8 – 9, 2025 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 17th anniversary. Over 50 talented artists are bringing their boutique works to the Bay View room & Sunroom in the Historic Grove at the Santa Cruz Beach boardwalk. You’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces, from ceramics, soaps, sea salts, photography, fabric arts and stunning sea glass jewelry. There is plenty of parking, yummy food, views of the Monterey bay, a full bar and a community of ocean-enthusiasts excited to meet you! Location: The Grove, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz Fall Wine Walk November 9, 2025; 2pm – 5pm Presenting the Downtown Santa Cruz Fall Wine Walk 2024! Join us in the heart of the Central Coast to taste great wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. Enjoy sipping while strolling through many favorite Downtown Santa Cruz shops. At Check-in, receive your glass and a map of the pouring locations, and enjoy an afternoon of tasting and discovering. Plan ahead for a dinner or movie to follow! Buy tickets here. Location: Downtown Santa Cruz; Registration Check-In at 121 Soquel Avenue (Oswald)
Capitola Village Sip and Stroll November 15 from noon – 5pm Enjoy sipping local wines and beers while strolling through charming shops and boutiques in Capitola by the Sea. Your $55.20 admission includes a commemorative glass, 12 two-ounce pour tickets to be used as you shop and a map to locate which Village shops are hosting. Start Location: 420 Capitola Ave., Capitola
Celebrate the 4th of July in Santa Cruz County! Festive events are happening throughout the county and we’re highlighting a few you don’t want to miss!
Happy 4th, stay safe, and have fun in Santa Cruz County!
It’s a come-and-go-as-you-please kind of day with something for everyone—great food, live music, cool cars, quirky games, and the unbeatable energy of downtown Santa Cruz in summer. When: July 4 at 8 AM – 8 PM Where: Abbott Square and Cooper Street in Downtown Santa Cruz
The beloved World’s Shortest Parade is back this July 4th in Aptos! Celebrate Independence Day in Aptos at the “World’s Shortest Parade.” When: July 4 at 10 AM – 2 PM Where: Aptos; the corner of Soquel Drive and State Park Drive (will continue to Trout Gulch Road)
The Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July parade proceeds down Main St. from St. Patrick’s Church to First Street. Thousands of spectators line the route five to six people deep. Those wanting a front row seat, place their chairs along the route early in the morning of the parade date. When: July 4 at 12:30 PM – 3 PM Where: Watsonville; Main Street
This Fourth of July, take either the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train. Join us in the Town of Roaring Camp for family-friendly activities, live music and a good ol’ American BBQ. When: July 4; at 10 AM – 5 PM Where: Roaring Camp Railroads; 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Boulder Creek! Enjoy a parade, a block party with vendors, BBQ, and live music! When: July 4; 10 AM – 2 PM Where: Downtown Boulder Creek
After the Boulder Creek parade, head over to Junction Park swimming hole for live music, food, drinks vendors and more! When: July 4; 12PM – 5 PM Where Junction Park in Boulder Creek; 13264 Middleton Ave, Boulder Creek
Celebrate the 4th in Scotts Valley! Join for the Scotts Valley 4th of July Parade and Flyover! Please note, there are no fireworks shows this year in Scotts Valley or anywhere in Santa Cruz County. When/Where: July 4 – Parade & Flyover: 11 am on Scotts Valley Drive
All are welcome to join in an early 1900s-style Independence Day celebration! Join the parade through the ranch at high noon. Ongoing events include lawn games, and machine shop and blacksmith demos. There will be live music throughout the day, fresh baked goods and hand-cranked ice cream, living history demos, crafts, games, “The Star-Spangled Banner” sing-along, and more! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. When: July 4 at 11 AM – 4 PM Where: Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz
The 38th Annual Santa Cruz Firecracker 5K and 10K is back! Enjoy a fun run to kick off your 4th of July celebrations. There are 5K, 10K, and 1K options, so there’s a race for everyone! When: July 4 Where: Harvey West Park, Santa Cruz
However you chose to celebrate, please remember to stay safe, pack your trash, and DO NOT use fireworks. All fireworks are prohibited in the City of Santa Cruz, even “safe and sane.” And from July 4 – 7, the City of Santa Cruz will implement a Safety Enhancement Zone where violators will be subject to triple fines. For more information, please see this message from the Santa Cruz Police Department.
Enjoy toe tapping music and box office hits this summer in Santa Cruz County! Free concerts and movies by the beach, music in the park, and more, are waiting to take a spot on your summer schedule! The whole family will love these events, so get your calendar out and start planning your summer fun in Santa Cruz County!
And scroll to the bottom of this blog for even more great live music this summer! Although not free, these are concerts you don’t want to miss!
FREE MOVIES AT THE BEACH AT THE SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK
There’s nothing like watching your favorite movies right on the beach with the smell of kettle corn, corn dogs, and saltwater taffy filling the air! The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is welcoming back Movies on the Beach in front of the Colonnade near Neptune’s Kingdom. Bring the family and your blanket or low-back chair. Movies at the Beach are on Fridays beginning at 9pm from June 13 – August 8, 2025. Except for the 4th of July. See the full movie lineup below:
June 13, 2025: The Lost Boys
June 20, 2025: Men in Black
June 27, 2025: Ghostbusters
July 11, 2025: Jumanji
July 18, 2025: Clueless
July 25, 2025: Wizard of Oz
August 1, 2025: Despicable Me 4
August 8, 2025: The Goonies
EVENINGS ON THE COLONNADE AT THE SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK
Come for the rides and stay for the entertainment with Evenings on the Colonnade! Where you can listen to live music with delicious food & drink in your hand, be amazed by magicians & acrobats, and show off your best dance moves with a DJ dance party at the Plaza stage. Evenings at the Colonnade 2025 dates are yet to be announced but are from 8:30pm – 9:30pm on the Colonnade Deck. Live Music is on Mondays & Tuesdays, Musicians and Acrobats is on Wednesdays & Thursdays, and DJ Dance Parties are on Saturdays & Sundays.
Monday, June 16 at 8:30, Gymnast Molly Keczan will do the Farmer’s Daughter Show, and at 9pm, Bobby Besmehn will amaze you with his juggling show!
Tuesday, June 17 at 8:30 Bobby Besmehn will amaze you with his juggling show, and at 9pm, Molly Keczan will do the Farmer’s Daughter Show!
Wednesday, June 18 at 8:30pm, Molly Keczan will do the Farmer’s Daughter Show, and at 9pm, Bobby Besmehn will amaze you with his juggling show!
Thursday, June 19 at 9pm, rock out with the Dylan Rose Band!
Saturday, June 21 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, June 22 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, June 23 at 8:30, Comedian circus artist, Aaron Jessup will dance into your heart and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Tuesday, June 24 at 8:30, Comedian rope walker, Aaron Jessup will dance into your heart and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Wednesday, June 25 at 8:30, Comedian circus artist, Aaron Jessup will dance into your heart and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Thursday, June 26 at 9pm, rock out with the Alex Lucero Band!
Saturday, June 28 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, June 29 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, June 30 at 8:30, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you, and at 9pm, Clown School Sweethearts Coventry & Kaluza will make you laugh!
Tuesday, July 1 at 8:30, Scotty & Trick will make you gasp at their bad judgement, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Wednesday, July 2 at 8:30pm, The Magician Unique who fooled Penn & Teller, Patrick Livingstone will fool you too, and at 9pm, see the hilarious juggling and unicycling act of Scotty & Trink!
Thursday, July 3 at 9pm, get your groove on with Mat Masih and the Messengers!
Saturday, July 5 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, July 6 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, July 7 at 8:30, nerd out with comedian magician Jacob Jax, and at 9pm, the professional juggler, Mike Goudeau will entertain you!
Tuesday, July 8 at 8:30, professional juggler, Mike Goudeau will entertain you, and at 9pm, nerd out with comedian magician, Jacob Jax!
Wednesday, July 9 at 8:30, nerd out with comedian magician Jacob Jax, and at 9pm, the professional juggler, Mike Goudeau will entertain you!
Thursday, July 10 at 9pm, rock out with the 90’s rock cover band, Fire Peach!
Saturday, July 12 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, July 13 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, July 14 at 8:30, Clown School Sweethearts Coventry & Kaluza will make you laugh and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Tuesday, July 15 at 8:3o, Clown School Sweethearts Coventry & Kaluza will make you laugh and at 9pm, Kris Benz will deliver the magic!
Wednesday, July 16 at 8:30, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you, and at 9pm, Kris Bentz will deliver the magic!
Thursday, July 17 at 9pm, funk your soul out with Burnin Vernon!
Saturday, July 19 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, July 20 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, July 21 at 8:30, be amazed by the acrobat, Chairman MeeZee, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will continue to amaze you.
Tuesday, July 22 at 8:30, be amazed by the acrobat, Chairman MeeZee, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will continue to amaze you.
Wednesday, July 23 at 8:30, be amazed by the acrobat, Chairman MeeZee, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will continue to amaze you.
Thursday, July 24 at 9pm, rock out with classic rockers, Locomotive Breath!
Saturday, July 26 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, July 27 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, July 28 at 8:30, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you, and at 9pm
Tuesday, July 29 at 8:30 John Park will juggle and spin plates, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Wednesday, July 30 at 8:30pm, The Magician Unique who fooled Penn & Teller, Patrick Livingstone will fool you too, and at 9pm, John Park will juggle and spin plates!
Thursday, July 31 at 9pm, pay tribute to the 70’s rocking with the Billy Martini band!
Saturday, August 2 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Sunday, August 3 from 8:30-9:30 show your best dance moves at the DJ Dance Party!
Monday, August 4 at 8:30, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you, and at 9pm, experience the juggling sensation of The Keith Show!
Tuesday, August 5 at 8:30, experience the juggling sensation of The Keith Show, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Wednesday, August 6 at 8:30, experience the juggling sensation of The Keith Show, and at 9pm, Doug Hofkins, the Surfing Magician will amaze you!
Thursday, August 7 at 9pm, get on your feet and dance with the Tsunami band!
THURSDAY NIGHT BEACH PARTIES AT THE CROW’S NEST
Each Summer on Thursday evenings, the Crow’s Nest offers its Summer Beach Party series with fun and funky live entertainment right on the beach. The party starts at 5:30 pm each week and goes until sunset. With live entertainment on the outdoor beach stage and Crow’s Nest’s famous BBQ and outdoor bar, beach parties are a unique and popular event. Families are welcome, and there is no admission charge! After the sun sets the fun begins upstairs with dancing to the best of local live bands beginning at 8:30 pm with only a $5 cover charge.
For the beach parties, parking is very limited. Walk, ride a bike, get dropped off, take a cab or ride the bus, but leave the car at home. If you must drive, please do not park in local neighborhoods or on private property. Thank you!
May 22, 2025: James Durbin & The Lost Boys
May 29, 2025: Soulwise
June 5, 2025: The Cruzers
June 12, 2025: Wolf Jett
June 19, 2025: Harry & The Hitmen
June 26, 2025: Cake by the Ocean
July 3, 2025: Ripatti Rose Band
July 10, 2025: Jive Machine
July 17, 2025: Fishhook
July 24, 2025: Extra Large
July 31, 2025: Matt Masih & The Messengers
August 7, 2025: The Houserockers
August 14, 2025: The Joint Chiefs
August 21, 2025: Sambada
August 28, 2025: Alex Lucero Band
CAPITOLA TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES
Popular local bands rouse fun-loving crowds on Wednesday evenings in the Capitola Village. The free Twilight Concert Series features everything from classic rock to funk to dance hits and Latin fusion. All concerts are 6pm – 8pm and take place at the Esplanade bandstand with ocean views in the picturesque Capitola Village. Enjoy the performance from your own low-back chair on the beach or grab an outside table at one of the village restaurants.
Wednesday, June 11,2025: The Digbeats – Classic Rock & Oldies
Wednesday, June 18, 2025: Broken English – Caribbean Dance Music
Wednesday, June 25, 2025: Joy & Madness – Funk and Soul
Wednesday, July 2, 2025: The B-Movie Kings – Fun, Dance & Classic Rock
Wednesday, July 9, 2025: Extra Large – Positive Vibes! (Mostly Originals)
Wednesday, July 16, 2025: Sweet Voodoo – Classic Rock, Soul & Funk
Wednesday, July 23, 2025: The Joint Chiefs – R&B, Funk & Soul
Wednesday, July 30, 2025: Tin Man – Classic Rock Done Right!
Wednesday, August 6, 2025: The Delta Wires – Rockin’ Big Band Blues
Wednesday, August 13, 2025: Pacific Roots – Reggae Rock
Wednesday, August 20, 2025: Keep on Truckin’ – Rock, Blues, Funk & R&B
Wednesday, August 27, 2025: The Peelers – Top 40, Dance, 80’s/90’s Hits
CAPITOLA SUNDAY MAKERS MARKET 2025
The City of Capitola is thrilled to add to Sunday Art & Music this summer! Now called Capitola Makers Market, a fresh and inspiring evolution of Art at the Beach where you can soak up the stunning views of Monterey Bay while exploring an incredible collection of artwork. From beautiful paintings to captivating photography, unique sculptures to dazzling jewelry, and everything in between. Expect an enhanced experience with more diverse vendors while maintaining a strong connection to the artistic spirit of Capitola, across two iconic locations: Esplanade Park and the Capitola Wharf. Best of all, this family-friendly event is totally free and open to everyone. Don’t miss out on this fabulous day of creativity and fun!
Sunday, June 22, 2025 from 10am – 5pm at Esplanade Park
Sunday, July 20, 2025 from 10am – 5pm at Capitola Wharf
Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 10am – 5pm at Esplanade Park
Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 10am – 5pm at Capitola Wharf
CAPITOLA MOVIES AT THE BEACH
Capitola wraps up summer with a few Fridays of free family movies at Esplanade Park. Bring a picnic dinner or dine locally at area restaurants. Low-back chairs, blankets, and jackets are recommended. No alcohol or dogs on the beach. Movies begin at dusk. All movies are shown on the bandstand stage in Esplanade Park.
Friday, August 22, 2025 at 7:30pm: Honey I Shrunk the Kids
Friday, September 12, 2025 at 7:30: The Garfield Movie
TUESDAY NIGHT LIVE SUMMER WHARF CONCERT SERIES
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. Check out wharf business pop ups, game and photo booth by The Booth Biz in the Commons. Get a stamp validation from any business on the Wharf on Tuesdays and receive 2 hours of free parking! Be sure to bring a chair or wear your dancing shoes!
May 13, 2025: SambaDá
June 10, 2025 : The Viva Santana Show
June 24, 2025: Extra Large
July 8, 2025: The Lost Boys Featuring James Durbin
Come Celebrate all the vibrancy of Midtown at our Summer Block Party, happening every Friday! Food – Artists – Live Music – Vendors! The summer series of free events will feature the talents of 30+ local bands. In addition to live music, event goers will enjoy a selection of local eats as well as the opportunity to check out the work of local artists and vendors. Midtown Fridays starts May 31 and runs through to August 30. Midtown Friday Summer Block Parties are located at Midtown Square, 1111 Soquel Ave, in Santa Cruz, beginning at 5pm and going until 8:30ish.
May 30, 2025: Santa Cruz Super Group
June 6, 2025: Santa Cruz Latin Collective
June 13, 2025: James Durbin and The Lost Boys
June 20, 2025: Santa Cruda
June 27, 2025: Ribsys Nickel
July 18, 2025: Hijinx
July 25, 2025: Ripatti Rose Band
August 1, 2025: Alwa Gordon/Silvandgold & Friends
August 8, 2025: Alex Lucero Band
August 15, 2025: Ancestree & Friends
August 22, 2025: Jive Machine
August 29, 2025: Streetlight Records 50th Anniversary Party
Presented by the City of Watsonville, Music in the Plaza Concert Series! The summer outdoor Music in the Plaza concert series is back and will feature a variety of bands to help you get your groove on! Grab a bite at our downtown restaurants and join us for the music from 6 pm – 8 pm.
Just one block from Downtown Boulder Creek is beautiful Junction Park, named for the junction of Boulder Creek and the San Lorenzo River. This summer, you will be able to enjoy free music concerts every Wednesday from June 18 – July 30, 2025. The SC Eatery food truck will be on-site and beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for purchase.
The “Music at Skypark” concert series in Scotts Valley returns for its 15th season on the last Sundays of August and September! Kiwanis and local businesses will offer food, wine, beer and other concessions for sale. Concerts run from 2:30 to 6:00.
Sunday, August 24, 2025: Fishhook (1:30pm-3pm); Extra Large (3:30pm-5pm)
Sunday, September 28, 2025: The Inciters (1:30pm-3pm); The Houserockers (3:30pm-5pm)
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS & LIVE MUSIC AT SKYPARK
Food Truck Friday returns to Skypark in Scotts Valley! Local food trucks, desserts, live tunes, Beer & Wine Garden, and the return of Brenda’s Face Painting.
June 27, 2025 (5pm – 8pm)
July 25, 2025 (5pm – 8pm)
August 22, 2025 (5pm – 8pm)
September 19, 2025 (4:30pm – 7:30pm)
October 24, 2025 (4:30pm – 7:30pm)
BARGETTO WINERY’S THURSDAY NIGHT MUSIC IN THE COURTYARD
Join Bargetto Winery’s creekside courtyard in Soquel on Thursday evenings for Live Music and Wine! There is no cover charge and wine by the glass and light snacks are available for purchase. Each week Bargetto features a new local band (see schedule below). Reservations are required and they ask that you call the Sunday/Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday prior to that week’s performance to make your reservation. Reservations: (831) 475-2258 ext. 14
May 1, 2025: Alex Lucero
May 8, 2025: Hall Pass
May 15, 2025: Beach Cowboys
May 22, 2025: 10 O’Clock Lunch Band
May 29, 2025: The Joint Chiefs
June 5, 2025: Alex Lucero
June 12, 2025: U-Turn
June 19, 2025: Santa Cruda
June 26, 2025: The Joint Chiefs
July 3, 2025: The Swag Tones
July 10, 2025: Alex Lucero
July 17, 2025: The B Movie Kings
July 24, 2025: The D’oh Bros
July 31, 2025: The Joint Chiefs
August 7, 2025: Bootleg Country
August 14, 2025: Beach Cowboys
August 21, 2025: Nick & Shawn
August 28, 2025: The Joint Chiefs
September 4, 2025: Alex Lucero
September 11, 2025: Band TBA
September 18, 2025: Band TBA
Not Free, But Not-To-Miss Summer Concert Series
Nashville Nights at Chaminade Resort
Nashville Nights at Chaminade Resort
Ranch 1917 and Chaminade Resort are bringing Nashville to Santa Cruz! Get up close and personal with some of Nashville’s hottest musical acts. Experience an intimate concert while watching the sunset over Monterey Bay. These have been a total hit and should definitely make your summer bucket list! Get more info and purchase tickets here.
Santa Cruz County is cherished for many wonders – epic surfing, majestic redwoods, a historic boardwalk, and the fruits of the forest otherwise known as mushrooms. Between the many fresh and wild options that grow here and the plethora of fungi-forward foods, goods, and events, Santa Cruz County has become a hub for all things mushrooms.
From the best local products to the area’s shroomiest menus and top things to do, we’ve rounded up the places, people, and things that make up this county’s fascinating world of fungi.
Mushrooms in the Wild
Santa Cruz County is home to a stunning array of mushrooms, and every season brings with it different edible and non-edible species that crop up on decaying logs, rich earth, and other prime spots. Here are some ways to better understand, appreciate, and enjoy our wild mycological networks:
Get to Know the Locals: Did you know some of the top edible mushrooms can be found in Santa Cruz County? Some varieties include chanterelles, morels, yellow foot, black trumpets, candy cap, porcini, lion’s mane, cauliflower, matsutake, and many more – not to mention all the other incredible non-edible fungi varieties.
Public Land to See Fungi: This region’s many parks and natural spaces are all home to different species throughout the year. The Forest of Nisene Marks, Henry Cowell Redwoods, and Fall Creek (which is part of Henry Cowell) are three wonderful areas for mushroom-spotting while hiking. Explore, observe, and take photos…but leave the fungi where you find it.
Join a Group Outing: Whether you are a beginner or just want to brush up on your identification and foraging skills, group outings are a great start. Experts and organizations lead events throughout the year, especially at peak season, to share the wonders of the mycological networks (see more in the events section).
Foraging: If you’re interested specifically in foraging, we recommend taking a guided tour with an expert. The Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz, Wyldforest, and Forage SF, all offer guided foraging outings. Please always remember to adhere to safe and ethical foraging practices. Foraging is not permitted in state parks or on many public and private lands. Always remember to double-check mushroom identification with an expert before consuming.
Fungi-Forward Restaurant Menus
Inspired by the array of local mushrooms, many chefs and food/drink purveyors have given fungi a leading role on their menus. Here are some county’s restaurants and cafes spotlighting mushrooms:
Far West Fungi: The cafe and shop in downtown Santa Cruz is the destination for mushroom lovers. In addition to all the mushroom products imaginable, the cafe features a seasonal rotation of dishes like the Nashville hot sandwich, empanadas, and mushroom chowder – all made with organic mushrooms grown at Far West’s Moss Landing farm.
The Grove Cafe & Bakery: In the heart of downtown Felton, The Grove Cafe & Bakery serves dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, frequently including mushrooms. One favorite is the Mushroom Magic Toast, with shiitake and oyster mushrooms on house-made sourdough porridge bread. And don’t miss the cafe’s incredible mushroom wallpaper!
HOME: What was once a residential craftsman in a Soquel neighborhood is now one of the region’s most renowned restaurants. Known for exceptional coastal California cuisine, the HOME menu changes frequently but often includes fungi dishes like the beloved wild mushroom bolognese with fresh-made pasta.
Full Steam Dumpling: This favorite, tucked inside of 11th Hour Coffee downtown, serves up creative Asian dishes starring local produce, and meats, with lots of mushrooms throughout. From heavenly ramen bowls to flavor-packed dumplings, there’s nowhere mushrooms won’t go on the Full Steam menu.
Bookie’s: If you’ve never had Bookie’s Detroit-style pizza, you are missing out on fluffy sourdough crust, supremely crunchy cheesy edges, and uniquely delicious toppings. They usually have at least one seasonal mushroom pizza on offer, like chanterelle with guanciale or maitake and tree oysters with nettle. And the maitake mushroom wings are always a hit.
Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge: Located inside The Dream Inn, Jack O’Neill pairs its stunning waterfront location with a stunning array of local seafood, produce, meats, libations, and yes even mushrooms. Diners can enjoy highlights like abalone with mushrooms, an intriguing mushroom-bone jus, and the occasional special mushroom foragers menu.
Fungi Celebrations and Events
Santa Cruz County is home to multiple mushroom-themed events throughout the year – from foraging walks to multi-day bonanzas and everything in between. Here are some of the top activities for fungi lovers and novices alike:
Santa Cruz Fungus Fair January 9-11, 2026: This event started in 1974 and is still a tradition more than 50 years later. Hosted by the Fungus Federation of Santa Cruz in partnership with the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History every January, the fair features hundreds of regional species on display, plus demos, speakers, and more across three days.
Mushroom Month is January: Many downtown Santa Cruz businesses participate in celebrating mushrooms all month long by offering special dishes, displays, and other products highlighting the fruits of the forest.
From fresh fungi to infused goods and themed art, mushrooms of all forms can be found around almost every corner of Santa Cruz County. Here are some of the locations, shops, and businesses featuring fungi of all types:
Farmers Markets: Fresh farmed mushrooms are available at regional marketsfrom companies like Santa Cruz Mushrooms and Far West Fungi. Both also have storefronts to purchase fresh, dried, and other mushroom products (Santa Cruz Mushrooms is located in Live Oak, and Far West has shops in downtown Santa Cruz and in San Francisco).
Fungi-Inspired Brands: Local businesses are also tapping the powers of fungi for products, like the mushroom-infused Bennipopspopsicles from Santa Cruz Fungi popsicles.
Medicinals and Art: Mushroom-infused teas, themed art and decor, and other goods inspired by mushrooms and herbalism can be found at shops like Go Ask Alice, The Herb Room, and of course Far West Fungi.
Educational Goods and Novelties: From mushroom socks to books and field guides about the region’s mycology networks, educational and entertaining treasures alike are available at Bookshop Santa Cruz and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.
With such a vibrant fungi community in Santa Cruz County, this list is only the tip of the iceberg – or, rather, the cap of the mushroom. Have a fun time exploring the destinations, events, and menus included here, but don’t stop there! Be on the lookout for all of the other surprising places mushrooms are popping up in the area.
The expansive coastline in Santa Cruz County offers endless options to explore coastal environments for tide pool treasures. Exploring the tide pools of Santa Cruz unveils creatures like giant sea anemones, colorful sea stars, and dragon-like nudibranchs. Visiting tide pools during low tides or during the annual King Tides event is a wonderful activity perfect for people of all ages looking for a distinctly Santa Cruz experience. With these top 5 tide pools to explore here in Santa Cruz, you’ll never miss a low tide opportunity for adventure again!
Remember to recreate responsibly while exploring all of the wonders these different tide pools offer here in Santa Cruz County. Tide pools are not just incredibly beautiful sights to see but are also very sensitive habitats full of living creatures. So, remember that when viewing tide pools, always leave no trace, respect the creatures you encounter by giving them space, and watch where you step! Also, stay safe while tide-pooling by never turning your back on the waves, wearing appropriate shoe attire to avoid slipping, and always being aware of incoming tides to ensure you can safely leave the area before the tide rises.
1.) Pleasure Point
The Pleasure Point area, which starts at 32nd Street, offers a huge expanse of tide pools uncovered by the receding waves during low tide events. Choose any of the stairways along East Cliff Drive, like the very first one next to the giant tiki statue, to head down to the flat beach that stretches far out into the ocean. These popular tide pools offer an abundance of sea anemones, kelp crabs, and starfish. This tide pool location is one of the best in the area for finding the elusive nudibranch, which is a type of sea slug without a shell that comes in a variety of dazzling colors and looks like a tiny sea dragon! If you’re tide-pooling with kids, this is a wonderful, safe space for them to explore the ocean’s wonders since there are no large drop-offs and the terrain is flat once you reach the beach.
2.) The Hook
This famous surf spot also doubles as a perfect tide pooling location! To find this spot, head to the Hook County Park parking lot at the end of 41st avenue and find the closest staircase across the street. This stairway leads to the beach, where you will head left for a secret low tide spot that features peculiar rock formations covered in bright green algae. Sheltered in the spaces between the waving rocks are alcoves perfect for tide pool creatures like hermit crabs just waiting to be discovered.
3.) Natural Bridges State Park
Located at the end of Santa Cruz’s iconic West Cliff Drive, this easily accessible beach is a perfect place to squeeze in some tide pool time while staying close to the heart of the Santa Cruz area. The iconic rock arch that Natural Bridges State Park is named after is only accessible when the tides are very low. If you’re lucky enough to go tide pooling here, especially during King Tides, you can walk through the arch to find bright, colorful sea stars, vibrant sea anemones, and mussels. Along the shoreline of this state park, visitors can also find lively tide pools on jutting cliff faces. To find these, all you have to do is head down to the shore and then turn right to walk as far as you desire on the small cliffs, where you will find endless pools waiting to be explored.
4.) Capitola Beach/ New Brighton State Park
Capitola is known for its quaint seaside small-town vibe but is equally the perfect place to explore at low tide! Visitors can walk from the Capitola Esplanade onto the beach to New Brighton State Park when the ocean recedes. You can discover at this beach ancient fossils of shells embedded in the clay-like cliffs that are only visible at low tide. Exploring this unique low tide ecosystem is perfect for families looking for a unique experience since the area is entirely flat and offers boulders to climb around on and fossils to find!
5.) Scott Creek Beach
If you’re looking for a little more adventure, head North of Santa Cruz on Highway 1 to Scott Creek Beach for an unforgettable tide pool experience. This gorgeous beach features high craggy cliffs that tower over huge expanses of elevated tide pool areas full of a wide variety of sea life. From sea urchins to sea stars and, if you’re lucky, a tiny octopus, you will be astonished at the bounty of ocean treasures just waiting to be discovered.
BONUS LOCATION!
6.) Greyhound Rock Beach
Greyhound Rock is another North County treasure and is an excellent spot for low tide exploring. With the iconic rock visible from Highway 1 and the beach’s cliff-side parking lot, many may recognize Greyhound from a distance. However, for those willing to do a steep downhill descent (and later ascent), Greyhound Beach is a wonderland of rocky tide pools teeming with marine life. Low tide is key for the pools to be visible, but at high tide, the beach is just as enticing with sheer cliff walls, endless Monterey Bay vistas, and secluded walks along the Pacific coastline.
