With a wide range of free events taking place year-around, there’s always something to celebrate in Santa Cruz County every weekend. Choose an art and wine festival, a beer or music festival, a summer concert or movie on the beach, or an art and culture event like First Friday or Open Studios Art Tour. Enjoy a timeless event like Woodies on the Wharf, Fourth of July Fireworks, or Thomas the Tank Engine. Want to play? Run the Wharf to Wharf or go to a birding festival. Check out all the fun on tap!
Boardwalk Holiday Ice
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
831.423.5590 | beachboardwalk.com
Celebrate this holiday season with a new family tradition, ice skating at the Boardwalk! Festivities and Fun: Ice Skating by the Beach, on Real Ice! Select Boardwalk Rides and Games, Indoor Arcades, Mini Golf, and Laser Tag. Delicious Boardwalk Treats to eat. Classic Holiday Movies. Kids Craft Activities and Holiday Lights and Decorations! Schedule, reservations and tickets will be available online.
Mountain Community Theater Presents: The Cherry Orchard
Park Hall
831.336.4777 | mctshows.org
Chekov’s masterpiece tells the story of an aristocratic Russian landowner who returns to her family estate just before it is auctioned to pay the mortgage, and her increasingly desperate attempts to save the property. The play’s brilliance lies in its use of a critical historical moment, the aftermath of the abolition of serfdom in Russia – to explore and provide deep insights into families and relationships, all done with humor and intense drama. By Anton Chekhov. Directed by Bill Peters. Performance dates, times and tickets available online.
Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train
Departs from Beach Boardwalk
831.423.5590 | www.roaringcamp.com
A seasonal tradition returns to Santa Cruz with the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train. Vintage excursion cars, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, roll through city streets past homes of Santa Cruz. Holiday Lights Train runs on November 29-30th, December 1st, 7-8th and 14-23rd. New Years Train event runs on December 26-31st.
Museum of Art and History: Santa Cruz Tattoo’d
Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
831.429.1964 | santacruzmah.org
Uncover personal tattoo stories from across Santa Cruz County inside our new exhibition at the MAH. Dive into tattoo history and artistry found throughout the County, featuring the works of nine local tattoo shops and artists. Plus, give your friends and family a temporary tattoo in the pop-up tattoo shop located inside the gallery. We all have powerful stories that shape who we are, some of us choose to make those stories visible through tattoos. Explore the stories behind how and why we get tattooed through personal accounts from inked individuals across Santa Cruz County. People choose to get tattooed for all sorts of reasons. To mark important life events, show a commitment to a loved one or express an affiliation with a specific community or social group. For some, the decision to get a new tattoo isn’t as monumental. Whatever the reason, momentous or spur of the moment, each tattoo tells a unique story. In looking at these unique stories visitors will also explore the development of modern tattooing in Santa Cruz County, from illegal tattoo pop-ups at art shows to the movement toward legalizing tattooing in the 90’s. This exhibition will also highlight the work of local tattoo artists through a community tattoo portfolio and Santa Cruz inspired flash art wall. Plus, give your friends and family a temporary tattoo in the pop-up tattoo shop located inside the gallery. Featuring Artwork from Tattoo Shops: Black Pearl, Eight’s & Aces, Freedom Tattoo, F U Tattoo, Good Luck Tattoo, Good Omen Tattoo, Mission Street Tattoo, Samuel O’Reilly’s Tattoo Parlor, Staircase Tattoo and True Art Tattoo. MAH hours may vary during holidays.
Pajaro Valley Arts: Mi Casa es Tu Casa
Pajaro Valley Arts
831.722.3062 | pvarts.org
Mi Casa es Tu Casa is PVA’s annual exhibit inspired by Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a traditional holiday in Mexico that celebrates ancestors and others who have passed away. Altars (ofrendas) are built in homes and public spaces to honor and remember the dead. Similar customs exist throughout the world and we share common ground with many cultures in our desire to honor and remember those whom we have lost. Our theme this year is Pasajes y Puentes / Passages & Bridges. Passage is the act of moving through, over, under or past something on the way from one place to another. Boats are symbolic of passages as well as the journeys and transitions that we make in life and in death. Bridges can symbolize progress, connections, transitions and stability, as well as a way to reach a destination. Opening Reception: Sunday, October 27th 2:00 – 4:00 pm. Performances by: El Sistema and Ballet Folklórico Olin. November 10th: Poetry Reading at the gallery 2:30- 3:30 pm.
Capitola Obscura
Capitola Historical Museum
831.464.0322 | www.cityofcapitola.org
Our exhibition for 2019 is titled Capitola Obscura: Little-known Facts About Capitola History. Did you know that Capitola was once owned by one person? Did you know that a locomotive that pulled trains through Capitola is now displayed in the Smithsonian? These are just a few of the twenty obscure and unusual facts featured in this year’s exhibition. Each fact is explained through the use of historical artifacts and photographs from the Museum’s vast collection. The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, noon to 4:00 pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Free
Workshop: Eco-Friendly Gift Baskets
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
831.420.6115 | www.santacruzmuseum.org
This giving season, share the gift of sustainability. Learn new skills and practice limiting waste as you create a variety of eco-friendly products to include in a gift basket for an important person in your life — or treat yourself! We won’t tell. Products include:Naturally dyed tea towels, Sugar scrub, Bath salt soak, Foraged potpourri, and Hand-bound recipe booklets. Festive treats and drinks including mulled wine will be provided during this gathering at the Museum. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.
$30 – $40
Kuumbwa Jazz Prsents: Mike Stern – Jeff Lorber Fusion feat. Jimmy Haslip & Dave Weckl
Kuumbwa Jazz Center
831-427-2227 | www.kuumbwajazz.org
Having cut his teeth in Miles Davis’ 1980s comeback band, guitarist Mike Stern is a six-time Grammy-nominee. He first jumped on the scene as a member of Blood, Sweat & Tears, followed by work with legendary drummer Billy Cobham. Stern is a true virtuoso capable of dreamy, emotive ballads and searing jazz-rockers. Featured in the Mike Stern Band on this concert date are keyboardist Jeff Lorber, bassist Jimmy Haslip, and drummer Dave Weckl.
Advanced Ticket Price: $42.00; Door Ticket Price: $47.25
Two Showings at 7:00 P.M. and 9 P.M.
KOA Campground Christmas Village
Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA
831.722.0551 | koa.com
We’re bringing Christmas to the beach with our festive Christmas Village. Join us for Saturday night light shows, S’mores & coco with Mel, Christmas crafts, Christmas sing along train, a chance to meet Santa, snow and so much more!
Additional activities include:
-Site decorating contest – 1st place will win a 2 night stay in any choice of accommodations (2 will be awarded each weekend).
-Showing of the Polar Express
-Make or add your own ornament to the community tree.
Event occurs Friday and Saturday December 7th through December 21, 2019.
Wilder Ranch: Bird Watching for Beginners
Wilder Ranch State Park
831.423.9703 | www.parks.ca.gov
On this 2-hour walk, be prepared to hike two miles on uneven surfaces, with many stops to view the many birds, plants, and scenery along the way. You will help each other spot and identify birds! Bring your binoculars if you have them (binoculars are available to borrow), clothes for variable weather, and good walking shoes. Meet at the interpretive center. Everyone is welcome, but children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. Two hikes: 9:30 & 11:30 am.
Free
Big Basin State Park: Redwood Grove Loop Walk
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
831.338.8861 | www.parks.ca.gov
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible, Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Bring water and good walking shoes. Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00am and 2:00pm. Meet at park headquarters. Event is free. Vehicle day use fee is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Solaire Restaurant and Bar: Second Friday
Hotel Paradox (Solaire Restaurant and Bar)
831.600.4545 | www.hotelparadox.com
Every second Friday our Artist Reception features a local artist & musician in our Solaire Restaurant and Bar with hosted light appetizers. Enjoy Solaire’s delectable menu by our dynamic culinary team led by Chef Scott Radick & Sous Chef Erika Nonemaker. Come be inspired, lulled to relaxation or pumped up for the weekend!
Santa Cruz Warriors vs. Agua Caliente Clippers
Kaiser Permanente Arena
831.713.4400 | santacruz.gleague.nba.com
Cheer on your Santa Cruz Warriors, the most advanced players in the world outside of the NBA as they compete against the Agua Caliente Clippers in a 3,200 seat facility near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Game begins at 7:00 p.m.
Live At The Catalyst: Lil TJay with JT the 4th
The Catalyst
New York rapper Lil TJay is bringing the No Escape Tour to the Catalyst Club on December 13th. Event starts at 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. $27.50 for Advance Tickets and $30.00 at the Door.
National Scholastic Surfing Association
Steamer Lane at Lighthouse Point
831.420.5270 | www.nssa.org
The National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to encourage and assist its members in their interest to learn and develop the fundamentals and skills of surfing competition while competing in structured and quality events. The NSSA promotes the qualities of discipline and competitive excellence while supporting the merits of academic achievement to young surfers. The NSSA strives to provide a fun surfing experience for all of its members.
Rancho del Oso: Birding for Beginners
Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center
831.427.2288 | www.parks.ca.gov
Interpreter Jeremy Lin will lead an approximate 2 mile hike to observe and enjoy morning wildlife at Rancho del Oso. We will take our time and explore the beautiful coastal valley. No previous experience necessary. It is helpful to bring binoculars, bird guides and a readiness for patient observation as we witness wildlife awakening on a crisp Waddell Valley morning. Please RSVP to jeremy.lin@parks.ca.gov. Meet at the deck in front of the nature center. Free event.
Free
Wilder Ranch State Park: Backcountry Hike
Wilder Ranch State Park
831.423.9703 | www.parks.ca.gov
On this challenging 3-hour hike, we’ll explore the natural and cultural history of the upper hills of Wilder Ranch. This hike includes several descents and ascents. Bring water, lunch and hiking shoes. Meet at the interpretive center. Rain cancels. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
Free
Hidden Gems: Flowers of Big Basin!
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
831.338.8861 | www.thatsmypark.org
There are many less-famous, yet still beautiful, plants in the redwood forest. Join docent Kathy Willott on this four-mile, three-hour walk and meet some of the hidden gems of Big Basin! Bring water and lunch. Meet at park headquarters. Heavy rain cancels. Free event, vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call 831.338.8883.
Free
Big Basin: Outlook from McAbee Hike
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
831.338.8861 | www.thatsmypark.org
Join docent Hal Anjo on a 6-mile, 3.5 hour moderate hike to McAbee Outlook. We’ll stop at the top and enjoy the lovely ocean views, returning through a beautiful old-growth redwood forest. Learn about the different habitats as you watch the environment change as we climb and enjoy the view. Bring plenty of water, snacks and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day-use $10. For more information, call 831.338.8883.
Free
Agricultural History Project: 2nd Saturday – Christmas on the Farm
Agricultural History Project Center and Museum
831.724.5898 | aghistoryproject.org
Bring your family & friends to our 2nd Saturday on the Farm! Farm Animals, Tractors, Games & Crafts! Come out and enjoy a Christmas on the Farm. Enjoy traditional Christmas craft projects: paper chains, reindeer puppets, cranberry & popcorn stringing and Holiday movies in the Owl Theater. Bring your Teddy Bear to enjoy a “Teddy Bear Tea Party!” Visit with Santa Noon – 2:00 pm! Enjoy some of our favorite activities such as wooden cow milking, water pumps & drive a tractor. Admission is FREE and donations are gladly accepted. Every month we produce a 2nd Saturday on the Farm, a family event that focuses on a particular area of agriculture each month. Visitors can participate in the regular activities of the Ag history Project plus others related to the day’s special focus. We have created some unique interactive educational activities to help you have fun learning about past agricultural practices. Admission is FREE and donations are gladly accepted.
Free
Wilder Ranch State Park: Old Cove Landing Trail
Wilder Ranch State Park
831.423.9703 | https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=549
On this Saturday 2.5 mile, 2-hour family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of our coastal bluffs. Bring water, hat, closed toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Rain cancels. Most Saturdays throughout the year. No walk every 2nd Saturday of each month. Meet at the interpretive center. Event is free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. Events made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Castle Rock State Park: Loop Hike
Castle Rock State Park
831.291.8273 | www.thatsmypark.org
On this 1-mile, 1-hour interactive journey we will discuss the various park ecosystems, Ohlone history, Black Oak ecology, wildfire, and more. Bring water, closed toe shoes, snacks, and a camera. Meet at Castle Rock kiosk. No pets. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
Free
Natural Bridges State Beach: Monarch Butterfly Tours
Natural Bridges State Beach
831.423.4609 | www.parks.ca.gov
Meet at the visitor center for a free 1-hour guided tour of the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve. Monarch migration is variable, please check the website or contact the park to find out the current population. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Events made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks. Event starts every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Event is free, parking is $10.
Free
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Old-Growth Redwood Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
831.335.7077 | parks.ca.gov/?page_id=546
Are there different kinds of redwoods? How do coastal redwoods grow to become the tallest organisms on earth? Why are there so few old growth trees left? How important are banana slugs to the redwood ecosystems? Answer these questions and more every Saturday on our Redwood Grove Walks. One of our knowledgeable and friendly docents will lead you through the wondrous old growth forest and answer any questions you may have. Meet at visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call 831.335.7077. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Free
Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
831.338.8861 | www.parks.ca.gov/bigbasin/activities
Explore the Big Basin’s less traveled back-country with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike is individually tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level, and weather conditions, we’ll choose from the many trails that explore our most scenic areas. Bring water and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Wilder Ranch State Park: Ranch Tours
Wilder Ranch State Park
831.423.9703 | www.parks.ca.gov
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, 1896 water-powered machine shop, barns and other historic buildings. Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00pm. Event free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Free
Annieglass: Poinsettia Watercolor Workshop
Annieglass
831.761.2041 ext. 121 | annieglass.com
Local artist, Heidi Michelle, will teach this fun poinsettia watercolor workshop. The class will start with basic watercolor techniques to warm up the group, then move into a demo, followed by a step by step process of painting poinsettias that everyone can follow along with. Items provided: good quality paper (10”x 14”, Arches 140 lb paper), a board and tape, a brush, palette, and paint. No watercolor or painting skills required. A glass of regional wine, craft beer or sparkling drink is complimentary. Only twelve seats are available for this workshop. Save your seat today! Workshop cost is $75. Only twelve seats are available for this workshop. Save your seat today! If purchased online, you do not need to print out your receipt purchase. We will have in our records on that day. Tour or workshop participants receive 10% off Annieglass Firsts the day of participation. You must cancel 48 hours before the event to receive a full refund if you are unable to attend.
Santa Cruz Dance Guild & City Ballet: The Nutcracker – Experience the Magic
Cabrillo Crocker Theater
831.479.6154 | nutcrackersantacruz.com
Experience the Magic! Kick off the Holidays with tradition and joy. Something for the whole family to love. Join us for our 10th year at Cabrillo! Add some sparkle to your season with this magical ballet, a spectacular performance sure to delight and inspire all ages! Gorgeous costumes, dazzling sets and exquisite dancing! What better way to bring in the season than with smiles, laughter and joy? This production has become a steadfast holiday tradition. Something new to see each year! Krazy George, inventor of the Wave as Mother Ginger. Krazy George for Sunday performances only! We invite you to experience quality, entertaining Classical Ballet, enchanting choreography, magnificent guest artists, beautiful sets, brilliant costumes, family tradition and the joy of Dance. Experience the Magic for yourself! One weekend only! 2 Performances per day: Saturday, December 14th, 1:00-3:45 pm & 4:30-6:45 pm and Sunday, December 15th, 1:00-3:45 pm & 4:30-6:45 pm. Reserved seating. Tickets available online. Order your tickets today. Children under three on your lap are free!
Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park: Guided Adobe Tour
Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park
831.425.5849 | www.parks.ca.gov
Join us for a guided tour of the oldest building in Santa Cruz. Come learn about the many families who have called this 180-year-old mission adobe their home. Free event. For more information, call 831.425.5849.
Free
Watsonville Library: A Personal story with Frank Jimenez
Watsonville Library
831.768.3400 | cityofwatsonville.org
Watsonville Public Library presents an afternoon with Mexican-American author and educator Dr. Francisco Jimenez, author of The Circuit,Breaking Through, Reaching Out, & Taking Hold. Dr. Jimenez will share his personal experiences growing up in a family of immigrant farm-workers and will explain how these experiences have shaped his writing.
Visits With Santa at Buttercup Cakes
Downtown Santa Cruz
We can’t help saying it: in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Is our middle name! Families flock to see the jolly old man every weekend and to take a picture with this seasonal celeb.
Rancho Del Oso: Snake Park Saturday
Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center
831.427.2288 | www.parks.ca.gov
Why are snakes important to us? How do they see, smell, taste, and hear? What and how do they eat? What does a snake feel like? Come to the Rancho del Oso Ranger Station to learn about the fascinating world of snakes. Several snakes will be on display and native reptile adaptations will be discussed in the beautiful backdrop of Waddell Valley! Park at Waddell Beach and walk 0.4 miles past the yellow gate along the Skyline to the Sea Trail to the ranger station. Rain cancels. Free event. For more information, call 831.427.2288.
Free