Music, art, and performances combined with rich cultural history and beautiful natural surroundings are all ingredients – when combined – give Santa Cruz County its creative flair. Opt for a self-guided tour of businesses which display the work of local artists during the First Friday Art Tour. Kid-friendly museums offer something for everyone, and arts and culture experiences in Santa Cruz County are easy to find! Explore local museums and retail galleries like the Santa Cruz Museum of Art, Pajaro Valley Arts Council, Santa Cruz Art League, Santa Cruz Mountain Arts Center, and more.
Guests on the self-guided tour are welcomed by artists and artisans and can see creations evolve before their eyes. At Abbott Square Market in Downtown Santa Cruz, public art and performance combine to create a vibrant public space, with interactive displays for kids and a hip, young vibe. Take a class, or explore rotating or permanent exhibits throughout the county, and discover the creative energy that makes Santa Cruz County so unique! Located in Watsonville; Annieglass, an award winning glasswork production studio, offers Craft Bar experiences led by acclaimed artist and owner Ann Morhauser. Create a succulent garden, leather wallet, pint mug and more!
During the summertime, Santa Cruz County offers countywide performing arts for visitors to enjoy. Santa Cruz Shakespeare offers productions of ye’ old classics under the stars in DeLaveaga Park. Cabrillo College holds its own Festival of Contemporary Music, which celebrates the community, ignites social conscience and sparks the imagination! See below for a full list of ‘Arts and Culture’ related activities in Santa Cruz County!
