With a wide range of free events taking place year-around, there’s always something to celebrate in Santa Cruz County every weekend. See what’s happening in Santa Cruz County and check out events here!

Tannery Arts Center: Spring Art Market

Tannery Arts Center 1010 River Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The Spring Art Market returns to the Tannery Arts Center just in time for Mother's Day! A full day of local art, live music, food, and open studios—bringing together artists, makers, and community across Santa Cruz County. 🎶 La Otra Banda (12–2 PM) 🎶 Yellowcat (3–5 PM) 🍴 Santa Cruz Eatery + Olio’s (coffee, food, […]

Free

Roaring Camp Railroads: Mother’s Day Brunch

Roaring Camp Railroads 5400 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

Treat Mom to something memorable on her special day with a delectable Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet accompanied with live music. After a lovely brunch, relax with a train ride through the towering redwoods. ACTIVITIES: Hallcrest Vineyards Brunch at Bret Harte Hall Live Music from Rory Lynch NEW! Tintype family portraits by the Midnight Oil Collective […]

$33.87 – $49.87

Watsonville: Wine, Beer and Art Walk

Historic Downtown Watsonville Main Street and E. Beach Street, Watsonville, CA, United States

The City of Watsonville and the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture are pleased to partner together to present their 7th Annual Wine, Beer, and Art walk in historic downtown Watsonville. This event is a great way for visitors to experience great local wines, craft beers, delicious food, and artwork by talented local artists […]

$45

Downtown Santa Cruz: Spring Wine Walk

Oswald Restaurant 121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, United States

Presenting the Downtown Santa Cruz Spring Wine Walk 2026! Enjoy the heart of the Central Coast and 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 […]

$40 – $50
Slime Week

Children’s Museum of Discovery: Slime Week

Santa Cruz Children's Museum of Discovery 1855 41st Avenue, Suite C10, Capitola, CA, United States

Santa Cruz's most satisfying sensory experience is back! Museum of Discovery is transforming with massive tubs of gooey goodness delivering amazing ASMR vibes for one week only. This is THE summer activity your kids don't want to miss! Squish, stretch and explore giant tubs of slime in a world of color and texture. Create lasting […]

$20

Downtown Santa Cruz: Juneteenth Parade

Downtown Santa Cruz Pacific Avenue Between Water and Locust Streets, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Juneteenth is a special day for anyone who believes in freedom and equality for all people. Attend and enjoy music, poetry, dance, delicious soul food, arts & crafts, basketball skills contest, and the annual sack race. Festive dress encouraged!

Free

Woodies on the Wharf

Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 3:30 PM- Woodies Parade off the Wharf

Free

Pleasure Point: Street Fair

Pleasure Point Portola Drive between 38th and 41st Avenues, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Pleasure Point will be buzzing as the community takes to the street to enjoy the Pleasure Point Street Fair. This event will be held on Portola Drive between 41st and 38th Avenues. There will be bike parking available, and admission is free. There will be great music, fun for kids, vendors, a beer garden, great […]

Free

SC Beach Boardwalk: National Carousel Day

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Celebrate National Carousel Day and our Looff Carousel’s 115th Anniversary. First 100 riders on the Carousel will receive a brass souvenir carousel ring. Normal ride pricing and restrictions apply.

$7.00 – $74.95

SC Beach Boardwalk: National Roller Coaster Day

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Celebrate National Roller Coaster Day by taking a spin on our National Historic Landmark, the Giant Dipper. First 100 riders on the Giant Dipper will receive a Boardwalk Souvenir Cup. Normal ride pricing and restrictions apply.

Santa Cruz County Fair

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds 2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville, CA, United States

The showstopping Santa Cruz County Fair returns September 16 - 20th for family fun, great entertainment, live shows, animal displays, carnival rides,  and more!!!

SC Beach Boardwalk: Fiesta en la Playa

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Come celebrate the vibrant traditions of the Latino community with mariachi, folklorico dancers, and a free beach concert. Enjoy Boardwalk rides and games plus fun food and beverage specials throughout the park. ¡Vamos a la playa!

SC Beach Boardwalk: Chili Cook-Off

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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!