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!
Head to the Henry J. Mello Center to honor all who served! 10:00 AM - Open to the public 10:15 AM - Watsonville Band Performance 11:00 AM - Ringing of the Bell 12:00 PM - Parade ends
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.
Monarch migration is variable and population numbers and dates are different each year. The monarchs typically begin arriving in mid-October and leave by mid-February. At Natural Bridges, late October and all of November is often the best time to go for a walk and observe the monarchs. The Monarch Grove at Natural Bridges has been […]
The Downtown Santa Cruz Market runs year-round on Wednesdays, 1-5pm year round. Our largest and oldest market, it is situated in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz, one block off of Pacific Avenue. Established in 1990, many of the farms that sell here were and remain pillars of the organic and ecological farming movement. This […]
Carlos Motta’s When Time Stands Still features new and recent installations, videos, and sculptures highlighting the artist’s preoccupation with the historical and aesthetic productions of difference and marginalization that shape the present. The selection of artworks in the exhibition explore the unsettling experience of living in a time that seems violently stuck on repeat. Archetypal figures […]
“Ni de aquí, ni de allá” (“neither from here, nor there”), is a phrase commonly used by bilingual, bicultural communities. In the exhibition the phrase becomes a bold declaration of dual belonging against a violent notion of nationalism and identity. Through paintings, immersive installations, sculptural works, and a curated soundscape, Marka27 invites gallery goers into […]
Far West Fungi’s Santa Cruz Store & Café is launching Myco-Mixers - Enjoy an afternoon of food, fun, and fungi! Each Myco-Mixer will feature complimentary bites, product samples, and happy hour discounts on café favorites. Guests can meet the Far West Fungi team, learn about unique mushroom products, and discover new flavors to take home. […]
On this 2.5 mile hike, be prepared to walk 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, clothes for variable weather, and good walking shoes. Meet next to park map […]
Check website for times of operation.
The Watsonville Farmers Market is every Friday afternoon from 2-7 all year round at the City Plaza in Downtown Watsonville. Don't miss out on the wonderful locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers. Bring your appetite as there are tons of delicious prepared foods to try.
🎻 Head to the beautiful mountains of Ben Lomond to experience Contra Dancing! 💃🕺 A contra dance event is a social dance that one can attend without a partner. The dancers form couples, and the couples form sets of two couples in long lines starting from the stage and going down the length of the […]
Market customers appreciate the bountiful selection of top quality produce and specialty foods as well as the opportunity to connect with the farmers and vendors who produce it. Ninety vendors, of which most are certified organic or use sustainable farming methods, offer pastured grass fed meats and poultry, sustainable fish, oysters, handcrafted cheeses, locally produced […]
Established in 2009 with the City of Scotts Valley, this market has become a seasonal treasure to the local community and to those visiting the area looking for a place to slow down and unwind. Here, every Saturday 9am-1pm, from late spring through the fall, a circle of regional farms, local food businesses and other […]
The Westside Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday, year round at the corner of Hwy 1 and Western Drive. Here we serve the communities of the west end of Santa Cruz including Bonny Doon, the North Coast and the University of California, Santa Cruz campus. Sitting on the northern edge of Santa Cruz’s greenbelt this […]
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 (831) 728-2822. The Docent will craft a walk that […]
Get ready to hike around an ancient seafloor! On this 1.5 mile hike through the Sandhills, which will last approximately 2 hours, participants can meander through sandy soils on the mountain top, about 800 feet above present day sea level. Explore this beautiful landscape and learn about the rare and unique things that call it […]
Over 50 craft vendors will offer unique jewelry, art, bags, pottery, candles, garden art, specialty foods, soaps, clothing, books and more. Friends of the Library Book Sale offers books for gifting and winter reading for all ages and interests. Local food trucks Tacos el Jesse and S&B will sell street food favorites. Free admission. For […]
On this 2.5-mile, 2-hour family-friendly walk, you will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the Santa Cruz County coastal bluffs. Bring water, a hat, closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Pre-registration required at the link in the orange button above. Meet next to the park map in the main parking lot. Rain […]
Experience an old-growth redwood forest filled with ancient trees over 200 ft. tall, and connect one on one with park staff. On this 1-mile stroll, you will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc., and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. You don't want to miss this! Meet at the visitor center. Although the […]
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1896 water-powered machine shop, horse barn, uniquely constructed 1860's cow barn, 1858 farmhouse, and 1897 Queen Anne Victorian home. *This is a 1 hour tour that starts at 1PM on both Saturday and Sunday *Vehicle day-use […]
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1896 water-powered machine shop, horse barn, uniquely constructed 1860's cow barn, 1858 farmhouse, and 1897 Queen Anne Victorian home. Meet at the visitor's center. This tour is free. Parking in Day-use lot is $10. Hold on to […]
Make your holidays extra special with our 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. The image shows finished ornaments. There will be stencils for tracing directly onto the glass and inspiration for […]
Mountainfilm on Tour brings a selection of culturally rich, adventure-packed and inspiring documentary films curated from the Mountainfilm festival in Telluride, Colorado. Head to the Rio Theatre and explore themes connected to Mountainfilm’s mission of using film, art and ideas to inspire audiences to create a better world. This year's screening will present the Adventure […]
Started in 2000, this neighborhood market has grown to be a weekly event that is loved and depended on by the communities of Live Oak, Pleasure Point and Capitola. Here the atmosphere is bumping with families, cyclists, beach goers, locals, visitors, the young and the old. Shoppers find an excellent selection of organic produce from […]
Enjoy the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market every THIRD Sunday in 2026! Featuring 40+ local makers & artists, this market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. Find some of your favorite Santa Cruz makers AND brand new ones...the variety of goods at the market is always exceptional. Friendly leashed pups are welcome! Check […]
Head to the Paradox Hotel for an Ocean Themed Art and Sea Glass Fair, with an edge! Vendors will be on theme with local art, ocean themes, sea glass like you've never seen and all the fun. Paradox will have the drinks flowing, and the food going , its a day you wont want to […]
As a volunteer docent for the County of Santa Cruz Park system, Richard James has researched the colorful history of Quail Hollow Ranch for years. His new tour, “Within These Walls: Ghosts of the Past at Quail Hollow,” condenses more than 151 years into roughly two hours. Learn about its history from transporting Abraham Lincoln […]
Presenting the Downtown Santa Cruz Fall Wine Walk 2025! Enjoy the heart of the Central Coast to taste great wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. Sip 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 […]
Salsa By The Sea is a free, weekly outdoor salsa dancing event held near the wharf on Beach Street, at the Ideal Bar patio. The event runs all year long (except when it rains). Some weekends are Bachata by the Sea, with more bachata music played than salsa.
Head to the Rio Theatre for a screening of TCB – The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing, followed by a conversation with one of the film’s directors and producers, Louis Massiah and Gina Dent, Ph.D. TCB – The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing (2025, 105 minutes) is a biography of the influential writer, […]
"Stand up, Armando!" is a comedy show where stand up comedians try out new material and improvisers use the material as inspiration for comedy scenes. It's a fun show with two comedy styles combined into one! (Ages 18+)
If you love California history and our state’s cultural heritage, come celebrate with us at the Castro Adobe State Historic Park! Visit at the next open house. This tour that repeats every 90-minutes throughout the day will surely have you falling head over heels with all the park has to offer! This 90-minute tour is […]
Enjoy the second Holiday Native Arts Market in Santa Cruz County! Buy made in the USA by from a variety of indigenous artisans. There will be drums, flutes, rattles, gourd art, wood carvings, abalone jewelry, ribbon clothing, handcrafted body and hair products, beadwork, indigenous berry jams, contemporary art, paintings, clay and gourd masks, rawhide shields, […]
Enjoy wines from small, local boutique wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains poured in various designated tasting locations up and down Swift Street in Santa Cruz. Check in for your wristband, glass and a map of the pouring locations – then enjoy an afternoon of tasting and discovering. Purchase your favorites from the wineries’ tasting […]
California King Tides are coming to the shores of Santa Cruz County this winter! 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 […]
Enjoy a quiet exploration of Quail Hollow Ranch, under the moonlight. On this guided hike on the lower trails, you can search for critters and meander through the forest. Bring flashlights and/or a headlamp (though you may try to hike without them), and some drinking water. Dress for the weather and wear good walking shoes. […]
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Chaminade with a world-class festive buffet overlooking Santa Cruz & the Monterey Bay. $95++ per person (Ages 13+) $35++ per person (Ages 3 - 12) ++ Plus Tax & Gratuity Reservations Required
Enjoy Sevy's for our annual Thanksgiving Buffet! Offerings this year include a Carving Station, Salad Bars, Traditional Thanksgiving Sides, Desserts and a table of Children's items. There will be three different seating times: 12:00pm-2:00pm 2:30pm-4:30pm 3: 5:30pm-6:30pm Non-Alcoholic Beverages are included in the per person price of $72 per Adult and $28 for Children 12 […]
Celebrate Thanksgiving at High Tide with a thoughtfully curated four-course menu inspired by the warmth and tradition of the season. Begin with roasted butternut squash soup and a roasted D’Anjou pear and burrata salad, followed by your choice of traditional herb-roasted turkey, pan-seared black cod, center-cut beef filet mignon, or house-made wild mushroom agnolotti. End […]
Get in the holiday spirit – celebrate the season at the beach! Enjoy a festive stroll through dazzling holiday lights and decorations at no cost. If you’d like to hop on a ride, you can purchase individual ride tickets or a Ride Wristband for unlimited rides all day. Games, attractions, and photos with Santa are […]
Get in the holiday spirit by bringing the family to ride a Redwood Forest Steam Train through the wintry redwoods to Bear Mountain. Sip hot cider while greeting Santa Claus. In town, enjoy winter-themed activities. Choose your 75 minute train ride to start at 10:30am, noon, or 1:30pm. They usually sell out of tickets on […]
Just in time for holiday shopping, 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 […]
Drop your letter to Santa in the North Pole mailbox on Pacific Avenue near Walnut Avenue, in front of Super Silver. Santa wants to hear from you: What’s at the top of your wishlist? What have you done or will do this year to help others? Do you have other questions for Santa?
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. Itinerary: Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Trains depart and return in front of Neptune’s Kingdom on the Boardwalk of Santa Cruz for a 60-minute […]
The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project will again present HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2026 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Starting November 27, 2026 – Holiday Lights will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until Christmas Eve. HOLIDAY LIGHTS is over a 1/2 mile drive-through experience at the Fairgrounds of spectacular lighted […]
Interested in observing and comparing old growth and second growth redwood forests? How about walking by the river and learning about what plants grow alongside it? Enjoy a guided stroll to Cable Car Beach! You will meet at the Redwood Visitor Center and be out for an hour and a half. Easy to moderate pace. […]
A Celtic Christmas is the gift nobody expects but everyone remembers. The night out you've been meaning to book. The memory you'll make with the people you love most. Whether you've got Irish in your blood, Ireland on your bucket list, or you're experiencing an Irish Christmas for the first time, A Celtic Christmas is […]
Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents A Christmas Carol Tickets are on sale for Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s production of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, a festive holiday tradition for the whole family. audiences can expect a theatrical, music-filled adaptation of this classic play. Adapted by Charles Pasternak and directed by Alicia Gibson, A Christmas Carol stars Mike […]
Join the Trolley Drops Holiday Jug Band as they perform their “Twistmas Carols,” holiday songs they have written by taking “standards” from folk, jazz, pop, and rock genres, keeping the melodies, and rewriting the lyrics with seasonally themed words. For example: • Credence Clearwater’s “Bad Moon Rising” becomes “Reindeers on the Rise,” • Ritchie Valens’ […]
Enjoy a Jug Band Jam hosted by the Trolley Drops Jug Band! It’s fun and it’s free. The songs they play are hokum blues, folk jazz & novelty tunes from the 1920-30s. That’s Jug Band Music! Song books will be passed out. Everyone is encouraged to bring your voices, ukes, jugs, kazoos, washboards, guitars, fiddles, […]
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 […]
Bundle up in the tackiest sweater you’ve ever been gifted for the holidays and head to the redwoods! As you look through arts and crafts, you will be treated to live music. There will be food and drink to purchase while you are there and watch out for the First Friday Boulder Creek Folks! You […]
If you wish the era of 1970’s jazz-rock and progressive rock never ended, then this is the band for you! Joshua Cedar (guitar) transcribed and charted some of the most amazing (not to mention insanely difficult) music of this incredible era and — perhaps even more amazing — found musicians who can play it! Joshua […]
Go meet and get your picture taken with Santa and his friends at the Chaminade as you enjoy a festive brunch and beautiful views of the Monterey Bay.
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 […]
First Saturday Tours are a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the Arboretum or to deepen your understanding of the Arboretum’s plant collections. Each tour is a little different depending on the time of year, the interests of the tour guide and the people who join in. You might learn more about the birds and […]
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!
A free to enter community event showcasing the magic of Downtown Boulder Creek. Enjoy the holidays brought to you in just one day! Snag some unique gifts when holiday shopping with local artisan vendors. Hit up the food court, and be sure to see Santa! Adult beverages, non alcoholic beverages & smore's sets will be […]
The Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. Limited viewing is available from the Murray Street bridge, from the East Harbor launch ramp, and from a variety of harbor paths. Charter boats are available. Remember to bring a reusable mug for the hot drinks and snacks […]
Get your friends and family together for a free event full of fun vendors, kid's activities, Santa, wine and so much more!
Who's ready to get their holiday craft on? On Sunday, December 6, from 1-4pm, head to Abbott Square Market for a fun and FREE holiday craft session. -Paint a wooden dreidel -Paint a tree ornament -Make a holiday card This craft event is an all ages event.
Join the Trolley Drops Holiday Jug Band as they perform a show of “Twistmas Carols,” holiday songs they have written by taking “standards” from folk, jazz, pop, and rock genres, keeping the melodies, and rewriting the lyrics with seasonally themed words. For example: • Credence Clearwater’s “Bad Moon Rising” becomes “Reindeers on the Rise,” • […]
Tis' the season for an evening of joy and holiday cheer inside The Grove: Santa Cruz Event Center! Enjoy exclusive time with Santa, cookie decorating, and a viewing of the iconic holiday movie How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
9:00am - Breakfast Begins | 9:45am Program Begins Enjoy full ocean views, breakfast buffet, full bar (for the parents, not the elves) cookie decorating, arts & crafts, face painting, a visit and songs with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a surprise Christmas story reading!
Get into the holiday spirit and explore Santa Cruz’s creative heart at the Annual Winter Art Market, presented by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County. Enjoy live music, tasty food, and festive family-friendly activities. Browse over 20 artist studios filled with handmade holiday gifts and meet guest artists and makers offering unique treasures. Highlights Live […]
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Event is free, day-use parking fee is $10.
Step into the magic of Christmas in 1920’s Santa Cruz! Santa Cruz Dance Theater presents a spectacular new vision of The Nutcracker, transporting audiences to the Santa Cruz of a century ago, when the beloved Giant Dipper roller coaster first opened at the Beach Boardwalk. Featuring beautiful classical ballet, enchanting costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, […]
Enjoy the Steve Abrams Jazz Trio as you 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. Just make sure you get a kid's ticket through the […]
Come enjoy holiday decorations, Wharf specials and see Santa arrive on the Wharf by a vintage fire engine!🎅 📸Take photos with Santa! ☃️ Checkout Wharf Business Specials! ❄️Play in the snow area with Elsa and Anna from Disney's Frozen! 🎈Enjoy custom balloon designs from Lee Balloons! 🎨 Get your face painted or feathers in your […]
Join the Trolley Drops Holiday Jug Band as they perform a show of “Twistmas Carols,” holiday songs they have written by taking “standards” from folk, jazz, pop, and rock genres, keeping the melodies, and rewriting the lyrics with seasonally themed words. For example: • Credence Clearwater’s “Bad Moon Rising” becomes “Reindeers on the Rise,” • […]
The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am-5pm, weather permitting. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more! Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.
The annual tradition of the Felton Holiday Market will again take place on the historic covered bridge. ACTIVITIES: Arts & crafts Delicious food & beverages Music Holiday lights And other festivities!
During the winter season, Año Nuevo State Park requires the usual self guided elephant seal viewing to be only led by a tour guide. This is because the winter season is when you can expect to see the males in all their winter bulk of 3,000 to 5,000 lbs.! As spring starts to arrive, so […]
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 […]
Flynn Creek Circus is an all-human spectacle. Look for the big tent at the Capitola Mall parking lot. Limited, free parking for attendees is available. Follow the link in the orange button above to select the best showtime for you! The Cricket & the Wren is a highly original, all-human fairytale that enchants through breathtaking […]
Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas recreates the joy and innocence of a night before Christmas in a remote farmhouse in his native parish of Teampall an Ghleanntáin in the west of Ireland in the 1950s—when the neighboring families gather around the fire to grace the wintry night with traditional Irish Christmas carols to raise the […]
Kick-off your holidays with JOY! Add sparkle to the season with the magic only the Santa Cruz City Ballet Nutcracker can bring. From the youngest dancing gingerbread cookies to aspiring professional dancers and guest artists, this Nutcracker has it all… Gorgeous costumes, dazzling sets, and exquisite dancing sure to delight and inspire all ages! A […]
Get all of your Holiday Shopping needs in one spot! Have brunch at Solaire, grab a hot toddy and get shopping. There will be visits with Santa, photos, ornaments and all the gifts your little holiday heart can handle! The event is inside and parking onsite is free for the day! Just wander into the […]
The Annual Reindeer Run in Boulder Creek will be on Christmas eve! Go work off that plum pudding and promote togetherness, silliness, 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 […]
Looking for somewhere to enjoy a delicious Christmas meal this year? Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen at Seacliff Inn is offering a Christmas Day Buffet. Indulge in a holiday buffet with family and friends that will leave you full and merry! Make your reservations here.
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 2025 right. 6:30 – 7:30pm each evening.
Harlem Globetrotters: Rivalry Tour, set to play in Santa Cruz. This tour is unlike any other in 100 years, with a whole new game, a new lineup of rivals, and all-new challenges that raise the stakes at every stop. Fans won't just be watching, either - this season puts them in on the action, Don't […]
Attention chowder lovers! Taste the best at the 46th Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off! Sample chowder from Amateur Chefs on Saturday, followed by Professional Chefs on Sunday. Both days feature Boston and Manhattan Clam Chowder, and you can help pick a winner each day. Rain or Shine! Tasting kit proceeds benefit Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
The Watsonville Film Festival promotes Latin and indigenous cultural traditions with free events for the community throughout the year.
A spectacular World Premiere production, Alice in Wonderland reimagines Lewis Carroll's beloved story through a bold, wildly imaginative artistic vision — featuring breathtaking sets and costumes designed in collaboration with world-renowned artist Romero Britto. This one-of-a-kind production pushes the boundaries of classical ballet, blending the elegance of world-class cast with the visual spectacle of Broadway-style […]
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 Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Salinas, and Monterey. Check out the website linked in the orange button above […]
