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!

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Events

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Ano Nuevo SP: Elephant Seal Viewing Temporarily Closed

Año Nuevo State Park 1 New Year’s Creek Road, Pescadero, CA, United States

--Click the link in the orange button to keep updated on availability of Elephant Seal Viewing-- Stroll over sand dunes, enjoy beautiful ocean views, and gain a unique opportunity to view Northern elephant seals on this 3-mile, 2.5-hour guided trail! Layered clothing, closed-toed shoes, and rain/wind gear are strongly advised. Bring water. Food, umbrellas, and […]

$9.50

Actors Theatre: 8 Tens @ 8 Festival

Actors' Theatre 1001 Center St., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Thursday Through Sunday at 8pm (plus 2pm on the Weekends) Until 2/15/26. Festival Winners Play 2/27 - 3/8! The annual 10-minute play festival is one of the most anticipated and popular events of the theatre season in Santa Cruz! There will be 16 winning plays and 16 directors.  Presented on two separate evenings, there will […]

$15 – $35

Santa Cruz County: Burger Week

All of Santa Cruz County

During Burger Week, participating restaurants throughout Santa Cruz County will offer a fixed-price burger for $15, $18 or $20. With both longtime local favorites and new gourmet offerings, Burger Week encourages guests to try a new restaurant or rediscover a tried-and-true favorite.

Farmers Market at Felton

Felton: Farmers Market

Felton Farmers' Market 120 Russell Ave, Felton, CA, United States

The Felton Farmers’ Market is a treasured weekly gathering May through October, now running for over 30 years. We appreciate the dedicated customers who call this market a second home. Your support of regional agriculture and small, local businesses makes a difference. The Felton Farmers’ Market was started in 1987 and is the second oldest […]

Watsonville: Farmers Market

Watsonville: Farmers Market

Downtown Watsonville Watsonville, CA, United States

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.

Santa Cruz Baroque Festival

Santa Cruz Baroque Festival

Santa Cruz: Various Locations Santa Cruz, United States

Enjoy this annual celebration of early music as it sounded in its own time! Learn a bit about the joy of Baroque music with a festival that is an expedition through musical time. 2026 Season: January 31 @4pm: Musical Stories of Brass and Organ (532 Center St) February 8 @4pm: Organ Virtuoso Performance (126 High […]

Free – $50

Hwy 17 Studios: Live Cure and Love and Rockets

Hwy 17 Studios 831 Almar Ave, Santa Cruz, United States

An Intimate Night with Lol Tolhurst & David J Legends: Live & Local is a new live music and storytelling series from Event Santa Cruz that connects iconic, world-famous musicians with local artists—creating once-in-a-lifetime collaborations, conversations, and performances. This official Legends: Live & Local event brings together two true pioneers of post-punk, Goth, and alternative […]

$50 – $90
Cabrillo College: Aptos Farmers Market

Cabrillo College: Aptos Farmers Market

Cabrillo College 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, United States

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 […]

Westside Santa Cruz: Farmers Market

Westside Santa Cruz: Farmers Market

Westside Farmers' Market Mission St. Ext. and Western Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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 […]

Big Basin Redwoods State Park: See Oldest State Park Recover From Fire

Big Basin Redwoods SP: See Oldest State Park Recover

Big Basin Redwoods State Park 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA, United States

Join a Volunteer Docent or State Park Interpretive Staff on a guided walk through the iconic Redwood Loop at Big Basin! This program is a 1 hour walk on a 0.6 mile, flat and easy trail designed for all ages. Learn about the natural and cultural history of Big Basin and how the forest is […]

Free
Roaring Camp: Train Ride and Guided Mushroom Walk

Roaring Camp: Train Ride and Guided Mushroom Walk

Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

Begin with a scenic steam train ride to the top of Bear Mountain, then hike and forage your way back into town while learning the core skills of safe mushroom foraging, identification, and fungal ecology. Led by Maya Elson. What's included Guided Ecosystemic Mushroom Foraging Hike and workshop. Picnic Basket Lunch - your choice of […]

$68.90 – $143.10
Hearts on Fire Hot Glass Workshop

Studio Zayante: Hearts on Fire Hot Glass Workshop

Chris Johnson Glass-Studio Zayante 131 Old Coast Road, Davenport, United States

Chris Johnson Glass is bringing back the Love in February with their annual Hearts on Fire hot glass workshop. Go make a beautiful glass heart to give to your special someone, or come together to make hearts to exchange. Whether you are looking to create a Valentine’s Day memory, celebrate a birthday or anniversary, or […]

$165 – $185

UCSC Arboretum: Hummingbird Month

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Go celebrate the beginning of hummingbird migration season with a visit to the Arboretum! This time of year, the Arboretum hosts both Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds, the two most common species in Northern California. “The density of hummingbirds—the number per area in the Arboretum—is ridiculously high,” says Bruce Lyon, professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology […]

$5 – $10
Comedy Night

Abbott Square: Comedy Night

Abbott Square Market 118 Cooper St, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Come hang out in the secret garden and have some laughs, EVERY MONDAY NIGHT. Featuring comedians from all over the area and beyond.

Free

SC Civic Auditorium: Violent Femmes

Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

45 years ago, their self-titled album got so popular they went platinum, no thanks to mainstream chart success or radio play. In the 80's, everyone had a copy of the album on cassette, and their folk punk sound influenced numerous bands across genres like grunge, pop punk and indie rock. Artists from Pink to Keith […]

$72.14 – $244.92
Downtown Santa Cruz: Farmers Market

Downtown Santa Cruz: Farmers Market

Downtown Farmers' Market 700-798 Cedar Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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 […]

Abbott Square: Trivia Night

Abbott Square: Trivia Night

Abbott Square Market 118 Cooper St, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Trivia every Wednesday! Hosted at Front and Cooper inside of Abbott Square Market Go test your knowledge, win some prizes and have some hand crafted cocktails! Brought to you by Hugging Porcupines Productions

Free
Far West Fungi: Myco-Mixer

Far West Fungi: Myco-Mixer

Far West Fungi 224 Laurel St APT A101, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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. […]

Free

Scotts Valley: Alfred Hitchcock Festival

Scotts Valley Performing Arts Center 251 Kings Village Rd, Scotts Valley

Get ready for the 4th annual Alfred Hitchcock Festival! There will be film screenings, food, drinks, and more! The Hitchcock Festival offers a rich tapestry of activities, blending screenings of classics with insightful analyses and discussions. These sessions, led by film scholars and experts, provide a deeper understanding of Hitchcock's work. The festival also features […]

$50 – $150
First Friday Santa Cruz

First Friday Santa Cruz

Multiple locations throughout Santa Cruz County Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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 […]

Free

Quarry Amphitheater: Lila Downs

The Quarry Ampitheater 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to the Quarry Amphitheater to see Latin Grammy Award Winner, Lila Downs! This singer-songwriter blends genres and rhythms like cumbia, jazz, and Mexican rancheras into her compositions. She sings in Spanish, English, and native languages, and has collaborated with artists like Juanes, Norah Jones, and Santana. Downs has performed at Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl and has released award […]

$67.50 – $118.26
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Birdwatching Hike

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Birdwatching Hike

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground 2591 Graham Hill Rd, Scotts Valley, CA, United States

Spend the morning with resident and migratory birds of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park! On this 1 mile stroll, which will last approximately 1.5 hours, participants have the opportunity to observe, and listen to, a handful of bird species in the park. This program is recommended for ages 8 and up. Children must be accompanied […]

Free
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Basket Weaving Workshop

Henry Cowell Redwoods SP: Basket Weaving Workshop

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA, United States

During this program, you will be introduced to a craft used by indigenous peoples around the world: coiled basketry. CA basketry is some of the most ornate in the world, and this opportunity will pique your interest in learning more about, and supporting traditional arts. This 2-hour workshop will teach you how to weave your […]

Free
Live Earth Farm: Mushroom Walk

Live Earth Farm: Mushroom Walk

Live Earth Upper Farm 172 Litchfield Lane, Watsonville, CA, United States

This is an immersive, hands-on introduction to mushroom foraging and forest ecology led by local expert, Starlynn Hartnek. This workshop emphasizes real-world identification skills, seasonal species recognition, and understanding the trees and habitats mushrooms associate with. Expert guides will also point out other seasonal wild foods encountered along the route, Participants will practice observation and […]

$92.55
UCSC Arboretum: First Saturday Tours

UCSC Arboretum: First Saturday Tours

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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 […]

$10

Roaring Camp: Winter Warmer Festival

Bret Harte Hall 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

In addition to a day of great live music from some of our favorite Bay Area musicians, the festival will feature art vendors, full coffee bar, local craft beer & wine, free 10-minute massages, fresh churros, food artisans, family-friendly, supervised kids activities and most importantly, a S’mores Bar!

$60
Downtown Santa Cruz: Antiques Faire

Downtown Santa Cruz: Antiques Faire

Downtown Santa Cruz Antique Faire Lincoln Street (between Pacific and Cedar), Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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.

Henry Cowell Redwoods SP: Highlights Hike

Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 1561 Felton Empire Rd, Felton, CA, United States

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park has: Redwood Forests with species up to 277 feet tall and 1,500 years old Riverside Habitat that provides sanctuary for threatened steelhead trout and coho salmon Santa Cruz Sandhills which is home to plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world Grasslands offering habitat for white-tailed […]

Free

Bookshop Santa Cruz: Jessica Tomich Sorci

Bookshop Santa Cruz 1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Bookshop Santa Cruz welcomes local author and certified Internal Family Systems therapist, Jessica Tomich Sorci for a conversation with Dana Ramsey about Sorci's new book When Good Moms Feel Bad, a first-of-its-kind guide to help moms untangle complicated feelings like anger, guilt, shame, and failure, offering empathy, support, and practical strategies.

Free

Bookshop Santa Cruz: Anne Fadiman

Bookshop Santa Cruz 1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Bookshop Santa Cruz welcomes award-wining author Anne Fadiman (The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down) for a discussion about her latest book Frog: And Other Essays, a new collection of evocative personal essays. "Affecting and often humorous . . . Fadiman has a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, using everyday objects […]

Free

Watsonville Film Festival

CineLux Green Valley Cinema 1125 S Green Valley Rd, Watsonville, United States

The Watsonville Film Festival promotes Latin and indigenous cultural traditions with free events for the community throughout the year.

Bookshop Santa Cruz: Floral Design Demonstration

Bookshop Santa Cruz 1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Bookshop Santa Cruz welcomes local author and florist Teresa Sabankaya back to the store to share her newest book Modern Floriography: Flowers, Gardens, and Gifts Inspired by the Language of Flowers, with a special demonstration of floral and bouquet techniques. A little bit of self-help, floral design, history, and gardening wrapped into one beautifully illustrated […]

Free
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Sandhills Tour

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Sandhills Tour

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground 2591 Graham Hill Rd, Scotts Valley, CA, United States

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 […]

Free

West Cliff: Saint Patrick’s Outdoor Market

Steamer Lane at Lighthouse Point 700 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Just in time for some St. Patrick’s treats, 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 […]

Free
Davenport: Go To Jail

Davenport: Go To Jail

Davenport Jail 70 Center St, Davenport, CA, United States

Davenport goes beyond a beautiful place to get away from it all. Just minutes north on the Pacific Coast Highway, Davenport has stunning sweeping ocean and cliff views, the first national monument in the county, some awesome restaurants to tempt the passerby, and an idyllic little town. This tiny two-cell jail was built in 1914 […]

Free
Roberts Ranch Vineyards: Wine Tasting and Crushpad Concert

Roberts Ranch: Wine Tasting and Crushpad Concert

Roberts Ranch Vineyards 875 Roberts Road, Ben Lomond, CA, United States

Acoustic musical guests make for a lively accompaniment to the afternoon!  Enjoy a tasting of 5 of the current Roberts Ranch wines complete with abundant charcuterie boards! Meats, cheeses, crackers, nuts, fruits, chocolate and even warm appetizers make appearances at this lovely and casual tasting experience. (See Seltzer & Charcuterie option for those not partaking […]

$12.51 – $44.52

Santa Cruz Wharf: Mile Race Through Downtown

Pacific Avenue 35 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The Santa Cruz Mile is a road race for everyone – competitive racers, casual runners, clubs, walkers and joggers are all welcome. The Inaugural Santa Cruz Mile welcomes you participate in an exciting, new, family friendly event. This one-mile race starts near the iconic Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf and runs through downtown Santa Cruz on […]

$40
Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market

Downtown Santa Cruz: Makers Market

Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market 1100 Block Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

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 […]

Free

Pono Hawaiian Grill: Ledward Kaapana

Pono Hawaiian Grill 120 Union Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Led Kaapana’s mastery of stringed instruments, particularly slack key guitar, and his extraordinary baritone and leo ki`eki`e (falsetto) voices, have made him a musical legend. He has been thrilling audiences for more than 40 years. With easy-going style and kolohe (rascal) charm, he has built a loyal corps of Led Heads from Brussels to his […]

$39.19

Bookshop Santa Cruz: Karen Russell

Bookshop Santa Cruz 1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Bookshop Santa Cruz welcomes bestselling author Karen Russell (Swamplandia!) for a discussion about her latest novel The Antidote, which will be available in paperback on the night of the event. "The Antidote blends speculative and fantasy elements with rich language and vivid characters in an effort not to escape reality but to comment even more […]

Free
Santa Cruz Warriors Vs. Rio Grande Valley Vipers

Santa Cruz Warriors Vs. Rio Grande Valley Vipers

Kaiser Permanente Arena 140 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Cheer on your Santa Cruz Warriors, the most advanced players in the world outside of the NBA as they compete against the Vipers in a 3,200 seat facility near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The Warriors also announced that all home games will have a giveaway for at least the first 1,000 fans in attendance.

$31 – $121

Santa Cruz MAH: Qingming Festival

Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History 705 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Celebrate Qing Ming or Tomb-Sweeping Day. Begin by gathering at the MAH for some light refreshments and announcements. Then, head across the street to the Chinatown Dragon Archway for a historical talk. Folks are invited to walk to Evergreen Cemetery to commemorate Qing Ming and clean the gravesites while making ritual offerings.  Schedule: 9:30 am: […]

Free

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Surfing Bunny Hunt

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

Hop on over to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for an egg-citing Surfing Bunny Scavenger Hunt! Enjoy a fun-filled adventure as you search high and low for hidden bunnies scattered throughout the Boardwalk. Whether you’re hunting for bunnies or just soaking in the fun atmosphere, this event is sure to bring smiles to all ages. […]

$10

Rio Theatre: Top Dog Film Festival

Rio Theatre 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

The beloved Top Dog Film Festival is back for another heartwarming season, with a brand-new line-up of short films that celebrate the extraordinary connection between dogs and humans. The Top Dog Film Festival features tales of adventure, resilience, and canine joy — reminding us why dogs truly are our best friends. This year’s curated collection […]

$26.38

Steamer Lane: Santa Cruz Paddlefest

Steamer Lane at Lighthouse Point 700 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, United States +1 more

Head to West Cliff Drive to see a weekend full of amazing paddle sports ride the waves! The star event at the Santa Cruz Paddlefest (SCPF) is held at the world-famous Steamer Lane surf break found along West Cliff Drive in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Paddle surfers have flocked to Santa Cruz from […]

Free

Santa Cruz Warriors vs. Texas Legends

Kaiser Permanente Arena 140 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Cheer on your Santa Cruz Warriors, the most advanced players in the world outside of the NBA as they compete against the Texas Legends in a 3,200 seat facility near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The Warriors also announced that all home games will have a giveaway for at least the first 1,000 fans in […]

SC Beach Boardwalk: Fun Run

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

Swap out your flip flops for running shoes and join the fun with this family-friendly race through the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! Run a 1k or a 5k, on this flat course and then enjoy what the boardwalk has to offer, including rides, games, & the beach! 1K- Ages 12 and Under 5K- Ages 4 […]

Live Earth Farm: Mixology Workshop

Live Earth Upper Farm 172 Litchfield Lane, Watsonville, CA, United States

Participants will learn to make their own syrups & shrubs for cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Use ingredients from the farm! This hands-on workshop focuses on making syrups and shrubs for cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks using ingredients sourced directly from the farm. Participants will learn basic techniques, flavor balancing, and safe storage while working with seasonal […]

$49.87

Roaring Camp: Spring Barn Dance

Roaring Camp 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA, United States

Head to Bret Harte Opera Hall at Roaring Camp for the Spring Line Dance Party! Instructors will lead you in a variety of line dances to a multitude of hit songs performed by the live band. What's included: Onsite parking Admission into the venue 3 hours of line dance instruction and live music Snacks, non […]

$21.20

Rio Theatre: Andrew McCarthy

Rio Theatre 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to the Rio Theatre for a moving and provocative exploration of male friendship and loneliness, from New York Times bestselling author, filmmaker, and actor Andrew McCarthy as he crisscrosses the country to reconnect with his friends. Ticket price includes a signed hardcover edition of the book. Andrew McCarthy will present a talk to the […]

$33.97 – $39.98

Santa Cruz: Vegan Chef Challenge

At participating businesses all over Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, United States

Enjoy a month-long celebration of new vegan dishes all over Santa Cruz! Businesses across the area will showcase exciting special vegan menu items for an entire month, giving everyone the opportunity to explore creative plant-based dishes crafted by talented local chefs. How It Works: 1- Visit participating restaurants across Santa Cruz listed in the link […]

$30 – $200

Quarry Amphitheater: The Garden

The Quarry Ampitheater 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to the Quarry Amphitheater to see the fast, punk-influenced two-piece guitar drum and synth band, The Garden! They have become known for their energetic and off the wall performances around the world. Their term, "vada vada" represents total freedom of expression without boundaries or guidelines of any sort. The Quarry Amphitheater was carved from […]

$49.04 – $72.11

West Cliff: Spring Fling Outdoor Market

Steamer Lane at Lighthouse Point 700 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Just in time for Spring Break, 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 […]

Free

Agricultural History Project: Easter on the Farm

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

The Agricultural History Project is hosting their annual Easter on the Farm to celebrate Easter and the beginning of Spring.  Activities for children and adults include arts & crafts, hayrides, tractor driving, face painting, meeting a real bunny and enjoying a photo op with the Easter Bunny!  This event is FREE! Donations appreciated. 

Free

Roaring Camp Railroads: Eggstraordinary Easter Weekend

Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA, United States

The Easter Bunny makes a stop at Roaring Camp. After riding either the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train, your kids will have a blast participating in Easter activities in Town. ACTIVITIES: Easter Crafts Gold Panning (call to reserve) Candle Making Blacksmith Easter Bunny Jumbo Easter Egg With Candy & Prizes […]

Watsonville: Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza

Franich Park 795 Vista Montana Drive, Watsonville, CA, United States

Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza is a family-friendly event filled with arts & crafts, games, food trucks, an egg hunt, and more! Kids aged 3 to 13 years old are invited to participate in the egg hunt. Registration is not required for this event. Please bring your own basket or container for the egg hunt.

Free

Shadowbrook: Easter Feast

Shadowbrook Restaurant 1750 Wharf Road, Capitola, CA, United States

As soon as March 6, 2026, you can make a reservation for your April 5 Easter Feast at Shadowbrook.  Enjoy delicious food, romantic views and transportation that makes travel part of the experience! Dress up nicely and enjoy a free shuttle service in a vintage taxi if your hotel is within a 3-mile radius of […]

Downtown Felton: Classic Car Show

Scarborough Ace Hardware Parking Lot 9470 Highway 9, Felton, United States

Check out this micro tour of Felton, CA! Grab a coffee, explore downtown Felton and enjoy this classic car show! This free event will have old cars galore to show off in the new Ace Hardware parking lot. Why not combine a peek of the cars with a peek of this gorgeous downtown area?

Free
Abbott Square: Artisan Faire

Abbott Square: Artisan Faire

Abbott Square 118 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to Abbott Square every second Sunday of the month for free live music while you browse handmade jewelry, soap, clothing, and much more! There is always something at these events that has your name on it! 

Free

Abbott Square: Free Fashion Show

Abbott Square 118 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Forget Milan, go see Santa Cruz, vintage and thrift central. What better way to celebrate upcycle culture, than with the first annual Vintage Walk Fashion Show? Contestants for the Vintage Walk Fashion Shown will have acquired their threads in the Downtown Santa Cruz Vintage Walk the same weekend. Each strut, hop, or walk on the […]

Free

Santa Cruz County: Ripple Effect Arts Festival

All of Santa Cruz County

Enjoy 11 days of powerful performances, art, poetry, fashion, music, and cultural celebrations throughout Santa Cruz County. The Ripple Effect Arts Festival is brings you creativity and culture to reflect the unique artistic pulse of Santa Cruz County. Opening with Santa Cruz Dancing in the Streets from 5-9pm in Downtown Santa Cruz. 11 Days of […]

Free

Downtown Santa Cruz: Earth Day Celebrations

Abbott Square 118 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Earth Day 2026 will be held at beautiful Downtown Santa Cruz on Cooper St, Pacific and Abbott Square. Local businesses and organizations will gather for a day of fun and environmentally focused activities and education. 🎶 Groove to live music by SambaDá 🎭 Be amazed by samba stilt walkers 👗 Get inspired by zero waste […]

Free

Quarry Amphitheater: Drain and Friends

The Quarry Ampitheater 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to the Quarry Amphitheater to see hardcore punk band, Drain in their hometown! The intense crossover trash sound was formed right here in Santa Cruz and will be joined by bands No Pressure, Haywire and Secret World. Dolphin shorts and boogie boards are optional but encouraged. “When people come to Santa Cruz, they’re like, […]

$55.96

Santa Cruz Civic Center: Emmylou Harris

Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Emmylou Harris shook up country radio in the 1970's and established herself as the premiere songwriter of a generation selling more than 15 million records and garnering 14 Grammy Awards, 3 CMA awards, and 4 Americana Awards. Harris is one of the most admired and influential women in music. Here is your chance to join […]

$73.50 – $127
Unplug & Reconnect: Weekend Retreat

Chaminade Resort and Spa: Wellness Retreat

Chaminade Resort and Spa 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Unplug & reconnect where ocean and forest meet. This two-night weekend wellness retreat at Chaminade Resort & Spa (Santa Cruz, Ca) invites you to lean into the steady heartbeat of the redwoods and soothing rhythm of the Pacific Ocean for a lasting reset. Dive into the healing properties of the forest and ocean - returning […]

$1,650
Skypark: Food Truck Friday

Skypark: Food Truck Friday

Skypark 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley, United States

Head to Skypark in Scotts Valley for the area’s largest food truck festival! Lots of excitement, more food vendors, the fabulous SVEF Beer & Wine Garden, amazing Live Music and face painting!

Veterans Memorial Hall: One Man Play

Veterans Memorial Hall: One Man Play

Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building 846 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Santa Cruz Shakespeare (SCS) is organizing a special spring engagement of Vincent, the acclaimed one-person play by Leonard Nimoy, starring SCS Artistic Director Charles Pasternak. Vincent is a compelling theatrical portrait of Vincent van Gogh, drawn from a series of imagined letters between the artist and his brother Theo that illuminate the artist’s creative drive, […]

$22 – $63

Capitola Mall: Succulent and Bonsai Show and Sale

Capitola Mall 1855 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA, United States

Open at 10am for both Saturday and Sunday, and staying open until 5pm on Saturday. Visitors will experience an impressive display of expertly grown cacti, succulents, and bonsai — from sculptural desert giants to delicate, living miniatures. Members will present their finest specimens in a judged show competition, featuring many rare and stunning plants seldom […]

Free

Downtown Santa Cruz: Kids Day

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

It's Kids Day in Downtown Santa Cruz! Exhibitors will be lined up on Cooper Street and Pacific Ave (between Church St. & Locust St.), along with performances and demonstrations at Abbott Square. Plus, many Downtown businesses will be offering discounts and specials just for kids.

Free

The Grove: Live Quartet by Candlelight

The Grove, Santa Cruz Event Center 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, United States

Enjoy this live, multi-sensory musical experience of a string quartet playing Coldplay & Imagine Dragons at the Boardwalk's Grove under the gentle glow of candlelight. For 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Tentative Program Coldplay - Clocks Imagine Dragons - Radioactive Coldplay - Adventure […]

$26 – $61.50

Roberts Ranch: Mother’s Day Workshops

Roberts Ranch Vineyards 875 Roberts Road, Ben Lomond, CA, United States

Enjoy a Cottage Lunch on the winery Terrace and visit 3 workshop stations to make take-home gifts! Moms, mentors, friends welcome! Bring along the special gals in your life as you celebrate Mom's Weekend at Roberts Ranch with a Cottage Lunch & Wine on the Terrace and a Triple Mini Workshop down at the Crush […]

$87.21

Santa Cruz Civic Center: An Evening with David Sedaris

Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

David has been entertaining audiences with his sardonic wit and incisive social critiques. He is the master of satire and one of today's most observant writers addressing the human condition. There's no right way to keep a diary, but if there's an entertaining way, David Sedaris seems to have mastered it. He may seem confessional, […]

$37.50 – $63.50

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

Felton Parade and Covered Bridge Festival

Felton Covered Bridge Park Covered Bridge Road, Felton, CA, United States

Every year on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, head to the beautiful mountains for "Felton Remembers." This family event features a traditional parade honoring those who have served our country in the military service. After the parade, the Covered Bridge Festival is held at Covered Bridge Park, featuring live music, and vendors who sell food, […]

Free

Roaring Camp: Redwood Mountain Faire

Roaring Camp 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA, United States

Dance the day away to live music with your friends and family while enjoying tasty locally made food, cold beer, cider and wine in an open field surrounded by redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

$50 – $185

The Grove: Halfway to Halloween Market

The Grove 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, United States

There will be over 50 unique artists & merchants for this Halloween inspired market! From art, jewelry, oddities, apparel, ceramic, & more there will be something strange & unusual just for you! Open for all ages, and admission is FREE!

Free

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
Santa Cruz Boardwalk: Summer Luau

Santa Cruz Boardwalk: Summer Luau

The Grove 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, United States

Enjoy a festive Summer Luau by the beach! Dress in your best Hawaiian attire and enjoy a tropical buffet, live music, hula dancers, and fun for all ages. Perfect for families, date nights, or just wrapping up a fun day the the Boardwalk!

Audrey Stanley Grove: Shakespeare In The Park

Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park 501 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Head to DeLavega Park to enjoy the full outdoor theatre experience! You can bring your own picnic basket and drinks to enjoy the picnic bluff area or check out concession options before you go! Why not grab some wine from the Santa Cruz mountains and a curated charcuterie box to make it a picnic and […]

SC Civic Auditorium: Festival of Contemporary Music

Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

In late July and early August each year, audiences are joined by both preeminent and emerging composers, spectacular guest artists, and an orchestra of dedicated professional musicians from across the globe to give voice to works which are rarely more than a year or two old, and sometimes still wet on the page. The Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary […]

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!!!

Capitola: Beach Festival

Capitola Village Capitola Village, Esplanade Park, Capitola, CA, United States

6:30 AM - 9:00 PM See website for details.

Free

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!

Santa Cruz County: Monterey Bay Festival of Birds

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 below to register for field […]

Free – $30

SC Beach Boardwalk: Band Review

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

Go see an exciting musical parade as 55 Northern California high school and junior high school marching bands compete next to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in the ONLY band review with warm sand, cool surf, and hot rides!

Downtown Santa Cruz: Halloween Mask Making Festival

London Nelson Community Center 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Enjoy this FREE annual event! Bring the family for a creative day of mask making, carnival games, Thriller performances plus Nightmares - A Stage Spooktacular. This event has been a Halloween tradition for families for over 25 years! Mask Making Halloween Games Thriller the World Santa Cruz Performance Theater Performances

Free

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!

SC Beach Boardwalk: Halloween

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

Celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and spooktacular Boardwalk fun! It's 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 in the orange button above! Head to the Main Entrance photo op banner to take a costume […]

The Grove: Sea Glass and Ocean Art Festival

The Grove 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Kids enter free to the Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival.  The festival features genuine sea glass and artist-made creations while benefiting our local marine environment. This year the festival celebrates its 17th anniversary. Open 10am to 5pm both Saturday and Sunday. Over 50 talented artists are bringing their boutique works to the […]

$5
Santa Cruz County: King Tides

Santa Cruz County: King Tides

All of Santa Cruz County

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 […]

Castro Adobe State Historic Park: Open House

Castro Adobe State Historic Park 184 Old Adobe Road (off of Larkin Valley Road), Watsonville, CA, United States

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 […]

Free