Santa Cruz County
|
Sign up for our weekly newsletter. Receive calendar highlights!
Tell a friend about us |
Featured Events:Old Growth Redwood ToursActivities will range from sketching and watercolor to nature journaling and more Every Sa at 1:00pm Location: Graham Hill Rd, Scotts Valley 
Map
Old-Growth Redwood Tours
Saturdays at noon 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 the visitor center. Event free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks. |
Search Event Calendar | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Guided History Tour
Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park, Pescadero, CA
Guided half-hour history walks of the lighthouse grounds are available 10am - 4pm Fridays through Sundays, except on rainy days.
Map
Art and Music At The Beach is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a Sunday afternoon in Capitola Village.
Live Music is featured on the Esplanade Stage and local artists display their work in Esplanade Park overlooking Capitola Beach and the Monterey Bay.
More Info - https://www.capitolavillage.com/event/art-and-music-at-the-beach/
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, July 29
Sunday, August 5
Sunday, August 19.
Junior Rangers
Fridays and Saturdays at 3pm
Discover the fascinating secrets of the beach! Explore, practice outdoor skills, and play games as you learn about plants, animals, geology, and more. This one-hour program is designed for kids ages 7-12. Sorry parents, this program is for kids only! Please register your child 15 minutes before the program begins at the Francis State Beach Visitor Center. Please be sure your child is dressed for active play in the outdoors. Event is free; day-use fee for vehicles is $10. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association, and California State Parks.
Campfire Program
Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30pm
Join us in our new campfire center for an evening of song and story. Serenade the glittering stars and learn about beach ecology, creatures of the ocean or stories of the park while relaxing by the beach. Event is free; day-use fee for vehicles is $10. Event made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.
Guided Walk: Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park
Sunday, July 22 at 10am
Journey back in time to discover the lives of early pioneers on this two-mile stroll along Mills Creek at Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park. Meet at the Burleigh Murray parking lot located on Higgins-Purisima Road 1.5 miles east of Highway 1. Bring water and snacks; close toed shoes, layer clothing, and binoculars recommended. Appropriate for children age seven and older accompanied by parent. Rain cancels. For information call (650) 726-8819 or email HMBparksvolunteer@parks.ca.gov.
Guided Walk: Sequoia Audubon Trail
Sunday, July 1 at 10am
Sunday, July 15 at 1pm
Join us for a one-mile stroll along the California Coast into the Pescadero Marsh, a popular bird watching location. Meet at the Pescadero State Beach central parking lot located on Highway 1, one-quarter mile north of Pescadero Creek Road in Pescadero. Bring water, and snacks; close toed shoes, layer clothing, sunscreen and binoculars recommended. Children age 7 and older are welcomed, accompanied by parent. No pets. Rain cancels. For information call (650) 726-8819 or email HMBparksvolunteer@parks.ca.gov.
Guided Walk: McNee Ranch, Montara State Beach
Saturday, July 14 at 10am
Join us for a two-mile stroll along the California coast and enjoy stunning views, remnants of the long-gone Ocean Shore Railroad and WWII era bunker. Meet at Gray Whale Cove State Beach Parking Lot on Highway 1 just south of Devil's Slide. Bring water and snacks; close toed shoes, layer clothing, and binoculars recommended. Children age 7 and older are welcomed, accompanied by parent. All pets must be on leash. Rain cancels. For information call (650) 726-8819 or email HMBparksvolunteer@parks.ca.gov
Map
Come join us at The Felton Library for Adult Afternoon Arts and Crafts. It's every Sunday from 2-4:30pm.
Bring something portable that you are working on or come prepared to have fun!
Map
Scotts Valley Police Department·
Registration is now open for all three of our 2018 Junior Police Academy sessions!
Dates are currently scheduled for June 18-22, July 9-13 and July 30-Aug 3
Our Junior Police Academy has been running since 2000. We offer three week-long sessions, each with room for twenty students. Our program reaches out to students entering 6th, 7th and 8th grades.
Registration, cost and further information can be found at the link below, or by calling Det. Mike Birley at 831-440-5656.
https://www.scottsvalleypd.com/juvenile-programs
Twilight Adaptation Walk
Every Sunday at 7:30pm
Twilight marks the end of day and the beginning of night. Animals who come out at night have special adaptations to survive. Come test your nocturnal abilities on this fun, 1-hour, half-mile walk. Meet at Big Basin Redwoods State Park Headquarters. Event is free; vehicle day use fee is $10. Events made possible by California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation.
Event is free; day use vehicle fee is $10. Events made possible my California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation.
Map
Ranch History Tours
Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm
Monday, September 3 at 1pm
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. Event is free; parking is $10. Please call the park to confirm at (831) 426-0505. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Map
Reading in the Redwoods book group meets monthly at the Felton Library on the fourth Wednesday at 6:15 pm.
Copies of the book are usually available at the Felton branch library.
For more information call 427-7708 or drop by the branch.
To be added to the book group email list, please call 831-427-3151.
Map
Tour the Pacific Migrations Visitor Center at New Brighton State Beach
Come explore the Pacific Migrations Visitor Center at New Brighton State Beach. This free mini-museum highlights the history of Pacific Rim migrations and how they have influenced the Monterey Bay area.
The exhibits explore the contributions of Chinese fishers, who established fishing camps on the Monterey Bay coastline beginning in the 1850s. Fishers dried and shipped most of their catch to markets up and down the coast, as well as across the Pacific. Chinese fish merchants also sold their fresh catch in local towns. China Beach, as New Brighton was known at the time, lasted until the mid-1880s.
The center, which is supported by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Sundays. It also includes a ParkStore, offering nature and history-themed merchandise for sale. All proceeds benefit local parks and beaches.
Self-guided tours of the Pacific Migrations Visitor Center are free. Docent-led tours are available for groups. Contact Jean Bernard at the Visitor Center, 831-464-5620, to schedule. Parking at New Brighton State Beach is $10 and supports the park. New Brighton State Beach is located at 1500 Park Ave. in Capitola
EASY HIKES
Castle Rock Loop Sat & Sun 11am
Trailhead: main parking lot; 1 mile loop; elevation gain 300 feet
Ascend through Douglas-fir, madrone, and tanoak to see the park’s imposing namesake peak—a good spot for bouldering and roped climbs. The surrounding smaller rocks are a great playground for children.
Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock Overlook Hike Saturdays at 2:30pm
Join us on a 3-mile, 2.5-hour hike to Castle Rock, Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock Overlook. We’ll discuss Castle Rock’s unique geology, rock climbing history, human impacts and important preservationists that helped give Castle Rock State Park the protections we have today. Please bring plenty of water, hiking shoes, snacks, a camera, and binoculars if you have them. Event is free; day use fee for vehicles is $8. Meet at the kiosk. Event made possible by California State Parks in partnership with Portola and Castle Rock Foundation.
MODERATE HIKES
Ridge/Trail Camp Loop
Trailhead: main parking lot, 5.15 miles, elevation gain 1,190 feet
Hike through the forest and past Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock. Enjoy views of the San Lorenzo River Valley and glimpses of Monterey Bay. Learn about history, wildlife, and habitats at the Interpretive Shelter. Castle Rock Trail Camp has picnic tables, pit toilets, water and a rain shelter.
Skyline/Loghry Woods/Saratoga Gap Loop
Trailhead: main parking lot; 6.1 miles roundtrip; elevation gain 750 feet
Head through the forest past Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock. Enjoy views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Lorenzo River with glimpses across to Monterey Bay if there’s no fog. Castle Rock Trail Camp has picnic tables, pit toilets, water, and a rain shelter.
STRENUOUS HIKES
Middle of the Park from the Gap Loop
Trailhead: Saratoga Gap; 9 miles roundtrip, elevation gain 1,530 feet.
This challenging hike or run through the forest takes you past mountain and valley views with some glimpses of Monterey Bay on a clear day. Castle Rock Trail Camp has picnic tables, pit toilets, water and a rain shelter. Begin at Saratoga Gap and either go down Saratoga Toll Road Trail or across Skyline Trail (Bay Area Ridge Trail). Close the loop on the Loghry Woods and Travertine Springs trails.
Gap to Gap Loop
Trailhead: Saratoga Gap or Waterman Gap; 16.4 miles round trip, elevation gain 1,860 feet
A good workout for strong trail runners and hikers. You can also backpack and stay overnight at the Waterman Gap Trail Camp (reservations required). Trails are mostly wooded, with occasional views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Skyline to the Sea Trailhead: dropoff at Saratoga Gap or park at main parking lot, pickup at Waddell Beach, 25.2–28.2 miles; elevation from 1,660–2,130 feet.
One of the region’s most rewarding backpack options. Start on the spine of the Santa Cruz Mountains and descend to the ocean in Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Camp at trail camps along the way. Two to four days of backpacking or four to eight hours of trail running.
Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock Overlook Hike
Saturdays at 2:30pm
Join us on a 3-mile, 2.5-hour hike to Castle Rock, Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock Overlook. We'll discuss Castle Rock's unique geology, rock climbing history, human impacts and important preservationists that helped give Castle Rock State Park the protections we have today. Please bring plenty of water, hiking shoes, snacks, a camera, and binoculars if you have them. Event is free; day use fee for vehicles is $8. Meet at the kiosk. Event made possible by California State Parks in partnership with Portola and Castle Rock Foundation.
Map
Free Academic Help at All Levels.
Brainfuse offers live online tutoring in elementary, middle school, high school, college, and adult education.
Live Tutoring: Students draw or type their question in our online classroom and receive live homework assistance from a Brainfuse-certified tutor. Our tutors don't simply give answers but help students master underlying academic concepts.
SkillSurfer: SkillSurfer includes an extensive library of Brainfuse-created lessons, video tutorials, and practice tests in a wide range of academic subjects, and further integrates them with live tutoring.
The Pigeon Point Lighthouse is currently under repair, but that doesn't mean that the First Order Fresnel Lens can't shine! The Fresnel lens, the original lighthouse beacon, will light up once again from its temporary home in the Visitor Center. As dusk settles, the 24 beams of light provide a dramatic glimpse of how the lighthouse once guided ships passing by this rocky coastline. Bring a flashlight and join us for a unique experience. For more information, call the park at (650) 879-2120 or go online to www.Parks.CA.gov/PigeonPoint. Event is free. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.
* Please note the lighthouse will NOT be lit. The original lighthouse beacon, the First Order Fresnel lens, will be lit but in its temporary location inside the Visitor Center. The lighthouse is being repaired and is currently not accessible to the public.
Map
Life on the Ranch Day - The Early Days on a Dairy Farm
Saturday, August 11 from 11am to 3pm
Wilder Ranch State Park invites you to experience old-time activities from its rancho, dairy farm, and cowboy rodeo days. Hands-on activities and living history presentations may include butter churning, ice cream making, roping skills, and demonstrations in the ranch buildings. Come for a picnic on the lawn and follow it up with a game of tug of war, sack races, hoops, stilts, and Wilder Ranch's famous old-fashioned bubbles! This event is appropriate for all ages. Event is free; parking is $10. Please call the park to confirm at (831) 426-0505. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Map
FREE Daily Entertainment
Engaging performers invite you to be a part of the show!
World-class magicians, acrobats, jugglers, and comedians-all performing FREE at two stages inside the park.
The Entertainers and the Schedule
Our family of five farmers' markets showcases the best in regional organic produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs and dairy, sustainably-harvested seafoods and artisan-made goods.
Purchasing your food through the area's farmers' markets ensures that you are getting the freshest, healthiest and tastiest foods while supporting local jobs, increasing local spending and promoting the region's strong farming tradition.
We provide direct access to sustainable sources of fresh produce and other unique foods and education about food issues, both local and beyond.
| Santa Cruz/Downtown | Weds 2:30-6:00 | Lincoln & Cedar | Year-round |
| Santa Cruz/West Side |
Sat 9-1 | 2801 Mission | Year-round |
| Scotts Valley | Sat 9-1 | King's Village Dr | April - October |
| Live Oak/East Side |
Sun 9-1 | 15th & Eastcliff Dr | Year-round |
| Felton | Tues 2:30-6:30 | 120 Russell Ave | May - Oct |
Little Rangers children's programs
Mondays 10:30 to 11:30 am from Mid-June through Labor Day.
During the summer season, hour-long children's programs are offered in the Visitor Center. These nature programs are for children ages 3-6 and their caregivers.
Weekly topics and themes vary. Previous themes have included: birds, frogs, secrets of sand, plant detectives, and many others!
Map
Retro Nights
Enjoy old-school prices throughout the park with these Retro Night specials:
Some specials may be subject to tax.
Purchase a MyBoardwalk Card for $1.50 rides at any Boardwalk Ticket Booth or MyBoardwalk Kiosk.
Learn to knit or bring your knitting and enjoy a friendly visit with other knitters. If you are new to knitting, please bring: needles (size 8 10" straight needles or a 24" circular needle) and one skein of worsted weight yarn in your favorite color. Ages 8-108
Map
Get together with other knitters to knit, chat, and make new friends. No registration required. The group meets every Monday from 11am- 1pm. Call 427-7711 for more information.
Map
THE HELLADELICS at Live Oak Grange, Santa Cruz CA
Time: 8:00-11:00 p.m. (doors open at 7:30)
Cost: $15.00 (sliding scale) + tips for the band.
Bring: Snacks to share--finger food only, please.Dancing in Santa Cruz for 48+ years.
Join us on Friday evenings...
at: MARKET STREET SENIOR CENTER
222 MARKET STREET, SANTA CRUZ
Live music parties will usually happen at the Live Oak Grange in Santa Cruz--depending on availability of the facility and bands. Occasionally we will party at Park Hall in Ben Lomond or at our regular venue, Market Street Senior Center.
Questions? Send email to: cabrillofolk@sbcglobal.net
(Be patient--answers may take a few days... Thanks!)
LOCAL CLASSES:
FRIDAY: Cabrillo Folk Dancers--Balkan & International
TUESDAY: Alan Rothchild's Israeli Dance class
FRIDAY: BALKAN-INTERNATIONAL DANCE
Time: Friday, 7:30-10:00 p.m.
(Dancing starts about 7:45...)
EVERY Friday, except on (or near) national holidays. For the health and comfort of members with asthma and allergies, the class is "fragrance-free".
Any schedule changes will be announced on this web site, whenever possible.
Cost: $7.00
MARKET STREET SENIOR CENTER, 222 Market Street, Santa Cruz, CA
In a residential neighborhood, on the surrounding streets. Please be considerate of the neighbors, and don't block driveways.
New to folk dancing or haven't danced in 10-40 years?
Come at the beginning of class, when easier dances are taught.
LIVE MUSIC: Check the Calendar of Events page for the schedule of live music parties and other parties/events of interest.
Questions? Email: cabrillofolk@sbcglobal.net - (answers may take a couple of days...)
TUESDAY--Alan Rothchild's ISRAELI DANCE CLASS
This class has been taught by Alan Rothchild for over 25 years.
Every Tuesday evening, 7:30 - 10:00 p.m.
$7.00
Peace United Church of Christ (formerly First Congregational, 900 High Street, Santa Cruz
For more information email: rothdance@hotmail.com
Fireworks on The Green will once again be at the Morgan Hill Outdoor Sports Center, 16500 Condit Road, located between Tennant and E. Dunne Avenues. Gates will open at 5 pm so you can come on in and set up a good viewing spot for the fireworks, which will begin around 9:30 pm
Country Cougars play at some of the premier nightclubs in the bay area and cover artists including Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Luke Bryan, Zac Brown, Kenny Chesney and Eric Church as well as the country legends Johnny Cash, Patty Loveless, Alan Jackson, Brooks and Dunn and many others. The energy of this band gets the crowd on their feet dancing and ready to party!
MH Freedom Fest Patriotic Sing ~ Tuesday July 3, 6-7pm
Karen Crane and the Patriotic Singers make a return appearance at 7:30pm to give everyone a chance to catch a glimpse of the wonderful program they perform the night before at the Patriotic Sing, kicking off our Freedom Fest celebration.
Closing out the show will be The Usual Suspects with their high-energy classic rock. One of the South Bay's most popular bands, they feature everything from Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and ZZ Top, to Santana, U2, Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, Van Halen, AC/DC and so much more. The Usual Suspects have performed for over 18 years as part of the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest Celebrations, alternating between the Music Fest and Fireworks Show.
Map
"Jays and Murrelets" Campfire Program
Tuesday, July 3 at 7pm
Have you noticed the Steller’s Jays with “bracelets” around their legs? Come hear Kristin Brunk, who is researching these birds, talk about why they’re banding the birds, what they’re learning about how Jay behavior changes around people, and the impact the Jays have on the endangered Marbled Murrelet. Marshmallows (we provide the sticks and marshmallows!) at 7 pm; program begins at 7:30 pm. Wheelchair, stroller accessible. Good dogs welcome! Event is free; day use vehicle fee is $10. Events made possible my California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation.
Aptos will celebrate the 4th of July with the World's Shortest Parade! Come and join us for our World's Shortest Parade in Aptos.
Dog groups gather for the parade behind the Wells Fargo Bank, but check with Living with Dogs:
Map
Bop on over to Roaring Camp for a great family 4th of July: Hula Hoop contests, games, live music and an all-American barbecue. Steam Train passengers will see how the west was won at Bear Mountain.
Bring out the entire family and friends for a fun-filled day of games, live music and an all-American barbecue.
Map
A fun, impromptu, spontaneous gathering of community.
Will Wonder Women be there again this year??
Come and find out.
Super Hero Costumes Welcome
Happy Summer to all our BCRPD friends. We would like to invite you to our annual 4th of July Parade and Picnic in Boulder Creek.
July 4th BBQ Junction Park
12-5pm
Pan for Gold
Free event
Live Music
Beer & Wine $6
Map
Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July Parade
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
New Start Time! Parade Steps off at 12 p.m.
The Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July parade proceeds down Main St. from St. Patrick's Church to First Street. Thousands of spectators line the route five to six people deep. Those wanting a front row seat, place their chairs along the route early in the morning of the parade date. Those interested in participating in the parade should submit an entry form soon after they are made available.
Map
Free fireworks!
Map
Our annual 4th of July event is our thanks to the community that supports us.
Join us on Wednesday, July 4th 2018 for Tradition, Food, and Live Music
Barbecue food provided. Additional potluck dishes welcome and appreciated.
Orchestra, Homemade Ice cream, Nature Display, Plant and Book Sales, Book Signing, Raffle, Penny Pitch, Dessert and Drink Sales, Fire Engine, Schoolhouse History, and more
BBQ lunch includes choice of hot dog or veggie-dog with salad and beans for $6. Kid’s meal (hot dog only) for $4. Drinks, homemade ice cream and desserts are extra.
Your participation helps preserve and maintain this historic treasure. Join us for an old fashioned social gathering in the redwoods. See what a one-room school was like!
Alba School is two miles up Alba Road from Hwy 9 in Ben Lomond, or 2 miles down Alba from Empire Grade. Please carpool if possible, as parking is limited.
Map
Annual Santa Cruz Firecracker 4th of July 10K, 5K, 1K Race - Registration Open!
Register Now: www.santacruzfirecracker10k.org/
10K, 5k, & Kids 1K Race - Wednesday, July 4th
8 a.m. Harvey West Park, Santa Cruz
|
|
Early-bird discount before July 1st. "Run with Team Warriors" package!
Pancake Breakfast (included in entry fee) with finish line party and awards ceremony with medals to the top three runners in 5-year age groups!
Sponsored by Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club 2017 Come for the Thrill, Run for the Cause, Stay for the Party! Register now! www.SCFireCracker10K.org/register 7:00am - Registration opens
A benefit for Teen Kitchen and The Red CrossRace Start Times
8:00am - Kid's 1K run/walk
8:30am - Firecracker 10K run
8:40am - Firecracker 5K runEvent Highlights
We hope to see you again this year on the fourth of July! So, light the fire within and register online today. If you already have registered, thanks, and we'll see you on July 4th!
Come for the Thrill! Race for the Cause! Stay for the Party!
Map
Sonoma Community Center presents: Old-Fashioned 4th of July Parade & Celebration
| Sonoma's award-winning Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Parade has been produced by the Sonoma Community Center for more than half a century. The parade is a nationally recognized, traditional, small-town celebration intended for the enjoyment of all ages. The parade is an inclusive event and a wide range of participation is encouraged including: individuals, community and youth organizations, businesses and musical entries. |
See more at: http://sonomacommunitycenter.org/4th-of-july-sonoma.html#sthash.ax1QBaUZ.dpuf
Help support the Parade! Donate Now Your donation is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
| This years theme is SONOMA STRONG. |
Toddlers (18-30 months) & Parents Support Classes combine the elements of a playgroup, support group and a chance to learn more about your child's development. Come meet other parents and children, observe and discuss child development and build confidence in your parenting skills. Enjoy seeing your child interact with other children and explore an environment set-up with them in mind. Classes are facilitated by experienced and friendly teachers.
Map
FREE Movies on the Beach
Wednesday Nights - June 20-August 15, 2018- Admission FREE!
There's nothing quite like watching a classic movie on the beach with the world-famous Giant Dipper Rollercoaster lights twinkling overhead and the smell of Kettlecorn, hot dogs, and salt water taffy filling the air!
Bring the family and your blanket or low back chair and join us for these classic hits!
Each movie will include a 15 minute intermission.
| June 20 | The Lost Boys | |
| June 27 | Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory | |
| July 4 | No movie - Happy 4th of July! | |
| July 11 | Legally Blonde | |
| July 18 | Ferris Bueller's Day Off | |
| July 25 | Hairspray | |
| Aug 1 | Jumanji (1995) | |
| Aug 8 | Ghostbusters (1984) | |
| Aug 15 | Raiders of the Lost Ark | |
Seating is first-come, first-served.
Smoking is not permitted on the beach or Boardwalk. Alcohol and glass are prohibited on the beach.
A limited number of assistive listening devices (ALDs) are available for check-out at the Guest Services office near the Haunted Castle.
If you require other special accommodations or would like to request Closed Captioning, please contact the Manager on Duty at least 48 hours in advance of the movie at (831) 423-5590.
July 4th Road Closures and Safety Zone
In an effort to maintain safety during the July 4th holiday the department will be enacting a Safety Enhancement Zone in certain areas between July 2-6. The zone, with a map available creates triple fines for certain municipal code violations. In addition there will be detours and road closures on July 4th.
As in previous years, deputies on the Fourth of July also will check beachgoers in Live Oak and other county areas for alcohol, glass, weapons and fireworks - which are prohibited on beaches.
Road Closures
County leaders plan to control traffic in several areas from 7 p.m. to midnight July Fourth so emergency vehicles can reach the beach. Deputies also will check beachgoers for alcohol, glass, weapons and fireworks.
Davenport Main Beach.
East Cliff Drive at 12th, 13th and 14th avenues.
San Andreas Road and Estrella Avenue in La Selva Beach.
Rio del Mar Esplanade.
Rio del Mar Boulevard and Clubhouse Drive.
17thAvenue and Capitola Road.
17th Avenue and Brommer Street.
Seventh Avenue and Capitola Road.
Seventh Avenue and Brommer Street.
4th of July BBQ in Pacific Grove City
Join the Chamber of Commerce and celebrate the 4th with an old-fashioned, down-home BBQ in Caledonia Park (behind the Post Office). Great food, live entertainment and a chance to enjoy a patriotic celebration.
Pacific Grove Rotary Club presents "Declaration of Independence"
Chicken or Hot Dog lunch $10, Includes potato salad, garlic bread, salad and dessert. Served 11-2
Live Entertainment: The Firefly Band
Bounce House for Kids
This is the City of Scotts Valley 50th Anniversary! This year's 4th of July is going to be the best ever! We will have 8 vintage planes doing a flyover instead of four this year! We are expanding our parade and there is a new parade route. Click on this link for the Parade Map 4th of July Parade Map (2)
Parade check in will be at Bailey Property next to Leo's Liquors at the corner of Scotts Valley Drive & Carbonero Way. The parade will travel up to Willis Road (next to Ivy's Porch) and make a u-turn before traveling back to the starting area.
There will be staging areas for the various categories along El Pueblo Road so much easier to organize the parade. Please help pass the word to anyone you know participating in the parade, with the much larger parade, everyone needs to pre-register.
Click this link for Parage Registration Form: 2016ParadeRegistration.Fillable (2)
Please help pass the word to anyone you know participating in the parade, with the much larger parade, everyone needs to pre-register.
City of Scotts Valley
Annual Fourth of July Fireworks
Admission price does not include food or games.
Parking Information
Map
Carmel 4th of July Celebration
Visit Website DETAILS Join us for an old-fashioned, family-style celebration in Devendorf Park across from Carmel Plaza on Ocean Avenue from noon to 4pm.
Bring a blanket or chairs to spend a fun-filled afternoon with us at the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
There will be hot dogs, cold drinks, chips, ice cream, watermelon, and cookies! Get there early, supplies are limited! All food and festivities are FREE! Food will be provided by local service clubs and groups such as Carmel Host Lions, Mission Trail Lions, Yes for Carmel!, Carmel Heritage, Carmel Woman's Club, Carmel Chamber, and much more!
The old-fashioned family gathering, features a children's play area, food, music and dancing.
Hot dogs, fruit, ice cream, popcorn, drinks, chips and cookies will be provided by local civic groups. Donations will be gratefully accepted. Those coming are advised to bring blankets and chairs.
No dogs are allowed. No alcohol is permitted.
Join us at Capitola Mall for 1ST Wednesday Family Fun!
Enjoy many fun activities, including:
Entertainment with Happily Ever Laughter
Family Friendly Crafts
Music and More!
We will also be giving away a Family Fun Membership to Santa Cruz Children's Museum of Discovery to one lucky family!
$5 Donation per Child benefits Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support Services!
Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration
Travel back in time at Wilder Ranch State Park on Tuesday, July 4, to experience an Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration! Meet us at the apple orchard in front of the Highway 1 tunnel at 11:45am to join the parade. Bring a musical instrument or noisemaker, dress in early 1900s costume. Activities include children's crafts area, live big-band music, living history demonstrations, historic speeches and flag raising. Food and drink available for sale, or bring a picnic lunch.
This event is appropriate for all ages. Day-use parking fee is $10. For more information, please call (831) 426-0505. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, California State Parks volunteers, and California State Parks.
Wilder Ranch State Park is located 2 miles north of Santa Cruz on Highway 1. The event is free; parking is $10.00 per car. For more event information, call (831) 426-0505.
Map
Capitola by the Sea Summer Music
Twilight Concerts on Wednesdays, June - August, 6 to 8 p.m.
Twilight Concerts serves up live music on the beach on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair and relax. No alcohol or glass bottles permitted.
The Capitola Summer Concert Series are held at the Esplanade Park Bandstand, with one of the largest dance floors around. Bring a picnic, pickup dinner, or dine at one of the nearby restaurants, many of whom sponsor the concerts. Seating is on the lawn, seawall, benches or the beach. Please bring low back chairs or picnic blankets. Warm jackets suggested for cool evenings. No alcohol or dogs in the park or on the beach.
One-on-One Tech Tutoring
Trying to play with technology and getting frustrated? A tech savvy librarian will provide instruction in the use of a wide range of technology services: How to use free downloadable content available from your library in a number of formats (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and streaming video) Introduction to SCPL databases (i.e. Consumer Reports, Community Information, etc...) Creating an email account Downloading and attaching files Word processing direction and support.
Drop-in weekly appointments, 20 minute slots available. To best support learning, please bring the following items: devices (i.e., laptops, tablets, and/or smartphones), necessary passwords (Google Play, App Store), and library card!
First-come, First-served. FREE
Map
The Municipal Airport will open its doors on July 4th from 5:00 pm until 9:30pm. for the "Fire in the Sky" Open House. This Open House event is an important part of the Airport's efforts to reach out to the community and highlight the importance of this community asset to our region.
The Open House will feature a festival-like open seating atmosphere and will include formation flyovers, a variety of food trucks, introductory flights, and, given the later start, an early evening outdoor animated motion picture (Angry Birds) for the kids. To close the evening and in line with the celebration of the 4th of July, we will host a professional firework show.
This year law enforcement aviation assets from the California Highway Patrol and Santa Cruz County Sheriff will display their aircraft. Additionally, air ambulance Calstar and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) will bring aircraft to the field. The Watsonville Municipal Airport tenants have also been invited to display personal, flying club, trainers and corporate aircraft.
Admission is free. Vehicles may park on the crosswind runway for $10.00.
The event will also feature a VIP area inside of the United Flight Services Hangar. The VIP area is sponsored by several community businesses who are supporting this community event.
Map
Coca-Cola Nights
Not valid July 4
Bring a Coca-Cola product and enjoy unlimited rides for only $14.95+tax!
You can also enjoy unlimited access to Laser Tag, Laser Maze, Miniature Golf, Climb 'N Conquer, and Fright Walk for only $9.95.
Exchange your empty Coca-Cola can/bottle or a receipt with proof of purchase at the Coca-Cola redemption tables (located near each ticket booth) to receive your discount ride coupon.
Any size Coca-Cola product will be accepted including Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, Pibb Xtra, Barq's Root Beer, SmartWater, or Dasani.
Some specials may be subject to tax.
Purchase a MyBoardwalk Card for $1.50 rides at any Boardwalk Ticket Booth or MyBoardwalk Kiosk.
Map
It is time again for the - SPRECKELS 4th OF JULY CELEBRATION
The Spreckels Memorial District is proud to present the Annual Spreckels 4th of July Celebration!
EVENT PROGRAM • Wednesday, July 4th 2018
7:30am - 8:30am - 5K/10K Race Registration & Bib pick-up (located near 3rd street & Spreckels Memorial Park)
8:30am - Youth 1Mile Run (start/finish line on 3rd St)
9am - 5K & 10K (start/finish line on 3rd St)
10:30am - Day of Parade Registration(limited) (at Spreckels Memorial Hall)
10:45am - Awards Ceremony (near registration tent)
12pm - 4th of July Parade (starts at Memorial Building parking lot)
1pm - Car Show on Llano
4pm - Crafts & Food Booths close - activities end
Trivia on Tap
Join Santa Cruz Public Libraries as we host a bimonthly trivia night at Steel Bonnet Brewing Company in Scotts Valley. Bring your friends, form a team (or take it on solo), and compete against other groups to win the grand prize. Event occurs 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month.
Note: Special Theme: Film and Television
Additional Information
Map
Uniquely Beautiful & Beautifully Unique Parents Support Group
First Thursdays 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM
The Uniquely Beautiful and Beautifully Unique group is a support group for parents and loved ones of children with special needs. We will meet at the Boulder Creek Library on the first Thursday of the month. Join us to discuss the joys and stresses of parenthood.
Map
Trying to work on your Spanish? Want to improve your vocabulary and Spanish speaking skills? The Aptos Branch Library is now hosting a Spanish conversation group. Facilitator-led discussion and activities. All levels are welcome, including beginners.
Meetings are every first and third Thursday of the month.
For more information contact Ivan Llamas at llamasi@santacruzpl.org or 831-427-7702
Map
Downtown Preschool Story Time (10:00 AM-11:00 AM)
Join us at the Downtown Library for our weekly Preschool Story Time. We'll read books, sing songs and make a simple craft! Ages 3-6.
View similar upcoming events: Storytimes/Laptimes
Map
Swim with dolphins. Hike Mt. Everest. Jump into a 360-degree immersive video. Create a living work of art.
All of these things and more are possible when you adventure in virtual reality.
This drop-in experience gives you a taste of what virtual reality can be and introduces you to the world like you've never seen it before.
Participants must be 13+.
Map
Citizen Science
We invite you to join us every first Thursday of the month for a presentation and Q&A with local experts and researchers in the field discussing life science, ecology, geology, genetics, climatology and more. Let's connect, inspire and inform each other!
For more information contact pro@santacruzpl.org • 831-427-7717
December
This month our Citizen Science series offers a discussion about the various ecological and social solutions for living with fire on the Central Coast. Our presenter, Dr. Lee Klinger leads a movement aimed at using ecologically-based techniques to address the problem of oak mortality in California and elsewhere.
Dr. Klinger is a tree care practitioner living in Big Sur, California. Since 2005 he has served as director of Sudden Oak Life. He has over 30 years of academic experience in the environmental sciences and has held scholarly appointments at the National Center for Atmospheric Research, the University of Colorado, the University of Oxford, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the Geological Society of London.
Citizen Science is a collaboration between the Santa Cruz Public Libraries; the Santa Cruz Children's Museum of Discovery (SCCMOD), and the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC).
We invite you to join us every first Thursday of the month for a presentation and Q&A with local experts and researchers in the field discussing life science, ecology, geology, genetics, climatology and more. Let's connect, inspire and inform each other!
For more information contact pro@santacruzpl.org • 831-427-7717
Map
An enchanting farmers market with a "mercado" feel. Lots of wonderful produce and prepared foods.
The Watsonville Farmers' Market is a member of the California Federation of Certified Farmers' Markets.
The Market provides fresh, locally grown produce on Friday afternoons from May to November.
Mariachi California de Javier Vargas will play every first Friday of the month from 5-6pm (May-October) at the Watsonville city Plaza
Map
FREE Friday Night Bands on the Beach - TWO FREE SHOWS • 6:30pm & 8:30pm
June 15 - August 31, 2018 - Printable Schedule
| June 15 | Berlin starring Terri Nunn "Take My Breath Away" |
| June 22 | The Motels "Only the Lonely" |
| June 29 | Los Lobos "La Bamba" |
| July 6 | Rose Royce "Car Wash" |
| July 13 | Smash Mouth "All Star" |
| July 20 | Los Lonely Boys "Heaven" |
| July 27 | The Fixx "One Thing Leads to Another" |
| Aug 3 | Y & T "Summertime Girls" |
| Aug 10 | To Be Announced June 15 |
| Aug 17 | The English Beat "Save It For Later" |
| Aug 24 | Starship featuring Mickey Thomas "We Built This City" |
| Aug 31 | Papa Doo Run Run "(Santa Cruz) Beach Party" |
Toddler Time @ Downtown (10:00 AM-11:00 AM)
Toddler Time is a weekly program for families with children ages 0-3 years old. It includes music, movement, stories, fingerplays, rhymes, songs and fun for your child and you as well as social time with other children and their caregivers. Let's play and learn together!
Map
Annual Statewide California Landscape Exhibition
For almost nine decades, the Santa Cruz Art League's Statewide Landscape Exhibition has showcased the work of artists across the Golden State who depict California's foothills, mountains, seashores, and deserts of the interior and coastal regions.
Map
Hartnell College Planetarium's Children's Show is geared towards local families looking for an educational and fun evening out.
Show Times Fridays at 5:30 PM, doors open at 5:15 PM, runs 30-40 min
Tickets Buy Tickets Here $4 Person Tickets also available at the door Do not be late! You can also purchase tickets at the door. We accept cash, card, and NFC (android/applepay).
Season Schedule
Jan 11 & 18 - Larry Cat
Jan 25 & Feb 21 - Earth, Moon and the Sun
Feb 8 & 15 - Legends of the Night Sky: Orion
Feb 22 & Mar 1 - The Little Star That Could
Mar 8 & 15 - Astronaut
Map
Join us this afternoon to make something creative or make a new discovery! We are partnering with the Santa Cruz Children's Museum of Discovery to offer this weekly program through June and July. We will be in their Tinkerlab room. The program is free, and most suitable for 6-12 year olds. Parents will need to remain available throughout the program, and will be helping children under 8. We provide materials to explore their creativity, build things, make art and make discoveries. Usually they will be able to take their creations home. Sometimes we will be reusing the equipment, and they will be building something for that day only.
This is a Santa Cruz Public Libraries free program.
Map
Play until dark with the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation and the Santa Cruz County Parks Department. Cooper Street in Santa Cruz will be closed off for an all-ages playground, featuring dodgeball, tetherball, cornhole, hopscotch, and a pop-up playground with huge building blocks and an activity table for kids! Groove to free music by a live DJ. Grab a bite and sip some drinks at Abbott Square Market. Explore three floors of exhibitions for free at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. More info. at www.scparks.com
COOPER STREET
-- Play tetherball, dodgeball, cornhole, and hopscotch. Build structures with giant blue foam blocks.
-- Dance to the awesome beats of a live DJ.
ABBOTT SQUARE
-- Free music at Abbott Square stage from 6:30-9pm.
MAH
-- Come in for an all-ages art activity.
Origami Club at Aptos Public Library
1st Saturday of every month (unless otherwise announced)
Starts April 7, 2018!
FREE fun for all ages. Bring a project, try a design from one of our books, or just come to hangout and fold whatever strikes your fancy. All skill levels are welcome. Origami paper will be provided or bring your own if you prefer a certain type. Drop-ins welcome.
Interested in volunteering, message us! (^_^)
Presented by the Japanese Cultural Fair - Santa Cruz, in partnership with the Aptos Public Library.
Map
Old-Growth Redwood Tours
Saturdays at noon
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 the visitor center. For more information, please call (831) 335-7077. Event free. Vehicle day use fee is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Have you ever dreamed of keeping a beehive of your own? Interested in learning more about how to support these fabulous creatures in our community?
Join Farm Discovery and the Santa Cruz Bee Company for a morning of beekeeping, organic farm tour, and delicious pastries & coffee. This event will be an introductory lesson on beekeeping, for people with little to no knowledge of bees. After a leisurely tour of Farm Discovery's land with fresh coffee and pastries from Companion Bakeshop and a visit with our goats and baby chicks, Emily Bondor or Santa Cruz Bee Company will share her extensive knowledge of bees and beekeeping. Come with close toed shoes, a hat, and your curiosity!
Map
Big Basin's Talent Show!
Saturday, July 7 at 7pm
Come celebrate with an old-fashioned sing-a-long and talent show! If you have a skit, poem, song or a talent you'd like to share, sign up at headquarters in advance. All presentations should be appropriate for all ages. Acts should be only 3-5 minutes in length. Participants need to arrive promptly at 7 pm.
Event is free; day use vehicle fee is $10. Events made possible my California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation.
Map
Monterey Country Dance Community holds contra dances most first and third Saturdays (in December, our dances may vary due to the holiday season) at the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula, at 600 Camino El Estero in Monterey, unless otherwise noted in our schedules and calendars. Come alone or bring a friend - beginners are always welcome! If you'd like to support MCDC, please consider becoming a Member (a minimum $25/year sponsorship helps us to continue these wonderful dances).
Schedule: 6:40pm Newcomers' Orientation
Admission Prices for regular dances:
Check out our Calendar for details and dates.
Not sure what Contra Dance is?
See videos and learn more by checking out our About Contra Dance page. If you're feeling nervous about learning how to contra dance, we even have links to beginning dancers' training videos on YouTube - they are a wonderful help, though nothing replaces dancing as a way to learn.
Please be aware that some of our dancers are sensitive to fragrances - we respectfully request that everyone please be thoughtful and not use products with fragrance prior to a contra dance. Thank you!
Map
With more than 300 plant species, ranging from Santa Cruz natives to rare and threatened plants of unusual scientific interest, the Arboretum is the place to see a variety of flora, fauna, birds and more. Meet at Norrie's Gift Shop.
Come and see native flora from around the globe, including California, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Chile. The Arboretum offers many rich opportunities for casual visitors, researchers, students, members, and friends. You can find more information by visiting our About page.
1st Tuesday of every month. Free admission to the Arboretum. The Arboretum is open each day from 9 am to 5 pm. (Closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas days.) Directions and information about admission can be found here.
Map
Tales to Tails - Downtown (10:00 AM-11:30 AM)
Trained therapy dogs will be available at the Library to be attentive, non-judgmental reading partners for children reading aloud. Children have individual 20-minute time slots to sit with a dog and read.
Contact pro@santacruzpl.org or 831.427.7717 to reserve a spot.
View similar upcoming events: Programs for Kids, Early Literacy, Tales to Tails
Star Stroll
Saturdays at 9pm
Join us for a stroll to the Observation Deck to listen to stories, serenade the glittering stars, and discover the night sky. Meet at the Campfire Center in the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground, located off Graham Hill Road in Scotts Valley. Event is free; parking is $10. Events made possible by California State Parks Volunteers, Mountain Parks Foundation, and California State Parks.
Map
Old-Growth Redwood Tours
Saturdays at noon
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 the visitor center. Event free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Do-It-Yourself Craft @ La Selva Beach Library (1:30 PM-4:30 PM)
Join the fun on Saturdays between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm.
Designed for kids ages 5-12, these free workshops teach do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while instilling a sense of accomplishment.
Offered on the first Saturday of each month between 9 a.m. and noon at The Home Depot.
Watsonville, 355 S. Green Valley Rd, (831)786-9877
Capitola, 2600 41st Ave, (831)462-5650
Salnas, 1890 N. Davis Road
Evening Art Program
Mondays and Tuesdays from 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Join us in the campfire center for a family friendly arts and crafts program. All ages welcome. Topic changes week to week and activities will range from sketching and watercolor to nature journaling and more! Meet at the Henry Cowell Redwoods Graham Hill Campground, located off Graham Hill Road in Scotts Valley. No experience necessary. Event is free; parking is $10. Events made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Get crafty! A Do-It-Yourself craft will be ready and waiting for families, independent-minded kids and teens! Children 8 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Map
History Walk
Sunday, July 8 at 11am
Meet on the deck of the Visitor Center for a tour of Seacliff State Beach and its fascinating history. Learn about the Concrete Ship, Great Storms from 1889-today, "The Madman of Seacliff" and much, much more. This 50-minute, 1-mile stroll will take you to the Aptos Creek Bridge and back. Dogs on leash, please. Event is free; day-use vehicle fee is $10. For more information, please call (831) 685-6444. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Meet and mingle with new mothers just like you, share parenting ideas and make Music Together® alongside your babies while learning lifelong parenting tips at the monthly New Mommy Musical MeetUp (Daddies and other loving adults are welcome too!).
Bring your baby (under a year old) and enjoy making friends and drawings for prizes while a certified Music Together teacher leads a short music making session geared specifically to babies.
Join us every 2nd Monday @ 239 High Street, Santa Cruz.
https://www.meetup.com/New-Mommy-Musical-Meetup/events/246692123/
Questions? 831-438-3514 or sky@musicalme.com
Map
Toddler Time @ Live Oak (10:00 AM-11:00 AM)
Location: Live Oak Branch
Toddler Time is a weekly program for families with children ages 0-3 years old. Join us for early literacy practices involving music, movement, stories, rhymes and more for your child and you.
Map
AUTISM SPECTRUM SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for parents to share space with each other, to support each other and to problem solve challenges together!
Meets the second Tuesday of each month at Hope Services- 220 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Email Heidi at hlister@spinsc.org for more information.
Map
Exploring Big Basin
Tuesdays at 9:30am
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call (831) 338-8883. Event free. Vehicle day use fee is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Map
Professor Michael Warren will be discussing the plays in the 2018 season of Santa Cruz Shakespeare.
Professor Warren is emeritus professor of literature at UCSC and Textual Consultant and Dramaturg to Santa Cruz Shakespeare since its inception, earlier as Shakespeare Santa Cruz.
JULY 10 - SEPTEMBER 2, 2018
LOVE'S LABOUR'S LOST
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Paul Mullins
The King of Navarre and his three friends swear off pleasures of the flesh and devote themselves to study... until the arrival of the Princess of France and her lovely entourage wreaks hilarious havoc on their vows.
JULY 24 - SEPTEMBER 1, 2018
ROMEO AND JULIET
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Laura Gordon
Shakespeare's most iconic love story. Young Romeo and Juliet fall in love in the midst of a polarized society determined to tear them apart.
AUGUST 7 - SEPTEMBER 2, 2018
VENUS IN FUR
By David Ives
Directed by Raelle Myrick-Hodges
Seduction and dominance, trickery and lust power play in this wickedly smart comedy between a desperate director and a mysterious actress.
FRINGE:
MEN I'M NOT MARRIED TO
By Dorothy Parker
Adapted and directed by Kayla Minton Kaufman
A slyly humorous and urbane observation on men Ms. Parker did not marry.
Three performances only: August 22, 28, 29, 2018 at 7:30pm
EXPANDED FRINGE: FREE STAGED READING
A DOLL'S HOUSE
By Henrik Ibsen, translated and adapted by Astrid Sather, Sandy Greenberg and MaryBeth Cavanaugh.
Toyed with like a doll by the men in her life, Nora Helmer finds the courage to throw off the shackles of 19th century expectations in Henrik Ibsen's classic, compelling play.
ONE NIGHT ONLY: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 7:30pm
Free event, parking fees apply.
EXPANDED FRINGE: FREE STAGED READING
THE TAMING
By Lauren Gunderson, inspired by The Taming of the Shrew.
Map
WESTERN WEDNESDAY IS BACK!!!
a night of true Country/ Western & Honky Tonk music
Every 2nd Wednesday at The Crepe Place in Santa Cruz, CA
one touring band vs. one local band
5/9 - WESTERN WEDNESDAY # 27
Laura Benitez and the Heartache
Earnest Tubb Time Machine
LAURA BENITEZ AND THE HEARTACHE - Country/ Rockabilly from the Bay Area, CA
website: www.laurabenitezandtheheartache.com
video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSAeNYiYvAg
Laura Benitez and the Heartache use the three chord tools of country music to tell the simple, unvarnished truth about love, too much whiskey, and the call of the road. Their songs range from honky-tonk shuffles to rock 'n' roll numbers to sweet old time waltzes, and cover everything from unwed motherhood ("Me or the Baby") to mean drunks ("Don't Wake the Devil"), with a whole lot of heartbreak in between. Their twangy honesty shines through in straightforward arrangements, crystalline harmonies, and spare instrumentation. Frank Gutch Jr of No Depression calls Laura Benitez & the Heartache "... Original, as good as it got and as good as it gets," and Stephan Rapid of Lonesome Highway says, "Her tight and focused band play country music with a view to the past and an ear for the future."
EARNEST TUBB TIME MACHINE - Old Time Party Country from Santa Cruz, CA
The Earnest Tubb Time Machine from Santa Cruz are the best band for drinking and dancing and more drinking!
Ten Reasons to Go English Country Dancing
1 It’s Really, Really Fun.
2 It’s Easy: If you can count and skip and tell your right hand from your left, you can begin doing the easy dances immediately. This form of dance does not require fancy footwork or a high level of coordination. This is an excellent place to learn, even if you’ve never done any folk dancing. Beginners are very welcome.
3 It’s Social: The level of interaction that occurs between all the dancers in the set make this a very social dance form. Singles or partners are welcome. This is a very friendly community, and a great way to meet new people.
4 It’s Good Exercise: How many calories did you burn the last time you watched a TV show? Yeah, that’s what we thought. Although English country dancing is not as strenuous as a workout at the gym, it does a whole lot more for your health than a sitcom and a bag of potato chips. It’s a good, light exercise.
5 It’s Casual: We are not a performance troupe, so our goal is not to make the dances look perfect. Our goal is to have fun, and we can do that without requiring technical perfection. Come as you are, wear casual clothes, relax and enjoy it.
6 It’s Low-Tech: Tired of staring at a computer screen all day? So are we. Come dance with us! We won’t require you to look at a computer screen all night. We promise!
7 Indulge Your Inner Anglophile: Come on, you know you want to.
8 It’s Good Clean Fun: Although English country dance has been known to lead to Renaissance Faire addiction, apart from that, it’s totally harmless. (Actually, we love our local Renaissance Faire, especially the Newcastle Country Dancers.)
9 It Brings Together People of All Ages: This form of entertainment appeals to a wide range of ages, which helps bridge the gap between generations. Whether you’re a teen, a septuagenarian, or someone in between, there’s a place here for you.
10 Did We Mention That It’s Really, Really Fun?
Come dance with us! We usually meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, from 7:00—9:30 p.m., at Peace United Church (upper hall), 900 High Street, Santa Cruz, California. (We meet on only the second Thursday in November and December.)
Map
Local author Susie Bright casts a light on the shadows of Santa Cruz with the newest installment of the Akashic Press "Noir" Series with Santa Cruz Noir: a collection of short stories about lust, money, murder, and power that take place in our quaint seaside county.
Listen to some of the contributing authors talk about their stories, research, and what it means to write a true noir story. Authors will sign copies of the book after the event.
Books will be sold by the Friends of the Aptos Library.
For more information contact Jennifer Hooker at hookerj@santacruzpl.org
Map
Step Parents Support Group 6:30pm. Join us on the second Thursday of each month for a free, drop-in support group for anyone in the step-parenting role. We meet at Live Oak Family Resource Center. Contact mailto: 1notsoevilstepmom@gmail.com for more information
Map
Join us for a series of powerful films by and about women!
Each screening will feature community discussions with special guests. All films presented at Appleton Event Lounge, 410 Rodriguez St., Watsonville, at 7PM on the second Thursday of each month, March through June.
Tickets $8 at the door, unless otherwise noted. Youth under 18 free.
Thursday March 8, International Women's Day
SHE'S BEAUTIFUL WHEN SHE'S ANGRY
Community conversation on local women's history & current issues led by special guests. Free screening, donations accepted.
This must-see documentary film resurrects the buried history of the courageous & outrageous women who founded the modern Feminist Movement from 1966 to 1971. The documentary takes us from the founding of NOW, to the emergence of more radical factions of women's liberation. Artfully combining dramatizations, performance and archival imagery, the film recounts the stories of women who fought for their own equality, and in the process created a world-wide revolution.
Thursday, April 12
PINK SARIS & LAAL PARI
Special Guest: Director Sadia Halima
"A girl's life is cruel... A woman's life is very cruel," notes Sampat Pal, the protagonist of PINK SARIS. Sampat was married as a young girl into a family that made her work hard and beat her. But she fought back, leaving her in-laws and eventually becoming a champion for young women in Uttar Pradesh. These young women, frightened and desperate, reach out for their only hope: Sampat Pal and her Gulabi Gang, India's vigilantes in pink. A film by Sundance award-winning director Kim Longinotto.
Accompanying Short Film: LAAL PARI (The Red Fairy)
Laal Pari is a self-motivated, self-taught, elected village council leader in Bihar, India, who is fighting to change the playing field for women's participation in politics.
Thursday, May 10
NO MÁS BEBÉS (No More Babies)
Special guest: Director Renee Tajima-Peña
In NO MAS BEBES, Oscar® nominated Director Renee Tajima-Peña reveals the story of Mexican immigrant mothers who were pushed into sterilizations while giving birth at Los Angeles County Hospital during the 1960s and '70s. Alongside an intrepid, 26-year-old Chicana lawyer and a young, whistle-blowing doctor, the mothers mounted a landmark civil rights lawsuit that is seminal to the movement for reproductive justice.
Thursday, June 14, Monterey Bay Premiere:
ADIÓS AMOR
Special Guest: Director Laurie Coyle
The discovery of forgotten photographs prompts a search for an unsung heroine: Maria Moreno, a migrant mother with twelve children who led a movement for farmworker rights years before Cesar Chavez & Dolores Huerta launched the UFW. ADIOS AMOR tells a personal story with national resonance about the migrant workers who put food on our tables, and explores enduring questions about whose lives we remember, record and recognize.
Map
Teens will learn and practice techniques to help them experience more calm, compassion, and connection.
Map
Join us at this special little library for stories, songs and a craft. The program is about 45 minutes, and is most suitable for 2-5 year olds. The Porter Memorial Library is an independent, volunteer-run library. They are keen to welcome new members, both young and old. This is a Santa Cruz Public Libraries free program.
Map
Join us for a movie under the stars at Highlands Park. We will be showing "Brave."
Come early and grab a space on the lawn.
Food truck service starts at 7:30 p.m. No alcohol, please. Bring your low back chairs, blankets and the whole family for a great summer evening.
For more information visit www.scparks.com
Volunteer with the Trail Crew Saturdays
Since 1969 the Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew has helped make it possible for others to safely enjoy the beauty of our park. The Trail Crew meets the second Saturday of each month, rain or shine. A typical workday lasts until mid-afternoon. Please bring your own work gloves, lunch and water. Join us for a unique perspective of Big Basin, a lively and productive experience with others who share a love of these redwood forests, and the satisfaction of participating in a vital part of the park's ability to educate and inspire the public! Meet at Park Headquarters.
Map
Annual Kiddie Kapers Parade
Saturday, July 14 ~ Parade begins at 6:30 pm, Oldtown Salinas
The theme for the 2018 parade is SURF, SAND & SADDLES!
The annual Kiddie Kapers Parade will take place on Saturday July 14th as the lead in to the Colmo del Rodeo Parade. Kids will line up at Salinas High School parking lot (726 S. Main Street) and the parade will start at 6:30pm. 2018 brings a new parade route-please check the map on the right.
Thousands of people line the streets of Old Town Salinas to watch over 1,200 children ride on floats, bikes, in wagons and more as a kick off to Big Week and the California Rodeo Salinas.
Colmo del Rodeo Parade
Saturday, July 14 ~ Parade begins at 8:00 pm, Oldtown Salinas
The Colmo Parade will grace the streets of Old Town Salinas and commemorate what was once the greatest parade of the West! As the California Rodeo was first produced in 1911, so was the first informal night parade. The parade was organized by local townsfolk, and included decorated automobiles that would drive down Main Street Salinas to wrap up Big Week festivities. Later in 1913 the parade was formalized. At this time the "Colmo del Rodeo" was recognized as the largest and greatest night-lighted parade west of the Mississippi. Sadly, after the 1985 Big Week, the Colmo was eliminated from Rodeo activities, though a few years later in 1987 it was brought back and was a part of the Saturday horse parade. The parade was such a huge success in 2010 when it was revived for the 100th Anniversary of the Rodeo that this will be the ninth consecutive year of holding the parade again.
Map
Bring the family for a FREE fun day of water games! Inflatable water slide, dunk tank, water games and more! Kids should wear swim suits and bring towels and sunscreen.
The Carmel Bach Festival presents two of its most popular chamber concerts at Monterey's San Carlos Cathedral on Thursdays, July 19 and 26, at 5:00.
The program features Bach Festival orchestra members in Trio Sonatas by Vivaldi and Bach, principal trumpet Robert Farley performing two Baroque trumpet sonatas, and principal keyboardist Andrew Arthur as organ soloist in a concerto by Handel.
San Carlos Cathedral is said to be the most historically significant building in Monterey. It's the oldest building in the city, and the oldest continuously operating church in the state. It's the earliest California building designed by an architect, and, in 1849, became the state's first cathedral. Extensive conservation and restoration projects in recent years brought the Cathedral back to its original glory.
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 host over 2,500 visitors each year at 2nd Saturday on the Farm.
We have created some unique interactive educational activities to help you have fun learning about past agricultural practices. What we like to call our "usual" activities include:
Map
The Body is a tool of learning for children. Let the rhythm move the body! Taught by Ikuyo Conant, artistic director of Watsonville Taiko who also taught preschool for 14 years.
This class is limited to 12 children. To register, email Ikuyo Conant at KirinTaiko@gmail.com or call (831) 234-4528.
For more information, go to http://www.watsonvilletaiko.org/workshops/
Map
We're back for our second annual season of Movie In The Park! Come out and enjoy a movie in the park with your neighbors at Aptos Village Park.
Admission is free, spare change donations requested for the Live Like Coco Foundation.
Come early for food and music. Hope to see you there!
6/24 8:30pm Coco
7/15 8:30pm Wrinkle in Time
8/12 8:00pm The Greatest Showman
Join other homeschool moms for a monthly stitch and chat get together. Bring your favorite handwork (it doesn't have to be stitching, any kind of creative task is great!) and a snack to share. We'll provide the coffee and tea! This monthly get together offers great conversation and some time to nurture yourself. Third Tuesday of every month from 7-9pm.
This free event is hosted by long time homeschooling mom Heddi Craft at Knit Sew Make, located in the former sanctuary area of the building at 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz.
Check to confirm for location and date.
Map
TACO TUESDAY SCHEDULE ROLLS OUTWITH FOOD TRUCKS AT TWO LOCATIONS
Food Trucks A Go Go is rolling out their Taco Tuesday schedule at two locations with rotating food trucks serving tacos, along with their unique, signature dishes.
Back at Anna Jean Cummings Park in Soquel, for the third year, Taco Tuesdays will resume on May 22nd and continue on the fourth Tuesday of every month.
A new location has been added at the Felton Covered Bridge Park in Felton. These monthly dinners, starting on May 15th, will be held on the third Tuesday of every month and are co-sponsored by the San Lorenzo Valley Chamber of Commerce and Food Trucks A Go Go. The premiere Taco Tuesday will be a Chamber Mixer with a Beer & Wine Garden.
There is plenty of green grass and open space for people to spread out and for kids and dogs to run around. People are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Taco Tuesdays run from 5 - 7:30pm at both locations. Bring your appetites, friends, co-workers and family! Follow @foodtrucksagogo for more information.
Genealogy Research Group
This new group meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month to explore genealogy related research topics. Learn how to use the resources paid for by the library as well as other online sources to find all kinds of genealogical information. Laptops are provided, and you are welcome to bring your own as well.
Interested in genealogy? At a dead-end? Have a new source to share? Join us the 3rd Wednesday of the month for hands-on research using the library's databases and internet resources. We will have laptops available for your use.
Trivia on Tap
Join Santa Cruz Public Libraries as we host a bimonthly trivia night at Steel Bonnet Brewing Company in Scotts Valley. Bring your friends, form a team (or take it on solo), and compete against other groups to win the grand prize. Event occurs 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month.
Note: Special Theme: Film and Television
Map
Known for its week-long cavalcade of events, California Rodeo "Big Week" is the largest community event held in Salinas. Parades, barbecues, cowboy poetry, fireworks, concerts, a carnival, and much more.
Big Week offers something for every member of the family, and a chance for the entire community to participate in the California Rodeo.
The Rodeo itself is designed to operate like a two-ring circus, each Rodeo performance features events that occur in the arena and on the track simultaneously. While the classic event of saddle bronc riding bucks out in the arena, a horse race speeds by on the track.
Each year, the Salinas Rodeo ranks in the top 20 of nearly 800 North American rodeos sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. For four action-packed days, more the 50,000 spectators pass through our gates to see the country's top professional rodeo athletes compete.
Saddle Bronc Riding ~ Bareback Riding ~ Bull Riding ~ Tie-Down Roping ~ Steer Wrestling ~ Team Roping ~ Barrel Racing ~ Bull Fighting
Map
There are still spaces available at Family Camp located at Monte Toyon. Get out of the city and into the Redwood Forest with your family! Camping is for 4 days/3 nights at $350 per family (2-5 persons). Family Camp provides the campsite at Monte Toyon, which is in Aptos Redwood Forest, along with dinner on Friday and Saturday night and dessert every night! Family Camp also includes Naturalists on site for guided hikes and Adventures!
Dates still available for Family Camping:
July 19 - 22
July 26 - 29
August 2 - 5
Map
Yee Haw! and Do Si Do!
On the third Friday of every month, Grange member and Professional Dance Caller Andy Wilson hosts a family-friendly barn dance. Join us for a potluck supper at 6:00 before the dancing starts at 6:30. We knock off around 8:00 to let everyone get home and have a good night sleep. Live music featuring Deby's Ginormous String Band.
$10 per person
$15 for two people
$20 per family
Musicians (young or old) are welcome to join the band on stage.
Our Mindful Educator Training is a 2.5 day workshop that offers personal mindfulness practices as well as certification in our 12 week in-school mindfulness curriculum.
Expect to deepen your own personal practice, connect with peers, and go home with a clear and comprehensive curriculum to share in your classroom, school or home.
Friday July 20th at 5:30pm - 9:00pm
Fri - Sun, July 20-22
Fri, July 20, 5:30pm - 9:00pm
Sat, July 21 (hours coming)
Sun, July 22, (start time coming) until 5:00pm
Map
Looking for a fun night away from the folks? Teens get to swim for FREE at Teen Splash Night! Pools will be open exclusively to teens, along with the water slide, warm water pool, inner-tubes and aqua climbing wall! We will also be showing "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" from 8:30 - 10 PM in the Community Room at the Swim Center.
This will be a fun night for Teens ONLY, ages 13-19. Call 454-7960 for more information. #SCParksDept
Map
'All Disabilities' Parent Support Group for any parent of a child with any type of disability
Meets the 3rd Saturday of the month from 10am-12pm at 820 Bay Ave. Capitola
Like our Facebook page and receive info. on up coming meetings.
For more info or to RSVP, please call and leave a message at 423-7713 or email Heidi Lister at hlister@spinsc.org
NOTE: Child care is NOT provided at these meetings.
Map
Monthly Book Sale @ Aptos Branch: 3rd Saturday of every month, 11 AM - 3 PM
Come browse a wide ranging collection from fiction to children's books, audio books to CD's. Our non-fiction covers subjects from A-Z: cookbooks, gardening, health & well-being, poetry, and travel among a myriad of other subject areas. Join us on Saturdays in the Aptos Library meeting room as the Aptos Chapter of the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries (Aptos FSCPL) hosts monthly book sales throughout the year (January-July and September-October). The books and media sold are selected from library donations.
Map
It's back!! The sidewalks will be filled with art and crafts again on the 3rd Saturday of the month. And we're adding music to the event! So, come out, enjoy the incredible spring weather and load up on art and joy!
I can't wait to see what creativity the winter months brought out in all of the artists' work!
We're continuing the "Spend $50, get $100" game, too! The Boulder Bucks program works like this - if you spend $50 or more at any local business during the Made in the Mountains event (buying groceries, getting a mani/pedi, buying pizza for the kids' baseball team, .... ) just take your receipt to Emelia at Air & Fire before the event is over. Your name will be added to the drawing that will happen within the week after the event. You could be the one that wins $100 in the form of a gift certificate to spend at a local business of your choice! You can also split the $100 into 2 gift certificates to different businesses.
So, getting the kids pizza could turn into a free necklace for yourself! Or the tools bought at the hardware store could get you a free mani/pedi for after the yardwork is done and some Chinese food for dinner! Nice, right!?
See ya out there!
Monterey Country Dance Community holds contra dances most first and third Saturdays (in December, our dances may vary due to the holiday season) at the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula, at 600 Camino El Estero in Monterey, unless otherwise noted in our schedules and calendars. Come alone or bring a friend - beginners are always welcome! If you'd like to support MCDC, please consider becoming a Member (a minimum $25/year sponsorship helps us to continue these wonderful dances).
Schedule: 6:40pm Newcomers' Orientation
Admission Prices for regular dances:
Check out our Calendar for details and dates.
Not sure what Contra Dance is?
See videos and learn more by checking out our About Contra Dance page. If you're feeling nervous about learning how to contra dance, we even have links to beginning dancers' training videos on YouTube - they are a wonderful help, though nothing replaces dancing as a way to learn.
Please be aware that some of our dancers are sensitive to fragrances - we respectfully request that everyone please be thoughtful and not use products with fragrance prior to a contra dance. Thank you!
Map
Carnival of Cultures Cupertino
Guaranteed to have your feet tapping and itching to dance all day long! Carnival of Cultures is the Bay Area's premier festival showcasing the diversity of our resident community.
The delicious array of food representing the different cultures that make up the SF Bay Area is complemented by music, dance, shopping and exciting activities for the entire family. Visit the world without getting on a plane or going on a road trip! The festival will represent the variety of food, music, art and merchandise from each culture.
Enjoy live contemporary music and dance performances and get to know fellow Bay Area residents.
Entry to the festival is FREE. Parking is FREE.
The Carnival of Cultures Cupertino is brought to you by the Cupertino Chamber of Commerce and is powered by Eventscoop.
We encourage you to RSVP here and you will be entered into a drawing for some fun prizes! You must be present at the event to win!
The Moonlight Train Dinner Party
JUNE 23, JULY 21, AUGUST 25, SEPTEMBER 15 & OCTOBER 6
June 23rd Moonlight Featuring Wild & Blue
Treat yourself to an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp's Moonlight Steam Train Dinner Party. Start with a hearty barbecue chicken and steak dinner followed by a leisurely train ride aboard vintage railway cars. The steam train stops atop Bear Mountain to a glowing campfire, hot cider and musical entertainment. Upon returning to Roaring Camp, hot apple pie and line dancing await you. Get into the swing of things with our line dance instructor Wendy, then two-step the rest of night away under the stars.Vegetarian options available.
MBARI's 2018 Open House
During this free event, our staff, scientists, and engineers will share their knowledge and enthusiasm about oceanographic research at this special event. Highlights include science exhibits, technology demonstrations, deep-sea videos, presentations about our research, robotic submarines, and children's activities. This free event is fun for the whole family!
MBARI is located in Moss Landing, halfway between Santa Cruz and Monterey off Highway 1. The Moss Landing power plant is a visible landmark just inland of Moss Landing Harbor. From Highway 1, turn west (toward ocean) onto Moss Landing Road. Turn on Sandholdt Road and cross the bridge. MBARI is on the west side of the road.
FOOD: Food and beverages will not be available at MBARI. However, there are several restaurants within walking distance. There are also several benches around MBARI that you can use to picnic with your family as well as access points to the beach.
2018 PRESENTATIONS in the PACIFIC FORUM:
12:15 - An introduction to MBARI ~ Chris Scholin
12:45 - Eavesdropping on the deep ~ Susan von Thun
1:15 - Discovering Nemo: The joy of recognizing a new species ~ Linda Kuhnz
1:45 - The secret life of sponges: They're not just for your dirty dishes! ~ Amanda Kahn
2:15 - A day in the life of an ROV pilot ~ Ben Erwin
2:45 - Eavesdropping on the deep ~ Susan von Thun (REPEAT)
3:15 - Discovering Nemo: The joy of recognizing a new species ~ Linda Kuhnz (REPEAT)
3:45 - The secret life of sponges: They're not just for your dirty dishes! ~ Amanda Kahn (REPEAT)
4:15 - Swimming in data: How ocean observations are improving our lives ~ Patrick Daniel
2018 PRESENTATIONS in the VIDEO TENT:
12:00 - 12:20 Video tour of the R/V Western Flyer and R/V Rachel Carson
12:30 - 12:50 LIVE: Mysteries of the Deep
01:00 - 01:20 LIVE: Mysteries of the Deep
01:30 - 01:50 Video tour of the R/V Western Flyer and R/V Rachel Carson
02:00 - 02:20 LIVE: Mysteries of the Deep
02:30 - 02:50 LIVE: Mysteries of the Deep
03:00 - 03:20 Video tour of the R/V Western Flyer and R/V Rachel Carson
03:30 - 03:50 LIVE: Mysteries of the Deep
04:00 - 04:20 LIVE: Mysteries of the Deep)
04:30 - 04:50 Video tour of the R/V Western Flyer and R/V Rachel Carson
Visit our Cleanup & Events Calendar to find the next volunteer opportunity
Monthly beach cleanups are a fun, free, easy way to give back to your community by keeping pollution from entering the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It's easy to participate - just meet us at the check-in table where you'll sign a waiver form and receive your cleanup materials and data cards. Volunteers are encouraged to Bring Your Own buckets, gloves, and reusable bags to decrease trash. Beach cleanups demonstrate how individuals of all ages can protect the marine environment by keeping our coastlines free from harmful pollution and debris.
Locations rotate each month. Monthly beach cleanups occur every 2nd Saturday of the month in Monterey County every 3rd Saturday of the month in Santa Cruz County.
All monthly beach cleanups are held from 10am to Noon.
For more information, contact cleanup@saveourshores.org.
Community Poetry Circle @ Scotts Valley (2:00 PM-4:00 PM)
Poetry gives rise to the full expression of self. Join the circle for this free monthly workshop on the 3rd Saturday of the month. All levels welcome. No preregistration required.
Map
BARN DANCE
6:00pm / Potluck Dinner followed by music and dancing (7:00 pm)
Reservations and information
The potluck brings a few dozen people out, each with a dish they’ve brought to share.
Cost for the dance is $15–20 per person on a sliding scale; everyone contributes what they can! PLEASE NOTE THAT AN RSVP IS RECOMMENDED but not required and is helpful for our own planning purposes. Nobody will be turned away.
The 7pm Dance lasts 3 hours and features the County Line Pickers (Jim Davies, bass; Joni Davies, guitar; Hide Kawatsur, mandolin; Ken Clarkson, banjo; Luke Abbott and Nancy Vail, fiddle) with caller Andy Wilson to lead the do-si-dos and more!
To encourage a friendly family atmosphere and encourage safe driving on Hwy 1, the potluck and barn dance are alcohol-free events. Please register using the "Sign Up" button at the top of this page and note that we can only accommodate groups of 10 or less. Our office is closed on Saturday and Sunday so the latest RSVP we can accept is the Friday before the barndance, by 3pm.
Map
Exotic Bird & Animal Expo
Come experience a show like no other and socialize with hundreds of animal enthusiasts! Salinas Room from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Tickets are sold at the door.
We aim to create a fresh and unique experience for long time pet lovers, while attracting the new interest of clientele through EDUCATION, FUN & PET THERAPY!
For more information visit www.exoticbirdmart.com or call (916).882.9486 you can also email info@exoticbirdmart.com
Map
Thur July 26 7:30
Fri July 27 7:30
Sat July 28 4:30 7:30
Sun July 29 2:00 4:30 7:30
Mon July 30 7:30
General Admission
Adults $35 Children under 10 $20
VIP Section
Adults $45 Children under 10 $25
Sunday/Domingo 2:00 pm: Adults and Children under 10: $10, no coupons this show
Map
Special “Parents’ Day” Redwood Loop Walks
Sunday, July 22 at 11am and 2pm
Join Docent Norm Beeson as he celebrates parents today! Learn about the many parenting styles of the redwoods, the dedicated parenting of the endangered marbled murrelet, the extended family of the acorn woodpecker and more on this fun, informative half-mile hike. Meet at Big Basin Redwood State Park Headquarters. Event is free; day use vehicle fee is $10. Events made possible my California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation.
Map
Here comes the annual Wharf to Wharf Race! Are you ready? If you've run this scenic six-mile classic before, you know about the weather, the forty live bands, the throngs of festive spectators and the chance to win the coveted Wharf to Wharf Runner T-shirt, awarded only to race finishers and never sold to anyone, anywhere, at any price.....ever. If you've never run it........... this is the year!
It's the best little road race in California. Go for it!
The meandering race route along scenic Monterey Bay plays no small part in the popularity of this run. You'll find new inspiration at every turn of the pristine coastline. Cool ocean breezes provide natural air conditioning. If you're coming from someplace hot, you're in for a treat!
Starting at the Santa Cruz Wharf at 8:30am, the race opens with a dash down Beach Street, passing the Ferris Wheel, roller coaster and merry-go-round of the world famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Runners then cross the San Lorenzo Bridge and loop around the Yacht Harbor to Twin Lakes Beach. Turning inland the course winds through Schwann Lake Wildlife Sanctuary before breaking back to the ocean bluffs at Pleasure Point. From there the way wanders through quaint seaside neighborhoods before dipping down to a festive finish at the Capitola Wharf.
From 8:30-10 a.m, the race course will be closed to traffic. The affected streets are Beach Street, Third Avenue, Riverside Avenue, San Lorenzo Boulevard, Murray Street, East Cliff Drive, Seabright Avenue, Lake Avenue, Eaton Avenue, Fifth Avenue, Opal Cliff Drive, Cliff Drive and Wharf Road. Capitola Village will be congested until noon.
Race officials at street intersections along the route will permit cars to cross the course during the race for emergency purposes only.
Taco Tuesdays are happening at Anna Jean Cummings Park / Blue Ball Park every 4th Tuesday of the month! Food trucks will be serving specialty tacos plus their signature dishes. Bring your family and meet your friends! Hang out and dine on the lawn or picnic tables or stop by and take dinner home!
Map
Wilder Things - Welcome To The Jungle Book (2018)
Strange things have been happening in a small California town. A group of kids desperate to find a friend-gone-missing, find an old Jungle Book themed board game. With a roll of the dice they find themselves sucked into an up-side-down version of a classic children's tale. In the jungle, not only do they find their friends, they find some missing Castaways, friendly village people and more!
Little People's Repertory Theatre provides affordable opportunities for theatrical performance to youth ages 3 to 18. Using original scripts and contemporary themes, knowledgeable, trained staff facilitate a developmentally appropriate and positive social environment through mentorship, creative collaboration, skill building and instruction, wherein children, teens and community members work together to create high-quality, original works of art.
Ten Reasons to Go English Country Dancing
1 It’s Really, Really Fun.
2 It’s Easy: If you can count and skip and tell your right hand from your left, you can begin doing the easy dances immediately. This form of dance does not require fancy footwork or a high level of coordination. This is an excellent place to learn, even if you’ve never done any folk dancing. Beginners are very welcome.
3 It’s Social: The level of interaction that occurs between all the dancers in the set make this a very social dance form. Singles or partners are welcome. This is a very friendly community, and a great way to meet new people.
4 It’s Good Exercise: How many calories did you burn the last time you watched a TV show? Yeah, that’s what we thought. Although English country dancing is not as strenuous as a workout at the gym, it does a whole lot more for your health than a sitcom and a bag of potato chips. It’s a good, light exercise.
5 It’s Casual: We are not a performance troupe, so our goal is not to make the dances look perfect. Our goal is to have fun, and we can do that without requiring technical perfection. Come as you are, wear casual clothes, relax and enjoy it.
6 It’s Low-Tech: Tired of staring at a computer screen all day? So are we. Come dance with us! We won’t require you to look at a computer screen all night. We promise!
7 Indulge Your Inner Anglophile: Come on, you know you want to.
8 It’s Good Clean Fun: Although English country dance has been known to lead to Renaissance Faire addiction, apart from that, it’s totally harmless. (Actually, we love our local Renaissance Faire, especially the Newcastle Country Dancers.)
9 It Brings Together People of All Ages: This form of entertainment appeals to a wide range of ages, which helps bridge the gap between generations. Whether you’re a teen, a septuagenarian, or someone in between, there’s a place here for you.
10 Did We Mention That It’s Really, Really Fun?
Come dance with us! We usually meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, from 7:00—9:30 p.m., at Peace United Church (upper hall), 900 High Street, Santa Cruz, California. (We meet on only the second Thursday in November and December.)
Map
THE PRODUCERS
JULY 26 - AUGUST 19, 2018
A New Mel Brooks Musical, Book by Mel Brooks & Thomas Meehan, Music & Lyrics by Mel Brooks
Original Direction & Choreography by Susan Stroman
WINNER OF 12 TONY AWARDS INCLUDING BEST MUSICAL & BEST ORIGINAL SCORE!
WINNER OF 11 DRAMA DESK AWARDS INCLUDING OUTSTANDING MUSICAL & OUTSTANDING BOOK & LYRICS!
A COMBINATION OF UNSTOPPABLE LAUGHTER AND SHEER HAPPINESS!
THE PLAY
Based on Mel Brooks' much loved Academy Award-winning movie, The Producers is a hilarious musical comedy that took Broadway by storm, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards and 3 Olivier Awards.Impoverished by a string of flops, New York producer Max Bialystock recruits timid accountant Leo Bloom to help him pull off Broadway's greatest scam. They aim to produce the worst show ever and run away with millions, but they soon learn that show business can kick you in the teeth.The Producers may be the funniest Broadway musical of all time.
There are still spaces available at Family Camp located at Monte Toyon. Get out of the city and into the Redwood Forest with your family! Camping is for 4 days/3 nights at $350 per family (2-5 persons). Family Camp provides the campsite at Monte Toyon, which is in Aptos Redwood Forest, along with dinner on Friday and Saturday night and dessert every night! Family Camp also includes Naturalists on site for guided hikes and Adventures!
Dates still available for Family Camping:
July 19 - 22
July 26 - 29
August 2 - 5
Map
Come to the Gilroy Garlic Festival for great garlicky food, live entertainment, cooking competitions, and lots of fun for the whole family!
The heart of the Garlic Festival is Gourmet Alley, the gigantic outdoor kitchen where the world-famous "Pyro Chefs" put on a spectacular flame-up show while preparing garlic-laced calamari and scampi in huge iron skillets. Other Festival favorites include pepper steak sandwiches, pasta con pesto, fried calamari, and sausage sandwiches, as well as Gilroy garlic fries and garlic bread. And don't forget the only-in-Gilroy garlic ice cream!
You'll also find live entertainment on three stages, cooking contests and demonstrations, arts & crafts, wine tasting, and a fun Children's Area too.
Map
Tales to Tails @ La Selva Beach from 3:00pm-3:30pm!
Have you read to a dog through the Tales to Tails program at Santa Cruz Public Libraries?
You have plenty of time to participate in this fun reading activity with your family, so contact tales2tails@santacruzpl.org or 831.427.7717 to reserve your spot.
Map
Day Out with ThomasTM
JULY 27 - 29 & AUGUST 1 - 5
Join Thomas the Tank EngineTM for the Big Adventures Tour 2018 through the Big Trees. Your ticket includes a fun-filled day of activities: a train ride with ThomasTM, picture taking with Sir Topham HattTM, temporary tattoos, face painting, bounce houses, storytelling, bubble making, live entertainment, train play tables, and more! So bring the family, come early, and enjoy the day.
What is Day Out With ThomasTM?
Day Out With ThomasTM is a family event that offers aspiring engineers and their families the unique opportunity to take a ride with the classic storybook engine, Thomas the Tank EngineTM at regional heritage railroads across the country.
Who is Thomas the Tank Engine?
Since Thomas the Tank Engine left the depot more than 65 years ago, this Really Useful Engine and his Island of Sodor friends have chugged their way into the hearts of preschoolers and grownups worldwide. Based on The Railway Series of classic stories authored by a father who loved trains and wanted a shared experience with his son, Thomas & FriendsTM is a rite of passage that inspires the imagination while teaching the life lessons of friendship, exploration and cooperation.
Tales of the Basin: A Storytelling Event
Saturday, July 28
"Nature Tails" at 4:30pm
Storytellers' Showcase Campfire at 7pm
Events will spotlight storytellers, park history, special children’s performers and the tradition of spinning a yarn beside the evening fire. Event presented by South Bay Storytellers. At “Nature Tails” listen to a world of animal songs and stories presented for children of all ages by local storytellers in the campfire center. At the Showcase Campfire, sit back and experience an old-fashioned evening steeped in the oral tradition, as our guest storytellers weave their yarns in our historic amphitheater. Event is free; day use vehicle fee is $10.
Map
The Santa Cruz Public Library System (SCPL today announced a new partnership with the Stanford Blood Center. Join us on Saturday, July 28th in the Aptos Library parking lot as we host a visit from the Stanford Blood Center Bloodmobile.
Did you know that about every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood?
Schedule an appointment online at: www.sbcdonor.org Use sponsor code: 2557
Map
Have a rock that needs identifying? Want to learn more about the geology of Santa Cruz? Like digging for fossils? Join Gavin and Graham-also known as our "Geology Gents"-for our monthly rock-talk days. Every fourth Saturday of the month, these PhD students from UC Santa Cruz will be at the Museum, ready to ID your local (or not-so-local) geologic finds, as well as show off a rotating collection of specimens. So get ready to talk shop with these rock jocks!
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Great for all ages | Free with admission: $4 General | $2 Students/Seniors | FREE 18 & Under
About our Geology Gents: Graham Edwards and Gavin Piccione are PhD students in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UC Santa Cruz.
"I use the scientific tools of geochronology-the study and measurement of time in geologic materials- to answer geologic question about the ages of glaciers, the cooling of Earth's crust over billions of years, and the earliest stages of our solar system when rocky meteorites formed." -Graham Edwards
"My decision to become a geologist comes from a deep interest in how the Earth has changed through time and why it has evolved the way it did. My primary research interest is to reconstruct timelines of geologic events by finding the age of rocks. Much like a historian traces events and creates a timeline of human, I seek to use age measurements of rocks to trace the evolution of the Earth."-Gavin Piccione
Map
Indigenous Land Stewardship at Quiroste Valley, Then and Now
July 28 | 10 AM - 12:30 PM
Pre-registration Required - Click HERE to Register
We will take a look over the Quiroste Valley, imagining what the landscape looked like in the past and learning why it looks the way it does now. On this short walk into the valley floor, we will visit what remains of a large Quiroste village (most likely the village of Metenne) and discuss the Quiroste people, how they managed the landscape and natural resources in the area, and what happened to the Quiroste during colonization.
A few hundred yards away, at a large stand of coastal tarweed we will discuss how the Amah Mutsun-the descendants of the Quiroste-returned to the valley, and the research and conservation efforts the Tribe and the Amah Mutsun Land Trust is involved in now.
The group will meet at a parking lot near the entrance to Quiroste Valley Cultural Preserve and carpool into the reserve due to limited parking. This walk will be no more than one mile on established trails. Please wear layers and comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. Sun protection, water, and snacks recommended. More details will be provided upon registration..
Join us to celebrate local urban farming! Play with baby goats, enjoy hyper-local food and drink, shop for plant starts for your garden and arts and crafts, enjoy workshops and live music, demos, and a tour of the Grange. There's something for the whole family!
You'll find the veggie and flower starts you need for your garden, both well-loved favorites and unique heirlooms, as well as local arts, crafts, gems and flea market items.
Enjoy organic nachos with farm fresh toppings raised and grown by Grange members, local drinks, coffee and deserts.
Play with baby goats! Goat milking demo!
Workshops:
Raising Backyard Chickens: 11:00am
Home Composting Workshop: 11:00am and 1:00pm
Pollinator/Butterfly Garden Workshop: tbd
Take a tour of the gardens, orchard and chicken coop at the historic Live Oak Grange
Gardeners will be on hand to answer your questions!
Funds raised will benefit the community gardens, which preserve local tradition and provide opportunities for urban farming, and our Hall Renovation Fund to preserve our 80+ year old Grange Hall!
The world meets at Cabrillo Festival July 29-August 12
Each summer Cabrillo Festival brings together music lovers, community members, professional orchestra players and extraordinary composers for an inspired gathering that offers a musical experience like no other.
For the 2018 season, Music Director Cristi MÄcelaru has summoned voices from around the globe and across diverse cultural backgrounds to present 18 contemporary works that reflect the human spirit and the stories we tell, the grandeur of the planet, and the vastness of the cosmos. You're invited to journey deep into the creative process through our open rehearsals, talks and the intoxicating experience of live performance. Cabrillo Festival delivers spectacular musicianship, coupled with a warm and welcoming environment for listeners at all levels, plus that famously special Santa Cruz vibe. It's a rare thrill, and you're invited!
So much is new in 2018!
EVENTS (MOST ARE FREE)
Donors Concert July 28 @ 4:45 pm - 6:30 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz
A pre-season chamber concert and reception free for donors of $250 or more.
First Open Rehearsal (Aural Histories) July 29 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz
Come to the Civic Auditorium to watch Cristi and the Festival Orchestra play the first notes of the 2018 season! Open Rehearsals continue nearly every weekday through August 10. Today's rehearsal program: Huang RUO: Folksongs for Orchestra Dan DEDIU: Grana Zosha DI CASTRI: Dear Life (with Mary Mackenzie, soprano) Pande SHAHOV: Piano Concerto (no soloist)
Open Rehearsal (After Dixieland) July 30 @ 2:30 am - 5:00 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz,
Free - Today's rehearsal program: Gabriela Lena FRANK: Walkabout, Concerto for Orchestra Vivian FUNG: Dust Devils Kristin KUSTER: Rain On It
Open Rehearsal (After Dixieland) July 31 @ 10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz,
Free
Today's rehearsal program: Gabriela Lena FRANK: Walkabout, Concerto for Orchestra Kristin KUSTER: Rain On It William BOLCOM: Concerto in D for Violin (with Philippe Quint, violin)
In The Works Orchestra Concert July 31 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz
Free
A special free concert featuring new works by three young composers conducted in rotation by six emerging conductors, the culmination of the prestigious Conductors/Composers Workshop. No tickets required.
Open Rehearsal (Aural Histories) August 1 @ 10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz
Free
Today's rehearsal program: Pande SHAHOV: Piano Concerto (with Simon Trpceski, piano) Huang RUO: Folksongs for Orchestra Dan DEDIU: Grana Zosha DI CASTRI: Dear Life (with Mary Mackenzie, soprano)
Open Rehearsal (Conductors Workshop) August 1 @ 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz,
Free
The culmination of the Conductors Workshop, the program features standard repertoire performed by the Cabrillo Festival Orchestra led in rotation by emerging conductors.
Open Rehearsal (Aural Histories) August 2 @ 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz,
Free
Today's rehearsal program: Dan DEDIU: Grana Huang RUO: Folksongs for Orchestra Pande SHAHOV: Piano Concerto (with Simon Trpceski, piano) Zosha DI CASTRI: Dear Life (with Mary Mackenzie, soprano)
Pre-Rehearsal Talk with Prue Ashurst August 2 @ 6:15 pm - 6:45 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz
Free
Prue Ashurst is an educator, choral director and lecturer. Prue has made the pilgrimage from her native Australia to the Festival for many years, and this year we are thrillled that she will give us a Pre-Rehearsal Talk on the After Dixieland concert program!
Open Rehearsal (After Dixieland) August 2 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz
Free
Today's rehearsal program: Vivian FUNG: Dust Devils William BOLCOM: Concerto in D for Violin (with Philippe Quint) Gabriela Lena FRANK: Walkabout, Concerto for Orchestra Kristin KUSTER: Rain On It
The Experts in Mystery Entertainment are now performing live public and private interactive murder mystery dinner shows in San Jose and surrounding areas throughout California.
Join us for a night of intrigue, deception, and delicious food in this comedic thriller!
Map
Disclaimer: The information and services on the web site are intended to serve as a supplement to your resources. ParentClick, Inc. and its agents and SantaCruzParent.com assume no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action you take based on the information or material on the website. SantaCruzParent.com does not endorse any business or listings on the classifieds section, including, but not limited to babysitters. This site is to make you aware of choices in your city. Using these business, their services and advice is your decision.
SantaCruzParent.com, Santa Cruz, CA (831) 713-7026 info@SantaCruzParent.com
© 2006 SantaCruzParent.com, All Rights Reserved. Web Site by up2speedsolutions.com
Visit our 
Add to My Planner
Remove
View my Parent Planner
Blogs
RSS