Annual Events

Free Daily Entertainment
Beach Boardwalk
World-class magicians, acrobats, jugglers, and comedians-all performing FREE at two stages inside the park.
Date: Every day (Jun 18-Aug 17) from 12:00pm to 6:00pm

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.

Neptune's Stage located next to Pirate Ship.
Cave Train Stage located near Cave Train.

The Entertainers and the Schedule

Watsonville Certified Farmers Market
Watsonville Farmers Market
Fresh, locally grown produce on Friday afternoons from 2:30 to 6:30 PM from May to November.
Date: Every Fri from 2:30pm to 6:30pm

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

Folk Dancing!
Cabrillo Folk Dancers
Check out these folk dancing events! Balkan, Israeli, International
Date: Every Tues and Fri from 7:30am to 11:00pm

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

THE PRODUCERS
Cabrillo Stage Summer Musical Festival
The Producers is a hilarious musical comedy that took Broadway by storm
Date: Every day (Jul 26-Aug 19)

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.

Old Tree Trail Hike
State Park Portola Redwoods
Explore Portola Redwoods State Park
Date: Every Fri and Sa (Jun 2-Sep 29) at 2:30pm

Portola Redwoods State Park
From Highway 35, turn west onto Alpine Road, go 3 miles, and turn onto Portola State Park Rd.
Use low gear as both these roads are steep and winding (650) 948-9098. 

 

Old Tree Trail Hike

Saturdays at 2:30pm

Meet at the Portola Redwoods State Park Visitor Center for a stroll through a giant old growth redwood grove that's over 1,200 years old. On this 1-mile, 1-hour kid friendly excursion we'll discover the banana slug's vital role to this flourishing forest, learn about the marvelous Marbled Murrelet, and how park visitors can help save these endangered birds. Event is free; day use vehicle fee is $10. Bring closed toe shoes, water, a snack, and a camera. Event made possible by California State Parks in partnership with Portola and Castle Rock Foundation.

 

Toddler Story Time
Library Central
Date: Every Fri from 10:00am to 11:00am
Ages: 3-6 Admission Fees: free

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!

 

State Park Pigeon Point Light Station
Date: Every Su, Fri and Sa at 10:00am
Ages: All

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.

Tour the Pacific Migrations Center
State Park New Brighton
Self-guided tour highlights history of Pacific Rim migrations
Date: Every Su, Tues, Wed, Th, Fri and Sa from 10:00am to 4:00pm
Ages: 7-12

 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

Hikes at Castle Rock
State Park Castle Rock
Discover expansive views, marvelous rock formations and great rock climbing opportunities
Date: Every day (Jun 1-Sep 30)

Special Instructions: Located on Highway 35, just 2.5 miles southeast of the junction with Hwy 9

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.

 

Elephant Seal Walks
State Park Ano Nuevo
3 mile hike over sand and sloping terrain to see thousands of elephant seals, including newborn pups, their mothers, and bulls
Date: Every day (Oct 20-Mar 31)
Ages: All: (Lots of walking) Admission Fees: Guided $7; Self-guided free
Special Instructions: Dec 15 - Mar 31

Explore Año Nuevo with a Docent Naturalist

Guided Elephant Seal Walks

Ticket sales open Friday, October 20

Cost: $7 per person + $3.99 reservation fee

www.parks.ca.gov/anonuevo

Journey to view a large colony of Northern elephant seals, guided by your docent naturalist on this moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour adventure. In the month of December, male elephant seals, or bulls, arrive along the shore of Año Nuevo State Park to establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups.

 

These popular guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear is strongly advised. Umbrellas and strollers are not permitted. Pets are not allowed in the park. Parking is $10. For more information, please call (650) 879-2025 or for recorded information (650) 879-0227.

 

People with accessibility needs may reserve an equal access tour along the boardwalk.

These tours take place on Fridays, weekends, and select holidays. For reservations and info call ReserveCalifornia at 1-800-444-4445. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.

 

Self-Guided Seal Walks

Daily, between 8:30am and 3:30pm (Natural Preserve closes at 5pm)

Stroll over sand dunes, enjoy beautiful ocean views, and gain a unique opportunity to view a large colony of Northern elephant seals on this 3-mile, 2.5-hour self-guided trail! Visit the female elephant seals as they return to shore to molt, or shed their fur, in this annual excursion.  Additionally, young pups are still ashore from the winter breeding season. Layered clothing, closed-toes shoes, and rain/wind gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and strollers are not permitted inside the dune area. Pets are not allowed in the park. Walk is free; day-use vehicle fee is $10. Entrance to the reserve for your self-guided walk requires a free permit that can be obtained at the entrance station, or the Visitor Center. Please contact the park at 650-879-2025 for further information.

 

If you require mobility assistance, you may request a volunteer-led equal access tour. You will board our accessible van and get a ride to our wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. A volunteer(s) will accompany you to the two seal-viewing decks, explain the Northern elephant seal natural history, the history of the park, and answer questions. Reservations are required. Please, allow a 2-week advance notice. The volunteer led tour is free, day-use vehicle fee is $10. Contact the park at 650-879-2033 or email Ano.EqualAccess@parks.ca.gov. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.

Children's Planetarium Show
Hartnell Planetarium
Star programs for chldren
Date: Every Fri at 5:30pm
Admission Fees: $4

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

December - Stars 8

About our shows

Stars - Every star has a story. Some are as old as time, faint and almost forgotten. Others burn bright and end their lives in powerful explosions. New stars are created every day, born of vast clouds of gas and dust. Through every phase of their existence, stars release the energy that powers the Universe. Journey to the farthest reaches of our galaxy and experience both the awesome beauty and destructive power of STARS.

Summer Camp: The Art and Science of Nature (Entering Grades K+1)
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Calling budding artists and scientists curious about nature!
Date: Every day (Jul 23-Jul 27) from 8:30am to 3:30pm
Ages: Entering grades K and 1 Admission Fees: $265
Special Instructions: Scholarships and member discounts available

This summer, join us on a journey to investigate symmetries, patterns, and curiosities in the natural world. Spend the week exploring nearby beach, creek, and garden habitats, and making all sorts of art inspired by what we discover.

We invite incoming kindergartners and first graders to come observe, explore, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world here in our backyard as well as in the Museum's collection. We will explore what nature reveals to us everyday through a variety of individual and collaborative art projects. Every camper will create artwork to take home, make scientific discoveries, and most importantly, create memories, friendships, and a personal connection to the unique nature of the Santa Cruz coast.

Camp will run from 9AM-3PM each day, with drop-off from 8:30-9 and pickup from 3-3:30. Member discounts and limited scholarships are available. More information at santacruzmuseum.org/camp

Free Movies at the Beach
Beach Boardwalk
Bring the family and your blanket or low back chair and join us for these classic hits!
Date: Every Wed and Fri (Jun 15-Aug 31)

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.

JUNIOR POLICE ACADEMY
Scotts Valley Police
Provides students with alternatives to drugs, violence, and other illegal activities through exciting events and educational pro
Date: Every day (May 1-Aug 3)

Special Instructions: June 18-22, July 9-13, July 30-Aug 3

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

Friday Night Bands at the Beach
Beach Boardwalk
Bring the family and your blanket or low back chair and join us for these classic bands!
Date: Every Fri (Jun 15-Aug 31)

Special Instructions: TWO FREE SHOWS • 6:30pm & 8:30pm

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"

Day Out with Thomas
Roaring Camp
A train ride with ThomasTM, picture taking with Sir Topham Hatt,TM temporary tattoos, face painting, bounce houses, storytelling
Date: Every Su, Fri and Sa (Jul 27-Aug 5)
Admission Fees: $20 - $24
Special Instructions: July 28-30 & Aug 4-6

Day Out with Thomas^TM

JULY 27 - 29 & AUGUST 1 - 5

Join Thomas the Tank Engine^TM for the Big Adventures Tour 2018 through the Big Trees. Your ticket includes a fun-filled day of activities: a train ride with Thomas^TM, picture taking with Sir Topham Hatt^TM, 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.

 

Purchase tickets here

 

What is Day Out With Thomas^TM?

Day Out With Thomas^TM 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 Engine^TM 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 & Friends^TM is a rite of passage that inspires the imagination while teaching the life lessons of friendship, exploration and cooperation.

MAKE & Explore at the Mall
Santa Cruz Public Libraries
MAKE & Explore at the Mall
Date: Every Fri (Jun 29-Jul 27) from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Ages: 6-12 Admission Fees: Free

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.

FREE FUN DURING PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH
Santa Cruz County Parks
Free Events All July
Date: Every day (Jul 6-Jul 31)

FREE FUN DURING PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH

During the month of July, the County is inviting residents to take the “July is Parks & Recreation Month Challenge.”

Wilder Things - Welcome To The Jungle Book (2018)
Little People's Repertory Theatre
Dorothy lives in a cupboard below the porch of her aunt and uncle's farmhouse. One day an owl arrives with an invitation for Dor
Date: Every day (Jul 25-Aug 5)

Wilder Things - Welcome To The Jungle Book (2018)

• Written by Janinne Chadwick
• Directed by Daria E. Troxell
• Performed at Park Hall

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.

 

TICKETS

Nature Club
State Park Big Basin
This fun program is designed for children ages 3-6 and their families. Pretend, play, sing and explore!
Date: Every day (Jul 1-Aug 31)
Ages: All
Special Instructions: See varying hours

Big Basin Nature Club

Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 4:30pm (No programs August 25, 28)

Wednesdays at 1:30pm (No program Wednesday, August 29)

This fun program is designed for children ages 3-6 and their families. Pretend, play, sing and explore! This half-hour program will introduce youngsters to the wonders of the redwood forest. Meet at the Big Basin Redwoods State Park Nature Museum. Event is free; vehicle day use fee is $10. Events made possible by California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation.

Half Moon Bay State Beach
State Park Half Moon Bay Beach
Junior Rangers, Campfire Programs, Guided walks
Date: Every day (Jun 29-Aug 31) from 11:00am to 3:00pm

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

Carmel Bach Festival
Carmel Bach Festival
Two favorites, but check the entire calendar
Date: Every day (Jul 14-Jul 28)

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.

 

San Carlos Cathedral Tickets

The Gilroy Garlic Festival
Gilroy Garlic Festival
"Ultimate Summer Food Fair"; three d9ys of incredible food, beverages, arts & crafts, live entertainment and
Date: Every day (Jul 27-Jul 29)
Ages: All Admission Fees: 7473 Monterey St
Special Instructions: Santa Teresa Blvd & Club Dr

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.

 

 

Annual Statewide California Landscape Exhibition
Santa Cruz Art League
California's foothills, mountains, seashores, and deserts of the interior and coastal regions by California artists
Date: Every day (Jul 6-Aug 5)

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.

 

Friday, July 6 - Sunday, August 5, 2018
Reception: July 6, First Friday, 6-8pm

Junior Rangers at Big Basin
State Park Big Basin
Nature for the little ones!
Date: Every day (Jun 16-Sep 1) at 10:00am
Ages: 3-6 and families Admission Fees: Free
Special Instructions: See varying dates, times

Junior Rangers

Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 3pm (No programs August 25, 28, 29)

Wednesdays at 10am – Special two-hour program (No program August 29)

Explore, hike and play games as you learn about plants, animals, and more. This 1-hour program is designed for kids ages 7-12 only. Please register your child at the Nature Museum 15 minutes before the program begins. Please be sure your child is dressed for active play. 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.

 

 

Preschool Storytime at Porter Memorial Library
Library Porter Memorial
Preschool Storytime at Porter Memorial Library
Date: Every Fri (Jul 7-Jul 31) from 11:00am to 12:00pm
Ages: Preschool Admission Fees: Free

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.