Santa Cruz Parent

Parent Nest A Guided Play and Connection Series
2026-01-02 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery MOD, 1855 41st Ave #10, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Parent Nest A Guided Play and Connection Series
Fridays 10am, August 1 – November 21
Session 1 August 8, 15, 22, 29th
Session 2 September 5, 12, 19, 26
Session 3 October 3, 10, 17, 24th
Session 4 October 31st, November 7, 14, 21st
Fall cohorts now enrolling… Parenting is better together!
If those early parenting days feel like a mix of wonder and worry, you’re not alone. Between those middle-of-the-night feeds and milestone questions, it’s natural to feel both overwhelmed and amazed—sometimes in the same moment. While you’re marveling at your little one’s daily discoveries, you might also be wondering if you’re doing enough, or wishing for a community that truly gets what this journey is like. That’s exactly why we created The Parent Nest: A guided play & connection series

Created specifically for infants and toddlers (from sitting age to 18 months), this four-week series takes place in the serene morning hours before the museum opens. In this distraction-free setting, your little explorer can safely investigate their world while you connect with other parents who understand exactly what this stage of life is like.
Each 45-minute session nurtures your child’s natural development through research-backed activities that:

Build Neural Pathways Through Movement: As babies roll, crawl, and reach, they’re not just exercising—they’re forming crucial brain connections that support physical coordination and spatial awareness.

Develop Pre-Language Skills: Our musical activities introduce rhythm, repetition, and simple signs, laying the groundwork for communication long before first words appear.

Enhance Sensory Processing: From our “Building Beginnings” exploration to “Splish Splash Discovery” play, each tactile experience helps your little one understand their world through touch, sight, sound, and movement.

Foster Social-Emotional Growth: Through guided interactions, babies learn early social cues while parents discover ways to support emotional development during daily routines.

Join us for a four-week play-based program designed to support your baby’s development while building connection with other caregivers.

Find your community of support: Early Development Classes in a Museum Setting

Free for members!
Free Children Under 12 Months
$35 – Non-members per session (We will email you a link to pay)
Thank you to Musical Me for sponsoring our program.

Explore Año Nuevo with a Docent
2026-01-02 08:00 - 17:00 | Año Nuevo State Park, 1 New Years Creek Rd, Pescadero, CA, 94060, United States
Explore Año Nuevo with a Docent
Cancelled: Check website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=27613
December 15 – March 31
The park offers guided walks led by volunteer docent naturalist to see the northern elephant seals in their natural habitat inside the Año Nuevo Coast Natural Preserve. Año Nuevo docents go through extensive training and are highly knowledgeable in the natural and cultural history of the park. Elephant seal acivities and population counts can vary widely throughout the guided walk season.
General Information
Guided walks begin December 15 and continue every day until March 31 with exceptions on December 25 (Christmas) and January 31-February 1 for an annual fundraising event, Seal Adventure.
During the guided walk season, walks are offered daily for families, individuals, or groups. Children age 17 and under require one adult chaperone for each 10 children. Each walk has a capacity of 15 people, including chaperones.
The trail to see the elephant seals includes a 3-4 mile hike and is considered moderate with varied terrain including sand dunes.
Guided walks run 2.5 hours from start to finish and operate daily from early morning to mid-afternoon, rain or shine.
$7.00 + $3.99 reservation fee for public walks. Children age 4 and under are free. Online/phone reservations are highly recommended, espeically weekends and holidays. Visit ReserveCalifornia or call 1-800-444-4445.
What Should I Bring?

Elephant seal walks are conducted rain or shine. Winter weather can be very cold and windy, even on sunny days. Rain is frequent and the trail may be muddy with small puddles.
Visitors should bring hooded rain gear, a warm jacket, layered clothing, and sturdy walking shoes. Bring water for drinking on the trail.
Cameras and photography are permitted. Although there are no restrictions on flashes, photographers are restricted to stay with the guided walk group and cannot leave. Staying 25 feet from the elephant seals is firmly enforced.
Binoculars are helpful for seeing seals further out on the beaches and on the island.

What Not To Bring

For safety reasons, umbrellas are not permitted on the walks.
Baby strollers are also not permitted for safety reasons. Families may use them for the first .9 mile walk to the staging area but must then leave them there for the rest of the tour.
No food is allowed on the tour, but you may picnic in designated areas before or after the guided walk.
Pets are not allowed in the park and cannot be left inside parked vehicles in the parking lot.

Specialty Seal Walks
Spring, Summer, Fall Guided Walks – Elephant seal viewing is self-guided from April to November. No reservation or guided tour is needed. To schedule a guided walk with a docent for an organized group during this time, contact the park at 650-879-2029.
School Group Walks are offered year-round Monday through Friday mornings for 4-12 grades and in the spring for K-3 grades.
Equal Access Walks are offered to visitors who require mobile assistance and cannot make the 3-4 mile walk.

ReserveCalifornia will begin taking reservations on the following dates:
School Groups (phone reservations only): Call toll free: 1-800-444-4445
Public Walks (online and phone reservations available): Call toll free: 1-800-444-4445
Equal Access (phone reservations only): Call toll free: 1-800-444-4445

Respect the Seals. Guided walks are conducted in and around the elephant seal colony. Please respect the rules of the park.

Drop-In Drawing at MAH All Ages
2026-01-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Santa Cruz Musueum of Art and History (MAH, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
Drop-In Drawing at MAH, All Ages
1st Thursday of the month. 6-8pm, beginning September 4

Ever been inspired to drop everything and create when visiting an exhibition at the MAH?
Join us for Drop-In Drawing at the MAH, all ages, from 6-8pm on the first Thursday of every month! This is not a formal lesson, but an opportunity to bring in your own art supplies and sketch what you see. Dry media only (no markers or paint). All ages welcome. Free with admission. The museum will provide stools, feel free to bring a cushion or folding chair if space allows. Groups of 5+ please give advanced notice by emailing info@santacruzmah.org.
Open – Th-/f 12-8pm ~ Sat-sun 12-6pm ~ Mon 9am-1pm
Admission: $10 General; $8 Seniors/Students/Teachers/Veterans; Free for members & children under 5
Become a member today.
Drop-In Drawing Calendar
2025 September – December: Art Forum Gallery / Ed Penniman: Landscapes of Home
2026 January 1 – NONE (New Years Day); February 5 – Solari Gallery / Rydell Visual Arts Fellowship; March 5 – Solari Gallery / Rydell Visual Arts Fellowship Comment

Flynn Creek Circus presents 'The Bridge'
2026-01-01 17:00 | Capitola Mall, Capitola, CA, United States
Flynn Creek Circus presents ‘The Bridge’
Almost daily December 18 through January 4
Scroll Down for times & tickets.
The Bridge is an authentic, original, child pleasing tale.
Inspired by a wolf, Nordic Legend and the architecture of connection, The Bridge is a freshly conjured visual feast sprinkled with cloaked commentary and gorgeous imagery.
It wouldn’t be Flynn Creek Circus without irreverent comedy and thrilling surprises.
A troll, a goat, a shadow, a wolf… the 2025 season show features lovable characters and huge acrobatic stunts like never before.
And if you’re not in the family way, we’ve got you covered with our outrageous, raucous and pretty much punk rock ‘Adults Only * version at limited showtimes. Beer, wine and light concession are available for purchase.
Flynn Creek Circus is an all-human spectacle.
Date, Time, Tickets
Thursday, December 18, 6:00 PM Show – (Opening Night Special, all tables $10 off)
Friday, December 19, 7:00 PM Show
Saturday, December 20 with preshow entertainment from Radical Movement Factory, 4:00 PM Show, 7:00 PM Show – (Adults Only 21+)
Sunday, December 21 with preshow entertainment from Cirque Tumble Cheer, 2:00 PM Show, 5:00 PM Show
Monday, December 22, 2:00 PM Show, 5:00 PM Show
Tuesday, December 23, 2:00 PM Show, 5:00 PM Show
Wednesday, December 24, 2:00 PM Show
Friday, December 26, 4:00 PM Show, 7:00 PM Show – (Adults Only 21+)
Saturday, December 27, 1:00 PM Show, 4:00 PM Show, 7:00 PM Show – (Seniors Special, all reservations 15% off)
Sunday, December 28, 1:00 PM Show, 4:00 PM Show
Tuesday, December 30, 2:00 PM Show, 5:00 PM Show
Wednesday, December 31, 5:00 PM Show, 8:00 PM Show – (Adults Only 21+)
Thursday, January 1, 5:00 PM Show – (Family Special 15% off all reservations)
Friday, January 2, 7:00 PM Show – (Adults Only 21+)
Saturday, January 3. 1:00 PM Show, 4:00 PM Show, 7:00 PM Show – (Adults Only 21+)
Sunday, January 4, 1:00 PM Show, 4:00 PM Show

Future-Ready Innovators: Free 2-Hour Intro Workshop
2026-01-01 16:00 - 2026-01-03 18:00 | NextSpace Coworking Santa Cruz (Opp Abbott Square), 101 Cooper St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, Philippines
Future-Ready Innovators: Free 2-Hour Intro Workshop
Thursdays 4-6pm, starting September 4
Watch your child’s creative ideas come to life with 3D printing!
Join our 3D Entrepreneurs Club for a fun and engaging free 2-hour intro workshop designed for kids ages 8–12. In this 2-hour session, kids will explore creativity, confidence, and community while learning the basics of 3D design and printing.
👉 Limited free spots available
👉 Join in-person or online
👉 For kids ages 8–12
📅 Reserve your spot today at: www.3de.club/workshop

R.E.A.D. Reach Every Amazing Detail
2026-01-01 15:00 | Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr,, Aptos, CA, 95003
R.E.A.D. Reach Every Amazing Detail
Thursdays 3-5pm
R.E.A.D. is one-on-one reading comprehension instruction for readers 2nd through 12th grade. Instructors are California credentialed teachers.
Thursdays from 3:00p to 5:00p at Downtown, Aptos, Felton & Live Oak Libraries. Sessions are 25 minutes long. By appointment only.
For more information or to register, contact SCPL Telephone Information: 831-427-7713 or elibrary@santacruzpl.org

Game Zone Scotts Valley
2026-01-01 13:00 - 15:00 | Scotts Valley Library, 251 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley, CA, 95066, United States
Game Zone Scotts Valley

Thursdays, beginning December 11, 1 – 3:00pm

Scotts Valley Branch Library is offering a game zone for tweens and teens to relax, hang with friends and play games!

We’re offering a variety of video, card and board games as well as ping pong and art projects every Thursday afternoon from 1-3pm. Come check it out and bring your friends! Ages 10-14
Scotts Valley Branch

Ice Skating by the Bay
2026-01-01 11:00 - 22:00, 2025-12-31 11:00 - 22:00, 2025-12-30 11:00 - 22:00 | Custom House Plaza, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
Ice Skating by the Bay
November 21 – January 4
Join us for ice skating by the bay.
Located in the Custom House Plaza, behind the Portola Hotel and Spa
Every year from mid November through the New Year, Custom House Plaza, behind Portola Hotel and Spa, transforms into a magical winter wonderland with Ice Skating by the Bay.
Our beautiful outdoor rink overlooking Monterey Bay brings the magic of the holidays to life.
This season we ‘re open from November 21, 2025 until January 4, 2026.
BOOK NOW

REGULAR HOURS: Monday thru Saturday | 11am to 10pm (with the exception of the below dates)
Sundays and Holidays | 12pm to 8pm (Including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, New Year’s Day)
ADJUSTED HOURS: December 1-4 & 8-11 (Monday – Thursday): 1:00pm to 10:00pm

Admission:

Adults: $15
Children 12 and under: $13 (must be accompanied by adult)
Season Pass: $225 for the entire season.
Skate Rental: $5

Santa Cruz SPCA Home for the Holiday
2026-01-01 11:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-31 11:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-30 11:00 - 17:00 | Santa Cruz SPCA, 2601 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz (Live Oak), Santa Cruz, CA, 95065, United States
Santa Cruz SPCA Home for the Holiday
Through January 3: Tuesday-Sunday 11am-5pm
The Santa Cruz SPCA’s Home for the Holidays event starts TODAY — and our adoptable animals are ready!! Like, brushed-their-fur-and-everything ready.
From NOW through Jan 3, you can meet your future snuggle buddy AND enjoy waived adoption fees for the following animal categories:

Big dogs (40+lbs)
Adult cats (6mos+)
Adult dogs/cats who’ve waited 30+ days for a home!

Come meet your new bestie. They’re cute. They’re available. 10/10 would recommend.

First Day Hike Portola
2026-01-01 11:00 - 13:00 | Portola State Park, 9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA, 94020
January 1, 11am – 1pm
Bring in the New Year at Portola Redwoods State Park!
Join Eric Schmidt of the Portola and Castle Rock Foundation on our First Day hike through the redwood forest.
This will be a ~2 hour easy/moderate hike with a picnic stop to celebrate New Year’s Day 2026.
We expect to see mushrooms, banana slugs and much more!
Please check the weather forecast. We plan to go out in light rain or shine. (Heavy rain & wind will cancel this hike).
Portola Redwoods State Park Visitor Center
Arrive 10:45 for 11:00 AM hike 1/1/2026
Water, snack for picnic stop, layers, raincoat, hiking shoes/boots, camera
There are dozens of hikes we can choose from. It will depend on the ability of the participants and what they hope to see.
Note: Parking is $10. There is NO CELLULAR SERVICE in the park. Please download or print driving directions and allow extra time to arrive. (About 1 hour from Rt 280 in Palo Alto)

AI Prompting for Learning Mac or PC
2026-01-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom, CA, United States
AI Prompting for Learning (Mac or PC)
Thursdays 11am-12pm
Tech Talk Online On Zoom
Are you using AI tools to improve your understanding?
Explore the topic of learning strategies and discover ways to use chatbots and NotebookLM for learning.
https://loom.ly/M858HbUv

Stuffie Hide & Seek
2026-01-01 10:00 - 18:00 | Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr,, Aptos, CA, 95003
Stuffie Hide & Seek
Friday, August 1, 10am – 6pm
Every day through December 1
A cuddly, book-loving stuffed animal is hiding in the Children’s Room—can you track it down? Explore the shelves, uncover fun books and surprises, and when you find the critter, let a librarian know to earn a sticker prize! This passive program runs all day, every day—just drop in and join the fun!
Aptos Library Children’s Room

First Day Hikes in Santa Cruz County
2026-01-01 09:00 - 17:00 | Santa Cruz County Parks
First Day Hikes are a great tradition!
Some hikes require registration. Also. be prepared to pay a parking fee at most parks.

January 1, 9am – 1pm – First Day Hike – The Forest of Nisene Marks
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, 600 Aptos Creek Road, Aptos, Join us for a 4 mile, 4 hour walk to the site where the town of Loma Prieta was located and the hidden spot deep in the redwoods. Register https://santacruzstateparks.as.me/schedule/0ef4b536/appointment/28163212/calendar/5807009

January 1, 10am – 12pm – First Day Hike – Burleigh Murray Ranch
Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park – Join State Park Docents on a leisurely two-hour walk. Take a journey back in time along Mills Creek at Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park. This walk will be a 2.5 miles round trip hike with only a small gain in elevation. Along the way you will learn about the lives of early pioneers and farming families who first settled here in the 19th century. Enjoy one of our area’s hidden treasures. Meet in the parking lot. For more information, call (669) 758-1819. Click here to make your reservation today!

January 1, 10am – 12pm – First Day Hike – Gray Whale Cove Trail, Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay State Beach 95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, Join State Park Docents for a two-hour hike along the scenic Gray Whale Cove Trail at State Parks’ McNee Ranch at Montara. Enjoy a moderate 2 mile hike overlooking the California coast. From the trail you will be able to view evidence in the landscape of the Ocean Shore Railroad and bunkers left over from the World War II era. Enjoy the ocean views, the coastal plants, and the birds on this exciting hike. Meet on the north side of the Gray Whale Cove State Beach parking lot on Highway 1. If you have any questions or concerns please contact halfmoonbay@ports-ca.us or call (669) 758-1819.

January 1, 10am – 2pm – First Day Hike – Big Basin Redwoods
Big Basin Redwoods State Park 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, This 5-mile moderately difficult hike will take you to the Mount McAbee Overlook with views of the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. The hike has an elevation gain of 800 feet. You will be going up part of the Skyline to the Sea trail to Middle Ridge Fire Road to Hihn Hammond Fire Road to the Overlook, returning via Hihn Hammond Road, on the Hihn Hammond Connector trail and into the Redwood Loop back to Park Headquarters. You can expect stops along the way to observe and learn about flora and fauna in diverse ecosystems. Meet at the Visitor Center. Length of Hike: 5.0 mile, 4 hoursWear sturdy hiking shoes or boots and wear layers. Bring plenty of water. There is no potable water available other that by purchase for $3. Bring lunch. Hike will happen rain or shine, but route may be altered in inclement weather depending on trail conditions. High winds will cancel. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No pets are allowed. Registration is not required. A $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival (no cash), or you can reserve a parking spot for $8 online.

January 1, 11am – 12:30pm – First Day Hike at Henry Cowell – Redwood Grove
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – 101 N Big Trees Park Road, Felton, Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Join us for a guided walk through the Redwood Grove to talk about coast redwoods and to experience the forest together. On this 1-mile stroll, we will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc. and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. We will meet in front of the Redwood Visitor Center.

January 1, 11am – 1:30pm – Guided Coastal Walk at Wilder Ranch
Wilder Ranch State Park 1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz, On this 2.5 mile family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of our coastal bluffs. Bring water, hat, closed toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Sign up here! Meet next to park map in Wilder Ranch main parking lot. Rain cancels. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.

January 1, 1pm – 2:30 pm – First Day Hike at Henry Cowell – Cable Car Beach
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 101 N Big Trees Park Road, Felton, Interested in observing and comparing old growth and second growth redwood forests? Walking by the river and learning about what plants grow alongside it? Join us for a stroll to Cable Car Beach! We will meet at the Redwood Visitor Center at 1pm and be out for an hour and a half. Easy to moderate pace. Under 2 miles roundtrip.

January 1, 3 – 4:30 pm – First Day Hike at Henry Cowell – Reflective Sandhills Hike
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 101 N Big Trees Park Road, Felton, Join us for a mile and a half walk from the mixed forest through the sandhills to the Observation deck and back. We will reflect on how the land teaches us renewal and resilience along with fun gentle qi gong inspired movements. All ages welcome. Moderate pace. Meet at the campground parking lot/kiosk at 3pm.

January 1, 3pm – 4:30pm – First Day King Tide Walk – New Brighton
New Brighton State Beach Capitola, Come start the New Year by exploring king tides at New Brighton State Beach. Join us for a negative tide on a 2-mile roundtrip adventure from New Brighton State Beach to Capitola. We will encounter interesting geological features in a coastal bluff, 5-million-year-old whale fossils, and tide pool creatures. We will return to New Brighton around 4:30 PM and may remain on the beach until sunset. Steady rain cancels this event. Meet at the day-use parking lot at New Brighton State Beach. Parking fee is $10. Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, water, umbrella. Sign up: https://santacruzstateparks.as.me/schedule/0ef4b536/appointment/28163345/calendar/5563015 Call 831-685-6444 if you have questions.

First Day Hikes Henry Cowell 2026
2026-01-01 | Henry Cowell State Park, 101 N Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA, 95018, United States
First Day Hikes 2026!
Thursday, January 1, All Day, but see special times
Join us at one of the listed state parks on January 1st, 2025 to start your new year off with some outside time!
Check out details for start times and hike descriptions. This year we have a more interactive map for visitors to search for hikes by park name, county and region.
Visitors can also type in their address and it will show nearby hikes taking place.
Participants are also able to see the status of the hike and the last time it was updated, and by zooming into the map, they can find hikes taking place near that region of the map.
Additionally, this webpage provides information on new hiking opportunities around the holiday.
Reservations

First Day Hikes 2026
2026-01-01 | California State Parks First Day Hikes
First Day Hikes 2026!
Thursday, January 1, All Day, but see special times
Join us at one of the listed state parks on January 1st, 2025 to start your new year off with some outside time!
Check out details for start times and hike descriptions. This year we have a more interactive map for visitors to search for hikes by park name, county and region.
Visitors can also type in their address and it will show nearby hikes taking place.
Participants are also able to see the status of the hike and the last time it was updated, and by zooming into the map, they can find hikes taking place near that region of the map.
Additionally, this webpage provides information on new hiking opportunities around the holiday.

Where your California State Library Parks Pass Will Take You
2026-01-01 | Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Where your California State Library Parks Pass Will Take You

Where will your California State Library Parks Pass take you?

With access to over 200 participating #CAStateParks, the hardest part is choosing where to go first!

Will it be a coastal escape? A serene redwood forest? A scenic desert landscape?

How to get your pass: Visit your local library and check out a free vehicle day-use pass.

You can find your library and eligible parks here: parks.ca.gov/LibraryPass.

R.E.A.D. Reach Every Amazing Detail Capitola
2025-12-31 15:00 - 17:00 | Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
R.E.A.D. Reach Every Amazing Detail
Wednesdays 3 – 5pm through June 6
R.E.A.D. is one-on-one reading comprehension instruction for readers 2nd through 12th grade. Instructors are California credentialed teachers.
Wednesdays from 3:00p to 5:00p at Capitola and La Selva Beach Libraries. Sessions are 25 minutes long. By appointment only.
For more information or to register, contact SCPL Telephone Information: 831-427-7713 or elibrary@santacruzpl.org

Downtown Farmers Market 2022
2025-12-31 13:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Farmers Market, Cedar St & Lincoln St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
Downtown Farmers Market
Wednesdays, May – Oct 1 – 6pm; Nov – April 1 – 5pm
The Downtown Santa Cruz Market runs year-round on Wednesdays, 1-6pm May through October and 1-5pm November through April. Our largest and oldest market, it is situated in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz, one block off of Pacific Avenue. Established in 1990, many of the farms that sell here were and remain pillars of the organic and ecological farming movement. This is the place to eat with the seasons! The variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, pastured meats and other products is swoon worthy.
The Downtown Market also spotlights a large variety of up-and-coming, unique cultural food businesses. This weekly spot may serve up the most diverse selection of ethnic foods in the county including momo, naan and curry, Japanese fermented misos, Eritrean dishes, crepes, El Salvadorean pupusas, traditional Italian cookies, fish and chips and long-ferment fresh breads. Shopping at the Wednesday market is a wonderful way to support regional responsible farms and small local businesses. Fill your grocery bags! Then sit down for a delightful meal and rest your weary arms.

Family Noon Year's Eve Live Oak
2025-12-31 11:00 - 13:00 | Live Oak Library, 2380 Portola Drive, Live Oak, CA, 95062, United States
Family Noon Year’s Eve Live Oak
Wednesday, December 31, 11am – 1pm>
A New Year celebration! – ¡Una celebración de Año Nuevo!
No need to wait until midnight – Ring in the New Year at NOON! Join us for crafts, cookies with cider, and a balloon drop as we count down to welcome the New Year… at Noon!
A community celebration at the Live Oak Library to ring in the New Year!
No es necesario esperar hasta la medianoche – ¡Marca el Año Nuevo al MEDIODÍA! Acompáñanos para manualidades, galletas con cidra y globos para darle la bienvenida al Año Nuevo… ¡al mediodía!

¡Una celebración comunitaria en la Biblioteca de Live Oak para el Año Nuevo! Acompáñanos para manualidades, galletas con cidra y globos para darle la bienvenida al Año Nuevo… ¡al mediodía!

Storytime with Ivy
2025-12-31 11:00 - 11:15 | Bookshop Santa Cruz, 1520 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Storytime with Ivy

Last Wednesday of the Month 11-11:15am

Join Ivy, our children’s book buyer, at 11:00 am on the last Wednesday of the month for a storytime presentation of some of her favorite picture books! Meet in the kids’ section.

Kids Event

Noon Years 2025 at Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery
2025-12-31 10:30 - 12:30 | Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery MOD, 1855 41st Ave #10, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Noon Years 2025 at Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery
Wednesday, December 31, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Ring in the New Year at Noon with the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery with a celebration bursting with fun for the whole family!
Join us on December 31st from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM for a dazzling countdown to noon featuring a non-alcoholic bubble bar with sparkling mocktails, hands-on crafts to create party crowns and confetti launchers, and dance party vibes with DJ Nick.
The grand finale? A spectacular confetti explosion and ball drop at the stroke of noon! It’s the perfect way to end the year with laughter, joy, and magical memories your family will cherish.
This event sells out every year ~ Purchase your tickets today! General Admission $25 Members $20

5 Week 3D Entrepreneurs Club – Toy Design with 3D Printing Workshop (Ages 8–12) Tues Sept. 2-30
2025-12-30 16:00 - 18:00 | Londen Nelson Community Center, 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
5 Week 3D Entrepreneurs Club – Toy Design with 3D Printing Workshop (Ages 8–12)
Tuesdays, 4–6pm September 2 – 30
A 5-week hands-on program where kids ages 8–12 team up to design their own toy or product—and discover how the 3DE Club helps young innovators build early entrepreneurial and leadership skills through 3D modeling and 3D printing technology.
Thanks so much for helping us spread the word!

You Can Paint! Tuesdays 10am-1pm
2025-12-30 10:00 - 13:00 | Palace Arts, 1501-K 41st Avenue, Capitola, 95010, United States
You Can Paint!

Tuesdays, 10 am to 1 pm, and 2 pm to 5 pm through August
Learn to paint in a fun, friendly setting — our beautiful classroom space at Palace Art.
You can paint any subject that interests you. I’ve got lots of images for you to choose from, if you’re looking for inspiration, or you can bring in pictures or ideas of your own.
These classes are for everyone.
Beginners are welcome, and more advanced painters will increase their skills.
Cost: $40 per session or $175 for 5 sessions, Drop-ins welcome – first come first served
To Register: Contact Toaa Dallo directly, (831) 332-9532, email toaadallo@gmail.com

White Album Ensemble
2025-12-29 20:00 - 23:00 | Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95062, United States
White Album Ensemble
Monday, December 28 & 29, 8 – 11pm
Classic!

Show time: 8pm, doors 7pm
Tickets: $35 Gen, $45 Gold Circle
Advance tickets: www.tix.com
Event website: www.whitealbumensemble.com

It began as a Luthier’s dream, to put together a crack team of top local musicians to perform the Beatles’ “White Album” live, in a theatre setting with lights, dance and a full-screen video presentation. After selling out both debut shows and creating a considerable buzz around town, the word of mouth from neighbors, friends and co-workers about the quality and vibe of the performance persuaded the group to keep on doing more concerts.
After six more sold out performances, including the Rio Center for the Performing Arts in Santa Cruz, Ca, and the Henry Mello Center, the group decided (rather ambitiously) to add another show, RubberRevolver, performing the Beatles’ Rubber Soul and Revolver albums, along with the four singles that were released concurrently (“We can work it out” and “Day Tripper” were released with Rubber Soul; “Rain” and “Paperback Writer” with Revolver). No small task, as many considered these to be the peak of creativity for the most popular group in history.
Once the “mission” was established, it became impossible to stop- performing post-touring era ( they stopped touring in 1966, at Candlestick park in San Francisco) Beatles recordings live, with real instruments, and no tapes. Wherever possible they began using horns, strings, indian instruments, additional background vocalists or whatever it takes to recreate the many overdubs which are the records’ sound and feel.
There is an attitude when approaching this task of “What would the Beatles do, if they performed this song live?”
That is really the essence of White Album Live, RubberRevolver, Sgt. Peppers Mystery Tour, Let Abbey Road Be, then after all post tour albums were represented, including Across the Universe (songs from the film) shows: live performance with very high standards; music that many agree is timeless — the “classics” of our time. There is no attempt to be a “look alike” or “tribute” band; this is more like a symphony performing Bach or Mozart.
With a nod to the Beatles stance of standing for peace, love, and non violence- as well as WAE members’ own beliefs. the group has set aside portions of concert proceeds for music in school,programs; Guitars, not guns, a pro youth, anti violence non profit; the Santa Cruz County Symphony and other such causes, the WAE has raised over $200,000.00 to date.
The White Album Ensemble has spent months of rehearsal, and research to make these performances authentic. They wondered “How would the Beatles have approached this as a live performance?” and made that the virtual standard for decisions about instrumentation and arrangements.
The group has a core of longtime friends who’ve played together for decades in different configurations, former members of the Doobie Brothers, Quicksilver, Snail, the Little River Band and many more. Additionally, there is often a string quartet added for songs like “Eleanor Rigby,” with George Martin’s original charts, adapted by local cellist Barry Phillips (who’s played on the “Concert for George” DVD and concert along with McCartney, Starr and Clapton, and who regularly performs and records with George’s sitar teacher, Ravi Shankar).
Then Barry created charts for very Beatles song that had orchestration, including horns, tympani, harp, dilrhuba, swardmandel and other exotic instruments, a monumental task which pays off when hearing ” A Day In The life” or “I Am the Walrus” executed flawlessly (well, almost!) with a full orchestra!
As the Beatles post-touring catalog has been explored in depth, the solo careers of Beatles is a treasure trove of great material, so the band now includes such gems as “Imagine,” “Maybe I’m Amazed,” “Photograph,” “My Sweet Lord”and many more, as well as doing less familiar songs as “Hey Bulldog” from “Yellow Submarine,” or 45 rpm singles that weren’t on LPs like “Lady Madonna” or “Day Tripper.”
Hope to see you at a show soon!
With Love from the White Album Ensemble, and gratitude to John, Paul, George, and Ringo, not to mention Billy Preston, George Martin, Geoff Emerick, Eric Clapton, Nicky Hopkins, and YOU!

Postpartum Support Group
2025-12-29 16:30 - 19:30 | Virtual, CA, United States
Postpartum Support International

NEW SUPPORT GROUP!

Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) is rare. It occurs in approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries. After a PPP survivor’s symptoms have been stabilized, peer support can be an important tool for recovery. Because PPP occurs less often than other perinatal mood disorders, survivors can go their whole lives without meeting another PPP survivor. In response, PSI has created an online peer-to-peer support group for PPP survivors. This group is intended for those who are in recovery (no longer experiencing psychosis). Whether your PPP experience was relatively recent or years ago, you are welcome to attend our free, online peer-to-peer support group.

Register here: https://www.postpartum.net/…/psi-online-support-meetings/
Full Meeting Schedule

Mystery Box Monday at MOD
2025-12-29 15:00 - 16:00 | Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery MOD, 1855 41st Ave #10, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Mystery Box Monday at MOD

Mondays, 3pm

Calling all curious minds! Get ready for Mystery Box Monday, the fun-filled, brain-bending program that unleashes your child’s inner inventor, artist, and problem-solver!

Reserve your spot at sccmod.org/fun

Calling all curious minds! Get ready for Mystery Box Monday, the fun-filled, brain-bending program that unleashes your child’s inner inventor, artist, and problem-solver!
Every Monday is a surprise adventure! Your child will receive a mysterious box packed with intriguing materials, a low-temperature glue gun for safe crafting, and a challenge card.
Here’s what makes Mystery Box Monday so awesome:

Endless Possibilities: Each box is a portal to a world of unimaginable creations. With every new challenge, your child’s mind will stretch and twist, blossoming with fresh ideas.
Boosts Confidence: As kids conquer challenges and bring their creations to life, their confidence and self-esteem soar. They’ll discover that they can achieve anything they set their minds to!
Sparks Curiosity: Mystery Box Monday ignites a love for learning and exploration. Kids will delve into different themes, from outer space to the animal kingdom, all while having a blast.
Strengthens Bonds: This is an activity the whole family can enjoy! Work together, brainstorm ideas, and share in the laughter as you bring your mystery box masterpieces to life.

What kind of mystery materials, you ask? That’s the beauty of it – it’s a surprise! But you can expect to find a vibrant mix of things like:

Colorful craft paper and cardboard
Pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and pom-poms
Buttons, beads, and sequins
Recycled treasures like bottle caps and egg cartons
Nature’s bounty – leaves, twigs, and pinecones

Ages 3-100 ~ Open: Monday, Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm
