Santa Cruz Parent

Mystery Box Monday at MOD
2025-08-18 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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

Postpartum Support Group
2025-08-18 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

You Can Paint! Tuesdays 10am-1pm
2025-08-19 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

You Can Paint! Tuesdays 2pm-5pm
2025-08-19 14:00 - 17:00 | Palace Arts, 1501-K 41st Avenue, Capitola, 95010, United States

Tales to Tails Felton
2025-08-19 15:00 - 16:00 | Felton Branch Library- New, 6121 Gushee St., Felton, CA, 95018, United States
Tales to Tails Felton Library
3rd Tuesdays, 3-4pm, April 15 – December 16
Tales to Tails is a literacy program designed to help children improve their reading skills by providing them the opportunity to read to certified therapy dogs.
Programs like Tales to Tails have been implemented nationally in both libraries and schools and have proven to be extremely effective in increasing the self-confidence and reading abilities of the participants.
Child must be 6-17 years old, and already reading to some degree. Our volunteer handlers are there to provide support but are not trained reading instructors.
Call 831-427-7708 to make a 30-minute appointment at the Felton Branch Library at either 3pm or 3:30pm on the 3rd Tuesday of every month.
We and our furry friends look forward to seeing you there!

Free Sewing Workshop
2025-08-19 16:00 - 17:30 | Freedom Library, 2021 Freedom Blvd, Freedom, CA, 95019, United States
Free Sewing Workshop

2nd & 3rd Tuesdays, through December 9 & 16, 4 – 5:30pm

Free Sewing Classes – Ready to unleash your creativity and learn a new skill? Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced sewer, our free sewing classes are for you.
Join us for a fun, hands-on experience where you can:
Learn sewing basics – no experience required.
Build your skills – Pick the project that matches your skill level.
Meet new friends – all ages and backgrounds encouraged.
Bring your own projects – get help with what you want to create.
This program will take place on the 2nd and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 4-5:30pm at the Freedom Library, Creative Cafe.
All ages & skill levels welcome. These classes will be facilitated in English. https://www.watsonville.gov/calendar.aspx?EID=6307

Visit City of Watsonville

Food Truck Friday Skypark
2025-08-20 08:00 - 17:00 | Skypark Scotts Valley, CA, United States
Food Truck Friday Skypark
Friday, August 22, 5 –8 pm
Don’t miss our next Food Truck Friday at Skypark — a family-friendly evening filled with delicious food, live music, and community fun in the heart of Scotts Valley!
This is the perfect night to celebrate back to school with your friends, neighbors and schools!
Food Vendors Include: Tacos El Jesse • Pana • Scrumptious Fish and Chips • S.C. Eatery • Cracked Cookies • Rollin Snack Shack • Italia Fire • Solstice Food
Live Music: Enjoy live tunes from Cringe, bringing the perfect summer soundtrack to the park!
Sip for a Cause: The SVEF Beer & Wine Garden will be open throughout the evening. All proceeds benefit the Scotts Valley Education Foundation, supporting programs in our public schools.
Kid-Friendly Fun:
Stop by Brenda’s Face Painting for colorful creations the kids will love!
Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Grab your lawn chairs, bring your appetite, and come enjoy another great night with your community!

Downtown Farmers Market 2022
2025-08-20 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.

Teen Anime Club
2025-08-20 16:00 - 17:00 | CA
Teen Anime Club

3rd Wednesdays, through December 17, 4pm
Looking for a community of people who appreciate anime?

During our monthly Teen Anime Club, we will explore and celebrate Japanese popular culture through cooking, craft-making and playing games.

This program will take place on the third Wednesday of every month from 4:30-5:30pm. Audience: Teens (grades 7-12)

¿Buscas una comunidad de personas que aprecien el anime? Durante nuestros programas mensuales para jóvenes, el Club de Anime explorará y celebrará la cultura popular japonesa a través de la cocina, la artesanía y los juegos.
Este programa se llevará a cabo el tercer miércoles de cada mes de las 4:30-5:30pm.
Audiencia: Para jóvenes (grados 7-12).

Capitola Twilight Concerts
2025-08-20 18:00 | Capitola Esplanade, 100 Monterey Ave., Capitola, CA, 95010
Capitola Twilight Concerts
Wednesdays 6pm, June 11 – August 27
Join us for the Capitola Twilight Concerts are hosted on Wednesday evenings during the summer months. All concerts begin at 6 p.m.and take place at the Esplanade bandstand in Capitola Village. These free events are made possible by the generousity of our sponsors.
June 11 The Digbeats Classic Rock Oldies
June 18 Broken English Caribbean Dance Music
June 25 Joy & Madness Funk and Soul
July 2 The B-Movie Kings Fun, Dance & Classic Rock
July 9 Xtra Large Positive Vibes! (Mostly Originals)
July 16 Sweet Voodoo Classic Rock, Soul Funk
July 23 The Joint Chiefs Soul
July 30 Tin Man Classic Rock Done Right!
August 6 The Delta Wires Rockin’ Big Band Blues
August 13 Pacific Roots Reggae Rock
August 20 Keep on Truckin’ Rock, Blues, Funk & R & B
August 27 The Peelers Top 40 Dance 80’s/90’s Hits

Supporting Your Partner Workshop
2025-08-20 18:00 - 19:30 | Live Oak Community Resources, 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz (Live Oak), CA, 95062, United States
FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
Wednesday, August 20, 6 – 7:30pm
Attend this FREE parenting workshop to learn:
-Parenting issues that often cause disagreements between partners
-How to take care of your relationship with your partner and create a positive family life
-Tools to help partners support each other and work as a team
Location: Live Oak Community Resources, 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz
Presented IN ENGLISH in person by Alex Olivas, Community Bridges – Live Oak Community Resources
To register visit: bit.ly/Partners-Aug20
Register to reserve your spot and get free child care. Light snacks will be provided.
Questions? Contact Alex Olivas at (831) 476 -7284 Ext. 110 or alexo@cbridges.org
To learn more about Triple P:
Phone: (831) 465 -2217
Email address: triplep@first5scc.org
Website: http://triplep.first5scc.org
To register visit: https://www.first5scc.org/calendar

Where your California State Library Parks Pass Will Take You
2025-08-21 | 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.

Mah Jongg Club - Hong Kong Style
2025-08-21 14:00 - 16:00 | Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr,, Aptos, CA, 95003
Mah Jongg Club – Hong Kong Style

Thursdays, 2 – 4pm, through December 18
Welcome players of all levels – the experienced and the newly curious!
Connect with fellow Mahjong enthusiasts and build a supportive community. Share experiences, exchange tips, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow learners.
I host a Beginner’s Learning Table EVERY week, instructing in Hong Kong Style. I will take you through the basics of the tiles and setup, followed by a game with tiles face up as we put what we’ve learned into practice. You can stay at the Beginner’s table for as long as you need. Alternatively, we have an additional instructor in Chinese Mah Jongg with British rules if you find you prefer that style instead.
We have tile sets to choose from or you may bring your own.
All are welcome to play, however please be mindful and respectful that there are at least 40 known variants of this game. If you would like to play American or Traditional Chinese, or other variants, you are welcome to do so, but you may need to be patient and instruct folks on how to play your way. Sometimes modifications will be needed, at the beginning of each game ask the table what rules to play by and be courteous and kind to one another.

Artificial Intelligence Discussion Group
2025-08-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Idea Fab Labs, 2801 Mission St #204, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Artificial Intelligence Discussion Group
3rd Thursdays, 6 – 8pm
Join us and discuss the infinite possibilities of A.I.! Are you Intrigued by A.I.? Does A.I. Scare you? Do you want A.I. to write your next term paper? Come hang out and talk about the implementation and implications of this rapidly advancing field.
Discussions are every 3rd Thursday at Idea Fab Labs.
Co-sponsored by Santa Cruz Public Libraries.
We have Open House hours Monday 5:00pm-7:00pm where the public is invited to see our equipment, take tours, and get a feel for the facility.

New Member Orientation Join us first and third Mondays, immediately after Open House at 7:00pm to start the process of becoming a member!
Our location is on the 2nd floor of the Wrigley Building in Santa Cruz.
RSVP for New Member Orientation

Parent Nest A Guided Play and Connection Series
2025-08-22 10:00 | 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.

Watercolor Seashells with Anastasiya Bachmanova
2025-08-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Palace Arts, 1501-K 41st Avenue, Capitola, 95010, United States
Watercolor Seashells with Anastasiya Bachmanova
Friday, August 22, 10am-1pm
Settle into Palace Art’s workshop space to unplug as you tap into your creativity, practice your artistic skills with fellow creatives.
In this introductory watercolor workshop, professional artist Ana of Follow the Sun will guide you through a series of exercises to explore the magical medium of watercolor painting.
After we’ve covered the basics & are familiar with the medium, we will move on to create our own finished watercolor paintings. All supplies are included.
This class is geared towards beginners, whether you are entirely new to the medium or have worked on a few paintings on your own. The class will equip you with confidence and control with watercolor paints for an effortless & joyful creative experience!
COST: $44.52, includes all materials.
REGISTRATION:Registration is required. Open to ages 12+. Please click here to register via Eventbrite.
ABOUT ANASTASIYA BACHMANOVA
Anastasiya is a full time artist based in Santa Cruz, CA. Her art celebrates ocean & nature subjects through bright colors and flowing lines, reflecting her deep connection to the natural world. An adventurer at heart, Anastasiya finds inspiration in surfing and outdoor adventures and uses her canvas to convey the importance of preserving the Earth’s magic and beauty.
Facebook/IG: @followthesunart
www.followthesunart.com

Little Discoverer Fridays
2025-08-22 10:30 - 11:00 | Santa Cruz Childrens Museum of Discovery – MOD, 1855 41st Ave, suite C-10, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Little Discoverer Infant/Toddler Fridays

Fridays 10:30-11am

Make Fridays memorable with the Museum of Discovery’s Infant Toddler Class—a fantastic blend of play, exploration, and social experiences. Located in the party room programming changes weekly offering magical experiences for you and your child.

Free with daily admission and no pre-registration required
Ages 0-3 years
Join us and experience:

Sensory Extravaganza: Dive into a world of textures, colors, and sounds as your little explorer engages in sensory-rich activities tailored to their developmental stage.
Musical Moments: Let the rhythm take over! Our interactive musical sessions will have your tots tapping their tiny toes and exploring the joy of sound.
Parent-Child Bonding: Forge connections with fellow caregivers while your little ones build social skills through play and shared exploration.

_____________________

Mod is open: Monday and Wednesday – Saturday, 10am-5pm
Daily Tickets:

All non-member adults & children: $10, half-price grandparents/senior on Wednesdays: $5
Museums for All (with EBT card): $3
Children under 1: Free
All members: Free
We offer annual memberships, monthly memberships, and 10-pass punch cards.
Click here to become a member
Call 831-316-5200 to inquire about our new punchcard.

Bring Your Own Book (BYOB)
2025-08-22 11:00 - 12:30 | Aptos Public Library, 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA, 95003, United States
Bring Your Own Book (BYOB)
3rd Fridays, 11am – 12:30pm, March 15 – December 20
Join us at the Aptos Branch Library for an engaging and dynamic book group experience: Bring Your Own Book (BYOB).
This innovative program encourages participants to bring along a book of their choice and share their thoughts, insights, and perspectives with fellow readers. Whether you’re passionate about fiction, non-fiction, classics, or contemporary literature, BYOB Book Group welcomes all genres and interests.
https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/12055882
How It Works:

Choose Your Book: Select a book that you’ve recently read or have been wanting to discuss. It could be a novel, biography, memoir, poetry collection, or any other genre that interests you.
Bring Your Book: Arrive at the library with your chosen book in hand. Make sure it’s one you’re eager to share and discuss with others.
Engage in Discussion: Once everyone has gathered, participants will take turns sharing their thoughts on their chosen books. This could include favorite passages, character analysis, thematic elements, personal connections, and more.
Respectful Exchange: Engage in respectful and open-minded discussions with fellow participants. Share your perspectives while also listening attentively to others’ viewpoints. This is a space for lively literary dialogue and exchange of ideas.
Discover New Reads: Explore a diverse range of books and genres through the recommendations and discussions of fellow participants. You might just find your next favorite read!

Whether you’re a voracious reader or just starting to delve into the world of books, Bring Your Own Book (BYOB) Book Group offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for lively literary discussions and discovery. Join us at the library and let’s celebrate the joy of reading together!

Scrabble at La Selva Beach
2025-08-22 13:00 - 14:00 | La Selva Beach Library, 316 Estrella Avenue, La Selva Beach, CA, 95076, United States
Scrabble La Selva Beach
August 2 – November 15, Fridays, 1 – 2pm

Did you know that PACZKI is a round filled doughnut (23 points)? Come test your vocabulary in a game of Scrabble at La Selva Beach Library.
La Selva Beach Library, 316 Estrella Ave., LSB
Are you a bridge player too? The LSB Bridge Club is 10:30-12:00 on Fridays (except the 1st Friday of the month).
Questions? Call the La Selva Beach Library at 831-427-7710.

Family Fun at Pajaro Valley Arts
2025-08-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Pajaro Valley Arts, 37 Sudden St, Watsonville, CA, 95076, United States
Family Fun at Pajaro Valley Arts
Friday, August 22, 2- 3:30pm

Join us for a family-friendly event at Pajaro Valley Arts!
We will be learning about shells and performing a shell print, which you’ll be able to take home with you.
Venga a un evento familiar en Pajaro Valley Arts!
Aprenderemos sobre las conchas y realizaremos una impresión de conchas, que podrá llevarse a casa.

Mountain Farmers' Market
2025-08-22 14:30 - 18:30 | Mountain Farmers Market, 23845 Summit Rd,, Los Gatos, CA, 95033
Mountain Farmers’ Market
Fridays, 2:30-6:30pm, August 15 – October 31
Located among the redwood trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mountain Farmers’ Market brings together local farmers, food vendors, and artisans in a scenic outdoor setting.
Shop fresh, organic produce, sourdough bread, pastries, honey, olive oil, specialty coffee beans, cacao, fresh-pressed juice, and more.
Enjoy weekly live music at our picnic area while dining on Oaxacan tamales, Brazilian BBQ, shave ice, and açaí bowls.
All-levels outdoor yoga classes are held most Fridays under the redwoods.
A welcoming community hub for fresh food, local goods, and relaxed gathering.
All-level Yoga Classes from Cups of Yoga: 530-6:15pm

Lego Brick Builder Fridays
2025-08-22 15:00 - 16:30 | Santa Cruz Childrens Museum of Discovery – MOD, 1855 41st Ave, suite C-10, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Lego Brick Builder Fridays
Fridays, 3-4pm
Calling All Master Builders!
Get ready to unleash your creativity and engineering skills at the Children’s Museum of Discovery’s LEGO Challenge Build Event! This exciting event is perfect for LEGO fans of all ages.
Here’s what you can expect:

A Fun Challenge: We’ll have a special build theme announced on the day of the event. It could be anything from building the tallest tower to creating the most fantastical creature!
A Sea of Bricks: We’ll provide a massive collection of LEGO bricks to fuel your imagination.
Building Buddies: Work together with other LEGO enthusiasts to create something truly amazing.
Show Off Your Skills: Once the time is up, all creations will be displayed for everyone to admire.

Mod is open: Monday and Wednesday – Saturday, 10am-5pm
Daily Tickets:

All non-member adults & children: $10​1/2-price grandparents/senior on Wednesdays: $5
Museums for All (with EBT card): $3
Children under 1: Free
All members: Free
We offer annual memberships, monthly memberships, and 10-pass punch cards.
Click here to become a member
Call 831-316-5200 to inquire about our new punchcard.

Friday Pet Food Pantry
2025-08-22 15:00 - 17:00 | SPCA, CA, United States
Friday Pet Food Pantry
Fridays 2-5pm
Just a friendly reminder that our Pet Food Pantry is still happening every Friday from 3-5pm!
Donate anytime!

Santa Cruz Midtown Fridays Summer Block Party
2025-08-22 17:00 - 20:30 | The Lot, 1111 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
Santa Cruz Midtown Fridays Summer Block Party
Fridays, May 30 – August 29, 5:00 to 8:30ish
The Santa Cruz Midtown Fridays Summer Block Party is back for its 5th year—every Friday from May 30th to August 29th.
We’re re-imagining the event, and we can’t wait to share the details with you!
In the meantime, we’re calling for vendors and sponsors to join us. No need to RSVP, just show up! Apply to be a Vendor at Midtown Fridays,
Bands
May 30 Santa Cruz Super Group
June 6 Santa Cruz Latin Collective
June 13 James Durbin and The Lost Boys
June 20 Santa Cruda
June 27 Ribsys Nickel
July 11 DJ Monk Earl of Afrobeats Nite
July 25 Ripatti Rose Band
August 1 Alwa Gordon / Silvandgold & Friends
August 8 Alex Lucero Band
August 15 Ancestree & Friends
August 22 Jive Machine
August 29 Streetlight Records 5oth Anniversary Party with Slow Gherkin, Opening with Voluntary Hazing
Contact Event Santa Cruz to be a Sponsor

Friday Contra Dancing at Live Oak Grange
2025-08-22 18:30 - 22:00 | Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
Contra Dancing at Live Oak Grange
2nd Sundays: Newcomers’ intro 2:30pm, dance 3 – 5:30pm
4th Fridays: Newcomers’ intro: 6:30pm, dance 7 – 10pm
Come kick your heels up contra dancing at Live Oak Grange with some amazing local talent and fun and friendly dancers!

Caller: Tanya MerchantBand: Corwin & Grace!
Event by Dakota Hult, Klaus Krull and Contra Dancing in Santa Cruz County
Note: There will be no pot luck going forward. Feel free to bring snacks to share!
Overflow parking: If you can’t find room at the Grange, try the Harbor Light Church, at 2008 17th Ave., less than a block up the street (towards Hwy. Ignore the “your car will be towed” signs – they have a deal with the Grange for extra parking

Check out our website at: https://www.santacruzcontra.com/
Signing in at the desk indicates your agreement with these policies:

The dance is an alcohol-free, drug-free, and smoke-free environment.
The dance is a scent-free event. In order to protect those with chemical sensitivities, please refrain from using scented products on your body, clothes, and belongings.
We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable at our dance and we value and expect consent, communication, community mindedness, and safety.
Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. If someone’s behavior is offensive or harassing during the dance, you should endeavor to speak up for yourself. If you need help, talk with one of the managers, sound tech or caller.
You should not come to the dance if you have health concerns for yourself or a close contact, test positive for COVID 19, have symptoms of illness, or do not feel well.
We each understand and accept the inherent risks of contracting COVID-19 or any other illness at this dance.By participating in this event, you take full responsibility for your health and well-being.
We appreciate and rely on your generous donations to pay for our dance hall and the excellent staff. We suggest $15 to $30 per person, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Only the caller, musicians, and sound tech will be paid. All other staff and helpers will be volunteering their time. Please bring cash to the dance hall. BUT: it is *pay as you can* – we need you dancing more than we need your money, so please come, even if you feel like you need to put in less than $15. If you can put in over $30, that would be great, too! In a pinch, we can take Venmo or Paypal.
Please help out wherever you can (setting up chairs, cleaning up the kitchen or the dance hall, sitting out one dance at the door, etc.).
Please bring friends and tell them to wear light, comfortable clothing and bring comfortable shoes with clean, non-marking soles

Upcoming dances every second Sunday and fourth Friday!Sunday, Feb. 9 Caller: Zack; Band: Slick’s Picks No. 6 – Mike “Slick” Lewinski (fiddle), Jordan Prieto, Olive Mathison, Mathew HarmonFriday, Feb. 21 – Caller: Kelsey Hartman, Band: Mike Lewinski (fiddle), Daniel Steinberg (piano, flute), Ezra Warren Steinberg (percussion)Sunday, Mar. 9 – Caller: Tanya Merchant; Band: Lucas Lawson & FriendsFriday, Mar. 28: Caller: Sarah Trop; Band: Corwin & GraceSunday, April 13 – Caller: Alan Winston; Band: Rodney Miller (fiddle), Daniel Steinberg (piano, flute), Ezra Warren Steinberg (percussion)

Free Movies at Capitola Beach
2025-08-22 19:30 | Capitola Beach, Capitola
Free Movies at Capitola Beach

Fridays at dusk, August 22, September 12
Movies begin at dusk. All movies are shown on the bandstand stage in Esplanade Park.
Attendees are encouraged to bring seating. Low back chairs and blankets are recommended.
Consider bringing a picnic dinner, or dine locally at area restaurants.
No alcohol or dogs on the beach.
Friday, August 22nd showing: Honey I Shrunk the Kids
Friday, September 12th showing: The Garfield Movie

Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College
2025-08-23 08:00 | Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 450, Aptos, 95003, United States
Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College
Saturdays 8am-12pm, year round, rain or shine
Voted America’s Favorite Farmers Market in California
In 2011, 2012, and 2013 our farmers markets were voted “America’s Favorite Farmers Market in California.” Additionally, Coastal Living Magazine named the Aptos Farmers Market one of “The Coast’s Best Farmers Markets.”
Market customers appreciate the bountiful selection of top quality produce and specialty foods as well as the opportunity to connect with the farmers and vendors who produce it. Ninety vendors, of which most are certified organic or use sustainable farming methods, offer pastured grass fed meats and poultry, sustainable fish, oysters, handcrafted cheeses, locally produced olive oil, fresh pasta and gourmet sauces, organic juices, handmade sauerkraut, Corralitos smoked sausages and bacon, artisan breads and baked goods, organic honey, mushrooms, sprouts and microgreens, farm fresh eggs, flowers, potted plants, seedlings, herbs, and an unsurpassed selection of certified California grown fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Additional Market Attractions
Professional sharpening services are available for knives and gardening tools year round.
Our other Markets: Carmel, Del Monte, Monterey

Westside Farmers Market
2025-08-23 09:00 - 13:00 | Westside Farmers Market, Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Westside Farmers Market
Saturdays 9am – 1pm, year round

The Westside Farmers’ Market takes place every week, year round at the corner of Hwy 1 and Western Drive, situated on the northern edge of Santa Cruz’s greenbelt. This market serves the communities of the west-end of Santa Cruz including Bonny Doon, the North Coast and the UCSC Campus. It is just a hop, skip and a jump from Downtown.
Foodies Unite
This market is proud to have been named best market by the Santa Cruz Metro’s, “Peoples Poll” multiple times. The market showcases a great selection of 100% certified organic produce, artisan foods, wine, body products, tinctures, sustainable seafood, pasture raised meats, flowers and eggs along with cook-to-order cuisine, live local music and full espresso bar operated by up-and-coming Santa Cruz-based roaster 11th Hour Coffee.
With easy access and an abundance of free parking, this market makes for a convenient and celebratory Saturday morning outing.

Fall Planting in the Garden
2025-08-23 10:00 - 11:00 | Mountain Feed & Farm Supply
Fall Planting in the Garden
Saturday, August 23, 10 – 11am

Come join us here at Mountain Feed & Farm Supply for a free talk on Fall Planting in the Garden!
Join our resident garden guru Jess Tunis for a free hour-long class to get your Fall garden off to a thriving start!
There will be ample time for Q&A at the end of class, so bring your questions and your curiosity.
FREE Talk with Jess
RSVP

Weekend Ranger Nature Programs for Kids Big Basin
2025-08-23 10:00 - 22:00 | Big Basin Park, 21600 Big Basin Way,, Boulder Creek, CA, 95006, United States
Weekend Ranger Nature Programs for Kids, Big Basin Redwoods State Park– All Summer Long!
Saturdays and Sundays through August 31
Little Rangers ages 3–6 – Saturdays at 10:00 AM (30-minute program)
Perfect for children ages 3-6 and their families. Each session features a fun, engaging topic like “Furry Friends of the Forest” or “All About Banana Slugs.” Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register
Junior Rangers 7–12 – Sundays at 10:00 AM (1-hour program)
For kids ages 7–12, this is a drop-off program. Each week, Junior Rangers learn about the Redwoods with topics such as Tall Tree Tales or Fantastic Fire Caves through hands-on activities, games, and guided adventures. This one-hour experience gives kids a chance to connect with nature and earn an official Junior Ranger badge and other prizes. Register
All Little Rangers and Junior Rangers meet at the Visitor Center at Big Basin Redwoods State Park- Parents/guardians must be present at the start/end of the program to sign their Junior Rangers in and out. Parents/Guardians must stay for the little rangers program.
For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact bigbasin@ports-ca.us or call 669-899-1516For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact bigbasin@ports-ca.us or call 669-899-1516
