Calendar of Events
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8 events,
Half Moon Bay – Guided Walk at Burleigh Murray Ranch
Half Moon Bay – Guided Walk at Burleigh Murray Ranch
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 (650) 726-8814.Click here to make your reservation today!
Natural Bridges Tidepool Tour
Natural Bridges Tidepool Tour
Come explore the tidepools at Natural Bridges State Beach on this guided tour. Our Marine Protected Area is a beautiful and diverse habitat you will not want to miss!SIGN UP HEREParticipation is free, however, a $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival at the entrance kiosk. Please plan to meet promptly at Natural Bridges State Beach Visitor Center. Please be sure to prepare yourself with a re-usable water bottle, backpack, hiking shoes, and sun protection (ie. hat/sunglasses/sunscreen). Rain cancels this guided tour due to safety.For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact (831) 423-4609 or email [email protected] look forward to seeing you soon at Natural Bridges State Beach!
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on 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. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!
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11 events,
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Birding
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Birding
We are offering a bird watching program on May 4 at 8:00am. Join us to learn all about life histories, behaviors, field markings, etc. On this 1-mile walk, we will make specific observations about characteristics that will certainly help us quack the case for many bird identifications! Let's plan to meet in the main parking lot of the park. Hope to see you there! Make sure to bring binoculars and a jacket so you're not murmuring under your breath "brrrrrrrrrrrrd."Reservation required; click here to RSVP.
Early Bird Tour
Early Bird Tour
Amateur and expert birders alike will find a place on the Early Bird Tour! Local guides lead these 2-3 mile walks, sharing the life histories of the birds that call Elkhorn Slough home, and giving tips on identifying species.
Natural Bridges Stewardship -invasive plant removal party
Natural Bridges Stewardship -invasive plant removal party
Join our Natural Bridges Volunteer team to assist with removal of invasive plants.These plants are still small and the ground moist, so it is much easier now!This is an opportunity to get to off trail sites where the deer, bunnies and birds live..Wear long pants, socks, close-toed shoes, layers on top, hat and bring sunscreen and a water bottle. If you have them bring gloves and a trowel or dandelion puller, otherwise borrow from the park. Snacks provided so come join the party! Please sign up: call 831-423-0871 or santacruzstateparks.as.me/schedule
5 events,
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on 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. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday and Sunday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on 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. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!
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1 event,
Ocean Alternative Open House
Ocean Alternative Open House
Ocean Alternative provides an alternative schooling experience. Amazing credentialed teachers are available to guide you to build an exciting education plan for your child. Our weekly classes include literacy, math, and science. Students learn to communicate and collaborate in a group-learning environment. Community events, field trips clubs & more! 984-6 Bostwick Lane, Santa Cruz 475-0767
1 event,
Wilder Ranch State Park – Birding Walk
Wilder Ranch State Park – Birding Walk
On this 2.5 mile hike, be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces, with many stops to view the many birds, plants, and scenery along the way. You will help each other spot and identify birds! Bring your binoculars if you have them, clothes for variable weather, and good walking shoes.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.
8 events,
Spring Art Market at Tannery Arts Center
Spring Art Market at Tannery Arts Center
Join us for a vibrant celebration of art, music, and community at the Spring Art Market! Hosted by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County, this free family-friendly event features an array of local artisans and makers showcasing their unique creations. Explore captivating artworks, enjoy live music performances, indulge in delicious food from food trucks, and engage in fun children’s activities. With something for everyone, the Spring Art Market promises a memorable experience for all. Don't miss out!
Arana Gulch, Santa Cruz Harbor and Spring Wildflowers
Arana Gulch, Santa Cruz Harbor and Spring Wildflowers
Spring wildflowers abound at Arana Gulch! We will explore the 63 acre open space observing wildlife, exploring forests and fields, and walking around the adjacent Santa Cruz Harbor to look for marine and avian wildlife. The Museum will provide binoculars for each participant. Saturday, May 11th | 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Location: Neary Lagoon Ages: 6th-8th grade $10 General |$ 5 Members Please visit our website to register If you are not a Member yet, explore Museum Membership here What is Nature Club? Nature Club takes young explorers (6th-8th Grade) into local habitats to learn about the amazing living world around us while making discoveries along the way. Programs are led by Museum staff with kids dropped off at rotating locations, including local parks, open spaces, and of course at the Museum! Exploration and activities help kids learn more about nature through observation and experience while developing a deeper connection to nature and making new friends. What to Expect Programs run from 10:00 a.m -12:30 p.m. The Museum does not provide transportation to offsite meeting spots, and participants should be dropped off and picked up by parents/guardians. Some programs may be physically rigorous. Please email [email protected] if you have questions about trail accessibility. Programs occur rain or shine, barring extreme weather.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Sandhills Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Sandhills Tour
Hike around an ancient seafloor?! Yes please! On this 1.5 mile hike through the Santa Cruz Sandhills, we'll be meandering through sandy soils on the mountain top, about 800' above present-day sea level! Join us on May 11th at 10:00am to explore this beautiful landscape and learn about the rare and unique things that call it home. RSVP for this event here!We'll meet in the campground parking lot (located off Graham Hill Rd.). We hope to see you there! Hard rain cancels.
9 events,
Downtown Santa Cruz: Antiques Faire
Downtown Santa Cruz: Antiques Faire
The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 8am-6pm. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more! Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.
Bean Hollow State Beach – Guided Walk
Bean Hollow State Beach – Guided Walk
Join a State Park Educator and enjoy the flora, fauna, and coastal views on this leisurely 1.5 mile out-and-back along the bluffs between Bean Hollow State Beach and Pebble Beach. Hike is mostly flat with some mild elevation gain and loss. In the springtime, this hike will be bursting with color as the wildflowers bloom! Meet at the Bean Hollow State Beach south parking lot on Hwy 1. Exact location here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jQQT6TYsGdb7Wuko9Time: 10:00amParking: Free parking located at Bean Hollow State Beach South Parking LotPreparation: Participants should wear sturdy shoes and a hat, and bring plenty of water & snacks. Steady rain will cancel. Contact: [email protected] or (669)758-1819
Natural Bridges Tidepools
Natural Bridges Tidepools
Come explore the tidepools at Natural Bridges State Beach on this guided tour. Our Marine Protected Area is a beautiful and diverse habitat you will not want to miss!SIGN UP HEREParticipation is free, however, a $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival at the entrance kiosk. Please plan to meet promptly at Natural Bridges State Beach Visitor Center. Please be sure to prepare yourself with a re-usable water bottle, backpack, hiking shoes, and sun protection (ie. hat/sunglasses/sunscreen). Rain cancels this guided tour due to safety.For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact (831) 423-4609 or email [email protected] look forward to seeing you soon at Natural Bridges State Beach!
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2 events,
Gateway School Tour
Gateway School Tour
Visit us on one of our monthly Tuesday tours. Hang with our kindergarteners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in our Life Lab outdoor classroom, join our middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K - 8 education.
Community Wildfire Preparedness Workshop
Community Wildfire Preparedness Workshop
Community members, have you lost your homeowners insurance? Mark your calendars for a FREE Event coming up Tuesday, May 14th, 6:00-8:00pm! Scotts Valley Parks & Recreation are hosting a Community Wildfire Preparedness Workshop. We have speakers from Cal Fire, SVFD and United Policyholders discussing varies topics as the fire season approaches. We will also have booths set up from multiple resources throughout Santa Cruz County. Come join us at the Scotts Valley Community Center to learn how to keep your home, property and family safe in case of a fire emergency and advice on Insurance preparedness! We hope to see you there! Community Fire Preparedness Workshop (FREE EVENT)! Tuesday, May 14th, 6:00-8:00pm Community Center: 360 Kings Village Rd. Scotts Valley Pre-registration suggested: https://bit.ly/svrecreation Topics Presented: Property Preparation: • Making Homes and Properties Fire-Resilient • Strategies and best practices for enhancing the fire resilience of homes and properties. • Developing a Wildfire Action Plan Family Preparedness: • Household Evacuation Planning • Essential elements to include in a household evacuation plan, along with a sample packing list. • Identifying Evacuation Routes: Understanding escape routes from the neighborhood and familiarizing oneself with evacuation terminology. Insurance: • How does insurance differ if you are a homeowner or a renter. • How does fire insurance or lack of fire insurance affect our house value? Scheduling a property inspection when selling a home • Accessible home insurance in high-risk areas • Policy cost saving incentives
1 event,
Bookshop Santa Cruz: Katy Farina, Karen’s Sleepover
Bookshop Santa Cruz: Katy Farina, Karen’s Sleepover
FREE IN-STORE EVENT: Come dressed in your favorite pajamas to celebrate and welcome New York Times bestselling author and creator Katy Farina for her latest graphic novel, Karen's Sleepover— another graphic novel in this fun series spin-off of The Baby-sitters Club, featuring Kristy's little stepsister! Be prepared to have a blast!
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Half Moon Bay – Library Rangers at Half Moon Bay Library
Half Moon Bay – Library Rangers at Half Moon Bay Library
Join Half Moon Bay State Beach Staff at the Half Moon Bay Library for a story and a craft. Each month we learn about a different aspect of the natural world. This month's topic is
2 events,
Seacliff State Beach – Ocean Fest
Seacliff State Beach – Ocean Fest
Join us for an afternoon of good food and good information on all things ocean! This family-friendly event will feature food trucks Pana, S&B, and Mattia's Pizza, live music by Tim Brady of The Cement Ship, kids' activities, and info booths about Seacliff State Beach's recovery and ocean conservation. Free event. Day-use vehicle fee is $10. For more information, contact [email protected] or (831) 685-6444. This event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Santa Cruz Mission – ParkStage Youth Performance
Santa Cruz Mission – ParkStage Youth Performance
The culmination of several weeks of hard work, students aged 8-13 will perform a dramatized historical story of Santa Cruz outdoors at our park. Students have rehearsed, researched, and learned history through the process of a performance that they present to the public. Our story for this Spring 2024 ParkStage is set in 1850's Santa Cruz, and follows a dramatized tale of how Eliza Farnham and Georgiana Bruce Kirby come to experience life in California. Arriving empty-handed to her late husband's land in Santa Cruz, Eliza is immediately thrust into a whirlwind of western society-- untrustworthy lawyers, reinvented men running from their pasts, forward thinking women, sharp-witted newspaper editors, and a Santa Cruz split between cultures, all while the temptation of gold lingers just beyond the mountains. These two women, remembered over 100 years after their time, find their own way and forge their own paths as they learn what freedoms the "frontier" might have to offer. This performance is free to the public, and will take place on the lawn at our historic state park Friday May 17th @ 6pm and Sunday May 19th at 4pm. Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on.
12 events,
Castro Adobe Open House
Rancho San Andres Castro Adobe State HistoricParkCastro Adobe Open House: Spring Is in theAirSaturday, May 18 from 10:30 am to 3:30 pmYayfor May flowers! Plants were important on the rancho in the 1800s as food,tools, construction materials, and more. Can you guess which one of these wassometimes eaten by both people and their livestock: redwood trees, cactus, ortule grass? The other two plants had important uses at the Castro Adobe too!Come discover the answer and learn more about how the people of Alta Californiaused the natural world around them. Listen to live music andenjoy our recently installed interpretive displays. Reservations for a free90-minute docent led tour are recommended at: www.santacruzstateparks.as.me/CastroAdobeOpenHouse Eventmade possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks. For more information call (831) 226-9669 NOTE: Continuous rain will cancel event.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Watershed Restoration Volunteer Work Day
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Watershed Restoration Volunteer Work Day
Join one of our workdays to help out and make a difference restoring habitat and maintaining your park! Workdays include Native Plant Garden, Watershed Restoration, Invasive Plant Removal, and Fuel Reduction Workdays. Specific descriptions, meeting locations, times and announcements are listed on the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park webpage, under "Park Events."RSVP for this workday here.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park – Plant Walk
Big Basin Redwoods State Park – Plant Walk
Hike at Big Basin with one of our knowledgeable docents and plant enthusiast through the majestic Redwoods post fire. See which plants are thriving after the CZU Lightning Complex fire and likely see some Banana Slugs! Plan for 4 hours of easy walking and 2-4 miles on trails and fire roads. Dress in Layers, bring water and a snack. Rain will cancel. Participation is free, however, a $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival, or we recommend you reserve a parking spot by clicking here. Please plan to meet at the temporary visitor center area located next to the restrooms at 8:45 am.For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact [email protected].
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Basketry Workshop
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Basketry Workshop
During this program from 10:00am-12:00pm, you will be introduced to a traditional art: California Basket Weaving. CA basketry is some of the most ornate in the world, and this opportunity will pique your interest in learning more about, and supporting traditional arts and peoples. This 2-hour workshop will teach you how to weave your very own basket out of local Ponderosa Pine needles!All materials are supplied, and no previous experience is necessary. Suitable for participants 12 and up.Click here to RSVP!
9 events,
Natural Bridges Stewardship-
Natural Bridges Stewardship-
Join our Natural Bridges Volunteer team to assist with removal of invasive plants.These plants are still small and the ground moist, so it is much easier now!This is an opportunity to get to off trail sites where the deer, bunnies and birds live..Wear long pants, socks, close-toed shoes, layers on top, hat and bring sunscreen and a water bottle. If you have them bring gloves and a trowel or dandelion puller, otherwise borrow from the park. Snacks provided so come join the party! Please sign up: call 831-423-0871 or santacruzstateparks.as.me/schedule
Butano State Park – Guided Hike
Butano State Park – Guided Hike
Join a State Park Educator and enjoy the flora and fauna of Butano State Park on this moderate 2.2 mile loop. This hike features creekside riparian habitat, redwood forest, and oak woodlands. Keep your eyes peeled for banana slugs and newts! Where: Meet at the Visitor Center near the front entranceTime: 10:00amParking: Parking is located by visitor center. Additional parking is located at the picnic area further down Butano State Park Road. $10 vehicle day use fee applies. Preparation: Participants should wear sturdy shoes and a hat, and bring plenty of water & snacks. Hike includes some slippery downhill in the winter; trekking poles are encouraged. Steady rain will cancel. Note that there is no running water in this park, so bring plenty!Contact: [email protected] or (669)758-1819
HIKE4PEACE
HIKE4PEACE
We are excited to bring back this all family fun Saturday event at the Tara Redwood School Campus in the forest of Land of Medicine Buddha, Soquel . Hike4Peace is Tara Redwood School's annual HIKE-A-THON fundraiser and Arts & Crafts Fair . Pledge a student hiker (or yourself) onto one or all of the 8 Verses trails and enjoy an afternoon of music, raffles and games. Meet and greet Tara Redwood School faculty and partake in one or all of the Tara Redwood School creative arts. This is a fundraiser, funding will support Tara Redwood School's scholarship program and classroom development. Also 10% of the proceeds go to a charity of the children's choice. Tara Redwood School, 5810 Prescott Rd, Soquel CA 95073
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The SLV Music & Art Festival
The SLV Music & Art Festival
The 3rd annual SLV Music & Art Festival is an outdoor, community event that features performances by: SLVHS choir and bands, SLVMS bands, SLV Nature Academy Band, SLVE and BCE 5th grade bands, and the SLV Community Band! There is an art show and sale (by donation) put on by the SLVHS Art Department! There will be multiple food trucks and also silent and live auctions that support the SLV Music Boosters. Please come and celebrate community while supporting our growing student musicians and artists!
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Francisco Jiménez, The Circuit Graphic Novel
Francisco Jiménez, The Circuit Graphic Novel
Bookshop Santa Cruz and the Santa Cruz County Office of Education welcome bestselling author Francisco Jiménez (The Circuit) for a celebration of The Circuit Graphic Novel at Sequoia High School in Freedom. Poignantly told from a young boy's perspective, the popular and award-winning memoir centered on a Mexican family working California's fields is now a powerful graphic novel. Food and drinks provided by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education. Please register for this free event on our website, purchase of book required to join the signing line.
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4 events,
Big Basin Redwoods State Park: Guided Walk – Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
Big Basin Redwoods State Park: Guided Walk – Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
Come learn about the story of Big Basin: past, present, and future while wandering under the guardian old-growth redwoods that have seen it all! This program is a 1 hour walk on a 0.6 mile, flat and easy trail designed for all ages. We will be covering the cultural history of this unique area including Indigenous groups, loggers, and preservationists. Of course, we will also discuss natural history such as the amazing coast redwood and the CZU Lightning Complex Fire as well as the future of our park.Participation is free, however, a $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival, or you can reserve a parking spot by clicking here. Please plan to meet at the temporary visitor center area located next to the restrooms at 10:45 am. Bring your own water or purchase water from Parking Kiosk as there is no running water, electricity or cell service at Big Basin!For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact [email protected] here to Register
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Tour
Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on 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. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!
Santa Cruz Mission – Adobe Tour
Santa Cruz Mission – Adobe Tour
Join us for a guided tour through Santa Cruz’s oldest building, the only remaining example of indigenous housing from the California Missions. Learn about the daily life of people who lived here, and ways in which the Spanish Mission system drastically impacted local native people’s culture and landscape. This is a FREE event open to the public, no reservations required. Call (831) 425-5849 for more information.
6 events,
Half Moon Bay – Guided Walk at Burleigh Murray Ranch
Half Moon Bay – Guided Walk at Burleigh Murray Ranch
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 (650) 726-8814.Click here to make your reservation today!
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday and Sunday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on 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. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Loop Tour
Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on 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. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!
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Wilder Ranch State Park – Birding Walk
Wilder Ranch State Park – Birding Walk
On this 2.5 mile hike, be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces, with many stops to view the many birds, plants, and scenery along the way. You will help each other spot and identify birds! Bring your binoculars if you have them, clothes for variable weather, and good walking shoes.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.