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Santa Cruz, CA — Upcoming Events
Live·20 upcoming events·Updated 12:50 AM
20Total Events
4This Weekend
—Free Events
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From $23
FRANKENSTEIN With LIVE SCORE By SLEEPBOMB
Rio Theatre
Sat, Oct 17, 2026, 2:30 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Young Dubliners w/ Ockham's Razor
Moe's Alley
Sat, Oct 17, 2026, 4:00 AM
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Megan Woods w/ Jeremy Rosado
Rio Theatre Santa Cruz
Sun, Oct 18, 2026, 2:00 AM
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MARTY O'REILLY
The Crepe Place
Sun, Oct 18, 2026, 2:00 AM
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Megan Woods: The Truth Tour - Santa Cruz, CA
Rio Theatre
Sun, Oct 18, 2026, 2:00 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: B-Side Players w/ Elijah Emanuel
Moe's Alley
Sun, Oct 18, 2026, 4:00 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Sqwerv w/ Flat Sun Society
Moe's Alley
Mon, Oct 19, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Western Wednesday #95: Henry Warde x The Farmer & Adele
Moe's Alley
Thu, Oct 22, 2026, 2:30 AM
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HANNAH MAYREE (Record Release Show)
The Crepe Place
Thu, Oct 22, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Todd Rundgren
Rio Theatre Santa Cruz
Fri, Oct 23, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Dusk Dept. w/ The Westones
Moe's Alley
Fri, Oct 23, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Lyrics Born "The LB Baby Tour" w/ Alwa Gordon + DJ Kikkoman
Moe's Alley
Sat, Oct 24, 2026, 4:00 AM
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THE RUMBA MADRE, SUIKA T, MOTHERSHIP CONNECTION
The Crepe Place
Sun, Oct 25, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Zepparella (Saturday Night Show)
Moe's Alley
Sun, Oct 25, 2026, 4:00 AM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Zepparella (Sunday Matinee Show)
Moe's Alley
Sun, Oct 25, 2026, 11:00 PM
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Moe's Alley Presents: Wine Lips w/ Buddy Wynkoop
Moe's Alley
Wed, Oct 28, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Lyle Lovett
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium
Thu, Oct 29, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Santa Cruz
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Michael Franti
Rio Theatre Santa Cruz
Fri, Oct 30, 2026, 2:00 AM
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NO BRAINER PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS: WASABI
The Crepe Place
Fri, Oct 30, 2026, 3:00 AM
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CREPE-O-WEEN NIGHT #1!
The Crepe Place
Sat, Oct 31, 2026, 3:00 AM
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Santa Cruz
About Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz County is located on California's central coast, approximately 90 miles south of San Francisco, with the city of Santa Cruz serving as the county seat. With a population of around 270,000 residents, this picturesque coastal region is known for its stunning beaches, redwood forests, and vibrant creative community. The county attracts visitors and event-seekers year-round with its blend of outdoor recreation, agricultural heritage, and thriving arts and culture scene.
Events & Entertainment
Santa Cruz County hosts a diverse array of events ranging from beach festivals and farmers markets to film screenings and live music performances. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a major entertainment hub featuring concerts and seasonal festivals, while the downtown area supports galleries, theaters, and cultural organizations. The county is known for hosting environmental and agricultural festivals, outdoor sports events, and a strong music and arts community that reflects the region's bohemian character.
Best Times for Events
The best times to find events in Santa Cruz County are summer months (June-August) when the Boardwalk hosts concerts and festivals, and fall (September-October) when the weather remains warm and events like the Capitola Art & Wine Festival take place. Spring (April-May) brings farmers market seasons and outdoor celebrations, while winter offers holiday festivities and indoor cultural events. Summer is peak season for beach festivals and outdoor entertainment.
Popular Venues
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
California's oldest amusement park and a beloved coastal entertainment destination featuring rides, arcades, and a concert venue. The Boardwalk hosts major summer concerts, festivals, and seasonal events throughout the year.
Civic Auditorium
Santa Cruz's premier performing arts venue located downtown, hosting concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, and cultural events. The venue accommodates mid-sized audiences and attracts touring acts and local performers.
The Catalyst
A historic downtown music venue known for hosting live concerts, comedy shows, and dance events. The Catalyst is a cultural cornerstone featuring local and touring musicians across multiple genres.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular annual events in Santa Cruz County?
Popular annual events include the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, the Santa Cruz Film Festival, the Aptos Antique Faire, and various Boardwalk summer concerts and festivals. The county also hosts numerous farmers markets, environmental celebrations, and community gatherings throughout the year.
Is Santa Cruz County good for outdoor event activities?
Yes, Santa Cruz County is excellent for outdoor events due to its beaches, redwood parks, and mild climate. You'll find beach festivals, hiking events, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and water sports activities throughout the county.
When is the best season to visit Santa Cruz for events?
Summer (June-August) offers the most events and warmest weather, making it peak season for festivals and outdoor entertainment. However, spring and fall provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and still offer many cultural and community events.
What types of events are most common in Santa Cruz County?
Santa Cruz County is known for music festivals, art fairs, farmers markets, food and wine events, film festivals, and environmental celebrations. The area also hosts sports events, theater productions, and community festivals that reflect the region's creative and outdoor-oriented culture.