Shows And Events Santa Cruz

Shows and Events in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and culture scene. Whether you’re interested in music, theater, or comedy, there’s always something happening in this charming California coastal town.

Music Festivals and Concerts

  • Boardwalk Summer Concert Series: Every summer, the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hosts free outdoor concerts on Wednesday evenings from June to August. Enjoy live music by local and national artists while taking in the stunning ocean views.
  • Santa Cruz Blues Festival: This popular festival takes place every October and features a lineup of renowned blues musicians performing on multiple stages throughout the city.

Theater and Performance

  • Aptos Village Theatre: Located just outside Santa Cruz, this intimate theater showcases a diverse range of productions, from musicals to plays and dance performances.
  • Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival: Every summer, the company presents outdoor productions of Shakespeare’s plays in the scenic park settings around Santa Cruz.

Comedy and Entertainment

  • Abbott Square Events: This popular comedy club hosts stand-up comedians, improv groups, and other forms of entertainment in a lively downtown setting.
  • The Rio Theatre: A beloved independent movie theater that also features live performances, including comedy nights and music events.

Special Events

  • Santa Cruz Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting: Kick off the holiday season with this festive event, which takes place every December and includes tree lighting, caroling, and visits from Santa.
  • Santa Cruz Beach Festival: This annual festival celebrates summer’s end in style, featuring live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages.

Tips and Tricks

  • Be sure to check the schedules and lineups for each event, as they are subject to change.
  • Arrive early to secure parking and grab a good spot for outdoor events.
  • Take advantage of the city’s many restaurants and cafes by grabbing a bite before or after an event.
  • Don’t miss out on the unique shopping and browsing opportunities in downtown Santa Cruz.