Things to Do This Week in Santa Cruz

Your weekly guide to events and activities in Santa Cruz. Concerts, classes, outdoor fun, and more.

50 results found

KidsFree

Reading to Children with Vivian

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 8:00 PM–9:00 PM UTC · Cambrian Branch Library

Participating in the Reading to Children program is a great way for children to develop their imagination and spark a love for books, reading and learning. Children will enjoy one-on-one or small group interaction with our volunteer. Kids are also welcome to practice reading to our volunteer....

KidsFree

Baby Time and Stay & Play

Starts in 3 hrs · Tue, Apr 7, 5:30 PM–6:30 PM UTC · Branciforte Library · Ages Up to 5

Welcoming babies from birth to age two and their caregivers, this gentle program celebrates language, movement, and connection. Afterward, stay for Stay & Play to continue learning through play and build community with other families.

KidsFree

The Nature of Things: An 850-Mile Mountain Bike Exploration of Climate Change on the Arizona Trail

Tomorrow · Thu, Apr 9, 1:00 AM–2:30 AM UTC · Downtown Library

Along the 850-mile Arizona Trail, which spans the length of the state from Utah to Mexico, diverse ecosystems showcase how climate change is actively altering life as we know it across the Southwest. During fall 2025, The Arizona Republic newspaper’s climate reporter and award winning journalist,...

KidsFree

Expressive Arts & Wellness

Starts in 5 hrs · Tue, Apr 7, 8:00 PM–10:00 PM UTC · Aptos Library

What to expect: brief guided meditation, art making, reflective journaling, and optional group sharing and insights. You may want to bring a 9x12 spiral bound watercolor pad to use as an art journal.

KidsFree

Game Zone @ Scotts Valley

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 8:00 PM–10:00 PM UTC · Scotts Valley Library · Ages 10–14

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

Accusefive

In 4 days · Sun, Apr 12, 3:00 AM–3:00 AM UTC · San Jose Civic

Acclaimed Taiwanese rock band Accusefive — composed of lead vocalist and guitarist Pan Yun-an, singer Tsai Hsin-lun (Chuan Ching/Quan Qing), and drummer Richard Lin — is their “Run, Run, Run! 黑夜狂奔” 2026 Live Tour to San Jose. Rather than their usual large-scale stadium performances, the trio will...

KidsFree

Make & Explore @ Garfield Park

Tomorrow · Wed, Apr 8, 10:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Garfield Park Library · Ages 18+

Projects will include Science, Arts & Crafts, including model building, and exploration of the environment around us. Children will need an adult present to help them. Expect to get messy!

Dear Evan Hansen – CMT Marquee

In 2 days · Apr 9 – Apr 18 · Montgomery Theater

The winner of six Tony Awards (including Best Musical), the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, and an Olivier Award for Best Musical, Dear Evan Hansen is a deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. The show features a book by Tony Award-winner..

KidsFree

Lego Friday Fun

In 3 days · Fri, Apr 10, 10:30 PM–11:30 PM UTC · Felton Library

Use your imagination and build anything you can dream! Lego and Duplo blocks will be available for children and youth to tinker with, build, explore, and creatively play! No registration necessary.

Kids

In Town Star Party (ITSP)

In 3 days · Sat, Apr 11, 4:00 AM–6:00 AM UTC · Houge Park

SJ Astronomy Come join San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) for an evening of stargazing. Event details: * Events are held at the parking lot of our headquarters, Houge Park, San Jose. The event duration is 2 hours. SJAA volunteers will share night sky views from their telescopes. * Please...

KidsFree

Systemwide Youth Grab & Go – Jazz It Up

In 2 days · Fri, Apr 10, 12:00 AM–12:00 AM UTC · Downtown Library

Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month with this lively Grab and Go Kit featuring a hands-on craft, a musical favor, coloring sheets and music crossword puzzles that bring rhythm and creativity home. Kits available while supplies last.

KidsFree

Make Your Own Slime Bar

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 10:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Branciforte Library

This sensory-friendly, creative program encourages experimentation and imaginative play while learning simple science concepts along the way. All materials will be provided—just bring your curiosity and creativity! Slime creations can be taken home to enjoy. *supplies limited to 20, early...

KidsFree

Community Yoga and Heartfulness Meditation

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 5:30 PM–7:00 PM UTC · Cambrian Branch Library

Experience the soothing calm of yoga and meditation, as presented by our partner, The Heartfulness Institute each Saturday. Yoga is taught by certified instructors and meditation is taught by a Heartfulness certified instructor. Yoga may be either chair or regular yoga. Please be sure to bring your.

KidsFree

Chess Club with Gjon

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 9:00 PM–10:30 PM UTC · Downtown Library · Ages 6–18

Professional chess instruction with Chess Master Gjon Feinstein. For ages 6 - 18, all levels welcome! If you have never played chess before, please contact Gjon before your first session: coach@santacruzchess.com or 831-425-7835. Chess is a great way for kids to build sportsmanship, concentration,..

KidsFree

Reading Buddies [Compañeros de Lectura]

Starts in 10 hrs · Wed, Apr 8, 1:00 AM–2:00 AM UTC · Gilroy Library

Come practice your reading skills and read aloud one on one with a furry friend! Each 15-minute session is with a specially trained therapy dog and their volunteer. Reading Buddies in the Gilroy Library will take place the 1st Tuesday of each month starting in September. Sign-ups are first come,...

Taiwan Campus Folk Music 2026 USA Tour

In 5 days · Apr 12 – Apr 15 · San Jose Center for the Performing Arts

“50 Years of Folk Songs” is not a replica of youth, but a return of collective memory validated by time. In 2026, it will be the first time this fully-produced concert in the U.S., bringing together the golden generation of folk singers for a three-hour full-length performance. The repertoire spans.

Free

English Language Learner (ELL) Conversation Club

Tomorrow · Wed, Apr 8, 5:30 PM–6:30 PM UTC · Willow Glen Branch Library · Ages 18+

Our English Language Learners (ELL) Conversation Club creates a welcoming and respectful environment for adult learners of English to practice their English conversation skills with a trained facilitator. The club meets weekly in the Library Community Room. Free. No registration required ADA...

KidsFree

Reading to Children with Lee

Starts in 7 hrs · Tue, Apr 7, 10:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Cambrian Branch Library

Participating in the Reading to Children program is a great way for children to develop their imagination and spark a love for books, reading and learning. Children will enjoy one-on-one or small group interaction with our volunteer, Kids are also welcome to practice reading to our volunteer....

KidsFree

Art Therapy for Tweens

In 3 days · Fri, Apr 10, 11:00 PM–12:00 AM UTC · Cupertino Library · Ages 10+

Join us this month for another art therapy program. We will explore different techniques and art materials each month. Create your own unique piece of art to take home. For kids ages 10 and up and their adult caregiver are welcome to attend. Materials will be provided. While supplies last. For...

Free

In-Person English Language Learner (ELL) Conversation Club

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 5:00 PM–6:00 PM UTC · Edenvale Branch Library · Ages 18+

The Edenvale Branch Library presents an in person adult English Language Learner (ELL) Conversation Club. This is a welcoming and respectful environment for adult learners who want to develop and increase English Language and vocabulary skills. Participants will be practicing a variety of literacy..

KidsFree

Kids Crafternoon @ La Selva Beach

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 11:00 PM–12:30 AM UTC · La Selva Beach Library · Ages 18+

Get creative with a new craft each week! From fuse beads and mosaics to fun yarn projects, there's always something new to make. Best for children 6+. Children under 6 yrs old will need an adult present to help them. Drop in, no registration needed.

KidsFree

Tales to Tails at Branciforte

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 7:00 PM–8:00 PM UTC · Branciforte Library

Programs like Tales to Tails have proven to be extremely effective in increasing the self-confidence and reading abilities of participants. Participants should be 6-17 years old and already reading to some degree. Our volunteer handlers are there to provide support, but are not trained reading...

Free

INSIDERS: Activities at the Village Square Branch

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 5:00 PM–6:00 PM UTC · Village Square Branch Library

Join us for socializing, finding new friends, networking, making jokes, learn to play Dungeons & Dragons, and having fun with art! INSIDERS programs are geared towards teens and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Caregivers are welcome to join. Snacks will be provided....

Free

Tai Chi for Seniors

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 5:00 PM–6:00 PM UTC · Tully Branch Library

Join us at Tully library every Thursday for an hour of Tai Chi exercises. Tai Chi improves strength, flexibility, aerobic conditioning, and balance. It's been proven to improve cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, prevent falls, and help people who have arthritis. Free. No registration...

KidsFree

Preschool Time (3-5 Years)

Tomorrow · Wed, Apr 8, 5:15 PM–6:00 PM UTC · Downtown Library · Ages 3–5

Drop-In. Join us at Preschool Time for stories, songs and interactive activities! This 45 minute, parent-child engagement program incorporates the five early literacy practices: Sing, Read, Talk, Write, and Play to build school readiness skills. It also includes a craft activity. Remember, you are..

KidsFree

ESL Conversation Class || ESL clase de conversación

In 6 days · Mon, Apr 13, 5:00 PM–8:00 PM UTC · Biblioteca Latinoamericana Branch Library

This class will teach students English phrases and common practices used in everyday life situations. Students will meet twice a week for 1-2 hours each day depending on placement level. Class will consist of lecture, listening exercises and class participation. Free. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Cannot..

Bismil Ki Mehfil

In 5 days · Mon, Apr 13, 2:00 AM–2:00 AM UTC · San Jose Civic

Bismil Ki Mehfil is a popular Sufi music experience led by Indian singer Bismil, blending soulful Sufi poetry, Bollywood and modern sounds for immersive live shows. This artist is known for spiritual performances and significant recognition, including large-scale concerts and international tours,...

KidsFree

Felt Soda Can Coozies for Teens

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 10:30 PM–11:30 PM UTC · Downtown Library · Ages 13–17

Teens, looking for something creative to do? Make a cute little coozie for your soda can! Using felt and puffy paint, design your own soda cooler to take home with you. No registration is required. Ages 13-17.

KidsFree

Furry Reading Buddies for Grades K-5

In 3 days · Fri, Apr 10, 10:30 PM–12:00 AM UTC · Saratoga Library

Buddy up with a furry friend and read aloud from your favorite book! Practice your reading skills and build up your self-confidence reading to a patient and furry listener (fully trained therapy dog). This program is for children who have completed Kindergarten through 5th grade . Parents are asked.

KidsFree

Tales to Tails @ Garfield Park

In 6 days · Mon, Apr 13, 10:30 PM–11:30 PM UTC · Garfield Park Library

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. Appointments are required, please contact 831-427-7709 to make yours now.

KidsFree

Writing Group

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 9:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Downtown Library

This group is for writers who want to successfully write the stories that mean the most to them, and then get them out into the world. This group is facilitated by local author Andrew Flynn, with a focus on understanding, using, and utilizing resources to produce within the writing craft....

KidsFree

Spring Scavenger Hunt

In 5 days · Mon, Apr 13, 12:00 AM–12:00 AM UTC · Biblioteca Latinoamericana Branch Library

Hop, hop, hop. Down the bunny trail… It’s that time again, come join us at Biblioteca Latinoamericana for the Spring scavenger hunt! Our bunnies have hopped off and are hiding throughout the library shelves. Can you find them all? Drop in, pick up a scavenger hunt clue sheet, and start exploring...

KidsFree

Young Artists of Art Students' Atelier Exhibit

In 5 days · Mon, Apr 13, 12:00 AM–12:00 AM UTC · Saratoga Library

This is an exhibit of drawings and paintings by young local artists who are current and former students of Gabriel Coke from Saratoga, California. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Gabriel Coke. **This exhibit is available to view everyday during the library's open hours through April 17, 2026.**

KidsFree

North County Advisory Council of Teens (ACT)

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 9:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Felton Library

Advisory Council of Teens (ACT) is the SCPL young adult advisory group. ACT is open to all young adults in Scotts Valley and the San Lorenzo Valley. The main focus of the ACT is young adult services, including programs, events, spaces, and policies. This is a good opportunity for students to...

KidsFree

Basic Composting @ Aptos

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 8:00 PM–10:00 PM UTC · Aptos Library

There is plenty of time for participants’ questions to be answered by the presenters who are Master Composters. Registration is limited to 25 participants. Sign up on the online or call: 831-824-6484. Presenters: Jeffrey Smedberg was Recycling Coordinator for the County of Santa Cruz for 26...

KidsFree

Community Poetry Circle @ Capitola

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 8:00 PM–10:00 PM UTC · Capitola Library

Join the circle and write a poem in a creative and supportive environment. No experience necessary. Open to all ages and levels of poets. Facilitated by poet-teacher Magdalena Montagne. Pre-registration required. Register below or by calling the Capitola Branch at 831-427-7705. Questions: Call...

KidsFree

Tech Talks: Control Your Google Account (Apple / Android)

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 6:00 PM–7:00 PM UTC · Downtown Library

In this hands-on workshop, we'll walk through the options most people ignore, such as controlling your personal data, locking down your account security, and reviewing your Gemini AI options. Leave with settings that work for you.

KidsFree

Piñatas and Books - an intergeneration program Piñatas y Libros - un programa intergeneracional

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 9:00 PM–12:30 AM UTC · Morgan Hill Library

Celebrate Day of the Child/Day of the Book with a Pinata making workshop! Join us for a hand-son session where families can create their very own colorful piñata. We’ll provide the materials; you bring your imagination and your family! Sign up your family for one workshop session. Each family will..

KidsFree

Community Crafters @ Boulder Creek

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 5:00 PM–7:00 PM UTC · Boulder Creek Library

The Community Crafters are a diverse group of makers and love to share our knowledge. We knit, quilt, weave, spin, make jewelry, embroider, mend and so much more. All crafters are welcome! We hope you will join us in creating community and beautiful things! Please note: Most weeks, crafters bring...

Free

Digital Skills: One-On-One Tech Help for Seniors

In 2 days · Thu, Apr 9, 7:00 PM–12:00 AM UTC · Almaden Branch Library

Do you have questions or need assistance with technology? At the Almaden Branch you can make a 30-minute appointment to assist you with: Learning to use Libby (formerly Overdrive) to read ebooks and listen to e-audiobooks Accessing non-Overdrive eBooks and audiobooks from Boundless, CloudLibrary,...

KidsFree

Discovery Zone Playgroup

In 6 days · Mon, Apr 13, 5:30 PM–6:30 PM UTC · Capitola Library · Ages 18+

A time for free play for children with a participating adult. Arrival and departure times are flexible. This is a drop-in early learning program, where there will be toys for developing and strengthening gross motor skills, as well as providing time for young children to learn socialization skills..

KidsFree

Loops at the Library - Knit/Crochet @ Garfield Park Branch

In 6 days · Mon, Apr 13, 7:00 PM–8:30 PM UTC · Garfield Park Library

All you need to do is bring some yarn and knitting or crocheting needles. All are welcome. This is a drop-in event. Come for part of the time or stay for the whole event. Cross stitch and other crafts are welcome.