Things to Do This Weekend in Santa Cruz

Discover events, activities, and fun things happening this weekend in Santa Cruz. Family-friendly, outdoor, and free options.

50 results found

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...

Free

Crochet Club

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 6:00 PM–7:30 PM UTC · Tully Branch Library · Ages 18+

Join us in the Lower Mills Community Room for Crochet Club. Crocheters of all skill levels are welcome to work on your own projects or learn the first stitches in a crafty community. Basic supplies are available for beginners, and shared tools available for use in the Branch. We also welcome...

KidsFree

Kids Grab & Go: Paper Chain Pets

In 3 days · Sat, Apr 11, 12:00 AM–12:00 AM UTC · Downtown Library

April 11th is National Pet Day! Celebrate by using our kits to create a paper chain pet of your choice! Have fun coloring and crafting a cat, dog, fish, or snake! Kits available while supplies last.

KidsFree

Are You Game?

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 7:00 PM–12:00 AM UTC · Capitola Library

Adults need playtime, too! Come play some new or old favorite tabletop games. Bring your favorite board game or play some of the library's games. No prior gaming experience is necessary. This program is for adults 18+. We will meet every second Saturday of the month in the Community Room at Felton..

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

Project Scout

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM UTC · Aptos Library

Project SCOUT began its operations in 1968 as a private non-profit organization. They have a corps of volunteers from the local community. This year Project SCOUT will be taking appointments over the phone or email. To make an appointment or inquiry, call Project SCOUT at 831-724-2606 or email them.

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

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

Astro 101: Introduction to Astronomy -- Details TBD

In 3 days · Sat, Apr 11, 2:45 AM–4:15 AM UTC · Houge Park

SJ Astronomy This event is one of several different introductions to astronomy offered by SJAA. The details of this particular talk are not yet set, but SJAA offers various introductions, approaching astronomy from different angles, including: * Intro To Observing The Night Sky * Know Your Cosmic...

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.

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...

KidsFree

Author Visit with Molly Salans In Person

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 8:30 PM–10:00 PM UTC · Capitola Library

Prior to pursuing her education in counseling and social work, Molly was a member of a prominent cult for seven years. Though she left in 1982, her experiences as part of the group haunted her, leading her to write her newest book, a psychological fiction novel titled A Break in the Fog . Though...

KidsFree

Baby Sign and Sing

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 6:00 PM–6:30 PM UTC · Cupertino Library · Ages Up to 12

** Due to the Easter Holiday, Baby Sign and Sing is on 4/12 ** Join us for Sign and Sing for Babies in our first floor program room! This program is for infants and prewalking babies only, ages 0-12 months. Adult Caregivers will learn basic signs to communicate with their babies. Generously...

KidsFree

VITA Tax Help

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 8:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Seven Trees Branch Library

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteers @ Seven Trees Branch Library offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including: People who generally make $69,000 or less. Persons with disabilities. Limited English speaking taxpayers. What to Bring:...

KidsFree

Reading, Understanding & Increasing Spanish Vocabulary

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

If you have some basic knowledge of Spanish, or have taken our Beginning Spanish class with Hector Sosa, this series is a great next step. This 8-week series builds on what you already know to further strengthen your Spanish-speaking skills. Participants will expand their vocabulary through guided..

KidsFree

Solar Sunday -- See Our Sun Up Close

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 9:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Houge Park

SJ Astronomy It’s there for us year round, lighting our days and providing energy for our lives, so maybe it’s time to give it a closer look. Join SJAA for amazing and detailed views of the Sun, and be assured that we’ll be using special telescopes that will keep your eyeballs perfectly safe. We’ll.

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

One-on-One Computer Help with our Tech Mentor

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 10:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · West Valley Branch Library

Stop by the West Valley Branch Library for one-on-one computer help with our experienced, friendly Tech Mentor! Our Tech Mentor volunteer can help you with basic computer issues like: Learning the basics of Microsoft Word and Excel; Setting up an email account; Using social networking services like.

KidsFree

Retro Fun: 80s Movies and Puzzles

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 8:30 PM–11:30 PM UTC · Downtown Library

Travel back to the totally radical 1980s for a laid-back library hangout! Join us for a screening of the classic 1980s films "Labyrinth" and "The Never Ending Story," paired with fun, random puzzle(s) to work on while you watch. Whether you’re solving solo or teaming up with friends, this program...

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

Spring Scavenger Hunt

In 4 days · Sun, Apr 12, 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...

Free

North County Advisory Council of Teens (ACT)

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 9:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Felton Library · Ages 18+

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

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

SAT Help

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 8:00 PM–9:00 PM UTC · Seven Trees Branch Library

Get ready for the SAT with free, one-on-one tutoring at the library. These in-person tutoring sessions can help strengthen your knowledge and test-taking skills to improve your college application. Space is limited. Registration is recommended for a guaranteed, 1-hour spot. ADA Accommodation Request

KidsFree

Aptos Library Friends Pop-Up Book Sale

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

Big stories, tiny prices! Browse our pop-up book sale packed with great finds. Every book is $2, and every purchase supports the Aptos Library. Stop by, snag a stack, and support your library today!!!

KidsFree

Reading to Furry Friends

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 5:30 PM–6:30 PM UTC · Santa Teresa Branch Library

Tell a story to a Furry Friend! Children are invited to practice reading to gentle, trained assistance dogs who love books! Practice reading skills while relaxing next to a cute Furry Friend. Free. No registration required. ADA Accommodation Requests

KidsFree

Medicare and YOU

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 6:00 PM–7:30 PM UTC · Scotts Valley Library

Confused about Medicare changes? Join HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) for a free community presentation on Medicare coverage options for 2026. Learn how to compare plans, understand updates for the new year, and get guidance from trained counselors who provide unbiased,...

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...

KidsFree

Non-Fiction Book Discussion: The Showman:inside the invasion that shook the world and made a leader of Volodymyr Zelensky

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 6:00 PM–7:30 PM UTC · Cupertino Library

Book Cover of T he Showman Open to all adults who love to read and discuss Non-fictional literature. In April the group will talk about The showman: inside the invasion that shook the world and made a leader of Volodymyr Zelensky by Simon Schuster (January 2024) Time Magazine correspondent Simon...

KidsFree

English Language Conversation Group

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

Please join us at the Capitola Branch Library on Saturdays, 10am-12pm for a chance to practice your English language skills with new friends and a group leader from the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County Literacy Program. For more information about the Literacy Program visit...

KidsFree

3D Printing and TinkerCAD Workshop

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 8:00 PM–9:00 PM UTC · Cambrian Branch Library · Ages 8–14

Come join us for an introduction to 3D printing and CAD! We will learn how to use TinkerCAD and how 3D printing works. There will be a live demonstration of the 3D printer working. Participants may receive a 3D printed giveaway upon participation. Free. Ages 8-14. Computers and space are limited,...

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

Fiber Arts Circle at Almaden

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 6:00 PM–8:00 PM UTC · Almaden Branch Library

Do you enjoy crocheting or knitting? Want to see what others are working on, refine your skills, or connect with other crafters? Grab your project and join us every week in the Almaden Library living room (behind the Tech Center where the newspapers and magazines are kept) to crochet or knit (or...

KidsFree

Bilingual Spanish & English Family Storytime

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 5:30 PM–6:15 PM UTC · Morgan Hill Library

Join us in the Children's Activity Room for family fun with your little one! Stories, music, movement, and more! Storytimes are bilingual (Spanish/English) and all ages are welcome to attend. ¡Acompáñenos en la sala de actividades para niños para divertirse en familia con su pequeño! ¡Cuentos,...

Free

Meditation for Adults

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

Come join our meditation program to help relax your body and mind, and improve your overall health and well-being. ADA Accommodation Requests

KidsFree

Baby Wearing Dance

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 6:00 PM–7:00 PM UTC · Cupertino Library · Ages Up to 5

For adult caregivers and pre-walking babies. Participants must bring their own baby carrier For accessibility accommodations (ex. ASL), please fill out the online form at sccld.org/accessibility 7+days prior to the event. If you need assistance with the form, speak with a staff member at your local.

KidsFree

Board Game Zone

In 5 days · Sun, Apr 12, 9:00 PM–11:00 PM UTC · Seven Trees Branch Library

Join us every Sunday between 2:00 - 4:00 PM at the Seven Trees Library to play fun board games! We have a large selection to choose from, including new games and classic games that everyone of all ages can enjoy. No Registration Required. Thanks to the Friends of the Seven Trees Library for making..

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

Zentangle Art

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 5:00 PM–6:30 PM UTC · Capitola Library

The Zentangle Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Join Certified Zentangle Teacher Lisa Hoesing for an introductory workshop and monthly meetup to practice the method. The monthly meetup will take place on the second Saturday..

KidsFree

Art of Living Meditation

In 4 days · Sat, Apr 11, 6:00 PM–6:30 PM UTC · West Valley Branch Library

Why wait to find greater peace in your life? Join volunteers from the Art of Living Foundation every Sat. morning at 11:00 AM for a relaxing meditation session. Sessions will include simple yoga stretches that can be done sitting on a chair, calming breathing techniques ( pranayama ), and a guided..