There are still plenty of holiday events coming up. Unlike last weekend there are even a few non-holiday themed events on the calendar.
Here are our picks for the best events going on this weekend in Santa Cruz, just in case you find yourself with some spare time between shopping, decorating, and baking for the holidays:
Bob Dylan Tribute
Head to the Kuumbwa Jazz Center on Friday night for a tribute to Bob Dylan. Sixteen musical acts are scheduled to perform Dylan classics, including many local artists.
Get more info here.
When: December 13
An Evening with Ian Bell at the Wrigley
Singer/Songwriter Ian Bell will perform at the R. Blitzer Gallery in the Wrigley building on Friday the 13th at 7:00 pm.
Ian Bell was born in West London, but made the move to the states and of all the options he chose to settle down in Santa Cruz. That’s evidence that he’s a smart cookie, but he’s also a talented singer/songwriter.
He will be performing songs from his new album, Red Wine and Tears. Learn more about Ian Bell, and listen to some of his tunes at his website.
Tickets are only $5 and can be purchased at Event Santa Cruz.
When: December 13
A Tribute to Neil Young
One night after the Bob Dylan Tribute you can return to Kuumbwa for a tribute to Neil Young. The lineup of musicians is similar to the lineup for the Dylan tribute.
When: December 14
Get more info here.
It’s a Wonderful Life
This is the last weekend to catch a live performance of It’s a Wonderful Life. The Mountain Community Theater in Ben Lomand has one performance each day through this Sunday, the 15th.
Get more information about the Mountain Community Theater’s production of It’s a Wonderful Life.
When: December 13 – 15
Holidays on the Ranch
Spend this Saturday enjoying classic holiday traditions at Wilder Ranch. The Holidays on the Ranch event runs from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, and includes a variety of old fashioned holiday festivities set on the beautiful grounds of Wilder Ranch State Park.
Get more information about Holidays on the Ranch.
When: December 14
Carriage Rides
Want to travel through downtown in style on a crisp winter afternoon? Check out the Victorian Carriage Rides this Saturday and Sunday in Downtown Santa Cruz.
Get more information about the Downtown Santa Cruz Carriage Rides.
When: December 14 & 15
Holiday Lights Train
Board the train in front of Neptune’s Kingdom at the Boardwalk, stop to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole (Depot Park), and enjoy caroling and holiday cheer aboard the train.
Get more information about the Holiday Lights Train.
When: December 14 & 15
Holiday Tree Walk
This is the last weekend for Roaring Camp’s Holiday Tree Walk. Board the daytime steam train for a trip to Bear Mountain where you’ll enjoy a walk through nicely decorated holiday trees.
Get more information about the Holiday Tree Walk.
When: December 14 & 15
Hardwood Celebrity Classic
Unlike when the Warriors play, this basketball game at the Kaiser Permanente Arena is unlikely to showcase any future NBA stars. However, it does feature some of Santa Cruz’s most recognizable locals.
This event that is a slam dunk to be a good time (horrible pun, I know). It’s a match up of New Leaf vs. Allterra Solar and proceeds benefit Grind Out Hunger. Players include local celebrity athletes, city officials and musicians, including Hillary Bryant, Ryan Coonerty, James Durbin, Scott Roseman, Ryan Buell, Chip, Pamela Comstock, William Ow, and Derby Girls DLiv N LetDie & Hell Louise.
See a full list of players, and get more info here.
When: December 15
Train to Christmas Town
Board the Train to Christmas Town at the Watsonville depot. Once aboard you will be treated to hot chocolate and cookies, served by elves. Santa Claus will make an appearance and visit with each child while the elves will lead the singing of Christmas carols.
Get more information, and buy tickets, here.
When: Through December 28th.
Additional Events this Weekend
- Dave Mason Band
- Cantiamo
- The Silent Comedy
- A Very Shut Ins Christmas!
- The Nutcracker at Santa Cruz High
- Downtown Holiday Pop-Up Shop
- Birding for Beginners
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