Free events in Santa Cruz, CA

Now in its sixth year, Event Santa Cruz Midtown Fridays Summer Block Party is a free neighborhood celebration in Midtown Santa Cruz featuring live local music, a rotating lineup of favorite and new food trucks, local artists and makers, vendors, specialty drinks, family friendly activities, and fresh surprises. The music lineup includes James Durbin and The Lost Boys, Santa Cruda, Salsa By The Sea, Ribsys Nickel, Kentucky Mule, Santa Cruz Latin Collective, Hijinx, Ancestree, Ripatti Rose Band, Amp Melo with a special guest, Trestles, Fire Peach, The Rumba Madre, and Alex Lucero Band. Over the last five years it has grown into a favorite tradition that highlights local music and businesses, creativity, and community. Presented with support from the City of Santa Cruz Economic Development Department and partners including Caitlin Phillips, Realtor, Santa Cruz Warriors, Santa Cruz Vibes Magazine, The Starving Musician, Lookout Santa Cruz, Moe’s Alley, Good Times, and Growing Up in Santa Cruz.

Catch a seaside screening of The Goonies as part of the free beach movie series on the sand in front of the Colonnade. Settle in with blankets or low-back chairs and enjoy nostalgic Boardwalk treats under the stars, with a 15-minute intermission built into the show. Seating is first come, first served, so please be considerate of others’ space and sightlines. Smoking is not permitted on the beach or Boardwalk, and alcohol and glass are not allowed on the beach. A limited number of assistive listening devices are available for checkout at the Mini Golf Kiosk inside Neptune’s Kingdom. For additional accommodations or to request closed captioning, contact the Manager on Duty at (831) 423-5590 at least 48 hours in advance. Admission is free. This series is presented with support from KDON, KOCN, KWAV, KCDU, and the City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Experience a free chamber program of original pieces created, curated, and performed by the adventurous 16 to 24 year old musicians of Cabrillo Festival's 2026 Youth Ensemble. No tickets are needed, and planning to arrive about 15 minutes before the music begins helps avoid disruptions. The Student Staff Ensemble includes Michael Chang, Kaydyn Drake, Benjamin Goodwin, Arden Hardy, Zoë Huet, Logan Manildi, Manuel Mattila, Andrew Neal, Emiliano Ramirez, Jack Roche, Jacob Stone, Ava Storm, Olivia White, and Estella Ye.

A participant is checking whether the regular group swim is still happening after recent visits with low turnout that led to swimming alone. To help coordinate, anyone planning to swim is asked to reply with the word IN so it is clear who will be there. This is a simple roll call to confirm interest and make sure the group connects.

Live music fills the shoreline at sunset as the bandstand in Capitola Esplanade Park hosts a mix of talented bands with views of Capitola Beach. Bring a beach chair, lace up your dancing shoes, and enjoy an easygoing summer evening by the water. Admission is free, made possible by sponsor support.

A warm, candid conversation about end-of-life planning brings together attorneys from Fine Point Law with two local experts for a practical, compassionate panel. Kathy Berry of Santa Cruz Memorial will share insights into traditional memorials and how to pre-plan local arrangements that align with personal values. Raina Stoops of Sea Spirit Memorial will discuss eco-friendly maritime options on the Monterey Bay, including ceremonies conducted by chartered boat and the specific considerations of full-body ocean burials. The discussion is intended for anyone reflecting on the future, organizing their affairs, or navigating end-of-life choices. Expect a welcoming setting with coffee, local snacks, and time to explore how to record wishes and put the necessary legal documents in place. Admission is free. Space is limited, and reservations by phone are requested at (831) 471-5293.

This all-ages event offers free participation and the chance to win prizes. Take part at no cost and compete for rewards.