Live music in Santa Cruz, CA

Martha High's Funky Divas team up with Fred Wesley and The New JBs for a high energy celebration of the hits they performed with the Godfather of Soul, James Brown. The lineup heads back to Kuumbwa Jazz Center with a dynamic set of those hits. Two shows are scheduled.

Thompson Square brings a Nashville-style night to the courtyard at Chaminade Resort & Spa, pairing the energy of a large-scale performance with the closeness of an intimate show beneath the stars. The duo, celebrated with awards and multi-platinum success, takes the stage in an outdoor setting that keeps the audience near the music. More than a standard concert, it offers a true taste of Nashville in a beautiful resort courtyard. All ages are welcome. Tickets and overnight packages are available.

Enjoy an inviting evening of contra dancing at Santa Cruz Live Oak Grange with caller Koren Wake and live music by The Nettles. The band features Laura Brophy on fiddle, Kev Nettles on guitar, Michael Proctor on bass, and Julie Bennett on drums. A brief newcomers introduction gets things started, followed by a full night of dancing. Admission is a sliding scale of $15 to $30, with all proceeds supporting operating costs and the performers. It is pay what you can, and no one is turned away for lack of funds. Please bring cash if possible, with Venmo or PayPal available when needed. Only the caller, musicians, and sound technician are paid, and community help with setup, cleanup, or a short door shift is appreciated. The dance is alcohol free, drug free, and smoke free. It is also scent free to accommodate those with chemical sensitivities, so avoid scented products on clothing and belongings. The community prioritizes consent, communication, and safety, and harassment is not tolerated; assistance is available from managers, the sound technician, or the caller if any concerns arise. Attendees are asked to stay home if unwell or if they have tested positive for COVID 19, and to understand the inherent risk of illness when participating. If the main lot is full, overflow parking is available nearby at Harbor Light Church, which has an arrangement for extra parking. Comfortable, light clothing and clean, non marking dance shoes are recommended.

Colby Acuff brings a live show to the Felton Music Hall stage. Tickets are available for purchase.

Spend an evening in the forest that starts at Roaring Camp with a hearty barbecue dinner and a slice of homemade-style apple pie. After dinner, board a historic steam train and ride to the mountain top for music and hot cider.

Felton Music Hall hosts Spafford for a night of adventurous improvisation and expansive jams. Known for creating music in the moment, the band relies on a shared musical language and a broad palette of influences, from 90s alternative rock to Steely Dan and The Crystal Method, so every performance becomes its own journey. Their track record includes a long run of sold out headline shows and standout appearances at major festivals such as Bonnaroo and Firefly. Spafford is also marking the release of Cat Shop, available on streaming services, with physical editions on double vinyl and CD. The vinyl pressing includes exclusive demos and a special Fire Alarm Jam that can be heard only on that format.