This Weekend in Santa Cruz & Capitola
If your idea of a perfect weekend includes wandering into art openings, catching live music by accident, and ending the day near the water, Santa Cruz and Capitola are very much on your side right now. Here’s what’s unfolding locally, with just enough structure to keep things interesting and plenty of room to roam.
🎨 First Fridays in Downtown Santa Cruz
Friday night belongs to Santa Cruz First Fridays. Downtown galleries, studios, and creative spaces stay open late, debuting new exhibits and welcoming visitors in that effortless, come-as-you-are way Santa Cruz does best. Expect art you didn’t plan to love, conversations you didn’t plan to have, and that low hum of creativity that makes the whole evening feel alive.
A must-stop during the stroll is the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, which hosts Free First Friday with extended hours. It’s equal parts culture, community, and a perfect anchor point before or after wandering Pacific Avenue.
Best paired with: a slow coffee, a glass of wine, or letting the night decide where you go next.
🎨 Highlights:
Art openings around Pacific Avenue and The Tannery
Fungus Month group show at Artisans & agency (fungi-inspired art!) from 6 – 8 pm Friday. First Friday Santa Cruz
Free art and interactive exhibits at Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) — Free First Friday runs noon to 8 pm. MAH
🎶 Live Music Around Town
As the art night winds down, live music quietly takes over. Breweries, small venues, and neighborhood spots are hosting local musicians all weekend long. You don’t need a strict plan here, just follow the sound or check what’s happening at places like Moe's Alley or the Rio Theatre for a more intentional night out.
Energy: relaxed, a little soulful, very Santa Cruz.
🎤 There’s a little something for music lovers this weekend:
Friday night rhythms with Harry Burks & MoJoe Bac at Steel Bonnet Brewing (Scotts Valley). San Lorenzo Valley Post
More tunes around the area — check local venues for surprise sets! (And if you want more up-to-the-minute music listings, Moe's Alley and Rio Theatre often have great shows.)
🌊 Daytime Wandering & Winter Beauty
Saturday and Sunday are for being outside, even if you’re doing it slowly. Winter brings dramatic tides and moody skies, making this an ideal time for beach walks, tidepool watching, or a long stroll along West Cliff Drive. Bring layers, a camera, or just your thoughts.
For something charming and low-key, head toward Capitola. The village feels quieter this time of year in the best way. Walk the esplanade, browse the small shops, grab something warm to drink, and let the ocean set the pace.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly & Nostalgic Fun
If you’re looking for something playful during the day, local family events and performances are happening throughout the weekend, along with classic Santa Cruz staples like scenic train rides and seasonal attractions. These are the kinds of plans that feel wholesome without trying too hard.
🌲 Spend some daytime hours with family or friends exploring:
Flynn Creek Circus at Capitola Mall featuring The Bridge (through Jan 4). Santa Cruz Parent
Catch the King Tides along Santa Cruz beaches — dramatic ocean views and tidepool discoveries are ongoing into the weekend. Visit Santa Cruz County
Take a scenic ride on the historic Roaring Camp Railroads — great for kids or nostalgic adults alike.
🍷 Chill & Social Spots
Grab a cozy drink or chat with friends at MJA Vineyards or enjoy a local brew around town.
Check out food + artisan stalls or live music around Abbott Square and downtown cafés — especially fun after First Friday art hopping.
✨ How to Do This Weekend Right
Don’t overplan. Pick one anchor event and let the rest unfold.
Walk whenever you can. Most of the magic is between destinations.
Stay out a little later than usual on Friday, and move a little slower the rest of the weekend.
Santa Cruz and Capitola are offering one of those weekends that doesn’t ask for big energy, just curiosity. Show up, wander, and let it be enough.