Friday……………
What: Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History Holiday Sale
When: 10a.m. – 5p.m. & (Sat. 10a.m. – 5p.m.)
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Where: SC Museum of Natural History, 1305 East Cliff Drive
Why Go: Check out the new exhibit “Crystals, Caves and Kiln” while shopping the store wide sale of books, shells, jewelry, toys, and more! To sweeten the event, complimentary hot apple cider and cookies will be provided.
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Cost: Admission is free. Members receive an additional discount. http://santacruzmuseum.org/
What: Holiday Tree Lighting in Capitola Village
When: 6p.m.
Where: The arbor in front of Quality Market, at the intersection of Capitola & Stockton Avenues.
Why Go: This holiday event has become a tradition in the Capitola. Neighbors and friends can join together for the lighting of the Capitola Village Christmas tree and then make a jump on holiday shopping. Many Village merchants will offer extended hours! Refreshments and entertainment by the New Brighton Middle School Band will be provided by Calypso’s Cove and Whole Foods.
Cost: Free http://www.capitolavillage.com/event_calendar.php
What: Snowflake Create
When: 5p.m. – 8p.m.
Where: Louden Nelson Community Center
Why Go: This community art project will add to the festivities of First Friday, and each unique handmade snowflake will be on display on the gallery wall throughout the month of December. Everyone is invited to create their own special snowflake while listening to the Mission Hill and Branciforte Middle school choirs and sipping hot chocolate.
Cost: Free http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/index.aspx?page=1
What: Cabrillo College Dance Department Presents The Annual Winter Dance Concert
When: 7:30p.m. & (Sat. 7:30p.m.)
Where: Cabrillo Crocker Theater
Why Go: Dancers from all over Santa Cruz County will come together for this mix of techniques and styles of contemporary dance to post-modern, for a celebration of diversity.
Cost: $14/General, $12 Students/Seniors, $6/Student Activity Card
Saturday………
What: Downtown Holiday Parade
When: 10a.m. – 2p.m.
Where: Pacific Ave.
Why Go: This don't miss community event is also a great way to represent your business, school, or community organization. Get a banner, get creative, and join the parade! For the non-participants, get their early for a front row seat.
Cost: Free http://www.downtownsantacruz.com/2013-holiday-parade/
What: The 28th Annual Lighted Boat Parade
When: 5:30p.m.
Where: Santa Cruz Harbor
Why Go: This family fun event is sure to dazzle the little ones with the colorful light display of 50 festive boats sailing through the harbor. This event for the whole family is sure to be spectacular.
Cost: santacruzharbor.org
What: An Art Experience at Mental Health Client Action Network (MHCAN)
When: 12p.m. – 4p.m.
Where: 1051 Cayuga at Soquel, Santa Cruz
Why Go: This local non-profit strives to help those that suffer from mental illness and invites the community to support their cause! Come check out all the fabulous artisan gifts created by bakers, photographers, painters, jewelry makers, and sculptures. All will have their items on display for sale and proceeds benefit MHCAN, helping to provide those who suffer with mental illness a better life. There will also be a silent auction with many amazing items, a raffle, music, and food!
http://www.mhcan.org/future-home.html
Sunday…………
What: Santa Cruz Jingle Bell Rock – Toys for Tots 5K Run/Walk
When: 8a.m.
Where: San Lorenzo Levee trail between Ross and PetSmart to the Boardwalk trestle and back
Why Go: This feel good, do good event is an awesome way to help those little ones in need this holiday season. Also, there will be prizes for best holiday running wear, best dressed canine running partner, best decorated stroller, and more! There is also a 1K Fun Run for Kids 6 and under.
Cost: $25/Entrance with new, unwrapped toy donation; $35/Entrance without. Free for kids 6 and under with new toy donation or $5/without toy. finishlineproduction.com
What: Jingle Shells Arts and Crafts festival
When: 12p.m. – 5:30p.m.
Where: Seymour Center at Long Marine Lab
Why Go: Choose from an array of ocean inspired items that might make the perfect gift for that hard to buy person on your list. Crafts for children, music, and a special lighting of Ms. Blue at dusk, the Blue Whale Skeleton, will cap off the fun.
Cost: General Admission seymourcenter.ucsc.edu
What: SC County Youth Symphony’s Holiday Concert
When: 3p.m.
Where: Aptos High Performing Arts Center
Why Go: The Santa Cruz Chamber Strings and Cabrillo Strings youth ensembles join together with the SC County Youth Symphony for an afternoon of musical joy. Holiday treats and crafting tables will be available before and after the concert.
Cost: $10/Adults, $8/Seniors, Free under 18 http://www.sccys.org/concerts/
