As we enter spring and the weather gets warmer and days longer, Santa Cruz County has an abundance of events run by local businesses. Lookout’s calendar highlights exciting things for locals to explore and enjoy. From Election forums hosted by Lookout to award events and festivals celebrating the hard work of community members, April is sure to bring new beginnings and ways to enjoy the warming weather.  Below are upcoming events hosted by Lookout and our partners.

We’re proud to partner with local organizations to highlight events that reflect the heart of Santa Cruz. It’s all part of our mission to make local news a living, breathing part of community life.

And we couldn’t do it without our Marketing Partners, who help us spotlight key happenings across the county. Interested in joining our Media Sponsorship program? Contact Duffy Barrett at duffy@lookoutlocal.com.

See you out in the community this month!

Watsonville Election Forum | April 15

As election season approaches, Lookout Santa Cruz will be holding election forums for Santa Cruz County candidates. Forums will include questions posed by Lookout’s Community Voices opinion editor, Jody K. Biehl, and audience members for candidates to respond to so that Santa Cruz County may get to know its future leaders better. The first forum will take place on April 15 featuring 4th district county supervisor candidates. Join Lookout at the Watsonville Civic Plaza, Community Room 9 (fourth floor), from 6 to 8 p.m. for a lively panel discussion this primary election season. RSVP to secure your spot or join virtually on Facebook Live.

Santa Cruz Chamber – Ribbon Cutting: Ripple Effect Arts Festival  | April 8

In celebration of Santa Cruz’s new 11 day arts festival, Ripple Effect, the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a special ribbon cutting ceremony. Accompanied by light refreshments and the company of fellow art lovers of the county, the celebration of this exciting addition to the Santa Cruz art scene will take place at the m.k. contemporary art gallery from 5-7 pm. The event is free and open to the public so make sure to check it out and support local arts.

MAH Red Ball Gala  | April 11

The Museum of Arts and History of Santa Cruz County (MAH) is celebrating its 30 year anniversary this year. To celebrate 30 years of creativity and community, the MAH is hosting a Red Ball, an evening full of immersive art exhibitions and world-class performances. The event will include cocktail reception, violin performances, new and exciting art exhibits, a silent auction, and a seated dinner. Make sure to snag your tickets for this once in a lifetime experience on the MAH website. The gala will be taking place from 6-11:30 pm at the museum.

Ripple Effect Arts Festival | April 16 – April 26

For the first time ever, the Ripple Effect Arts Festival is celebrating Santa Cruz County’s vibrant and creative spirit in a countywide 11 day festival. The festival will feature art from around the county including performances, exhibitions, workshops, interactive experiences and more at different venues around Santa Cruz. Ripple Effect hopes to make art accessible for all and it aims to highlight the unique arts scene of the county, to get tickets, head to the festival website.

Santa Cruz Chamber – 2026 Annual Awards Gala | April 16

Join the Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce for a special night of celebration and inspiration at the 2026 Annual Awards Gala. This year’s event will be hosted at The Grove from 5:30-9 pm and will feature the voices of community leaders. Tickets are available to the public on the website by purchase.

Santa Cruz Dance Week | April 18 – April 27

This 10-day festival brings together dancers, studios and performers of all styles, from ballet and hip-hop to contemporary and cultural dance, with a packed lineup of classes, workshops, performances and free community events. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just curious to try something new, Dance Week offers opportunities to watch, learn and participate at venues across Santa Cruz County. Many events are free or low-cost, making it an accessible way to experience the region’s vibrant dance scene. Check out the full schedule and register for events on the festival website.

United in Purpose Celebration & Awards | April 23

United in Purpose is an evening for celebrating, presenting awards, and honoring the organizers and community within Santa Cruz County. The event will begin in the midst of redwoods in Felton and a scenic train ride, followed by dinner and eventually an inspiring awards ceremony. The event will run from 5-8pm and tickets can be purchased on the website linked on the calendar.

Ducky Derby | April 25

The annual Ducky Derby returns to Harvey West Park for a day of family-friendly fun, featuring rubber duck races, games, live music and food. Hosted by Omega Nu of Santa Cruz, the event invites attendees to “adopt” a duck for a chance to win prizes while supporting local scholarships and community programs. The event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and is free to attend.

Sidewalk Sale – Merch Sales | April 24

As a part of Santa Cruz’s Downtown Sidewalk Sale, Lookout Santa Cruz will be selling their newest merchandise. Through a partnership with Killer Acid, Lookout will have different items ranging from t-shirts, to hoodies, to hats, and more. Make sure to stop by to get merchandise! Reach out to santacruz@lookoutlocal.com with any questions.

Galicia Stack Lozano is a student at UC Santa Cruz and an intern at Lookout Santa Cruz through the Humanities EXCEL program led by the UC Santa Cruz Humanities Division with strategic support from The Humanities Institute