Here, find a curated list of the best food and drink events in Santa Cruz County for the coming week. At the top, I share my picks of unmissable local happenings.
On Saturday, New Leaf Community Markets will celebrate the opening of its new, much larger Capitola store in the King’s Plaza Shopping Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can take advantage of free sampling throughout the store, along with games, giveaways chances to win $250 New Leaf gift cards and an in-store scavenger hunt for kids with a free cookie upon completion. There will also be interactive stations spotlighting local businesses including Palace Art Supply, Lakeside Organic Gardens and S. Martinelli & Co.
This Sunday, raise a glass to the life of winemaker Barry Jackson, who passed away in September, at the Bubbles & Bivalves Fundraiser at Equinox Winery in Santa Cruz. From 1 to 5 p.m., Parker Presents: Bill Oysterman is offering fresh Miyagi oysters paired with Equinox’s sparkling wines. Guests are invited to “eat what you like, pay what you feel.” All proceeds go to support the winery Jackson founded and its operation.
Best of Santa Cruz County food and drink events, Nov. 8-14
Here are some upcoming local food and drink events you might be interested in:
Friday, Nov. 8
- Boardwalk Bites & Brews | 4 p.m. @ Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Saturday, Nov. 9
- Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College | 8 a.m. @ Cabrillo College
- New Leaf Community Market’s Grand Opening Celebration | 10 a.m. @ 1475 41st Ave.
- Strawberries in the Home Garden | 10:30 a.m. @ UCSC Farm | $35
- Scotts Valley Fall Bake-Off and Festival | Noon @ Scotts Valley Community Center
- Wine and Roses | 4 p.m. @ Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds | $100-160
Sunday, Nov. 10
- Downtown Santa Cruz Fall Wine Walk | 2 p.m. @ Downtown Santa Cruz | $33.85
- Bubbles & Bivalves Fundraiser | 1 p.m. @ Equinox Winery