Though we’re a digital newsroom, Lookout remains deeply rooted in Santa Cruz County — and there’s plenty happening this month. Here’s a look at upcoming events hosted by Lookout and our partners.
We’re also proud to work with our Marketing Partners to spotlight key community happenings. Interested in our Media Sponsorship program? Contact Duffy Barrett at duffy@lookoutlocal.com.
Hope to see you out there!
HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS:
Lookout Trivia Night | August 6
Put your knowledge to the test at Lookout’s summer trivia series. Hosted by Wallace Baine, our monthly event at Abbott Square runs the first Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bring your brainy friends and the know-it-alls in your life for a fun, fast-paced evening of competition.
Umami Extra Tasty Tour | August 30
Get your taste buds tingling at the fourth stop on Collective Santa Cruz’s Extra Tasty Tour. After celebrating sweet, bitter, and sour, this August’s Umami event brings savory flavor to life with a festival spotlighting local mushrooms, broths, chocolate, coffee, and hop-forward craft beer inspired by nature’s rich umami palette. Come explore, taste and connect. Free to attend. *Stay tuned for more information and a special exclusive tasting tour of the festival with our own food and drink correspondent, Lily Belli.
Stuff the Bus: Stuff-a-Thon | August 2
United Way and the Santa Cruz County Office of Education cap off their annual school-supply drive with the Stuff-a-Thon. Volunteers will fill more than 2,000 backpacks with essential supplies — and literally stuff a bus — to help local students start the school year strong.
MORE EVENTS:
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History 120th Birthday Party | August 1
Celebrate 120 years of connecting people with science and nature at this First Friday open house. The event features live music, hands-on games, arts and crafts, and activities with community partners from across the region.
Watsonville Strawberry Festival | August 2–3
Join more than 50,000 attendees for this family-friendly celebration of strawberries, culture, and community. Enjoy strawberry treats, live music, artisan vendors, contests, and more. Visit the festival website or follow @watsonvillestrawberryfestival on social media for updates.
K&D Landscaping Charity Golf Tournament | August 15
Enjoy cocktails, contests, and a day of golf — all in support of Friends of Watsonville Animal Shelter (FOWAS). The K&D Classic blends stunning coastal views with good-hearted competition for a great local cause.
Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival | August 16–17
A summer favorite returns to the Santa Cruz Mountains with two days of local art, live music, craft beverages, and delicious food. The SVART Festival is a vibrant showcase of creativity and community.
Santa Cruz Chamber Golf Scramble at DeLaveaga | August 22
Tee off with the Santa Cruz Chamber at the scenic DeLaveaga Golf Course. This annual scramble supports local business development and brings the community together for a day of networking, views, and friendly competition.
MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT:
Cabrillo Stage presents Sweeney Todd | Through August 10
Don’t miss this dark and dazzling musical, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Cabrillo Stage delivers a chilling tale of love, revenge, and meat pies with one of the region’s top musical theater companies.
Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music: Colorful & Courageous | Through August 10
Explore bold new orchestral works that elevate queer voices, honor human rights, and push musical boundaries. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or curious newcomer, this year’s lineup offers powerful performances that resonate far beyond the concert hall.
Santa Cruz Shakespeare | Through September 20
Spend a summer evening under the redwoods at the Audrey Stanley Grove, where Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents its 2025 season, themed “No One Is Alone.” The festival blends classics and contemporary stories with music, community, and theatrical magic.
