Need gift ideas, or looking for holiday events? Check out our Marketing Partners!

December is here, and if you’re anything like us, holiday preparations might still be on your to-do list. From finding the perfect gift for your partner to planning fun activities with visiting family, the season can be a whirlwind.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered! Our amazing Lookout Marketing Partners are here to help make your holidays stress-free and joyful, all the way into 2025!

Whether shopping or celebrating, make this season bright and support Santa Cruz’s vibrant local businesses. Check out the lists below for our recommendations upcoming events, where to shop for home decor, clothing gifts and more:

Gift Ideas

*Capitola Mall – Discover the many LOCAL businesses at Capitola Mall! Artrageous and Santa Cruz Apparel offer fresh, artist-designed gear, while GameVault, Hadbro Toys, and Sword & Board Games delight your inner geek. Just Thriftin, Seconds, and Super Silver satisfy retail therapy needs, and kids can explore creativity at The Puppetry Institute or Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery. Hungry? Taquizas Gabriel and Ramen Kaito serve lunch or dinner, while Dani O’s Bakeshop and Sugar Bakery handle dessert and holiday orders. Visit their website to see what you’ve been missing!

*Illuminée – Illuminate your space and gift-giving this season with Illuminée! This family-owned local boutique offers a curated selection of contemporary lighting, designer furniture, and sophisticated home accessories. Whether it’s hand-crafted vases, iconic pieces from brands like Herman Miller, or playful, modern decor, Illuminée blends form and function beautifully. Perfect for those who appreciate design that transforms a house into a home, explore their online store or visit their Santa Cruz showrooms for unique treasures built to last.

*Mme. – For the discerning gift-giver, Mmē. offers a curated selection of stylish clothing, accessories, and home decor designed to inspire and delight. Known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, this boutique features unique finds like Italian knitwear, hand-selected jewelry, and elegant wardrobe staples tailored to every size. Elevate your gift-giving with pieces that blend modern elegance and timeless charm, ensuring every item is as special as the recipient. Explore the collection online or visit the Santa Cruz location for a personalized shopping experience. Discover the art of thoughtful gifting at Mmē.

*O’Neill Surf Shop – If you know Santa Cruz, you know O’Neill, the original California surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand. O’Neill Surf Shop has FIVE local locations in the larger Santa Cruz area where you’ll find a huge selection of the world famous O’Neill wetsuits for the whole family, UV protective rash guards, surfboards, sunglasses, board shorts, clothing, shoes, and more! Don’t let those other surf brands clog the lineup, go with the OG and tell’em Jack sent you!

*Rise Collective – Gym, swim, and more! Rise Collective in Capitola is your local destination for fitness, wellness, and community connection. With options like small group and personal training, dynamic classes in yoga and Pilates, and kids’ fitness programs, there’s something for everyone. Their state-of-the-art facility also offers cutting-edge recovery tools like cryotherapy and infrared saunas. Perfect for gifting wellness experiences or joining a vibrant fitness community, Rise Collective provides thoughtful programs designed for all ages and levels. Learn more at their website!

*Santa Cruz SPCA – The Santa Cruz SPCA is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. Your support helps fund programs like adoptions, youth education, pet food pantries, and senior pet assistance. This holiday season, consider donating or gifting in honor of an animal lover—every contribution directly improves the lives of local pets. From vehicle donations to tribute gifts, there are many ways to make a difference. Visit their shelter or explore giving options to bring hope and love to animals in your community.

*Tomboy – Tomboy, located in the heart of Santa Cruz, is a unique boutique offering a curated selection of vintage finds, handcrafted jewelry, and artisanal goods. Known for its eclectic charm, the shop celebrates individuality with items like cowboy boots, bolo ties, and 1960s-1990s vintage clothing. Tomboy also supports local artists, featuring creations from silversmiths, leather crafters, and designers. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or a statement piece, this treasure trove on Soquel Avenue delivers style with a creative twist.

*Toque Blanche – Discover the perfect gifts for home chefs and food enthusiasts at Toque Blanche, a Santa Cruz treasure for all things culinary. Specializing in high-quality cookware, cutlery, and kitchen tools, MyToque offers international and locally crafted items, including brands like Made In and Le Creuset, Shun knives, and Colombian Chamba pottery. You’ll also find gourmet foods, cookbooks, and unique gadgets to inspire any cooking adventure. Shop online or visit their local store to find gifts for every culinary aficionado on your list!

Holiday-centric Events & Performances

*Chaminade Resort & Spa

12/31 – New Year’s Eve Late Night Bash with Vintage Point
OVERNIGHT PACKAGES AVAILABLE! – Tickets & More Info

*El Vaquero Winery: Tickets to all Shows & More Info

12/28 – Early New Year’s Eve Party with The Joint Chiefs
12/31 – New Year’s Eve Party with Extra Large

*Kuumbwa Jazz Center: Tickets to all Shows & More Info

12/12 – Faye Carol – Carolizing Christmas
12/18 – Barbara Higbie & Mia Pixley – Winter Solstice Concert
12/19 – Spanish Harlem Orchestra – Salsa Navidad

*Moe’s Alley: Tickets to all Shows & More Info

12/21 – Estrella Collective Presents: Fascination Street – A Winter Solstice Hafla
12/31 – Moe’s Alley Intergalactic NYE Bash with Space Heater

*Mountain Community Theater