WEEKENDER
Your cheat sheet for eating well and going out in Santa Cruz County.
Aug. 13, 2026
STAY WEIRD: A WHIMSICAL WEEKEND
There’s a movement in certain social media circles to bring more whimsy into the daily routine, via a quirky outfit, a garden nook or childlike games. The trend implies that life is short, so why not create moments of silliness and beauty? If that sounds fun, consider one of these whimsical events happening in Santa Cruz County this weekend.
On Saturday, the annual Parks & Rex Dog Pool Party Fundraiser will be held at Simpkins Family Swim Center in Live Oak. The end-of-summer celebration is exactly what it sounds like: a dog-friendly pool party, with food, music and fun in the water for all ages and breeds. Tickets are $5 to $20.
Grab your formal wear and roller skates for Late Night & the MAH: Black Tie Roller Ball at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History in downtown Santa Cruz this Saturday night. Inline skates and rollerblades are welcome at this after-hours dance party on wheels inside a transformed gallery. Tickets are $20 to $25.
On Sunday, head to the Musical Saw Festival at Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton to be serenaded by the melodic sounds of saws, accompanied by other acoustic instruments. A contest invites all skill levels to try their hand at making music with a blade. This event is free, and it doesn’t get more whimsical than that. – Lily Belli
UPCOMING EVENTS YOU’LL LOVE
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A TREAT BEFORE YOU GO
After nearly five decades of baking bagels in Santa Cruz County, Bagelry founder John Hamstra has retired and handed the business to former employee Sidney Grant and his wife, Tal Cameron. The new owners say they intend to keep the local institution unchanged, from its menu and affordable prices to its longtime staff. Check out the story here. – Lily Belli
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