City of Santa Cruz Celebrates Parks and Recreation Month with Free Com

Published on June 24, 2026

City of Santa Cruz Celebrates the Power of Parks and Recreation in July, Free Events and Activities Planned Throughout the Month

Santa Cruz, CA — The City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department invites residents and visitors to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month this July with a variety of free community events, outdoor activities, and recreation opportunities throughout the city.

Observed nationwide since 1985, Parks and Recreation Month recognizes the important role parks, programs, and public spaces play in creating healthy, active, and connected communities. This year’s theme, The Power of Parks and Recreation, highlights how parks bring people together, promote well-being, and enhance quality of life.

“Parks and recreation bring people together, promote healthy lifestyles, and help make Santa Cruz a vibrant place to live, work, and visit,” said Parks & Recreation Director Tony Elliot. “Whether it’s attending a concert, exploring nature, taking a class, or spending time with family and friends, our parks create opportunities to connect and build community.”

Residents and visitors can enjoy the following free events and activities throughout July:

  • Hearts in the Parks Blood Drive (July 1)
  • Backstage Civic Tour (July 1)
  • Live at the Lane (July 3)
  • Tuesday Night Live Concert Series (July 14 & 28)
  • Free Pilates Sculpt Classes (Wednesdays)
  • Santa Cruz Archers Day (July 12)
  • Free Lawn Bowling Lessons (July 12)
  • Coastal Watershed Guided Riverwalks (July 14 & 16)
  • Downtown Tree Walk (July 18)
  • London Nelson Community Center Open House (July 27–31)

Parks and Recreation Month also celebrates the role parks and recreation play in supporting physical and mental health, environmental stewardship, and community connection. Santa Cruz’s parks, beaches, trails, and recreation facilities provide welcoming spaces for residents and visitors to gather, play, learn, and explore.

Community members are encouraged to participate throughout the month and share their experiences using:

#SantaCruzParksAndRec
#JulyIsParkAndRecMonth
#ParksMakeLifeBetter

For a complete schedule of events and programs, visit www.santacruzca.gov/JulyIs.

 

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