Exciting Fall Activities for All Ages in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is preparing for an exciting fall season with the release of its 2025 Fall Activity Guide. This comprehensive guide offers a wide range of programs and events designed for community members of all ages, from after-school enrichment to sports leagues, camps, art classes, and more. The guide aims to bring people together through recreation, nature, and community engagement.
Director of Parks and Recreation Tony Elliot shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, highlighting the importance of the urban forest in making Santa Cruz a vibrant and livable community. He also mentioned the return of Harvey West Pool and the excitement surrounding fall events like the Aloha Outrigger Races and citywide Halloween celebrations.
The Fall Activity Guide is available online and starts with a message from Elliot. It also includes details about the upcoming renovation of Grant Street Park, which will begin in mid-August. The project will include upgrades to the picnic area and restrooms, as well as the addition of a new tetherball area and other improvements.
Spooky Fall Events and More
As the season transitions into fall, there are plenty of spooky activities to look forward to. These include “Thriller” dance classes, a Halloween Mask Making Festival at the London Nelson Community Center, and 13 Days of Halloween on the Santa Cruz Wharf. Another highlight is the sixth annual Halloween Horror Film Competition, which features separate adult and youth categories. The competition includes three categories: horror short original, horror scene remake challenge, and Halloween music videos. The top three winning teams in each category will receive prizes and have their films screened at an event in late October.
The guide also provides information about the Aloha Outrigger Races, which is set for Sept. 20. The deadline to register is Sept. 5, and the event is designed for beginners and novice paddlers. No equipment is required, as teams of four will be provided with a stroker, a steerperson, and a canoe with all necessary gear, along with a free T-shirt. However, children must be at least 12 years old, and team members must know how to swim.
Accessible Programs for Families
For families interested in participating in fall programs, there are opportunities for financial assistance through the FOPAR Scholarships. These scholarships provide partial support for fall programs and are available to city of Santa Cruz residents who earn below the average annual median income in Santa Cruz County. Applications must be submitted online by the end of the day on Aug. 1, and the scholarship credit must be used by Dec. 21. Awards are based on multiple factors, including the number of applicants, program costs, and financial need.
Online registration for the Fall Activity Guide opens at 8 a.m. on Aug. 11. Residents and visitors can access the guide to explore all the exciting events and programs available this fall. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, creative classes, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in Santa Cruz this season.
