On the first Tuesday of each month the University of California Santa Cruz opens their arboretum to the public for free. In addition, the will have several docents and naturalists on hand to handle your interesting questions. arboretum@UCSC.org

Each first Thursday Joullian Vineyards is offering a chance to show your knowledge of wine terms. Along the way you can enjoy a great bargain on good wines. Get a BINGO card and a glass of wine for a single price and then keep testing their quality wines. http://joullian.com

Come on over to the Museum of Art. It's across the street from Colton Hall. You can meet the artists and the curators from the museum. Ask how decisions are made, admire their work, and get some culture vulture points. http://montereyart.org

On Friday evenings the Sunset Center is hosting a musical interlude aimed at helping you relax and get ready for your weekend. Different artists will be featured on the patio outside the Center. Music begins at 6:00; so bring a mellow vibe and prepare to enjoy some lovely music performed by some of the best […]

Like the name says, it is every First Friday. What changes is the nature of the activities and their focus. You get to come and see what is going on in the music and art scene in the area. All along Lighthouse and the adjacent streets. pacific Grove is filled with charming shops and businesses. […]

Here is a film documenting the remarkable life and uses of the mysterious Fungi family. Narrated by Brie Larson and featuring lots of experts on food and alternative treatments this film will change your attitude toward these fascinating organisms that share our planet. http://fantasticfungi.com

Come out and join over 75 vendors representing the best of Santa Cruz area's restaurants, wineries and breweries. All to benefit the Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group. There will be music and great weather because, after all, it is Santa Cruz. http://scparks.com

No, Fort Ord is not resuming artillery fire. "Bombs" signifies, in this case, an older restored car. So what we have is a a car show featuring Vintage, Classic, and Customized cars from the 30's, 40's, and 50's. Sponsored , in part, by our local folks, Deadend. Come out to the fairgrounds and see something […]

The folks at EarthBound Farms want to help you understand the importance of honeybees in our modern lives. In addition you get a fun time out in nature visiting their beehives. They have two programs, one for the younger set at 11:00 (six years and older), and another for grownups (dealing with more mature topics) […]

When Salinas was a small town with big plans for its future the founding families knew that education was going to play a big part. The folks at the First Mayor's House have gathered materials from those days. You may learn about the discipline methods, curricula, and daily life of teachers and students. An intriguing […]

Some people just love their dogs so much. This love takes interesting forms. In this case, an opportunity to dine with your pooch. (Or is that a non-PC term these days?) It benefits a local charity that works with shelter animals and helps them find homes and avoid the untimely end that so many have […]

Gilroy Police Foundation is Hosting a fundraiser for its various good deeds. In addition to providing security for the citizenry they have a number of programs to help kids and the less fortunate, people that the police have to deal with regularly. Socome enjoy the music, dancing, food, raffles and the silent auction.  http://www.gilroypolicefoundation.org

This is a lot of fun. If you like plants. If you don't then you can simply marvel at the diversity and adaptability of these plants. There are many great deals to be had and interesting plants to consider taking home. The people there are filled with good info and can help you get just […]

With the long time presence of the Defense Language Institute and the cosmopolitan vibe that it brings to a small town like Monterey it was inevitable that we would celebrate the presence of the DLI. Here is that celebration.  People from around the world who teach and learn the world's diverse languages here in Monterey […]

This is becoming an international trend, closing off a major thoroughfare in town and allowing lots of people engage in lots of activities on the street for several hours. You can dance, ride a bike, race, eat, find medical advice, and just enjoy a nice day and a unique experience, walking down the middle of […]

There will be music (mariachi), dancing (aztec), and rock (The Money Band) along with games, activities, and food available for your delight. In addition there will be raffles, the largest of them is a $1,000 prize. All taking place at the historic Carmel Mission. Even the courtyard will be opened. Come and see the sights […]

The Embassy Suites is the site of this fun afternoon for a good cause. There will be auctions, live and silent, light refreshments, and of course, the title activities. All of this to benefit the Papillon Center. This organization helps people in various stages of grief following a loss of a significant person. http://papillon-center.org

CSUMB is hosting the award winning cartoonist/author in a discussion of her work "The Best We Could Do". She documents the experience of her parents before the Vietnam War during the turbulent political times that preceded that conflict. Insightful and interesting are words that come to mind when discussing her work. http://csumb.edu/traditions

Richard Weise, documentary filmmaker, has focused his lens and attention on the cheetah. These are the most endangered of Africa's big cats. He will take you through their lives and those of the people working to save them. Two shows, 6:30 and 9:30.http://riotheatre.com

On Friday evenings the Sunset Center is hosting a musical interlude aimed at helping you relax and get ready for your weekend. Different artists will be featured on the patio outside the Center. Music begins at 6:00; so bring a mellow vibe and prepare to enjoy some lovely music performed by some of the best […]

In the tradition of bringing folks to the center of town, Pacific Grove is rolling out the carpet for everyone. Come out and see the artists, musicians and interesting folks that make up America's Last Hometown. Info at 831-655-9775

Let's say you are a Led Zeppelin fan. Let's say you don't want to see an band "impersonate" the legendary band. You just want to hear the music the way you have grown to love it. Here is your chance. They play it like you hear it. They don't wear silly wigs, or adopt poor […]

One of the longest-lasting spiritual bookstores in the area, Pilgrim's Way hosts a Tarot reading, every Saturday morning, for your enlightenment and peace of mind. While you are being read you may enjoy a cup of some delightful tea. They have a lot to offer, of tea and tarot both. cynthia@pilgrimsway.com

Wondering what the future holds? Looking for insight to guide your decisions? Or just want to try something a little different? Come to Pilgrim's Way Community Bookstore on the second Saturday of each month and sip some tea while pursuing higher understanding. cynthia@pilgrimsway.com

When Salinas was a small town with big plans for its future the founding families knew that education was going to play a big part. The folks at the First Mayor's House have gathered materials from those days. You may learn about the discipline methods, curricula, and daily life of teachers and students. An intriguing […]

Big Sur Charter School is sponsoring a day of fun and frolic for the family. Lots of ocean oriented activities and other things to raise money for the school as well as get you familiar with their mission. Come out to the sunny Carmel Valley and help a good cause. http://bigsurcharterschool.org

It's a fundraiser for a worthy organization that helps kids through the medium of working with horses. Emotional troubles and worldly concerns fade away for these kids while working with the animals. The program is called Hope Horses, and Kids hence the name of the fundraiser.  More info? Call them at 831-596-6693 or check out […]

In the Barnyard Shopping Center, like much of Carmel, there are artists' studios. This is your chance to see their work, talk to the artists, and buy some of their works. (Or just visit.) Mark Falina and six other artists are opening their shops for you enjoyment. Every second Saturday through December. http://thebarnyard.com

Once again, the Monterey County Free Libraries are putting on their big fundraiser. This year, Grant Imahara is speaking about his Mythbuster experience and his passion for robotics. The funds generated will support reading programs, literacy programs for adults and many other worthwhile programs. It is the library after all.http://fmcfl.org

This is a FREE opportunity to learn LOTS about Monterey history. From a handwritten piece by John Steinbeck to numerous artifacts from Monterey's history, there will be many things to enlighten the interested participant. Winding up with a chance to drink a specially brewed beverage from Alvarado Brewing Company while listening to a presentation from […]

Yes, the Australian Christian group is coming to town and performing in the intimate (for them) surroundings of the Golden State Theater. Lots of awards, sales and popularity follow them through the past twenty plus years. After their last performance here in 2013's Spirit Festival they have been waiting anxiously to return to Monterey's lovely […]

The Santa Cruz Elks Lodge is hosting an Oktoberfest party to help finance their programs aiding disabled children and their families. There will be  German band playing polkas and waltzes, wurst of many types, and beer supplied by a local brewery, New Bohemian, specializing in European-style beers. Come out and have fun for a good […]

If you enjoy "Whose Line is it Anyway" Then come over to the Dali Expo and participate, maybe, in the performance of improv comedy at their venue. The group's years of local experience will help you have a great time here in Monterey County. info@daliexpo.com

The Aquarium is focusing this celebration on the contributions and concerns of the Latino community. Lots of dancing, foods and music. Come see how Monterey County celebrates its diverse population.  http://montereybayaquarium.org

The Native American populations of the area used acorns as a food staple, much like a modern cook might use wheat flour. How did they do it? That is the theme of this workshop. From the tree to the flour-like powder, the pre-Columbian cooks did it all by hand. Learn how here.   http://santacruzmuseum.org

Described as "a nonsensical aural pop movement" and as "freewheeling playfulness" the artful and whimsical music of Animal Collective sounds like it may be and interesting and challenging music group. Getting to and from the concert has some unique qualities, so if you wish to attend, check out their website and go early. http://folkyeah.com

After working for years in Las Vegas, Jo has made it to the Stage and TV screen. Now he is on tour and coming to Salinas. Catch his act, similar to the ones he has done on the late night talk shows and other national programs. Two shows one at 7:30 and the other at 9:30.http://foxtheatersalinas.com

Every year thousands of bedraggled and tired Monarch butterflies make their trip to our area. Resting, eating, and so much more. Come and celebrate their return with art, crafts, games , and more. http://santacruzstateparks.com

In support of their latest album, Michael Franti & Spearhead will be making music at the Golden State Theater in Monterey. Titled Stay Human Vol II and is filled with songs to uplift the human spirit in these troubling times the album will fill the theater with happiness and poignancy. http://goldenstatetheater.com

Two excellent performers in a laid back atmosphere in one of the world's more beautiful places. How can you beat that? Come to the Henry Miller Memorial Library and find out what this is all about. http://henrymiller.org

Yes, it's been thirty years. You, if you were alive and aware, know right where you were. The effects and the ways to proect yourself in the future are the topics of this presentation. http://santacruzmuseum.org

The Zmed Brothers use their brotherly sound to recreate the sound of those other very famous brothers, Phil and Don Everly. (Nothing like a genetic link for good harmonies.) http://sunsetcenter.org

This man needs no introduction from me. Friend of Oprah and media star Dr. Chopra message is well-known. He is coming to Santa Cruz to spread his news and sell a book or two. Price of admission includes his recent book.  civic@cityofsantacruz.com

Talented Spanish musicians and one Russian are going to present the music of their beloved country. Voice, strings, and perussion will fill in an evening of music recalling the ambiance of Spain. Don't let the website's name put you off, this is a Hidden Valley Music Center presentation.  310-403-5096 or http://bigsurfiddlers.com

If you are a night owl and find sunrises to be an acquired taste, nice for some but not for you, here's a great way to enjoy a lot of them. There is a event called "The Seven Days of Sunrises" in which people get up really early and create an image of the sun […]

Live Earth Farm wants you to come out and enjoy the bounty of this autumn. Lots of fun for everyone out on their farm. Rides, pumpkins, food, drink, games, etc. Bring the kids and check it out. http://farmdiscovery.org

We know that our children are learning all the time. What can the adults in their lives do to help them make sense of what they are learning and help them prosper? The folks at Salinas Library are here to help. Come by and ask your questions and get good info. http://salinaspubliclibrary.org

When Salinas was a small town with big plans for its future the founding families knew that education was going to play a big part. The folks at the First Mayor's House have gathered materials from those days. You may learn about the discipline methods, curricula, and daily life of teachers and students. An intriguing […]

What is the best time to enjoy a farm? the Fall. When the harvest in coming in and the hard work is yielding its bounty. So to celebrate this the Earthbound Farm staff is sharing their delight with you. Games, rides, food, and fun await you in beautiful Carmel Valley. And you can meet a […]

This is a monthly(3rd Saturday) event intended to grow the reputation of Salvador Dali and Monterey as an artist's venue. They will have art, jewelry, soap, clothing, and books and so much more. Come and see what the Dali Expo has to share with you. More info at stephanie@daliexpo.com

What a great way to support a local organization. Come to the new Monterey Conference Center and enjoy food from AquaTerra Culinary and bid on wonderful art knowing that you are supporting programs that provide training and support for youth in the area.http://cityofmonterey.org

The Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring this food event and invited dozens of chefs from PG restaurants. You can come and enjoy their work and mingle with the other 249 people in attendance. There will be good food, drink and a silent auction with over 100 items.

A celebration of all things associated with the energetic drummer from Led Zeppelin. A number of local drummers will take a crack at reproducing his sound, while accompanied by a Led Zeppelin tribute band. All this energy goes to help the Guitars not Guns program in the area.

Here are several films geared at getting people to appreciate and preserve the legacy 0f wild places and creatures left to us. In addition to the films there will be speakers and a raffle of gear aimed at getting you up and out in to the wild. http://goldenstatetheater.com

Lots of locals are talking positively about this band. Led by Rebecca Rousmann and her cello they will take you through a performance which is unlike most any you've heard before. (Unless you remember the cello from Harry Chapin's band.)  Why don't more bands feature this versatile instrument? http://feltonmusichall.com

Prepare yourself for an evening of music designed and played for this specific place. These artists use innovative instruments that utilize the unique characteristics of the venue in which the music is performed. To get more insight into the performance, you are urged to check out the website, http://indexical.org

Bringing their cool harmonies to CSUMB, Pablo Cruise will delight the older crowd and give a little retro joy to the students at the university. No, there is no Pablo, it's just the band's name.

There will be two separate races in this event. One a little easier than the other. Both have a high degree of challenge what with swimming in the ocean, riding a bike for many miles and running a few more. It all starts at Lover's Point, so you know they picked a lovely place to […]

There is an amazing variety and concentration of life in the area which is sometimes covered by seawater and sometimes open to the air. The knowledgeable folks at the Seymour Center are delighted to help you learn more about this fascinating space. http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

With all the information swirling about regarding the climate and the changes that seem to be everywhere, how is one to make sense of it? Ask a climate scientist. Where to find one? Come to MIIS and listen to this lecture and Q/A by a knowledgeable person who has studied the climate and the environment.  http://miis.edu

This is the seventh in an annual presentation by the Middlebury Institute which brings together instructors from the College and local citizens in conversations about events and issues of the current day. Come and have your brain cells excited, at least.http://middlebury.edu

If this name is not familiar to you it's because you are not a fan of her different series of novels. Among them are, Menagerie, Pet Trouble, and Wings of Fire. She will be in town at Bookshop Santa Cruz signing copies of her latest work and talking to her readers and giving insight to […]

The lives of these two famous Carmel residents are the topic of an enlightening lecture by Eugene Raschowitz Roberts, a local historian and Robinson maven.  http://carmelpubliclibraryfoundation.org

The angry ranting comic comes to town. You may have seen Mr. Black on the Daily Show or one of his televised specials. Be warned, he is angry and vulgar. He is also very funny. http://goldenstatetheater.com

Strange Name but quality music from all around the U.S. and other parts of the world. Most notably Buenos Aires and Chicago. At Zeph's in South Salinas.

Before you guess wrong; no, this has nothing to do with studies of fortune and its role in human society. It's the name of the original owner of the  of San Juan Bautista's History Museum's building. This little town is full of history and here's a chance to get some of it inside your head. […]

Joining up with the students from the print classes at Monterey Peninsula College, the folks at the Dali are giving you the chance to create your very own art print. We'll call it art in spite of what the snobs in the art world might say. The last Saturday of each month until this class […]

If you enjoy "Whose Line is it Anyway" Then come over to the Dali Expo and participate, maybe, in the performance of improv comedy at their venue. The group's years of local experience will help you have a great time here in Monterey County. info@daliexpo.com

For one night the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History will become a creepy venue. They will focus on the stranger and weirder aspects of their collections and the ways in which exhibits are prepared. This will include a taxidermy presentation. This fills the macabre part of the title. Along the way there will be […]

When is a place like San Juan Bautista one is aware of the history of the place. Along with this feeling is a sense of  the people who went before.  Some of us consider this an invitation to attempt to communicate or otherwise encounter the spirits of our ancestors, even if they are not really […]

What we have here is a maze, filled with mirrors, and lots of scary characters focusing on clowns. If that is your cup of tea, go ahead and come right in. http://montereymirrormaze.com

If you like costumes and mezcal this is the place to be. There is a costume party with the theme of Dia de los Muertos and mezcal tasting. Sounds like a lot of fun.

The innovative people at the Dali Expo have a new method to aid you get in touch with your inner artist. This time they are giving us a chance to make prints. They supply the materials and an all-day pass to the museum, you bring an open mind and your creativity.  Begins April 27 and […]

Ever wonder why there is so much aeronautical industry on the West Coast? Craig Harwood is the grandson of one of the pioneers of west coast aviation and first flyers. About the same time as the legendary Wright Brothers, his grandfather was flying at Aptos. Bet you didn't know that. Come hear the fascinating story. http://santacruzpl.org

That's exactly what it is. Come and celebrate the fall season with autumnal activities all designed to have fun and get you more aware of the work that these folks do with horses who have encountered many obstacles in their lives. It is called the Equine Rescue, Rehab, and Retirement Ranch. That's what they do. http://backstretchrescue.org

What is the best time to enjoy a farm? the Fall. When the harvest in coming in and the hard work is yielding its bounty. So to celebrate this the Earthbound Farm staff is sharing their delight with you. Games, rides, food, and fun await you in beautiful Carmel Valley. And you can meet a […]

When Salinas was a small town with big plans for its future the founding families knew that education was going to play a big part. The folks at the First Mayor's House have gathered materials from those days. You may learn about the discipline methods, curricula, and daily life of teachers and students. An intriguing […]

Just in case you were looking for a chance to run with elaborate face painting and not feel self-conscious, here it is. The running part starts at 9:00 so arrive early to get painted or come already decorated. The festival part starts at 11:00 for those who just want the paint part. (Or for those […]

Now that we have less and less use for facilities like this, they have become points of interest to the curious and researchers. Come and see how we kept watch for threats from the West. Weekends through November. Maybe you too can see Russia from this remote place. http://pointsur.org

Join Local Weatherman (retired) Jim Vanderzwaan and a rotating group of local talent as they share some great music and camaraderie each month's last Sunday. http://facebook.com/silvertideseaside

No, it's not a misspelling. It's a Gaelic word for "kinship". This band displays a lot of musical kinship. In that they are all acknowledged as great musicians before they gathered together as Daimh. Continuing their series of wonderful Celtic musicians, the St. Mary's congregation presents this beautiful quintet. http://stmarysbythesea.org

They're everywhere, but more fun than the mobile phones that also are everywhere. Now you can see some folks having real fun with ukuleles. Come to American Burgers and bask in some good food and some good music. Sundays through the month of November. Call 831-373-7573 for more info.

Starting at 3:00 with a tour of the mission areas used in the movie, "Vertigo" and continuing into the evening (8:00)with a viewing of the film Hitchcock fans will be able to gain new insights into this master's work. If you are not a Hitchcock fan come by and see why he has the reputation […]

What we have here is a maze, filled with mirrors, and lots of scary characters focusing on clowns. If that is your cup of tea, go ahead and come right in. http://montereymirrormaze.com

A remarkable young musician, Ms. Venson comes to visit us with her band and her soulful voice and delivery of lots of songs from different genres. In an intimate environment full of good music, this will be a marvelous evening. http://thejadelounge.com

There will be many activities in San Juan, all celebrating the Mexican tradition of Dia de Los Muertos. There will be a party, a theatrical presentation, and an Open House put on by the many merchants of San Juan. So much to do. http://jardinesrestaurant.com or http://elteatrocampesino.com

Come on over to the Museum of Art. It's across the street from Colton Hall. You can meet the artists and the curators from the museum. Ask how decisions are made, admire their work, and get some culture vulture points. http://montereyart.org

Like the name says, it is every First Friday. What changes is the nature of the activities and their focus. You get to come and see what is going on in the music and art scene in the area. All along Lighthouse and the adjacent streets. pacific Grove is filled with charming shops and businesses. […]

In the tradition of bringing folks to the center of town, Pacific Grove is rolling out the carpet for everyone. Come out and see the artists, musicians and interesting folks that make up America's Last Hometown. Info at 831-655-9775

An intriguing title isn't it? It's a film about a difficult reality, the problems with helium balloons and the damage they can cause by interrupting the feeding cycle of some already endangered animals in our oceans. The hosts are the student from Carmel High, they are presenting the film and a discussion afterward regarding the […]

This is the sixth annual cook off. There will be eleven chefs competing and you get to be the judge. At least for one part, the people's choice. There will be much more there than just some chili. Music, booths, and fun to benefit the public libraries. So grab your antacids and get over there. http://santacruzpl.org

Now that we have less and less use for facilities like this, they have become points of interest to the curious and researchers. Come and see how we kept watch for threats from the West. Weekends through November. Maybe you too can see Russia from this remote place. http://pointsur.org

It may sound odd, but it certainly sounds relaxing. Walking in the forest, stopping finding a comfy spot and sitting and relaxing into the sounds and sensations of the woods. Take a walk with a practiced guide and get even more out of the experiences. http://montereybaymeditation.com

When Salinas was a small town with big plans for its future the founding families knew that education was going to play a big part. The folks at the First Mayor's House have gathered materials from those days. You may learn about the discipline methods, curricula, and daily life of teachers and students. An intriguing […]

While this is not the earliest of history in Monterey, this is the beginning of Monterey as part of the United States. Much was happening in this era that still influences the atmosphere of the city and area. The clash of cultures between the Americans and the Californios is a microcosm of the changes throughout […]

This is when Monterey was the capital of the state, when being a part of the U.S. was just beginning to sink in to some of the long term inhabitants of the area. The times of sailors and bandidos, and fortunes being made and lost throughout the state. The story is told through the eyes […]

Lots of us know Mr. Bush from his award winning career, but fewer are aware of Ms. Wilson. Her music and production careers are substantial, but the gossip columns will tell us that she is the wife of Tom Hanks. Now you remember her, right? So they are coming to town and will put on […]

This performance is entitled, "What happens on Earth, Stays on Earth".  It is filled with experimental music and innovative intentions in the performances.  Please check the website for a more insightful description. http://indexical.org

This one named singer has performed in concert in many well-known venues, and worked with Stevie Wonder. She has a remarkably supple and tuneful voice and this promises to be a wonderful evening of song. http://sunsetcenter.com

Now that we have less and less use for facilities like this, they have become points of interest to the curious and researchers. Come and see how we kept watch for threats from the West. Weekends through November. Maybe you too can see Russia from this remote place. http://pointsur.org

They're everywhere, but more fun than the mobile phones that also are everywhere. Now you can see some folks having real fun with ukuleles. Come to American Burgers and bask in some good food and some good music. Sundays through the month of November. Call 831-373-7573 for more info.