Leo Kottke

Rio Theater 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

His name is synonymous with great guitar playing, especially the 12 string. His composing of tunes has other players in awe. No one has dominated like Leo in the last 40 years. Come out and hear a master at work. http://riotheatre.com

Out of This World (Star Party)

Garland Park Garland Park Visitors Center, 700 W. Carmel Valley Rd., CA, United States

MIRA, our local cosmic experts, is hosting a viewing of the dark sky over Carmel Valley. Come to Garland Ranch Regional Park and see what up there to see. Likely there will be a great view of Venus and so much more. http://mprpd.org

Colin Hay

Rio Theater 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

In much demand as a lead player/ frontman for lots of well-known bands and artists Mr Hay is coming to town with his own group. To see why you should be there, check out his website http://colinhay.com

Radical Futurisms. (Film Series)

Del Mar Theater 1124 Pacific Ave. , Santa Cruz , CA, United States

Looking for a futuristic view on humanity and its future? They say it is a look beyond dystopian catastrophism. (Quite a mouthful!) If you are looking for a vision of greater social awareness and justice and an ecological flowering of simpler living, here is a chance to meet other like minded folks.

Ballet Hispanico

Sunset Center San Carlos & 9th, carmel, CA, United States

Bringing to  life the history of dance in the Hispanic world this group, under the direction of Tina Ramirez, has for 50 years been touring and performing throughout the world. They have arrived at the Sunset Center and contribute to the legacy of Latino culture here. http://sunsetcenter.org

Herpetology Happy Hour

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History 1305 East Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Snakes, frogs, turtles, and so much more!   Help celebrate the First Friday in downtown Santa Cruz and learn a whole bunch about the fauna of the area. Or, bring a young'un along and watch the joy as the animals do their magic. http://santacruzmuseum .org

Musical Extravaganza

Hartnell College 411 Central Ave., Salinas, CA, United States

The entire Hartnell Music Department turns out to create this extra special presentation of music. In addition, light refreshments are available. Come out and hear.

Considering Matthew Shepard (Camerata Singers)

St. Paul's Episcopal Church 1071 Pajaro St., Salinas, CA, United States

A moving elegy to the death of a young man at the hands of hateful people. The Camera Singers are presenting this to raise awareness of the fact that hate still flourishes.

Evening with Richard Louv

Hidden Valley Music Center 104 W. Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel, CA, United States

The author of "Our Wild Calling" and "Lost Child in the Woods" will be talking about the importance of wildness and nature in the growth of a person, especially children. http://hiddenvalleymusic.org

Tower of Power

Golden State Theater 417 Alvarado St., Monterey, CA, United States

Still out there 200 gigs a year the premier Bay Area rhythm an horn section is coming to town. Hear some great grooves and musicianship. These folks put on great show. http://goldenstatetheater.com