If this name isn't familiar it's because you haven't looked at the name of the writer of many of your favorite songs. If you like The Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and many others then you likely like his music. He also has a distinguished history in the  LA music scene. Come out and see why. http://riotheatre.com

Following its themed nights of trivia(topics have included Star Wars and Disney) Sovino's Wine Bar & Merchant is again coming up with a cultural touchstone to quiz you about. There's a lot more at work there than "Inconceivable", I'm sure. http://sovinowinebar.com

For 50 years these Irish musicians have played around the world with accomplished musicians; often from other music traditions and found that music binds the human family. They can't do this for much longer, come and see them now. http://sunsetcenter.org

Join a mindfulness trainer as she guides this group on a walk through one of the area's newest parks. The walk happens rain or shine so bring appropriate clothing and a thoughtful demeanor. More details at the MPRPD website or by telephone. http://MPRPD.org 831-233-1411

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

While it is a little early for St. Pat's Day it's never to soon to enjoy Irish/Celtic music, especially when played by talented musicians. Here we have a virtuoso on the harp, fiddle and dulcimer. It's also in a great venue, the Santa Cruz Veteran's Memorial. More info available at http://tandybeal.com

The folks who create the Luna Bars are the producers of this mini-film fest. Featuring the work of several women filmmakers the topics range over a number of issues important to society in general and women in particular.  Join the Junior League at the Carmel Women's Club for one of two showings (2:30 & 5:30) […]

The theme is Alice in Wonderland and there will be puppets and attendees are invited to dress in costume or in "fursuits". It is a celebration of the imagination and creation. Come ready to create, make and have fun. Check the website for better info. http://the.puppetry.institute.org

This promises to be a sound circle of jazz fusion with a strong Japanese influence. The artists involved have extensive experience with well-known artists and bring their virtuosity to bear on this latest venture. http://wbtemple.org

Described as "the love child of John Prine and Mitch Hedberg", John promises to have rare insight and humor into the human condition. Why not come out and see for yourself? http://riotheatre.com

Presenting the works of Haydn, Dvorak, and Enescu this celebrated group comes to town after acclamations by the best of the world's violinists. http://sunsetcenter.org

This band is presenting "Arctic Air" a composition of their innovative and interesting instrumentation and composition. It promises to be an evening of innovation. http://indexical.org

He also helped "Americanize" California. This is a performance by local actor Howard Burnham focusing on Fremont and his controversial time here in California. The story is filled with all the elements of interesting tales, politics, guns, wild lies, and riches to be made. http://monterey.org/library

Take a viola and a violin combine with two virtuosi performers, and mix in lots of modern and popular music and you have this group. The people they have played with looks like a list of the performers on any big music award show. http://goldenstatethetaer.com

Come celebrate PI Day in an innovative manner. Dress up in your best WWII era clothing, or figure something out, and come to dance to tunes from the era and celebrate like it's 1941.

It's a new and different way to celebrate Pi Day!  Come to the PG Museum of Natural History a and enjoy rocking out with reggae from KavaJah and the Remedies as well as the fun and interesting exhibits at the museum. Details at http://pgmuseum.org

At the Pacific Grove Natural History Museum they are sponsoring some evening events and here is one. There will be games, food, and music. Come see their fossil collections as well as the many other exhibits that help us understand the unique wonders of Monterey County and the Bay. One of the country's best small […]

The sons of the lead players of the Allman Bros., Band Mark Ford and Jackson Stokes, bring their father's skill and energy to the Rio stage. If you like Southern Rock and high energy you'll love this evening's entertainment. http://riotheatre.com

Local musician and a fudgroup are gearing up to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in the traditional way, singing songs and telling stories. Because there is alcohol, no doubt some of that will involved. http://thelabarts.com

Yes, you read that right. The Hovering Breadcat Band is appearing at the Credo Studio in San Juan Bautista.Their blend of interesting covers, thoughtful original compositions and general liveliness will captivate you. Come and see what they will be doing for St. Patrick's Day.

From the world of MMA to the stages here in Monterey County this band has a reputation for being fun and talented. Come see "not just another Irish Band" locally at Folktale Winery. http://folktaleswinery.com

The Finnish singer/songwriter brings her vocal stylings and international reputation to the lovely Henry Miller Library grounds. Come hear something you have likely never heard before. http://henrymiller.org

Come to the Seymour Center and take part in their tour of the nearby lagoon, home to a wide variety of wildlife , especially birds. A knowledgeable guide will take you around the lagoon on an easy trail for 90 minutes. You'll know so much more by the end. http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

It's been 100 years since the right to vote was allowed for women. Change has been slow but constant. Women sometimes disagree about the degree of change but it is inevitable. The Democratic Women's Club of Monterey County are celebrating it with this luncheon and its speaker.

This exhibit is a visual journey through the process of learning about Tom Killion's experiences with the Japanese print master, Kenji Takenaka. As he took Killion through the long rich traditions that are part of creating this art form Killion also experienced some personal growth. All reflected in the art of these prints. http://santcruzMAH.org

It starts at six with a quick lesson/tuneup for less skilled dancers and begins for everyone at seven. Music, dance and society. Come check it out. Check the website for news about potential cancellations. http://[email protected]

Come to the Seymour Center and go on this tour of the nearby lagoon,It is filled with wildlife of many types, especially birds. It's a 90 minute trip around the lagoon with a knowledgeable guide and you will finish with a head full of interesting information. http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

One of modern music's most recognized performers He has 45 Dove Awards and three Grammies. He has sold over 15 million albums. Here he is in Monterey for your entertainment and devotion. http://goldenstatetheater.com

Most of us will easily realize that the beautiful building in India is not appearing in Monterey for one night. Yes, it is the legendary Blues singer/player. After 50 years of singing roots music and blues, Taj is coming to town to share his music. http://goldenstatetheater.com

One can't help but wonder, Who leads? nonetheless;ess this festivity celebrates women's efforts at self-help. Sponsored by Community Human Services and benefiting homeless women and families it has been doing a good job of it all these years. Come help a good cause. http://chservices.org

Join a mindfulness trainer as she guides this group on a walk through one of the area's newest parks. The walk happens rain or shine so bring appropriate clothing and a thoughtful demeanor. More details at the MPRPD website or by telephone. http://MPRPD.org 831-233-1411

You've seen those sepia toned books celebrating cities and places of the United States. This one is about Davenport, not the couch, the city just north of Santa Cruz. Some of the people who were instrumental in the production will be on hand to sign copies and help launch the book onto local bookshelves. http://tasteofdavenport.eventbrite.com

The first name in ukulele playing is coming to Santa Cruz with his trio. Compared with every string instrument's best, Jake puts on a great show and plays a wide variety of tunes with his four strings. Truly remarkable. http://goldenstatetheater.com

This is one of the least changed missions in the chain of missions stretching along the southern part of California. Partly because of its remote nature but this only helps preserve its stark beauty. It is till a working church and this is an important fundraiser for the parish. Lots to look at and do […]

This important date in the Buddhist calendar celebrates the birth of the Buddha. Since the birth was accompanied by rain and a shower of flowers these elements play important roles in this celebration. Come and participate in a lovely ceremony and celebration of one of the world's great religions. All are welcome. http://wbtemple.org