WATSONVILLE

Art exhibit opening reception, drag showcase

The “Hers, His, Theirs, Ours: Queer Expression!” exhibit brings together local queer artists whose works span across film, painted art, photography, literature, fashion and more. Join this celebration of self-discovery and love for its opening reception June 8, 1-4 p.m. at the Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery, located at 37 Sudden St.

The artists featured in this exhibit challenge reductive depictions of queer culture, choosing instead to amplify its depth, struggles and triumphs. Each work is a testament to the vibrancy of queer existence — a refusal to be flattened into a single story, and by extension, dismantling the veil of ignorance and contempt. Additionally, come prepared to be dazzled by a spectacle of art in motion in the form of a Gallery of High Fashion and Opulence: A Drag Showcase at the opening reception. This is a free event. For details, visit pvarts.org/queer-expression.

WATSONVILLE

Cars and Coffee weekly event

Join Watsonville Cars and Coffee at the East Lake Village Shopping Center at 936 E. Lake Ave., every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. The event showcases an amazing collection of classic cars and hot rods at this people-friendly, family-friendly and pet-friendly gathering aimed at supporting small local businesses in the shopping center.

SANTA CRUZ

SIR celebrates Ladies Day with gifts, music, entertainment

SIR looks forward to this special biannual event for their ladies or partners at the monthly meeting June 4. For entertainment, their very own SIR Joe Maggio, an accomplished guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and recording artist, will serenade with a medley of favorites. Maggio’s musical career spans five decades, sharing the stage with names like The Trammps, Little Anthony And The Imperials, Odyssey, The Buckinghams and others.

The SIR monthly meeting will begin at noon June 4, at the Elks Lodge on 150 Jewell St. An 11 a.m. optional social hour will take place prior to the general meeting. The meeting will wrap up with a Ladies Day presentation and chef prepared luncheon, concluding at about 2 p.m.

Branch 20, comprised of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley and surrounding local areas, is one of many statewide, non-affiliated nonprofits dedicated to offering men over 50 — retired or not — a variety of programs and activities designed for socializing, making new friends and enjoying their free time. SIR promotes “Social Activities for Enhancing Life.” Email Jeff Ustick at jeffustick@gmail.com for an invitation to this event or visit sirinc2.org/branch20 for more information.

APTOS

Business mixer at California Coffee

Join California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, for a business mixer Thursday from 5-7 p.m. hosted by the Aptos and Pajaro Valley chambers. Connect, collaborate and expand your network in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this is the perfect opportunity to make valuable connections. There will be music, food, wine and raffle prizes.

SANTA CRUZ

Pacific Voices ‘Measure in Love’ concert

Come hear songs of resilience, compassion and kindness by Pacific Voices honoring 50 years of pride in Santa Cruz County and beyond, 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. matinee Saturday at the Colligan Theater at the Tannery Arts Center, 1010 River St.

The “Measure in Love” concert program features renowned LGBTQ+ composers over the centuries: Handel, Barber, Tchaikovsky, as well as Britten’s masterwork “Hymn to St. Cecilia.” Added choral inspirations and roots range from Rumi poetry, the Dalai Lama and Russian liturgy to Oaxaca, South Africa, Broadway and Sweet Honey in the Rock. Admission is $30. Get tickets at pacificvoices.org or at the door.

CAPITOLA

Mid County Senior Center benefit dance

The Mid County Senior Center will be hosting a benefit dance and concert featuring the Stormin’ Norman & the Cyclones from 7-9 p.m. Friday at 829 Bay Ave.

Cost of admission is $10. Mid County Senior Center provides a variety of programs and activities for the local community. Ages 18 and over are welcome to participate in the dances.

SOQUEL

Apply to serve on Public Advisory Committee

The Soquel Creek Water District is accepting applications from interested customers and local students to serve on its Public Advisory Committee. The advisory committee provides an opportunity for community members to communicate, collaborate and guide transparent decision-making to ensure safe and sustainable water resources for the community and environment. Visit soquelcreekwater.org/713/Apply-to-Serve-on-the-Public-Advisory-Co to learn more. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for June, and appointments will be made by the Board of Directors in July.

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Sign up for the library summer reading program

Santa Cruz Public Libraries is thrilled to welcome the summer season with the launch of their 2025 Summer Reading Program and invites adults, children and their family members to visit their local library, Bookmobile or the SCPL website to sign up for the program, which begins June 1.

The theme of this year’s Summer Reading Program is: Color Our World, a message inviting participants to embark on a journey of art and creativity, celebrating the myriad ways in which art and reading enrich our lives. Participants can win prizes for reaching each of the reading milestones set by the program. The last day to log reading minutes will be July 31, and the last day to sign out and redeem prizes is Aug. 9.

During the next two months, every branch in the 10 library system and Bookmobile will host a range of free activities for children, teens and adults to encourage and support a love of reading. To learn more, please call 831-427-7713 or visit santacruzpl.org/srp.

FELTON

Redwood Mountain Faire May 31-June 1

The 14th Annual Redwood Mountain Faire returns Saturday and Sunday to Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road. This year’s line-up features over 20 bands. Tickets range from $30-$150. All proceeds will go to local nonprofits. Also featured is a children activities area, local arts and crafts, food booths, Santa Cruz Mountain wines, and beers and ciders from local microbreweries. Kids are free and there is reduced ticket pricing for seniors. For more information, visit RedwoodMountainFaire.com.