From the mystical Tree of Life to climate change awareness and action, Tu Bishvat, the "New Year of the Trees," is a time to bridge our reverence for nature and spirituality through our relationship with trees. This year, we share this sacred time with friends of many traditions. 4 pm - “Seder” ~ Interfaith Teachings & Songs. 5:30 pm - Vegetarian Potluck. At Chadeish Yameinu Jewish Renewal, 239 High Street, Santa Cruz. Please RSVP to rsvp@CYSantaCruz.com

Continuing a tradition that began in 2016, the Museum will celebrate the birthday of its founder, Santa Cruz naturalist and lightkeeper, Laura Hecox, at this special open house. The outdoor event will include Victorian-era activities, community partners, historians, and the 2026 Laura Hecox Naturalist award presentation. Free admission 10 am - 5 pm. 1305 E Cliff Dr. More INFO.

The current edition of the City of Santa Cruz Active Transportation Plan (ATP) was adopted in 2017. To keep up with the needs of the city and craft a vision of its thriving future, City of Santa Cruz staff are preparing an update to the ATP. At the core of the ATP update is a commitment to fostering a livable city: a place where people of all ages and physical abilities can access safe, convenient, and enjoyable ways of getting around. Come to this meeting to: Get questions answered, Engage with project staff, Discuss prioritization, Learn about next steps. Gault Elementary School Multipurpose Room. 1320 Seabright Ave. More INFO

The proposed oil drilling along the California coast - our marine sanctuary - cannot be allowed to proceed. Brief presentations on both Make Polluters Pay legislation (state and national) and the new ocean threats of oil drilling and possible deep sea mining. Featured speakers include Dan Haifley and Gary Patton. Plenty of time for community input and suggestions for action. Event is FREE - Donations appreciated! London Nelson Community Center. Please RSVP HERE.

The free public lectures will occur in room 5005 for 30 minutes, followed by hands-on gardening skills taught in the Horticulture Department gardens. Tools and necessary gardening materials will be provided by Cabrillo College. Our goal is to provide the public a chance to experience the beauty of our campus and learn from our fabulous instructors. We provide free, research-based gardening education and the opportunity to practice new horticulture skills. Topic emphasis will be on responsible, water-wise, sustainable, and pollinator-friendly gardening. LINK.

The Sanctuary Exploration Center is excited to announce a presentation and book signing of the "The Radiant Sea", featuring Dr. Steve Haddock, Senior Scientist/Marine Biologist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. The book tells stories of amazing underwater life in a way that has rarely, if ever, been seen before. With 200 photographs in five sections, it reveals the ways that animals exhibit transparency, pigmentation, iridescence, bioluminescence, and fluorescence. Many of the animals shown in the book can be found right here in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. In his presentation, Dr. Haddock will take you behind the scenes, sharing videos, animations, and hands-on demonstrations that will bring the book's pages to life. 35 Pacific Ave.

Several years ago, Temple Beth El reconfigured its financial portfolio to better align with Jewish values and the Temple’s social justice priorities. We, as individuals, can also adjust our investments to better line up with our values, especially around climate change, but the task may seem daunting. To help you understand the many options available, this hour-long class will cover the nuts and bolts of various types of green investing, including credit cards, banks, investments and retirement funds. With Randa Solick and Gloria Wells. Info and signup HERE.