Santa Cruz Events: Music, Art and Shows April 16–22

Find the best Santa Cruz events this week, including live music, art exhibitions, comedy and performances from April 16–22.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:51am

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An abstract illustration featuring bold, geometric shapes in high-contrast colors like red and white, conceptually representing the diverse array of events and entertainment options in Santa Cruz.A vibrant lineup of music, art, and entertainment events brings creative energy to Santa Cruz this week.Santa Cruz Today

This article highlights the top events happening in Santa Cruz, California from April 16-22, 2026. The events span a variety of genres including art, dance music, Hawaiian slack key guitar, punk, country, acoustic, metal, and ska. Some of the featured events include an art exhibition at the MAH, a performance by DJ Henry Fong, a concert by Grammy winner George Kahumoku Jr. and Jim 'Kimo' West, a show by the punk supergroup Bull Shannon, a concert by country legend Emmylou Harris, an acoustic performance by Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, a metal show by Pentagram, and a ska concert by Runaway Ricochet.

Why it matters

Santa Cruz is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, and this lineup of events showcases the diversity and quality of the local entertainment options. From cutting-edge contemporary art to iconic country and punk acts, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Santa Cruz this week. These events not only provide entertainment for residents, but also draw visitors to the area, supporting the local economy.

The details

The week kicks off on Thursday, April 16 with an art exhibition called 'The Probability Engine' at the MAH as part of the Ripple Effect Arts Festival. On Friday, April 17, DJ Henry Fong brings his high-energy dance music show to Motiv, while Grammy winner George Kahumoku Jr. and Jim 'Kimo' West perform Hawaiian slack key guitar at Kuumbwa Jazz Center. Saturday, April 18 features a punk show by supergroup Bull Shannon at The Crepe Place and a country concert by Emmylou Harris at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. On Sunday, April 19, Gillian Welch and David Rawlings perform an acoustic set at The Quarry. Monday, April 20 sees a metal show by the legendary Pentagram at The Catalyst, and the week wraps up on Wednesday, April 22 with a ska performance by Runaway Ricochet at The Crepe Place.

  • The Probability Engine art exhibition runs from April 16-26.
  • Henry Fong performs on Friday, April 17 at 8pm.
  • George Kahumoku Jr. and Jim 'Kimo' West perform on Friday, April 17 at 7pm.
  • Bull Shannon plays on Saturday, April 18 at 8pm.
  • Emmylou Harris performs on Saturday, April 18 at 8pm.

The players

The MAH

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, hosting the Ripple Effect Arts Festival.

Henry Fong

A DJ from Florida known for his high-energy dance music performances.

George Kahumoku Jr.

A Grammy Award-winning Hawaiian slack key guitarist.

Jim 'Kimo' West

A slack key guitarist known for his work that exemplifies and ventures beyond Hawaiian musical traditions.

Bull Shannon

A punk supergroup featuring members of bands like Lawrence Arms, Shinobu, and Chotto Ghetto.

Emmylou Harris

A country music legend known for her unique blend of country, folk, and Americana.

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What they’re saying

“Taking care of the environment and taking care of each other are not as different as they may seem.”

— micha cárdenas, Artist

“Punk rock doesn't have too many supergroups. Los Angeles' OFF! and Santa Cruz's own Seized Up both come to mind immediately. Another is Bull Shannon.”

— Mat Weir, Music Journalist

“There's a reason her musical presence is so enduring.”

— Shelly Novo, Music Critic

What’s next

Fans can purchase tickets for the Emmylou Harris concert at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium on Saturday, April 18 at 8pm.

The takeaway

This diverse lineup of events in Santa Cruz showcases the city's vibrant arts and music scene, offering something for everyone from contemporary art enthusiasts to country music fans. These events not only provide entertainment for locals, but also draw visitors to the area, supporting the local economy.