As the weather heats up and summer swings into full gear, Scotts Valley is buzzing with activity. The parks are alive, the music is playing and our local shops are filled with that energy only summer can bring. But with the sunshine comes a very real reminder: we are officially in fire season—a time that calls for vigilance and preparedness.
After the CZU fires, our community knows firsthand how serious fire risk can be. I’ve seen neighbors stepping up: joining Firewise communities, clearing defensible space, trimming dry vegetation and cleaning roofs and gutters. If you haven’t yet, take time to learn which evacuation zone you live in on Zonehaven. Scotts Valley Fire and Cal Fire are doing excellent work educating and supporting our community—but safety still starts with each of us. So check your property, clear the brush and talk with your neighbors. Fire preparedness is a shared responsibility.
At the same time, summer in Scotts Valley is full of joy and so many reasons to come together. If you’ve been waiting for a season packed with live music, family fun and hometown flavor—this is it. Skypark is the place to be, with events throughout the summer.
Santa Cruz County Family Fun Day rolled into Skypark on July 19, bringing a full day of excitement for all ages. There were bounce houses, face painting, food trucks, games, live music and booths from fantastic local organizations—including fire trucks and police vehicles for kids to climb aboard and explore. This county-wide celebration was a collaboration among recreation departments across Santa Cruz County.
The Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival is back Aug. 16-17 with over 100 artists, food trucks, live music (including James Durbin & The Lost Boys), classic cars at the Cops & Rodders show on Saturday, and the annual Dog Day on Sunday. Festivities start at 10am both days. Entry is free, but don’t forget to buy your beverage tickets in advance at svartfestival.com. It’s one of our most beloved weekends of the year, with something for everyone—including a kids’ zone, of course.
Music at Skypark returns Aug. 24 and Sept. 28, with free live concerts from 2:30-6pm featuring Fishhook, Extra Large, The Inciters and The Houserockers. These shows raise money for school music programs and are a great way to enjoy food, drinks and dancing with neighbors.
Food Truck Fridays continue on July 25 at 5pm and run on the fourth Friday of the month through October. If you haven’t been, it’s a must-do: great food, live music and the SVEF beer and wine garden—all supporting our local schools. It’s an easy, fun way to grab dinner and connect with the community.
Other favorites include Movie Night at Siltanen Park on Aug. 15 (featuring “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”) and the Family Campout in September, complete with a night hike, s’mores and glow-in-the-dark lawn games.
While you’re out enjoying it all, I hope you’ll take time to support the local businesses that make Scotts Valley feel like home. Penny Ice Creamery is perfect for cooling off after a day at the park with their award-winning homemade flavors. While you’re there, stop into HOME by Zinnia’s—owners Dedra and Tim Bennett recently helped my family update our furnishings, and I can say firsthand they go above and beyond to bring your vision to life.
Adorable French Bakery, new to Scotts Valley but long sought after at area farmers’ markets, is a must-visit. Delicious homemade meals, pastries, drinks and their famous breads—all served under a giant oak canopy on their charming patio.
The active lifestyle of Scotts Valley also calls for the right equipment. Cali Style and Scotts Valley Cycle Sport have everything you need for summer adventures on the trails or in the skate park. They have experts on hand to help you find the right equipment along with the gear to look the part.
Our Scotts Valley Senior Center is also in full swing with a summer calendar packed with yoga, art, socials and special programs for every generation. Check out their activities calendar at scottsvalley.gov.
So yes—stay safe and take care of your home and neighborhood. But also: show up. Dance in the park. Support a student band. Try a new food truck. Grab a croissant and catch the sunset. We’ve got so much to celebrate this summer—and it’s all happening right here at home.
Derek Timm is mayor of Scotts Valley. To reach Timm, email dt***@**********ey.gov or call 831-239-9203.
