Santa Cruz MAH 

Host an unforgettable evening at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art &amp; History (the MAH) with this exclusive private event for up to 50 guests! Enjoy champagne as you and your group explore the museum after hours, highlighted by a private, behind-the-scenes tour led by the MAH Executive Director Ginger Shulick Porcella. All at the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. Add a little art, history, and creativity to your next bash, whatever the occasion.

Choose-Your-Own Private Event at the MAH

Aims McGuinness began playing the bagpipes at age 14, with highlights including opening for U2 on St. Patrick’s Day in 1985. In recent years, he has competed throughout California. As Provost of Merrill College, he performs annually at the UCSC commencement.He will bring this rich musical tradition to your event—whether a wedding, memorial, or graduation—with up to 30 minutes of bagpipe music, along with an optional presentation about the instrument. A truly memorable experience!&nbsp;Generously Donated by Aims McGuinness

Bagpiping Services by Aims McGuinness

A famous author once said “The cure for anything is salt water.” We couldn’t agree more. Set sail this summer with 7 of your closest friends on the Xanthippe (say “ zan-thi-pay”), a vessel that’s been in the Simpkins family for 59 years and raced three times to Hawaii.&nbsp;Enjoy an excursion out to experience the sea, sun, seagulls, and seals (and more!) on the blue waves. The adventure will end on the dock with wine, cheese, and sailing stories. Date and time is negotiable. Get your sea legs and enjoy a special day on the water. Children are welcome.&nbsp;Generously Donated by Bob and Bill Simpkins

Summer Sailing Adventure

Join renowned artist Christian Rex van Minnen for a studio tour and private, 2-hour painting lesson for two with charcuterie and wine courtesy of the MAH. Van Minnen's figurative, surrealist work is inspired by Dutch Master painting techniques. The creativity and wine will be flowing as you tap into your inner Baroque artist self. What will you paint--a still life or portrait? The possibilities and color palettes are endless.Christian’s work has been exhibited in New York, Hong Kong, Copenhagen, Paris, Berlin, Los Angeles, Madrid, and Miami, and can be found in the collections of Beth Rudin DeWoody, the Hall Art Foundation, the Denver Art Museum and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Generously Donated by Christian Rex van Minnen and The MAH

Painting Master Class & Studio Visit with Christian Rex van Minnen

Hotel hop around Santa Cruz as you experience the very best Santa Cruz accommodations! Enjoy a relaxing, one-night stay at each of these premiere hotels and resorts as you relax and revive in California Surf Town. Each of these hotels will leave a lasting impression. Perfect for a mini getaway, this experience offers comfort, convenience, great food, great vibes, and a chance to unwind close to home. Includes an Ocean View Deluxe Room at Dream Inn, a $100 food and beverage credit at Solaire, and breakfast for two at Chaminade.Generously Donated by La Bahia Resort, Chaminade Resort &amp; Spa, Dream Inn &amp; Hotel Paradox

Treat Yo’ Self to Four, 1-Night Stays at La Bahia Resort, Chaminade Resort & Spa, Dream Inn, & Hotel Paradox

Set sail for an unforgettable evening with this beautiful boat ride for two, paired with dinner at the Crow’s Nest. Enjoy a peaceful cruise on the water as you take in stunning coastal views, then continue the magic with a delicious dinner at a local favorite. It’s the perfect night—relaxing, scenic, and effortlessly romantic.&nbsp;Enjoy a sailboat ride for two in a replica of a 1914 Herreshoff 12 1/2.&nbsp; It is a vintage-style small sailboat (15'10" length) with a wooden mast and is just the right size to take two people (plus the crew).&nbsp; This will be a 90 minute sail in the Monterey Bay, departing from Santa Cruz harbor.&nbsp;&nbsp;The sail will be scheduled in a weather-permitting afternoon prior to October 1, 2026 for two people.&nbsp; Please note that the participants will need to be able to step down from a dock into the sailboat and that waivers will be required. &nbsp;&nbsp;Generously Donated by Peter Weng and The Crow’s Nest

Romantic Boat Ride for Two & Dinner at Crows Nest

Step into the world of traditional craftsmanship with a private blacksmithing experience for six people, led by local artisan Michael Wood. During this hands-on workshop, guests will gather around the forge to learn the fundamentals of blacksmithing—heating, hammering, and shaping steel using time-honored techniques.Under Michael’s guidance, participants will experience the magic of transforming raw metal into a finished object while gaining insight into the artistry and history of this ancient craft. Whether you’re a maker, design enthusiast, or simply curious to try something new, this memorable experience offers a rare opportunity to work with fire, steel, and skilled hands.The experience includes lunch for the group and will take place on Friday, June 19 or Saturday, June 20 from 12–5 PM at Michael’s studio.&nbsp;Generously Donated by Michael Wood

Private Blacksmithing Experience for Four with Local Artisan Michael Wood

Get creative with this thoughtfully curated package from Tumbleweed Found. Host a fun and inspiring collage party for up to 8 people, complete with all the materials you need to make your own unique works of art. The package also includes a beautifully curated collage book for inspiration, a signature Tumbleweed candle, and a $50 gift certificate to continue your creative journey. Tumbleweed Found is located at 1025 Center St, downtown Santa Cruz. There, you found it. Start bidding!&nbsp;

Collage Party at Tumbleweed Found

Make a fused glass plate or hanging panel! No art or glass experience needed. Whether you're an experienced artist up for new challenges, a hobbyist wanting to unwind, or just someone excited to try a new way to express yourself—getting into glass art can be surprisingly rewarding. Dive into a new passion and remember, creativity knows no limits! The studio is tucked away in a lovely spot in Santa Cruz, bursting with color &amp; creativity. Come join Randie Silverstein and get inspired—This beginning fused glass class is perfect for anyone curious about tapping into their artistic side. Typical classes run 4 hours, 10am-2pm. All materials and firings are included.Generously Donated by Randie Silverstein

Choose-Your-Own Private Event at the MAH

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