Santa Cruz, CA- April 2026: The Downtown Association of Santa Cruz invites the community to step back in time and discover one-of-a-kind style at the highly anticipated Vintage Walk, taking place Saturday and Sunday, April 11-12, 2026, throughout Downtown Santa Cruz. This immersive, free event encourages participants to explore the city’s vibrant collection of vintage and secondhand shops while enjoying exclusive discounts, curated finds, and a chance to win Downtown Dollars.
Armed with a “passport” map, Vintage Walk participants can journey from shop to shop, uncovering hidden gems, unique clothing, and timeless collectibles. Passports will be available at the Downtown Info Kiosk starting April 9, and those who visit participating businesses can be entered to win a $50 Downtown Dollars prize, making the experience both a treasure hunt and a celebration of local retail.
The weekend culminates in the first-ever Vintage Walk Fashion Show on Sunday, April 12 from 4-5 PM at Abbott Square Market. Featuring looks sourced during the Vintage Walk, participants will take to the runway to showcase their secondhand style, with winners selected for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place by a panel of judges. “The Fashion Show is a fun way to see what great outfits what our local shoppers can source from our downtown second-hand retailers. Anyone can be a model when they shop that weekend and sign up to walk on the catwalk, ” said Shiri Gradek, Downtown Association’s Director of Marketing and Events The show is free and open to the public, offering a lively and creative finale that highlights Santa Cruz’s thriving upcycle culture.
Sponsored by Crossroads Trading Co., the Vintage Walk and Fashion Show celebrate sustainable fashion, creative expression, and the unique character of Downtown Santa Cruz. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or simply looking for a fun, community-driven weekend activity, this event invites all to shop consciously, connect locally, and embrace the art of vintage.
Event Details:
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Vintage Walk: April 11-12, 2026 | Downtown Santa Cruz
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Fashion Show: April 12, 2026, 4-5 PM | Abbott Square Market
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Cost: Free
