Please join Vets 4 Vets Santa Cruz and Save Our Shores to help keep our coastline pristine from 9:00am -10:30am on Saturday, September 5th. It’s a great way to connect with neighbors and protect our local marine life. We provide gloves, bags, fresh donuts, and hot coffee. Meet us at the East Cliff Drive parking lot.

Click here for RSVP, Candles, Donations

On September 11th, 2026 from 5pm-10pm, we will light the Watchfire as a symbol of remembrance, hope, and community support. We gather to honor POW/MIA service members, remember those who did not make it home, and stand with Veterans who may still be carrying the invisible weight of war, service, or separation. The Watchfire reminds us that no one should be forgotten, and that our community can be a light for those still finding their way home.

This year, you may also purchase a special Watchfire candle made for the event. You can choose to have your candle lit for you at the Watchfire, or you can pick up a candle ahead of time and light it at home during the event. Candles may be dedicated in honor or memory of a Veteran, service member, loved one, or anyone you wish to hold in your heart.

Veterans, families, friends, and community members are all welcome to gather with us at the beach for an evening of reflection, connection, and remembrance.

If you have an American flag that needs to be respectfully retired, you may bring it to the event.

Click here for tickets

Join us for the 2nd Annual Santa Cruz Mac & Cheese Cook-Off on September 19th at 11AM to 2PM benefiting Vets 4 Vets! Sample delicious homemade mac & cheese from veteran teams and individual competitors, vote for your favorite, enjoy live music by Sound Squad, and help support local veterans. Come out for an afternoon of tasty competition and great entertainment. Located at VFW Post 7263, 2259 7th Ave, Santa Cruz 95062